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The Temple of Zeus, Aizanoi, near Çavdarhisar, Western Turkey. Believed to be constructed during the reign of Domitian 1st century AD (i think)
Mesa Verde National Park was established in 1906 to preserve the archeological heritage of the Ancestral Pueblo people who made it their home for over 700 years, from 600 to 1300 CE. Today the park protects about 5,000 sites including 600 cliff dwellings.
Square Tower House is an impressive three-story structure located under an overhanging cliff. Built in the mid-1200s, it is the tallest structure in Mesa Verde. It was also the tallest man-made structure in north America until the mid-1800s! Because of its height, it is one of the most iconic dwellings in the park. Since it is south-facing, the structure is lighted most of the day, but the mid-morning to mid-afternoon light is flat, whereas late-afternoon light creates strong cross-shadows that help define the walls. In the summer, the cliff shades the structure at sunset, but in the winter, the last rays of the sun touch it.
The Western Wall, also known as the "Wailing Wall" or the "Kotel," is one of the most significant religious and historical sites in Jerusalem, Israel. It holds deep spiritual and emotional importance for Jews worldwide, and it has also become a symbol of the complex and often contentious nature of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The Western Wall is a remnant of the ancient retaining wall that once surrounded the Second Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE. After the temple's destruction, the Western Wall became the closest accessible site for Jewish prayer and pilgrimage. For centuries, Jews from around the world have come to this sacred site to pray, lament the destruction of the temple, and express their connection to Jewish heritage.
The name "Wailing Wall" originates from the 19th and early 20th centuries when Jews would gather at the site to mourn the destruction of the temple and express their sorrow through prayers and tears. The term "Kotel" means "wall" in Hebrew and has become a popular and endearing name for the site.
Over time, the Western Wall has evolved into a focal point of religious and nationalist tensions between Israelis and Palestinians. The site is located in the Old City of Jerusalem, which is also part of the contested area between Israel and Palestine. Its significance to both Jewish and Muslim communities has led to disputes and occasional clashes.
The Western Wall plaza is divided into two sections: one for men and the other for women, following Orthodox Jewish tradition. The prayers and rituals conducted here are a mix of individual devotion, communal worship, and celebrations during religious holidays.
In addition to its religious importance, the Western Wall draws millions of tourists and visitors from various backgrounds each year, offering them a glimpse into the rich history and cultural diversity of Jerusalem.
Despite the ongoing complexities surrounding the Western Wall and its geopolitical context, it remains an essential and cherished place for Jewish people, symbolizing resilience, faith, and the connection to their shared heritage.
Texture: Topaz Studio
During my Windstar Greek Island Cruise we had a one day and evening visit to Kusadasi Turkey.
All 148 passengers on our yacht were treated to a magnificent private gourmet dinner at the Celsus Library of Ephesus, catered by a five-star hotel. Serenaded by a trio of musicians from the orchestra. Dinner at sunset in this awesome archeological site was definitely a highlight on my trip.
Still slowly catching up after my holiday.
Have a wonderful weekend!
One thing about visiting Rome in the winter is that the light is so much more interesting for photography than in the summer season. Of course the weather can be variable, but it's less crowded and the absence of that infernal summer heat is a blessing as well.
© 2023 Marc Haegeman. All Rights Reserved
The columns of the Basilica Cistern in Istanbul, bathed in eerie red light.
The Basilica Cistern is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath Istanbul. [Wikipedia]
Bethlehem's Basilica of the Nativity is one of the most significant religious and historical sites in the world. Located in Bethlehem, a town in the West Bank, it is widely regarded as the birthplace of Jesus Christ. The basilica holds immense religious importance for Christians and attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the globe.
The Basilica of the Nativity was originally commissioned by Emperor Constantine the Great in the 4th century AD. It was built over the site believed to be the birthplace of Jesus, as identified by early Christian tradition. The basilica's architecture reflects a blend of Roman, Byzantine, and Crusader influences, making it a unique and historically rich structure.
The church's interior features a combination of ornate decorations, mosaics, and religious artifacts, preserving the essence of its ancient origins. One of its most iconic elements is the Grotto of the Nativity, a small underground cave within the basilica, traditionally recognized as the exact spot where Jesus was born. Pilgrims often gather around this revered site to pay their respects and offer prayers.
Throughout its long history, the Basilica of the Nativity has faced various challenges, including damage from earthquakes and periods of conflict. However, it has been meticulously restored and remains a symbol of enduring faith and spiritual devotion.
Due to its profound historical and religious significance, the Basilica of the Nativity has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, further cementing its importance as a place of cultural and religious heritage for people worldwide. Visiting this holy site offers a powerful and humbling experience, allowing individuals to connect with centuries of Christian tradition and reverence for the birth of Jesus Christ.