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Gapstow Bridge, Central Park, New York City. #824

Austria Carinthia Gailtal © All rights reserved

The Pula Arena (Croatian: Pulska Arena; Italian: Arena di Pola) is a Roman amphitheatre located in Pula, Croatia. It is the only remaining Roman amphitheatre to have four side towers entirely preserved. It was constructed between 27 BC and AD 68, and is among the world's six largest surviving Roman arenas.

 

Furthermore, it is the most famous monument of the city of Pula. It was once the site of gladiator fights. The Arena was built during the reign of Emperor Vespasian, at the same time as the magnificent Colosseum in Rome.

 

The ground plan is elliptical, the longer axis measuring about 130 m and the shorter one about 100 m. Gladiator fights took place in the central flat area called the arena, while the spectators could sit on the stone tiers or stand in the gallery. It is believed that the Amphitheatre could seat about 20,000 spectators. Local limestone was used for its construction. In the Middle Ages it was the site of knights tournaments and fairs.

 

Today, it is the venue for many different events — Pula Film Festival, various concerts, opera, ballet, sports competitions… since its capacity is about 5000 spectators.

 

The underground passages, once used by the gladiators, nowadays host a regular exhibition of viticulture and olive growing in Istria in ancient times.

 

The Amphitheatre is situated outside the old city walls because of its size and geographical configuration. The road that leads to the centre was constructed during Emperor Vespasian, after whom it was named — Via Flavia. Even today, it represents one of the main city roads.

A charming balcony in Tbilisi, Georgia, draped in a lush cascade of ivy, offers a picturesque blend of nature and architecture. The ornate wrought iron railing holds colorful flowerpots, adding warmth and vibrance. Reflections in the tall windows echo the surrounding greenery, creating a tranquil, storybook-like atmosphere. This serene corner captures the timeless elegance and quiet beauty of Tbilisi’s old-world charm, bathed in soft summer light.

 

The Blue Mosque's historical and architectural significance, as well as its cultural and religious importance, make it a central attraction in Istanbul. The inclusion of the mosque in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list underscores its value in preserving and showcasing the rich history of Istanbul.

 

The mosque's distinctive features, such as the central dome, semi-domes, courtyard, and minarets, reflect the classical Ottoman architectural style. The interior adorned with Iznik tiles and floral motifs in shades of blue adds a unique and visually stunning aspect to the mosque, earning it the popular name "Blue Mosque."

 

The strategic location of the Blue Mosque, situated across from the Hagia Sophia and near the former Hippodrome, creates a historical and cultural ensemble, making this area a focal point for tourists and visitors interested in exploring the rich heritage of Istanbul.

 

The inclusion of Ahmed I's tomb, a madrasa, and other structures within the mosque's külliye further contributes to its significance as a religious complex, showcasing the multifaceted aspects of Ottoman architecture and cultural practices.

 

Overall, the Blue Mosque stands as a testament to the grandeur and artistry of the Ottoman Empire, inviting both worshippers and tourists to appreciate its architectural magnificence and historical importance.

Nikolaikirche, Hansestadt Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern,

Nord Deutschland, am 9. September 2018

 

der Turm hat seit dem Krieg, nur ein Notdach.

 

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Nikolaikirche, Hanseatic City of Rostock, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, North Germany, on September 9, 2018

 

The tower has only been an emergency roof since the war.

This is one of the most famous piazzas in my town Lucca. It's situated almost at the heart of the city and this beautiful church sits on it.

This is the Maison du Roi, located in Brussels' Grand Place. Interestingly, despite its name, no king ever lived there; it served as an administrative office. The current building is a 19th-century reconstruction with neo-Gothic details, housing the Museum of the City of Brussels, where you’ll find the Manneken Pis costume collection. Fun fact: during the Middle Ages, the site was actually a bread market before becoming an administrative center. While its ornate façade amazes visitors today, its simple origins don’t take away from its beauty—they just make it even more intriguing.

La scène se déroule un soir d’avril. Le soleil perce les nuages, projetant de longs rayons de lumière sur la Seine. Au premier plan, des passants profitent de la douceur du quai.

 

À l’arrière-plan, on distingue le Pont Neuf avec ses arches et, plus loin, la silhouette de la tour Eiffel, sous un triangle universel céleste, on est bien à Paris "ville lumière"

 

View of the Pont Neuf from the Seine riverbanks, Left Bank side.

The scene unfolds on an April evening. The sun ☀️ breaks through the clouds ☁️, casting long rays of light over the Seine 🌊.

In the foreground, passersby 🚶♀️🚶♂️ enjoy the gentle atmosphere of the quay.

In the background, the Pont Neuf and its arches ️ can be seen, and further off, the silhouette of the Eiffel Tower 🗼 — beneath a universal celestial triangle ✨.

We are indeed in Paris, the “City of Light” 💫.

 

Blick auf die Pont Neuf von den Ufern der Seine, auf der linken Seite.

Die Szene spielt an einem Aprilabend. Die Sonne ☀️ durchbricht die Wolken ☁️ und wirft lange Lichtstrahlen über die Seine 🌊.

Im Vordergrund genießen Spaziergänger 🚶♀️🚶♂️ die Sanftheit des Ufers.

Im Hintergrund erkennt man die Bögen der Pont Neuf ️ und weiter entfernt die Silhouette des Eiffelturms 🗼 — unter einem universellen himmlischen Dreieck ✨.

Man ist wirklich in Paris, der „Stadt des Lichts“ 💫.

 

Вид на мост Пон-Неф с набережной Сены, со стороны левого берега.

Сцена разворачивается апрельским вечером. Солнце ☀️ пробивается сквозь облака ☁️, посылая длинные лучи света на Сену 🌊.

На переднем плане прохожие 🚶♀️🚶♂️ наслаждаются мягкостью набережной.

На заднем плане — арки Пон-Нефа ️ и силуэт Эйфелевой башни 🗼 — под всеобщим небесным треугольником ✨.

Мы действительно в Париже, «городе света» 💫.

 

从塞纳河左岸眺望新桥的景色。

场景发生在四月的一个傍晚。阳光 ☀️ 穿透云层 ☁️,将光线洒在塞纳河 🌊 上。

前景中,行人 🚶♀️🚶♂️ 悠然漫步,享受河岸的温柔时光。

背景里,新桥的拱门 ️ 显现出来,远处是埃菲尔铁塔 🗼 的剪影——在一个普世的天光三角 ✨ 下。

此刻我们确实身处巴黎,这座“光之城” 💫。

  

Vista del Pont Neuf desde las orillas del Sena, en la margen izquierda.

La escena transcurre una tarde de abril. El sol ☀️ atraviesa las nubes ☁️, proyectando largos rayos de luz sobre el Sena 🌊.

En primer plano, los transeúntes 🚶♀️🚶♂️ disfrutan de la dulzura del muelle.

Al fondo, se distinguen los arcos del Pont Neuf ️ y, más allá, la silueta de la Torre Eiffel 🗼 — bajo un triángulo celeste universal ✨.

Estamos, sin duda, en París, la “ciudad de la luz” 💫.

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Urban Chronicles ~ Paris ~ MjYj©

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MjYj© All rights reserved

 

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Very high-end shopping mall - architectural beauty

Step back in time at Pasadena City Hall ✨ A lady in a neoclassical gown gracefully walks through the grand arches, bathed in golden sunlight, evoking the elegance of a bygone era. Built in 1927, Pasadena City Hall stands as a stunning example of the City Beautiful movement, blending Spanish and Mediterranean Revival styles. A true architectural gem, it remains a timeless symbol of Pasadena’s rich history. #PasadenaCityHall #TimelessElegance #ArchitecturalBeauty

Description:

"Historic synagogue with striking baroque architecture, surrounded by a serene courtyard and gravestones." bw

I wanted to visit Wat Mongkhon Nimit (sometimes called Phutta Mongkhon Nimit) . The temple is just on the north edge of the "old town"

Wat Mongkol Nimit

This historic Buddha temple is a serene and peaceful destination, ideal for those seeking tranquility. Visitors are required to dress modestly, as shorts are not permitted. The temple's beautiful architecture is truly captivating and adds to its spiritual charm.

   

La Galleria Sciarra è stata progettata dall'architetto Giulio De Angelis e costruita tra il 1885 e il 1888 su iniziativa del principe Maffeo Barberini-Colonna di Sciarra. Decorata da Giuseppe Cellini, celebra il ruolo delle donne nella società borghese della fine dell'Ottocento. La struttura presenta uno stile Liberty con elementi in ferro e vetro.

  

Galleria Sciarra is a covered gallery in Rome, designed by architect Giulio De Angelis and built between 1885 and 1888 on the initiative of Prince Maffeo Barberini-Colonna di Sciarra. Decorated by Giuseppe Cellini, it celebrates the role of women in bourgeois society of the late 1800s.The structure features Liberty style with iron and glass elements.

Lighthouse on stumholmen

Fyrtorn på stumholmen

 

A detail from the front façade of the Italian jewel of a building - Florence Cathedral. A classic medieval, Gothic rose window at centre.

 

I've stood a distance away viewing this building many times and on this occasion, decided to shoot some of the elaborate and intricate artistry, craftmanship and detail.

 

This visually stunning place of worship was begun in 1296 in the Gothic style to a design of Arnolfo di Cambio and was structurally completed by 1436.

 

The exterior of the basilica is faced with polychrome marble panels and has an elaborate 19th-century Gothic Revival façade by Emilio De Fabris.

 

The cathedral complex, in Piazza del Duomo, includes the Baptistery and Giotto's Campanile. These three buildings are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.

 

© All rights reserved.

  

Vista da Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, emoldurada pela vegetação e por uma pequena fonte no 'Paseo' da Ferradura, do Parque da Alameda, um dos principais espaços verdes da cidade. Inaugurado no século XIX, este parque é um dos miradouros urbanos mais destacados, oferecendo uma perspetiva frontal das suas torres barrocas. Reconhecida como Património Mundial pela UNESCO, a catedral é o destino do Caminho de Santiago. O Parque da Alameda, um espaço público de referência desde o século XVIII, integra elementos botânicos e escultóricos que refletem a evolução do urbanismo paisagístico em Santiago, proporcionando um espaço privilegiado para admirar o notável conjunto monumental e o centro histórico.

 

View of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, framed by vegetation and a small fountain in the 'Paseo' da Ferradura, of the Alameda Park, one of the main green spaces in the city. Inaugurated in the 19th century, this park is one of the most outstanding urban viewpoints, offering a frontal perspective of its baroque towers. Recognized as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the cathedral is the final destination of the Way of St. James. The Alameda Park, a reference public space since the 18th century, integrates botanical and sculptural elements that reflect the evolution of landscape urbanism in Santiago, providing a privileged space to admire the remarkable monumental complex and the historic center.

Witness the vibrant outdoor market in Prague, adorned with wooden stalls showcasing an array of miniature treasures. Marvel at the intricate architecture in the backdrop and the charming cobblestone pavements. Capture the essence of winter attire in a palette of colors as sunlight filters through the trees, casting star-shaped lights.

photo rights reserved by Ben

 

The St. Gabriel the Archangel Church is located in Stepantsminda, a picturesque village in northern Georgia, at the foot of the imposing Mount Kazbek. The church is not only a historical monument, but also a very active place of worship for the locals, providing a spiritual refuge for the faithful who gather here for services, prayers and religious celebrations. The church features traditional Georgian Orthodox architecture, with stone walls and a red roof, typical of many churches in the region. The small cemetery next to it adds to the historical and spiritual significance of the place, where generations of locals have found their final resting place. Stepantsminda is located at an altitude of approximately 1,750 metres and is surrounded by rugged mountain peaks and vast valleys. The village is an important junction on the Georgian Military Highway, the historic trade route connecting Georgia with Russia. Despite its increasing popularity among travellers, Stepantsminda has managed to retain its authentic and peaceful character. The area is also popular with hikers and mountaineers looking for adventurous routes in the Caucasus.

 

In the shadow of the imposing Greater Caucasus, the St. Gabriel the Archangel Church in Stepantsminda stands as both a religious center and a symbol of the community’s resilience and faith. Pilgrims and travelers visiting the region are often moved by its serene atmosphere and the deep devotion of the local people.

 

De St. Gabriel the Archangel Church ligt in Stepantsminda, een schilderachtig dorp in het noorden van Georgië, aan de voet van de imposante Kazbek-berg. De kerk is niet alleen een historisch monument, maar ook een zeer actieve gebedsplaats voor de lokale bevolking en biedt een spiritueel toevluchtsoord voor gelovigen die hier samenkomen voor diensten, gebeden en religieuze vieringen. De kerk heeft een traditionele Georgisch-orthodoxe architectuur, met stenen muren en een rood dak, wat typerend is voor veel kerken in de regio. Het kleine kerkhof ernaast draagt bij aan de historische en spirituele betekenis van de plek, waar generaties van lokale inwoners hun laatste rustplaats hebben gevonden. Stepantsminda ligt op ongeveer 1.750 meter hoogte en wordt omringd door ruige bergtoppen en uitgestrekte valleien. Het dorp is een belangrijk knooppunt op de Georgian Military Highway, de historische handelsroute die Georgië met Rusland verbindt. Ondanks de toegenomen populariteit onder reizigers, heeft Stepantsminda zijn authentieke en rustige karakter weten te behouden. Het gebied is ook geliefd bij wandelaars en bergbeklimmers die op zoek zijn naar avontuurlijke routes in de Kaukasus.

the galleria vittorio emanuele II in milan becomes a stage where light and shadow perform a daily ballet. The sun dips low, casting a radiant glow that dances across the marble and touches each passerby with warmth. A visitor stands still, capturing the moment, while around her the movement of the crowd blurs into the background. It's a scene of timeless elegance in the heart of milan, where history is bathed in the golden hours of the present.

in the quiet echo of the arched passageways, two figures wander, lost or maybe found in a moment that entwines them with the shadows and stone. their steps, light and almost hesitant, trace the lines of a story laid down by centuries. it’s a simple tale of now meeting then, their pale forms a stark contrast to the deep, enduring walls built long before their whispered words filled these chambers. this scene, a fleeting capture of life’s quiet embraces, resonates with the timelessness of human connections, drawing us into the frame, asking us to listen, to dwell a moment longer in the dance of light and darkness.

While staying in Muscat, I spent a morning exploring the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece and a haven for those drawn to light and shadow. Completed in 2001, this iconic landmark offers endless opportunities for creative compositions, with its domes, archways, and intricate patterns creating striking contrasts of light and shadow. – Muscat, Oman

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Lija ~ Sun's Daughter ~ MjYj©

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this photo presents an abstract interpretation of a classic tourist icon—the eiffel tower—captured at night in a unique, reflective twist. the vibrant golden lights of the tower are mirrored and blurred by the surfaces of nearby glass, creating a surreal dance between shadow and brilliance. this nighttime view transforms the monument into a dynamic piece of art, a departure from its static daytime presence, inviting viewers to see beyond the ordinary.

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A World Between ~ MjYj©

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media without my explicit permission.

MjYj© All rights reserved

 

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captured in the hushed tranquility of an old monastery in palma’s calatrava district, this photograph tells a story of silent passage and timeless grace. the sun pierces through the intricately designed iron gate, scattering light into beams that stretch across the weathered hexagonal tiles, painting the floor with a mesmerizing dance of shadows. a lone figure, silhouetted against the brilliance of the gateway, ascends toward the light.

 

in this moment, the architecture and light become the storytellers. the patterns on the floor mirror the ornate gate, creating a visual rhythm, while the woman’s presence provides scale and humanity to the austere beauty of the monastery’s design. the space seems to breathe with history, as though echoing whispers from centuries past, yet remains grounded in the present by the figure who steps forward into the light.

Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Potsdam as a vintage turquoise classic car takes center stage amidst the city’s cobblestone streets. The car’s vibrant hue contrasts beautifully with a backdrop of a red brick building, an architectural gem that echoes the city’s rich history and character.

above the eternal city, a bird floats in silence, framed by forgotten blooms and the domes of centuries past. it’s a fleeting moment — but time seems to pause just long enough to breathe.

in the cool shadows beneath palma de mallorca's majestic cathedral la seu, a couple walks hand in hand through ancient stone archways. the interplay of light and darkness paints their figures in a striking contrast, suggesting an intimacy that invites reflection. how often do we glance at such a scene and assume happiness? yet, appearances can be deceiving, and the delicate balance of emotions within a relationship remains unseen. this moment, frozen in time, questions our perceptions and reminds us of the fragile, unpredictable nature of happiness. it captures not just a walk, but the silent complexities that weave through the fabric of togetherness.

Perspective on the façade of the wonderful Florin Court - a residential building on the eastern side of Charterhouse Square in Smithfield, London, UK.

 

The building is an example of 'streamline moderne', an international style of Art Deco architecture and design that emerged in the 1930s.

 

It was built in 1936 by Guy Morgan and Partners and features a beautiful, curved façade with projecting wings, a roof garden, setbacks on the eighth and ninth floor and a basement swimming pool.

 

Being fans of Agatha Christie and actor David Suchet, we visited because in the LWT television series 'Agatha Christie's Poirot', the building was used as Whitehaven Mansions, the fictional London residence of private detective Hercule Poirot.

 

© All rights reserved.

Rikugien Gardens, one of Tokyo's most exquisite Japanese gardens, is a living testament to the Edo period's artistic grandeur. Established in 1702 by Yanagisawa Yoshiyasu, a trusted confidant of Shogun Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, the garden was meticulously designed to replicate famous scenes from classical Japanese waka poetry. "Rikugien," which translates to "Six Poems Garden," embodies the aesthetic principles of traditional Japanese landscape architecture, combining the beauty of nature with symbolic literary references.

 

As you wander through Rikugien’s winding paths, you’re transported to an era where tranquility and contemplation reigned. The central pond, pictured here, reflects the lush greenery and artful arrangement of rocks and trees, inviting you to lose yourself in its serene beauty. This pond, along with its surrounding landscapes, represents various poetic scenes and is masterfully integrated with man-made structures like stone lanterns and teahouses. Each feature harmonizes with nature, embodying the Japanese concept of "shakkei" or "borrowed scenery," where the garden’s design draws upon the surrounding environment to create a seamless visual experience.

 

During autumn, the garden is especially enchanting as the vibrant red and gold hues of maple trees illuminate the landscape. Rikugien is a must-visit during this season, with evening illuminations that highlight the elegance of the changing foliage. For visitors seeking a peaceful retreat from Tokyo's bustling city life, Rikugien Gardens offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a cherished destination for locals and tourists alike. This garden isn't just a scenic spot; it’s a journey through Japan's rich artistic and literary heritage.

In my village square,This is called the Buttercross so named because 100+ years ago the farmers would bring butter and other produce to sell

A Estação de São Bento, no Porto, destaca-se na noite com a sua iluminação dourada. Inaugurada em 1916, é conhecida pelos seus painéis de azulejos que retratam a história de Portugal. O edifício, de influência francesa, continua a ser um ponto central da cidade, ligando tradição e modernidade.

the terminal at madrid-barajas is a cathedral for travelers. its ceiling, a flowing sea of warm wood and turquoise beams, catches the sunlight and bends it into art. the glass walls stretch endlessly, pulling the sky inside while the polished floors reflect lives in motion. people hurry, pause, and carry on, their stories written in fleeting steps and glances.

 

a mother cradles her baby, a child runs forward, and the world waits just beyond the gates. it’s not just a place to pass through—it’s a stage for moments, framed by architecture that breathes elegance and purpose.

If you want to pray for salvation in absolute solitude at St. Peter's, come here in the morning before dawn.

in the heart of milan, the majestic duomo stands as a testament to gothic grandeur, drawing visitors from all corners of the globe. on this day, an intriguing sight unfolds—tourists, many adorned in black and white, converge upon the cathedral's facade, capturing memories and marveling at its intricate beauty. the interplay of the human presence with the historic architecture adds a timeless quality to the scene, as if the simplicity of their attire echoes the monochrome elegance of the duomo itself. this convergence of past and present, of stone and soul, creates a tableau where the stories of the travelers and the whispers of history meld into one.

Captured in the heart of Battersea Park, London, this photograph showcases the Peace Pagoda, an emblem of harmony and a beacon of tranquility in the bustling city. Standing against the crisp winter sky, the pagoda's intricate design and golden statue shine brightly, offering a spiritual sanctuary for visitors. The barren trees frame the structure beautifully, while the reflective pond adorned with lily pads complements the scene, bringing a touch of nature's artistry to the foreground. This image immortalizes a serene moment in one of London's most cherished green spaces.

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