Cyprus Troodos Mountains
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This great valley boasts sandstone masterpieces that tower at heights of 400 to 1,000 feet. framed by scenic clouds casting shadows that graciously roam the desert floor. The angle of the sun accents these graceful formations, providing scenery that is simply spellbinding.
The city of Prato boasts important historical and artistic attractions, with a cultural span that started with the Etruscans and then expanded in the Middle Ages and reached its peak with the Renaissance, when artists such as Donatello, Filippo Lippi and Botticelli left their testimonies in the city.
The Pescatorello fountain is made of marble with marine animals dominated by the sculpture of a young fisherman, designed by Mariano Falcini and sculpted by Emanuele Caroni and Ulisse Cambi. On an octagonal base there is a large circular basin with two swans on either side.
The people of Prato also nicknamed it the Duck fountain for the swans carved on the edge of the pools.
The Mangaotaki Valley boasts stunning limestone outcrops and rugged landscape, which are reflected in the Mangaotaki and Waitanguru Falls walks.
Picturesque native bush with a backdrop of more of those stunning towering limestone cliffs ,massive rock formations and fine specimen trees.
Visit the stunning farm location at Mangaotaki Rocks Piopio, near Waitomo, where the troll and campfire scenes in The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey were filmed.
Fingal Head boasts some of the most spectacular examples of columnar jointing to be found in the whole of NSW. The name "Fingal Head" is actually derived from a fabled Scottish hero who was involved in the folk story surrounding the creation of Fingal Cave in Scotland and the Giant's Causeway in Ireland. The local indigenous Goodjingburra clan's name for Fingal Head is Booninybah - Home of the Giant Echidna: "Booniny" means Giant Echidna. The spectacular columns of Fingal Head resemble the spines of an echidna, and so the Goodjingburra believe that the spirit of the echidna inhabits the headland.
Spetses, an island boasting a long naval tradition, is famous for its significant contribution to the 1821 War of Independence. It was here that the revolution flag was raised on 3rd April 1821. The island has managed to retain its individual traditional character thanks to its well-preserved grand captain mansions, still bearing eloquent witness to the island’s glorious past.
The Snowdonia National Park boasts vast areas of natural beauty and unique scenery. It is known as Eryri by Welsh a name that can be translated as “the place of the eagles”.
The park which covers 838 square miles is one of the three natural parks found in Wales and the oldest one being designated as one in 1951. The area of the Snowdonia National Park has so much to offer to visitors that if you are visiting it for the first time you will wonder why it took you so long to do it.
Both the scenery and the activities that can be done here are so diverse that anyone will find something to suit their taste.
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From the south to this pass are 38 hairpin bends, Italian tornante. On the Northern side, it boasts a vertical gain of 1,808 m and 48 hairpin bends, all of them numbered on a stone by the road. Maximum gradient is 14.00 %.
And the road itself, popular with motorists and bikers from around the world, included in the list of the most spectacular and dangerous planets roads.
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The Stelvio Pass road - a route to the high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.757 m, Eastern Alps, Northern Italy
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See my new photos in My Travels album:
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/32471946373
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/31451599502
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/31483466285
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/31332977845
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/30940480806/
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/30000457571
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/29854284351
www.flickr.com/photos/paradox_m/29784257215
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Tам, где красота встречается с адреналином
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С юга к этому перевалу ведут 38 крутых поворотов-шпилек, по-итальянски tornante. На северной стороне, при перепаде высот в 1808 м дорога насчитывает 48 крутых поворотов, пронумерованных на придорожных камнях. Максимальный градиент 14 % .
А сама дорога, популярная у автолюбителей и байкеров со всего мира, включена в список самых опасных и захватывающих дорог планеты.
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Дорога на перевал Стельвио (2757 м), Северная Италия, Восточные Альпы.
A beautiful contemporary house boasting 360 degree ocean vistas set in the region of Aqua blue. An eclectic mix of rustic and modern styling on your very own private island.
Please do take the time to visit-
We hope you enjoy your visit and thank you for being mindful of our tenants.
Alternatively, see what other rentals are currently available within the White Dunes Estate portfolio - HERE
No awards please❣ Only real comments :-)
Ascension 7 boasts its main religious attraction is the shuttle through the stars, where the rich and those of high status pay millions of credits to board and ascend to the next plane of existence.. These individuals are never seen again, Of course not everything you hear is 100% true.
This 18th-century church boasts the highest tower in colonial Quito and a wealth of fascinating art, including paintings that show volcanoes erupting over the church roofs of the city and the capital covered with ashes.
Legend says that the tower, the only unblessed part of the church, is possessed by the devil. Supposedly the only person strong enough to resist the devil was a bell-ringer named Ceferino, and no one has dared enter the tower since he died in 1810.
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The Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Merced is located in the Ecuadorian capital Quito. The white building has five domes and a square tower. The building is decorated with Incan and Moorish inscriptions. Construction started in 1701. The tower was completed in 1736 and the basilica was consecrated in 1747.
Lipan Point arguably features the widest views of the Grand canyon and boasts the longest stretches of views of the Colorado River versus any other point at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. On a clear day, visitors can see the curving river as it enters the inner gorge of the canyon.
Hence Rapids (the small glowing stretch of Colorado River visible in the photograph), some of the most formidable whitewater rapids of the Colorado River. On a clear day you can see the Vermillion Cliffs to the east where the Grand Canyon begins. Look closely to see the Unkar Delta far below where ancient Puebloan People once cultivated beans, corn, and melons.
Many consider the views from Lipan Point among the most spectacular at the South Rim. The spacious panorama features many spires, buttes and temple formations that resemble ancient pyramids. Lipan Point is less crowded versus other lookout points and offers the spiritual feel of serenity and solitude with nature.
Lipan Point is located at the end of a short spur road north of Desert View Scenic Drive about 6 miles from the Desert View East Entrance to the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. It is located about 20 miles east of Grand Canyon Village. Lipan Point is just west of Navajo Point and the Watchtower at Desert View Overlook.
This 18th-century church boasts the highest tower in colonial Quito and a wealth of fascinating art, including paintings that show volcanoes erupting over the church roofs of the city and the capital covered with ashes.
Legend says that the tower, the only unblessed part of the church, is possessed by the devil. Supposedly the only person strong enough to resist the devil was a bell-ringer named Ceferino, and no one has dared enter the tower since he died in 1810.
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The Basilica de Nuestra Señora de la Merced is located in the Ecuadorian capital Quito. The white building has five domes and a square tower. The building is decorated with Incan and Moorish inscriptions. Construction started in 1701. The tower was completed in 1736 and the basilica was consecrated in 1747.
The Church of Our Lady boasts the world's second-highest brick church tower. A timeless reminder of the craftsmanship of Bruges' builders. The tower, supported by eight strong powerhouses, stretches no less than 115 metres into the sky.
A world filled with art treasures
The Church of Our Lady welcomes you with a rich collection of paintings, 13th and 14th-century painted crypts, e.g.
The tomb of Mary of Burgundy and her father Charles the Bold. These 15th and 16th century monumental tombs combine grandeur, opulence and symbolism in a timeless tribute. The remains of Duchess Mary are in a coffin that can be seen through the glass floor under the mausoleum.
The ‘Madonna and Child’ by Michelangelo. This world-famous white marble statue is the only work by Michelangelo that left Italy during his lifetime. It was bought by the rich Bruges merchant family Mouscron, of which some members are buried at the foot of the statue.
A hole left in the heart of White Rock
The beloved, 114 yr old landmark pier in White Rock, BC Canada was severely damaged by a windstorm that ripped through Metro Vancouver, BC Canada on December 20th, 2018
The White Rock Pier is a historic landmark dating back to the 1920's and one of White Rock's finest tourist attractions boasting over 1,540 feet of boardwalk.
In this scene, you will notice some of the remains of many destroyed sailboats.
During the storm the boats were ripped away from an attached dock, at the end of the pier, and were aggressively tossed around, beaten and smashed to pieces, by the high force winds and rough waves.
I appreciate your kind words of support and would like to thank-you all, for taking the time to view and acknowledge my photography
~Christie.
*Best experienced in full screen
The Rose-breasted Grosbeak boasts of being one of the most boisterous singers in the songbird family and they love to use their easily recognized songs. Although the females are lacking in the vivid colouring of the males they don't lack for singing ability and can keep up with the males.
They love a habitat of deciduous and mixed forests where they nest close to the ground in a tree or tall shrub even though they are mostly seen in the tree canopy. The nest will contain a clutch of 3 - 5 eggs which will be incubated for 13 or 14 days and may be repeated between May and July.
This male is gleaning for insects, seed, buds or fruit within the tree branches.
Taken at Toronto Gardens
Admired for the beauty of its joyful flowers, Helichrysum bracteatum or Xerochrysum bracteatum (everlasting flowers) is a short-lived tender perennial or annual boasting daisy-like flowers, up 1-3 inches across (2-8 cm), adorned with a central yellow disk surrounded by glossy, petal-liked bracts in brilliant shades of yellow, orange, red, pink or white. The petals are lime stiff paper, and they unfold to form concentric rings in bright colors. Blooming from late Spring to the first frost, they rise atop erect stems clad with lance-shaped green leaves.
Wonderful in the sunny boarder or in a vase at home, everlasting flowers are terrific in dried flower arrangements as they retain perfectly well their shape and color.
Happy Wednesday!💝
Thank you for your visits, kind comments, awards and faves. Always greatly appreciated.
Copyright 2020 ©️ Gloria Sanvicente
Malmesbury Abbey: the wonderful Norman nave survived for almost 900 years!
This is the third abbey to stand in this site, and it dates from 1180. At some point it boasted the highest spire in England but the spire and other parts have collapsed, though these remnants have their charm as well, as you can see from previous photos in my stream.
Second Life boasts dozens of hotels and resorts that mimic the RL experience.
That includes a number of Christmas / Winter vacation experiences, where you can spend the holidays with friends, or with a significant other.
Here’s my pick of places you might want to go to for this holiday season.
The Gate of Seville fortress is one of the most emblematic elements of the extensive and extremely rich architectural heritage that Carmona boasts.
Although archeological remains dated between the 14th and the 12th century B. C. have been found, it has been shown that the origins of Carmona date to the 9th century B.C., which is why this monument – which was declared as being of historic and artistic interest, even before that honour was bestowed on the Giralda in Sevilla – reflects, as if it were a diary, the milestones and events in the history of the West which the town has taken either part in or witnessed.
Indeed, the culture of all the inhabitants of the peninsular, whether they be the western Mediterranean peoples, the Phoenicians, the Carthaginians, the Romans, the Moors and, finally, the Christians, can be said to have been engraved on the ashlar stone of the Gate of Seville.
In order to repel Roman army attacks, the Carthaginians built a bastion on top of the original tower – dating from the VIII century B.C. – giving it the first traces of its present heavy, powerful quadrangular design. During the rule of the Roman Emperor Augustus, the Carthaginian structure was reinforced and reformed, as can be seen in the group of defensive gates that have survived to the present day. A temple was built on top of the bastion, from which the base is still partly preserved.
These alterations and additions and others carried out by the Romans, especially in the first century AD, transformed Carmona into “the strongest city of the Betica during ancient times”, as Julius Caesar, who himself was very familiar with the town´s defensive capability, proclaimed.
During the Islamic period, several additions and alterations were carried out; a horseshoe arch from the Caliphate period, – dating to the 10th century -, and another external pointed horseshoe arch from the Almohad age, (12th century). Later, during the reign of king Pedro I, in the 14th century, other alterations were made to the site.
In the 1970s, the houses which adjoined the fortress were torn down and, in 1973, the last major changes were carried out, enabling the restoration and opening of the Presos Bajo and Alto rooms, the Aljibes courtyard and the Golden Tower, from which magnificent views of all the town of Carmona can be enjoyed.
Redruth in Cornwall boasts many notable houses. This being a fine example of the work of James Hick of Redruth, Cornwall. He enlarged this fine house in 1872.
HSS!
Photoshop: Sliders Sunday.
Last "est" (for now). The muskox has the longest hair of any North American mammal. Or as Bernie put it, it's the shaggiest. Another "est" that the muskox can boast...their underlayer of fur (called qiviut) is the warmest natural fiber...eight times warmer than wool.
This bull was photographed on the Seward Peninsula, Alaska.
We were lucky to see Azure kingfishers on every boast trip we went on (4), even in the pouring rain. This isn't my favourite but I think it show's off how gorgeous these small birds are. The beauty of these boat trips down the Daintree River is that many of the birds, particularly the Kingfishers and have no fear of the boats which are small and quiet.
They let you get very close. This image isn't cropped and is almost too close. With their striking azure blue feathers and buff breast, you can see why they are sort after by birdwatchers.
They are 16-19 cm and smaller than our Sacred Kingfishers.
They love to hang around the edges of rivers, darting from branch to branch catching insects and other invertebrates,crustaceans and rarely fish.
Acadia National Park is an American national park located along the mid-section of the Maine coast, southwest of Bar Harbor. The park preserves about half of Mount Desert Island, part of the Isle au Haut, the tip of the Schoodic Peninsula, and portions of 16 smaller outlying islands. It protects the natural beauty of the rocky headlands, including the highest mountains along the Atlantic coast. Acadia boasts a glaciated coastal and island landscape, an abundance of habitats, a high level of biodiversity, clean air and water, and a rich cultural heritage.
The park contains the tallest mountain on the Atlantic Coast of the United States (Cadillac Mountain), exposed granite domes, glacial erratics, U-shaped valleys, and cobble beaches. Its mountains, lakes, streams, wetlands, forests, meadows, and coastlines contribute to a diversity of plants and animals. Weaved into this landscape is a historic carriage road system financed by John D. Rockefeller Jr.[4] In total, it encompasses 49,075 acres (76.7 sq mi; 198.6 km2) as of 2017.
Acadia has a rich human history, dating back more than 10,000 years ago with the Wabanaki people. The 17th century brought fur traders and other European explorers, while the 19th century saw an influx of summer visitors, then wealthy families. Many conservation-minded citizens, among them George B. Dorr (the "Father of Acadia National Park"), worked to establish this first national park east of the Mississippi River and the only one in the Northeastern United States. Acadia was initially designated Sieur de Monts National Monument by proclamation of President Woodrow Wilson in 1916, then renamed and redesignated Lafayette National Park in 1919. The park was renamed Acadia National Park in 1929.
Recreational activities from spring through autumn include car and bus touring along the park's paved loop road; hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding on carriage roads (motor vehicles are prohibited); fishing; rock climbing; kayaking and canoeing on lakes and ponds; swimming at Sand Beach and Echo Lake; sea kayaking and guided boat tours on the ocean; and various ranger-led programs. Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Two campgrounds are located on Mount Desert Island, another campground is on the Schoodic Peninsula, and five lean-to sites are on Isle au Haut. The main visitor center is at Hulls Cove, northwest of Bar Harbor. Park visitation has been steadily increasing in Acadia over the past decade, with 2021 seeing a record count of 4.07 million visitors
Montepulciano, Italy
Relais San Bruno
Tuscany
Pienza Province
The Relais San Bruno is a luxurious and exclusive Bed & Breakfast situated 10 minutes on foot from Montepulciano's historic centre, close to the San Biagio Basilica and surrounded by the beautiful Tuscan countryside.
Due to its strategical position, the Relais San Bruno is the ideal starting point for excursions to the nearby Tuscan cities, famous for their art treasures and wine production. The property boasts a charming greenhouse: here you can have breakfast, read your favorite book or listen to some music. Furthermore, a fitness area, an outdoor swimming pool and a beautiful garden are at your disposal. - From Their Website
Deventer boasts many historical landmarks such as the Proosdij, the oldest brick-built residence in the Netherlands (twelfth century!). There are monumental buildings all around you, with stunning facades, historical churches and ancient squares. Proud to be the main attraction is the Lebuinis church, which is visible from far and wide. In other words, a town with a wealth of history, but is it old-fashioned? Far from it. Deventer is vibrant, frivolous and bustling: a contemporary-monumental town.
Deventer is on two banks of the Ijssel. From the Ijssel quayside in the old centre, there is a view of the other side. It shows a green oasis: the Worpplantsoen. Walk or cycle there, via one of the two bridges connecting Deventer. Or use the foot ferry called Stokvis, which is a nickname for people from Deventer originating in Hanseatic times. From the other side, you are afforded a panoramic view across the town, with the Lebuinis church as stunning eyecatcher.
Would you like to take a rest from all the sights and sounds of Deventer? Recharge your battery at one of the many pubs and restaurants in this Hanseatic city. There is plenty of choice: there are more than a hundred, including trendy coffee places, authentic lunchrooms, grand cafes, restaurants, a food hall and a town brewery.
© all rights reserved by B℮n
The Netherlands is a small country of 16 million people, but it boasts a quarter of a million competitive speedskaters, and millions more who skate for fun. What's the story? Natural ice in the Netherlands is a rare occurrence. In fact, some winters there's no natural ice at all. Maybe that explains why the Dutch love to skate outdoors. They hardly ever get the chance! But when a cold wave hits, and the interconnected maze of canals, rivers and lakes freeze over, it's a spontaneous celebration, a national holiday. Infinite sea of ice is perfect for ice skating journeys. Ice skating is not only a Dutch sport, it also underwrites the history, art and culture of the Netherlands. Perhaps most importantly a good freeze provides the Dutch a chance to discover the wilderness and an outdoor challenge within their own landscape. The Netherlands are a long distance skater's dream. Hundreds of kilometres of potential routes can carry the skater to the heart of a wild landscape. Today after 4 years we went ice skating on the Ankeveense Plassen.
The Ankeveense Plassen is a real skater’s paradise. As temperatures plunge across Europe, many are cursing the cold. But not in the Netherlands. Many are hoping for further frigid conditions. Photo taken of Dutch people on the lakes of Ankeveen. A first time skating in 2017 is such a rare occurrence.
Schaatsen op natuurijs is het leukste wat er is. Warm inpakken, muts op, handschoenen, schaatsen geslepen, slee mee en gaan. Helaas is het in Nederland niet zo vaak zo koud dat we echt kunnen schaatsen. Veel mensen grijpen vandaag nog even de kans om te schaatsen. Ondanks de waarschuwingen van schaatsbond KNSB om weg te blijven van meren, sloten en kanalen. Het ijs is op veel plekken niet dik genoeg. Daar lieten veel schaatsliefhebbers zich dus niet door weerhouden.. Op 26 januari 2017 verzamelden meerdere mensen op de Ankeveense plassen. Dat is de plek waar het ijs het sterkst was. Vaak wordt er aangehouden dat het ijs een centimeter of 10 dik moet zijn om veilig op te kunnen schaatsen, en het ijs op de Ankeveense plassen is op het dikste gedeelte maar een centimeter of vijf dik, maar dat weerhield tientallen mensen er niet van om toch even het ijs op te gaan. In Ankeveen was de meest gehoorde reactie: “het is dun, maar het kan wel…”. En dat leverde mooie plaatjes op. Mensen van alle leeftijden op schaatsen, kinderen die een buikschuiver willen maken, mensen die voorzichtig even willen voelen hoe het is om op het ijs te staan. De aantrekkingskracht van het ijs is enorm. Opvallend veel Amsterdammers zoeken hun toevlucht in Ankeveen. ,,Hier kan het al, bij ons op de grachten nog lang niet”, grijnst een meneer. ,,Het is windstil, lekker zonnetje, het is ijs is goed. Wat wil je nog meer?” ,,Natuurlijk kan je door het ijs zakken, maar het leven is niet zonder risico's. Je kan ook onder een auto komen, of er kan een vliegtuig op je huis neerstorten.”
This modern JUMO Originals SAMIA Dress is inherently feminine, boasting sophistication for almost any event with its large-scale blooms which are truly lovely and quite a statement-maker.
The exquisite details like its laced bodice/hem, meadow motif, belted waistline, and strapless neckline exudes sweetness – giving it a spot-on choice for those with an affinity for romanticism.
This SAMIA Dress fits Maitreya, Belleza, Slink, Legacy, and Signature mesh bodies
I paired this beautiful dress with Heartsdale Jewelry's [HJ] Cascade Collection earrings and bracelets to complement its look.
This JUMO Originals SAMIA Dress and Heartsdale Jewelry's Cascade Collection are new releases and now exclusively available at the SWANK Fall into Autumn Event for November.
Swank Event Landmark:
Graig fawr margam.
This wood boasts six sites of archaeological interest including a World War II station and a 14th Century Monk's Bath House. Kestrel buzzard sparrowhawk little and tawny owls were all reported in 1990. There are dramatic views from the upper footpath and a spectacular bluebell display in spring
The Alhambra boasts courtyards, ponds, fountains, irrigation ditches, canals, and other hydraulic structures of immense heritage and scenic value.
The ponds are of great scenic value, with algae, water lilies, and other aquatic species that support aquatic life.
Países Bajos - La Haya - Playa de Scheveningen - El Muelle
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ENGLISH:
The Scheveningen Pier is a pleasure pier in the Dutch resort town of Scheveningen near The Hague. Opened in 1959, the current pier is the second in the town, the first being lost just after, and as a result of, the Second World War.
The first pier of Scheveningen, named Wandelhoofd Koningin Wilhelmina (Stroll Main Queen Wilhelmina) opened on 6 May 1901 and was designed by the Dutch architect Wilhelmus Bernardus van Liefland and W. Wyhowski. The wooden structure was built on a steel foundation directly in front of the Kurhaus hotel. During the Second World War Scheveningen was part of the Atlantikwall with the Germans using the pavilion as a storage facility as well as placing arms ammunition on the pier. To complicate an invasion by the Allies, the 30 meter promenade was removed and fitted with a suspension bridge. On March 26, 1943 the pavilion burned out completely. After the fire, the Germans demolished the pier by removing the wooden upper structure from its foundation, most likely due to fears the pier could be used by the Allied forces in an amphibious assault.
On 17 September 1959 the current structure, designed by Dutch architects Hugh Maaskant and Dick Apon from Rotterdam, was opened by the then mayor of The Hague, Hans Kolfschoten. Its unusual construction boasts two levels for the main pier, the lower deck a closed-in section, the upper open to the elements, and four terminal sections called 'islands', each originally with a separate focus. Its total length is 382 meters.
After a period of decay the pier was purchased in 1991 by the Van der Valk group for one Dutch guilder. The company invested about 20 million euros in the pier, refurbishing the main span and one island, constructing a restaurant and casino. Following a fire in 2011 a new period of decay began and the pier was declared bankrupt in early 2013. The whole structure was closed in October 2013 by the town management, because the structure was no longer safe.
The project developer Kondor Wessels Groep en Danzep BV bought the pier in October 2014 and planned to introduce various new features. On 19 July 2015, the upper deck of the pier was partly reopened, though safety concerns limited attendance to a maximum of 800 people at the same time. The lower deck is also open, although work continues. The upper deck contains a Bungee jumping facility and a restaurant.
Deventer boasts many historical landmarks such as the Proosdij, the oldest brick-built residence in the Netherlands (twelfth century!). There are monumental buildings all around you, with stunning facades, historical churches and ancient squares. Proud to be the main attraction is the Lebuinis church, which is visible from far and wide. In other words, a town with a wealth of history, but is it old-fashioned? Far from it. Deventer is vibrant, frivolous and bustling: a contemporary-monumental town.
Deventer is on two banks of the Ijssel. From the Ijssel quayside in the old centre, there is a view of the other side. It shows a green oasis: the Worpplantsoen. Walk or cycle there, via one of the two bridges connecting Deventer. Or use the foot ferry called Stokvis, which is a nickname for people from Deventer originating in Hanseatic times. From the other side, you are afforded a panoramic view across the town, with the Lebuinis church as stunning eyecatcher.
Would you like to take a rest from all the sights and sounds of Deventer? Recharge your battery at one of the many pubs and restaurants in this Hanseatic city. There is plenty of choice: there are more than a hundred, including trendy coffee places, authentic lunchrooms, grand cafes, restaurants, a food hall and a town brewery.
created by KHWD
want to see more images or read the blog?
www.motorhome-travels.net/post/blog-206-scotland-mull-ork...
On Unst, Shetland’s northernmost island, a striking Viking longhouse and ship replica offer a vivid glimpse into Norse life and legacy.
Unst is believed to be the first landfall of Vikings in the North Atlantic, and today it boasts the highest density of rural Viking sites in the world—over 60 longhouse remains have been identified across the island. The Viking Unst Project, centered in Haroldswick, brings this history to life through two captivating reconstructions: a 9th-century longhouse and the Skidbladner, a replica of the famed Gokstad ship.
The longhouse, built using traditional materials and techniques, stands as a tactile interpretation of Norse domestic architecture. Its turf walls, timber frame, and central hearth evoke the communal warmth and practicality of Viking living. Visitors can explore the interior freely, gaining insight into how families cooked, slept, and gathered in these elongated, multifunctional spaces. The reconstruction draws on archaeological findings from three key Unst sites—Hamar, Underhoull, and Belmont—each revealing layers of Norse settlement from around 1025 to 1220.
Just steps away, the Skidbladner rests beside Harold’s Wick, its sleek silhouette echoing the seafaring prowess of Viking explorers. Modeled after the Gokstad ship discovered in Norway, this replica showcases the craftsmanship and navigational ingenuity that enabled Norse expansion across Europe. With its clinker-built hull and graceful curves, the ship is both a tribute to Viking engineering and a symbol of their adventurous spirit.
Together, the longhouse and ship form a compelling open-air museum, accessible year-round and free to explore. They’re not just static displays—they’re immersive storytelling tools, anchoring Unst’s identity in its Norse heritage. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of settlers or marveling at maritime design, these reconstructions offer a tangible connection to a time when Unst was a frontier of Viking ambition.
The Daylily Cottage boasts 2 bedrooms, a sunroom with water views, and a private dock. The house comes fully furnished with 700 additional prims for your decor. It can be rented unfurnished with 1000 prims.
No longer available, sorry!
Deventer boasts many historical landmarks such as the Proosdij, the oldest brick-built residence in the Netherlands (twelfth century!). There are monumental buildings all around you, with stunning facades, historical churches and ancient squares. Proud to be the main attraction is the Lebuinis church, which is visible from far and wide. In other words, a town with a wealth of history, but is it old-fashioned? Far from it. Deventer is vibrant, frivolous and bustling: a contemporary-monumental town.
Deventer is on two banks of the Ijssel. From the Ijssel quayside in the old centre, there is a view of the other side. It shows a green oasis: the Worpplantsoen. Walk or cycle there, via one of the two bridges connecting Deventer. Or use the foot ferry called Stokvis, which is a nickname for people from Deventer originating in Hanseatic times. From the other side, you are afforded a panoramic view across the town, with the Lebuinis church as stunning eyecatcher.
Would you like to take a rest from all the sights and sounds of Deventer? Recharge your battery at one of the many pubs and restaurants in this Hanseatic city. There is plenty of choice: there are more than a hundred, including trendy coffee places, authentic lunchrooms, grand cafes, restaurants, a food hall and a town brewery.
Festive Coquette (male) - Festive Coquette boast elegant, green cheek tufts which are tipped with white. During courtship these tufts are flared outward and the male bows his head before the female, exposing a patch of pale blue bare skin on his crown.
Wishing everyone a happy St. Patrick's Day and a great week ahead!
Thanks a lot for your visits, comments, faves, invites, etc. Very much appreciated!
© All my images are protected under international authors copyright laws and may not be downloaded, reproduced, copied, transmitted or manipulated by any means without my written explicit permission, including the use on websites and similar medias. All rights reserved. Please contact me at thelma.gatuzzo@gmail.com if you intend to buy or use any of my images.
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Member of Nature’s Spirit
Good Stewards of Nature
The Netherlands boasts 22,000 miles of cycle paths with more than a quarter of all trips in the country being made by bicycle, rising to 38% in Amsterdam itself. This compares with just 2% in the UK and much less in the USA. Multistory 17th century terrace mansions line the canals throughout Amsterdam as taxes used to be levied based on street frontage. Originating as a poor fishing village in the late 12th century, Amsterdam became one of the most important ports in the world during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century due to its lead in developments of global trading technology. During that time, the city was the global centre for finance and trade and become the wealthiest city in the world. Ships sailed from Amsterdam to the Baltic Sea, North America, and Africa, as well as present-day Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, and Brazil, forming the basis of a worldwide trading network. Amsterdam's name derives from Amstelredamme, from the city's origin as a dam of the river Amstel. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Kobern-Gondorf boasts two castles but this is the most visible, the Oberburg which perches 200m above the village with steep stepped vineyards to the valley floor, to the left of this picture are the desolate ruins of the Niederburg destroyed in 1688 and sits 50m lower than the upper castle .
The Oberburg was built in the early 12th century over an existing Celtic hillfort and was held by the lords of Isenburg-Kobern until the middle of the 14th century.
When the last male heir to the fiefdom of Kobern died, it was sold to the Archbishop of Trier who neglected it and it fell into ruin.
Some minor stabilization was done in the early 20th century and in 1989 a cute little restaurant was built next to the bergfried, both castles are open to the public free of charge all year round.
I took this with my D750 and Tamron SP 24-70mm 2.8 G2 Lens processed in LR, PS luminosity masks and DXO Nik
Disclaimer: Not trying to be realistic in my editing there is enough realism in the world, my style is a mix of painterly and romanticism as well as a work in progress.
Sagrada Família, Barcelona, España.
El Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia, conocido simplemente como la Sagrada Familia, es una basílica católica de Barcelona (España), diseñada por el arquitecto Antoni Gaudí. Iniciada en 1882, todavía está en construcción (noviembre de 2016). Es la obra maestra de Gaudí, y el máximo exponente de la arquitectura modernista catalana.
La Sagrada Familia es un reflejo de la plenitud artística de Gaudí: trabajó en ella durante la mayor parte de su carrera profesional, pero especialmente en los últimos años de su carrera, donde llegó a la culminación de su estilo naturalista, haciendo una síntesis de todas las soluciones y estilos probados hasta aquel entonces. Gaudí logró una perfecta armonía en la interrelación entre los elementos estructurales y los ornamentales, entre plástica y estética, entre función y forma, entre contenido y continente, logrando la integración de todas las artes en un todo estructurado y lógico.
La Sagrada Familia tiene planta de cruz latina, de cinco naves centrales y transepto de tres naves, y ábside con siete capillas. Ostenta tres fachadas dedicadas al Nacimiento, Pasión y Gloria de Jesús y, cuando esté concluida, tendrá 18 torres: cuatro en cada portal haciendo un total de doce por los apóstoles, cuatro sobre el crucero invocando a los evangelistas, una sobre el ábside dedicada a la Virgen y la torre-cimborio central en honor a Jesús, que alcanzará los 172,5 metros de altura. El templo dispondrá de dos sacristías junto al ábside, y de tres grandes capillas: la de la Asunción en el ábside y las del Bautismo y la Penitencia junto a la fachada principal; asimismo, estará rodeado de un claustro pensado para las procesiones y para aislar el templo del exterior. Gaudí aplicó a la Sagrada Familia un alto contenido simbólico, tanto en arquitectura como en escultura, dedicando a cada parte del templo un significado religioso.
The Expiatory Church of the Sagrada Familia, known simply as the Sagrada Familia, is a Roman Catholic basilica in Barcelona, Spain, designed by architect Antoni Gaudí. Begun in 1882, it is still under construction (November 2016). It is Gaudí's masterpiece and the greatest exponent of Catalan modernist architecture.
The Sagrada Familia is a reflection of Gaudí's artistic plenitude: he worked on it for most of his professional career, but especially in his later years, where he reached the culmination of his naturalistic style, synthesizing all the solutions and styles he had tried up to that point. Gaudí achieved perfect harmony in the interrelationship between structural and ornamental elements, between plasticity and aesthetics, between function and form, between content and container, achieving the integration of all the arts into a structured and logical whole. The Sagrada Familia has a Latin cross plan, five central naves, a three-aisled transept, and an apse with seven chapels. It boasts three façades dedicated to the Birth, Passion, and Glory of Jesus. When completed, it will have 18 towers: four at each portal, making a total of twelve for the apostles, four over the transept invoking the evangelists, one over the apse dedicated to the Virgin, and the central dome tower in honor of Jesus, which will reach 172.5 meters in height. The temple will have two sacristies next to the apse and three large chapels: the Assumption Chapel in the apse and the Baptism and Penance Chapels next to the main façade. It will also be surrounded by a cloister designed for processions and to isolate the temple from the exterior. Gaudí applied a highly symbolic content to the Sagrada Familia, both in architecture and sculpture, dedicating each part of the temple to a religious significance.
The city boasts a beautiful soft-sand and palm-tree lined beach in the shadow of Monte Graciosa, a distinctive mountain just north of the settlement. It is a popular vacation and tourism spot for people on the island.
Festive Coquette males boast elegant, green cheek tufts which are tipped with white. Very small - 7.5–9.1 cm. A tiny and charismatic hummingbird. . Adult males have a glittering ruff of green feathers with pale tips extending from around the bill and chin. They inhabit humid forests, forest borders, second growth, and cerrado where they are usually seen foraging at flowering trees and behaving similarly to other coquettes. Near threatened.
Wishing everyone a peaceful bokeh Wednesday!
Thanks a lot for your visits, comments, faves, invites, etc. Very much appreciated!
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from the Bayard Cutting Arboretum...
This garden boasts over 1,300 dahlias plants with 300 varieties. Dahlias come in a variety of colors and forms. You will find the large “dinner-plate” size dahlias to the tiny ball dahlias, with all varieties in-between. From a single color to variegated to blends, this stunning garden displays the full range of colors of the dahlias and is amazing to see in person!!
Since I went crazy clicking so many, I will be posting 3 at a time just for you to see the beauty of these flowers!!
Thank you for looking....
The city boasts a beautiful soft-sand and palm-tree lined beach in the shadow of Monte Graciosa, a distinctive mountain just north of the settlement. It is a popular vacation and tourism spot for people on the island.
The city boasts a beautiful soft-sand and palm-tree lined beach in the shadow of Monte Graciosa, a distinctive mountain just north of the settlement. It is a popular vacation and tourism spot for people on the island.