View allAll Photos Tagged Column
“The medieval archaeological complex Perperikon is one of the most ancient monumental megalithic structures, entirely carved into the rocks. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bulgaria.
“Religious activity at the top of the cliff began in the 5th century BC. It is associated with the beliefs of the Copper Age people, who started the cult of the sun god. Here they established the first sanctuary and started leaving food containers for the gods. These religious rites continued through the entire Bronze Age (III-II millennium BC). The sophistication of the metal tools made the hard rock cutting possible. At that time, the oval hall with a huge circular altar in its center was built. There, priests performed their sacred rituals with wine and fire. These religious practices were typical for the temple of Dionysius, which was long sought in the Rhodope mountain. The latest archaeological research shows clearly that the temple was located exactly in Perperikon. According to the legends, two crucial prophecies were made from the altar of this temple. The first one predicted great conquest and glory for Alexander the Macedonian, and the second, made several centuries later, predetermined the power and strength for the first Roman Emperor” – Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus.
“In the last millennium of the old era and the first centuries of the new one, the rock structures grew and became a town with fortified walls, palaces and suburbs. The town was probably a royal residence for the Thracian tribe Bessie. Subsequently, the Romans brought to Perperikon their luxury and refinement, and the Goths ruined and burned down Perperikon in 378 AD.
“At the beginning of the 5th century AD, the rock town became an Episcopal center after the people in the Rhodope mountain accepted Christianity. At the 7th-14th century AD, Perperikon flourished as a regional center. Many times Bulgarians and Byzantines fought for these lands. At the end of the 14th century, the Ottoman Turks conquered and destroyed the fortress, the ruins of which slowly sank into oblivion.
“Today, the ancient glory of Perperikon rises. The holy city is unique in terms of archaeological, historical, environmental and multi-religious aspects.” (bulgariatravel.org)
Part of the National Monument on Edinburgh's Calton Hill. Built in 1822 it was intended to be a full replica of Parthenon in Athens. But due to funding running out, it was never finished. Still very impressive sight (and site) though.
Segovia Castilla y Leon, España
©MauricioAgudelo 2012. All rights reserved. Use without permission is illegal
Baylor Female College on Academic Hill, Independence, TX. Founded on February 1, 1845. Once the largest Baptist university in the world, an the oldest institution of higher learning in Texas.
Jiffy Kodak V. P. (vest pocket) camera with Rera Pan 100 developed in Caffenol. Shot on my lunch hour in Baltimore, MD. Scanned with Epson V500 Photo.