Hidden Gems in Colorado
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Amsterdam city center is the vibrant and bustling heart of the Dutch capital. It is known for its picturesque canals, stunning architecture, and rich history. The city center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to iconic landmarks such as Dam Square, where the Royal Palace and the National Monument are located.
The city center is characterized by its charming canal belt, which offers scenic views and the opportunity to take boat tours and explore the waterways. The narrow streets are lined with beautiful 17th-century buildings, housing a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Amsterdam city center is also a cultural hub, with renowned museums like the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, and Anne Frank House. These museums offer a glimpse into the city's art, history, and the life of Anne Frank during World War II.
In addition to its cultural attractions, the city center is a shopper's paradise. From high-end fashion boutiques to vintage stores and local markets, there is something for everyone. The streets come alive at night with a vibrant nightlife scene, featuring bars, clubs, and live music venues.
One of the unique aspects of Amsterdam city center is its bicycle-friendly culture. Cycling is a popular mode of transportation, and visitors can rent bikes to explore the city at their own pace.
Overall, Amsterdam city center is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity. Its charming canals, world-class museums, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit for travelers seeking a vibrant and unforgettable experience.
The beautiful old city of Metz, France.
My website: www.marceltuit.nl
More shots from France in this set.
"Gljufrabui ("Canyon Dweller“) is a beautiful waterfall located at Hamragardar in South Iceland, close to its better known counterpart, Seljalandsfoss waterfall.
The 40 meter high Gljufrabui can be considered somewhat of a hidden gem. It is indeed partially hidden behind a huge cliff that lends much atmosphere to the scenery.
To enjoy a view of the fall you need to wade the Gljufura river into a narrow opening in the cliff or follow a steep path up the cliff. Both endevours are demanding so utmust caution is advised.
As mentioned, this waterfall is less known than its neigbour but as a result may provide for all the greater serenity, in addition to excellent scenery. " (from guidoiceland.is)
The stones rest, unmoving, as time flows around them. The water, smooth as glass, mirrors the golden whispers of a distant town, stretching into the night like a dream unbroken. The sky, deep and endless, cradles faint trails of stars—silent witnesses to the slow breath of the lake. In this moment, all is still, yet the world keeps moving.
Kepahiang is located in Bengkulu province - Indonesia. It has an ocean of green topography that dominates every extensive view, and fills the land of Rejang Kepahiang with marvelous flora and fauna. Read more about Kepahiang at virtualadrian.blogspot.com/2013/10/kepahiang-ocean-of-gre...
Sorry I am not able to post a new photo today. I am headed off the the botanical gardens so hopefully I can bring back some good shots.
Looks better in the large format. (Click L)
Taken with my Sony SLT a65V with my Tamron SP AF60mm f/2 DI II LD (IF) 1:1 macro lens
Historische tuin Schoonoord
Voor mij een kleine tuin van Eden , een verborgen parel in de grote stad, je bent daar echt even in de natuur zoals het vele jaren geleden was en nu nog op meer plaatsen zou moeten zijn.
Historische Tuin Schoonoord is een uniek onderdeel van het groene en ecologische erfgoed van Rotterdam. De tuin bevat een rijke verzameling aan flora en fauna. Oorspronkelijk is de voormalige buitenplaats ontworpen in Engelse landschapsstijl. Door de historische elementen, unieke ligging en bijzondere beplanting is Schoonoord aangewezen als beschermd Rijksmonument.
De reusachtige Libanonceders en de Bruine Beuk uit ca 1860 zijn de blikvangers van de tuin. Via de gemetselde boogbrug met het 18e eeuwse toegangshek betreedt u het terrein met honderden plantsoorten. U wandelt o.a. langs de weelderige vijver, oude venijnbomen, Gunnera-planten, een trompetboom, een vleugelnoot en een Amerikaanse tulpenboom. De tuin is gastheer van o.a. 8 bijenvolken, Japanse karpers, ijsvogels en een bosuil.
Historical garden Schoonoord
For me a small garden of Eden, a pearl hidden in the big city, you are really in nature there as it was many years ago and should be in more places now.
Historical Garden Schoonoord is a unique part of Rotterdam's green and ecological heritage. The garden contains a rich collection of flora and fauna. The former country estate was originally designed in the English landscape style. Due to its historical elements, unique location and special plants, Schoonoord has been designated as a protected national monument.
The huge Lebanon cedars and the Brown Beech from around 1860 are the eye-catchers of the garden. You enter the site with hundreds of plant species via the brick arch bridge with the 18th century entrance gate. You will walk past the lush pond, old venison trees, Gunnera plants, a trumpet tree, a wingnut and an American tulip tree. The garden is host to, among others, 8 bee colonies, Japanese carp, kingfishers and a tawny owl.
Historische tuin Schoonoord
Voor mij een kleine tuin van Eden , een verborgen parel in de grote stad, je bent daar echt even in de natuur zoals het vele jaren geleden was en nu nog op meer plaatsen zou moeten zijn.
Historische Tuin Schoonoord is een uniek onderdeel van het groene en ecologische erfgoed van Rotterdam. De tuin bevat een rijke verzameling aan flora en fauna. Oorspronkelijk is de voormalige buitenplaats ontworpen in Engelse landschapsstijl. Door de historische elementen, unieke ligging en bijzondere beplanting is Schoonoord aangewezen als beschermd Rijksmonument.
De reusachtige Libanonceders en de Bruine Beuk uit ca 1860 zijn de blikvangers van de tuin. Via de gemetselde boogbrug met het 18e eeuwse toegangshek betreedt u het terrein met honderden plantsoorten. U wandelt o.a. langs de weelderige vijver, oude venijnbomen, Gunnera-planten, een trompetboom, een vleugelnoot en een Amerikaanse tulpenboom. De tuin is gastheer van o.a. 8 bijenvolken, Japanse karpers, ijsvogels en een bosuil.
Historical garden Schoonoord
For me a small garden of Eden, a pearl hidden in the big city, you are really in nature there as it was many years ago and should be in more places now.
Historical Garden Schoonoord is a unique part of Rotterdam's green and ecological heritage. The garden contains a rich collection of flora and fauna. The former country estate was originally designed in the English landscape style. Due to its historical elements, unique location and special plants, Schoonoord has been designated as a protected national monument.
The huge Lebanon cedars and the Brown Beech from around 1860 are the eye-catchers of the garden. You enter the site with hundreds of plant species via the brick arch bridge with the 18th century entrance gate. You will walk past the lush pond, old venison trees, Gunnera plants, a trumpet tree, a wingnut and an American tulip tree. The garden is host to, among others, 8 bee colonies, Japanese carp, kingfishers and a tawny owl.
We follow a couple of photographers on Vancouver Island and they have mentioned this apparently famous little tree on more than one occasion. Consequently, when we were in the area, we thought we'd see it for ourselves. I had no idea, though, that it was an actual tourist destination with Google devoting pages to it and even having reviews.
With limited time and a late evening instead of foggy early morning light, it was just nice to say we saw it too. The far shore of the lake cast it's shadow across the scene but also created some funky reflections. To be a little different and try to fit into the Sliders Sunday theme, I was generous with my editing. Happy Sliders Sunday!
yes this is another waterfall, yes it is in the Great smoky mountains national park, yes it is a 3 exposure hdr, but do you know where it is in the GSMNP, extra credit to anyone that can name the location.
Last summer I cycled from Kinderdijk to Switzerland. On the way I crossed the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg and France. One of the nicest cities on tour I visited was Metz, a pretty old city and a hidden gem in the North east of the country. It is definately worth a visit!
Have a nice day everyone!
My website: www.marceltuit.nl
More shots from France: FLickr set.
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.
I've been wanting to go explore this off-trail waterfall for years and finally made it happen. The falls are relatively hidden in the Columbia River Gorge and require a short, but very steep scramble to be able to reach.
Historische tuin Schoonoord
Voor mij een kleine tuin van Eden , een verborgen parel in de grote stad, je bent daar echt even in de natuur zoals het vele jaren geleden was en nu nog op meer plaatsen zou moeten zijn.
Historische Tuin Schoonoord is een uniek onderdeel van het groene en ecologische erfgoed van Rotterdam. De tuin bevat een rijke verzameling aan flora en fauna. Oorspronkelijk is de voormalige buitenplaats ontworpen in Engelse landschapsstijl. Door de historische elementen, unieke ligging en bijzondere beplanting is Schoonoord aangewezen als beschermd Rijksmonument.
De reusachtige Libanonceders en de Bruine Beuk uit ca 1860 zijn de blikvangers van de tuin. Via de gemetselde boogbrug met het 18e eeuwse toegangshek betreedt u het terrein met honderden plantsoorten. U wandelt o.a. langs de weelderige vijver, oude venijnbomen, Gunnera-planten, een trompetboom, een vleugelnoot en een Amerikaanse tulpenboom. De tuin is gastheer van o.a. 8 bijenvolken, Japanse karpers, ijsvogels en een bosuil. En in deze foto ook van een telefoonkijker.
Historical garden Schoonoord
For me a small garden of Eden, a pearl hidden in the big city, you are really in nature there as it was many years ago and should be in more places now.
Historical Garden Schoonoord is a unique part of Rotterdam's green and ecological heritage. The garden contains a rich collection of flora and fauna. The former country estate was originally designed in the English landscape style. Due to its historical elements, unique location and special plants, Schoonoord has been designated as a protected national monument.
The huge Lebanon cedars and the Brown Beech from around 1860 are the eye-catchers of the garden. You enter the site with hundreds of plant species via the brick arch bridge with the 18th century entrance gate. You will walk past the lush pond, old venison trees, Gunnera plants, a trumpet tree, a wingnut and an American tulip tree. The garden is host to, among others, 8 bee colonies, Japanese carp, kingfishers and a tawny owl. And in this picture also of a phone checker.
In the heart of Bourg-en-Bresse, France, you will find charming meandering lanes that exude a timeless beauty and embrace the town's rich history. As you stroll through these quaint streets, allow yourself to be captivated by the picturesque scenes that unfold around you.
The cobblestone streets, lined with centuries-old buildings, create an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era. Each step reveals a new architectural wonder, from half-timbered houses adorned with colorful shutters to elegant facades with intricate carvings that hint at the town's cultural heritage.
Amidst the meandering lanes, you may encounter cozy cafes with their tables spilling onto the sidewalks, inviting you to take a moment to savor a cup of freshly brewed coffee or indulge in a delicious croissant. The aroma of French cuisine fills the air, drawing you to family-run bistros where you can relish in traditional dishes and perhaps even strike up a conversation with the friendly locals.
Bourg-en-Bresse's meandering lanes lead you to hidden squares and fountains, offering peaceful spots to rest and absorb the town's serenity. As you wander further, you might chance upon charming boutiques, showcasing artisanal crafts and regional specialties that make for delightful souvenirs.
Don't miss the opportunity to visit the magnificent Royal Monastery of Brou, an architectural masterpiece that stands as a testament to the town's royal connections. Its ornate spires and intricate sculptures make it a must-see destination that captures the essence of Bourg-en-Bresse's cultural legacy.
Whether you explore during the bloom of spring or the golden hues of autumn, the meandering lanes of Bourg-en-Bresse promise an unforgettable experience that will leave you enchanted and yearning to return. So, immerse yourself in the town's timeless beauty and embrace the magic of its meandering lanes, where history and charm entwine in a delightful dance.
Historische tuin Schoonoord
Voor mij een kleine tuin van Eden , een verborgen parel in de grote stad, je bent daar echt even in de natuur zoals het vele jaren geleden was en nu nog op meer plaatsen zou moeten zijn.
Historische Tuin Schoonoord is een uniek onderdeel van het groene en ecologische erfgoed van Rotterdam. De tuin bevat een rijke verzameling aan flora en fauna. Oorspronkelijk is de voormalige buitenplaats ontworpen in Engelse landschapsstijl. Door de historische elementen, unieke ligging en bijzondere beplanting is Schoonoord aangewezen als beschermd Rijksmonument.
De reusachtige Libanonceders en de Bruine Beuk uit ca 1860 zijn de blikvangers van de tuin. Via de gemetselde boogbrug met het 18e eeuwse toegangshek betreedt u het terrein met honderden plantsoorten. U wandelt o.a. langs de weelderige vijver, oude venijnbomen, Gunnera-planten, een trompetboom, een vleugelnoot en een Amerikaanse tulpenboom. De tuin is gastheer van o.a. 8 bijenvolken, Japanse karpers, ijsvogels en een bosuil.
Historical garden Schoonoord
For me a small garden of Eden, a pearl hidden in the big city, you are really in nature there as it was many years ago and should be in more places now.
Historical Garden Schoonoord is a unique part of Rotterdam's green and ecological heritage. The garden contains a rich collection of flora and fauna. The former country estate was originally designed in the English landscape style. Due to its historical elements, unique location and special plants, Schoonoord has been designated as a protected national monument.
The huge Lebanon cedars and the Brown Beech from around 1860 are the eye-catchers of the garden. You enter the site with hundreds of plant species via the brick arch bridge with the 18th century entrance gate. You will walk past the lush pond, old venison trees, Gunnera plants, a trumpet tree, a wingnut and an American tulip tree. The garden is host to, among others, 8 bee colonies, Japanese carp, kingfishers and a tawny owl.
I have been exploring the secrets of the heather or fynbos as we call it (meaning fine-leaved plants). It is a small belt of natural shrubland or heathland vegetation located on the Cape Peninsula of southern Africa. It is known for its amazing diversity and species that are unique to the region. I am not a botanist and usually do not know the name of what I am looking at. All I know is that beauty can be found in the many details of life.
Revisiting some old untouched India pictures from 2010.
The Peacock Gate is at the entry of the Chandra Mahal in the City Palace in Jaipur. Looking at the gate, I felt it was a fantastic representation of the beautiful array of colours that India has to offer. India may be heavy in dust and pollution, but it also has wonderful gems hidden around every corner. Just need to keep your eyes open.
Shot with a Nikon D60, worked with Lightroom and NikSoftware.
White Coppice, Great Hill and Anglezarke Circular is a 9.2 mile loop trail located near Chorley, Lancashire, England that features a lake and is rated as moderate.
Visited Linn Falls for the first time since the very start of my photography hobby many years ago. A true hidden gem and great place to enjoy especially in Autumn. Went along with my photography mate Iain Brooks and spent several hours here. changing light, compositions & enjoying a brew with view.
An off-trail waterfall located a short distance outside of Packwood, Washington.
While not a long trek, multiple stream crossings, boulder hopping, and scaling logs were required to get a closer look.
Waterfall of Iceland kvernufoss.
Prints: pierre-leclerc.pixels.com/featured/waterfall-of-iceland-k...
Download: licensing.pixels.com/featured/waterfall-of-iceland-kvernu...
#iceland #waterfall #nature #Kvernufoss
I really cant help but take photos of Rattray Head Lighthouse, This one was a bit of challenge attempting a long exposure in extreme winds and in waterlogged sand, Tripod spikes out and tripod worked into the sand until it was steady...seems to have worked.
Whilst I was there the sky went through many moods and changes so I switched between techniques quite often. I was lucky get a few keepers from my trip.
My love of coffee brought me here to this little hidden gem.
Landmark - maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Lorena%20Green/14/16/23
A little bit windy but my annual trip to photograph Dolgoch waterfall. A bit ironic really as I only live 10 minutes away but photographed it hundreds of times over the years.
photo rights reserved by Ben
Close to the village of Arsha in the Kazbegi region lies the Arsha Waterfall, about five kilometers from Stepantsminda Kazbegi. The hike to the waterfall is considered easy and typically takes three to four hours. The trail is unpaved but well-trodden, surrounded by lush meadows, and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The waterfall is one of the lesser-known natural attractions in the area, contributing to its untouched and serene atmosphere. A bit further along is the Toti Waterfall, accessible via a steep trail that passes above the Arsha Waterfall. This waterfall offers spectacular panoramic views and is an ideal spot for a picnic. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility, the breathtaking nature, and even take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear water. The hike to Toti Waterfall leads through a rugged mountain landscape with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and deep valleys. The trail winds along steep slopes and rocky paths, surrounded by dry grasslands and scattered shrubs. Along the way, impressive cliffs and natural formations add a unique character to the scenery. The fresh mountain air and the tranquility of nature make the journey an unforgettable experience. At the end, the spectacular Toti Waterfall awaits as a rewarding sight after the challenging climb.
This photo shows a beautiful view on the way back from Toti waterfall to Arsha waterfall. The golden autumn colours of the trees contrast beautifully with the rugged, rocky slopes and the snow-capped mountains in the background. The sun illuminates the leaves, giving nature an almost magical look. Such landscapes make the walk between these waterfalls impressive not only because of the water, but also because of the surrounding nature and the ever-changing views. A truly picturesque moment in the mountains!
Nabij het dorp Arsha in de Kazbek regio, ligt de Arsha-waterval, op ongeveer vijf kilometer van Stepantsminda Kazbegi. De wandeling naar de waterval wordt als eenvoudig beschouwd en duurt doorgaans drie tot vier uur. Het pad is ongebaand maar goed begaanbaar, omringd door weelderige weiden en biedt prachtige uitzichten op de omliggende bergen. De waterval is een van de minder bekende natuurlijke attracties in het gebied, wat bijdraagt aan de ongerepte en serene sfeer. Nog iets verder ligt de Toti-waterval, bereikbaar via een steil pad dat bovenlangs de Arsha-waterval loopt. De wandeling naar de Toti-waterval voert door een ruig berglandschap met adembenemende uitzichten op besneeuwde bergtoppen en diepe valleien. Het pad slingert langs steile hellingen en rotsachtige paden, omringd door droge graslanden en verspreide struiken. Onderweg zijn er indrukwekkende kliffen en natuurlijke formaties die het landschap een uniek karakter geven. De frisse berglucht en de rust van de natuur maken de tocht een onvergetelijke ervaring. Aan het einde wacht de spectaculaire Toti-waterval als beloning voor de inspannende klim. Deze foto laat een prachtig uitzicht zien op de terugweg van de Toti-waterval naar de Arsha-waterval. De gouden herfstkleuren van de bomen contrasteren schitterend met de ruige, rotsachtige hellingen en de besneeuwde bergtoppen op de achtergrond. De zon verlicht de bladeren, waardoor de natuur een bijna magische uitstraling krijgt. Dit soort landschappen maken de wandeling tussen deze watervallen niet alleen indrukwekkend vanwege het water, maar ook vanwege de omliggende natuur en de steeds veranderende uitzichten. Een echt schilderachtig moment in de bergen!
Historische tuin Schoonoord
Voor mij een kleine tuin van Eden , een verborgen parel in de grote stad, je bent daar echt even in de natuur zoals het vele jaren geleden was en nu nog op meer plaatsen zou moeten zijn.
Historische Tuin Schoonoord is een uniek onderdeel van het groene en ecologische erfgoed van Rotterdam. De tuin bevat een rijke verzameling aan flora en fauna. Oorspronkelijk is de voormalige buitenplaats ontworpen in Engelse landschapsstijl. Door de historische elementen, unieke ligging en bijzondere beplanting is Schoonoord aangewezen als beschermd Rijksmonument.
De reusachtige Libanonceders en de Bruine Beuk uit ca 1860 zijn de blikvangers van de tuin. Via de gemetselde boogbrug met het 18e eeuwse toegangshek betreedt u het terrein met honderden plantsoorten. U wandelt o.a. langs de weelderige vijver, oude venijnbomen, Gunnera-planten, een trompetboom, een vleugelnoot en een Amerikaanse tulpenboom. De tuin is gastheer van o.a. 8 bijenvolken, Japanse karpers, ijsvogels en een bosuil.
Historical garden Schoonoord
For me a small garden of Eden, a pearl hidden in the big city, you are really in nature there as it was many years ago and should be in more places now.
Historical Garden Schoonoord is a unique part of Rotterdam's green and ecological heritage. The garden contains a rich collection of flora and fauna. The former country estate was originally designed in the English landscape style. Due to its historical elements, unique location and special plants, Schoonoord has been designated as a protected national monument.
The huge Lebanon cedars and the Brown Beech from around 1860 are the eye-catchers of the garden. You enter the site with hundreds of plant species via the brick arch bridge with the 18th century entrance gate. You will walk past the lush pond, old venison trees, Gunnera plants, a trumpet tree, a wingnut and an American tulip tree. The garden is host to, among others, 8 bee colonies, Japanese carp, kingfishers and a tawny owl.
Nestled between dramatic cliffs and the incessant roar of the Atlantic, Praia da Ursa is an unspoilt corner of natural beauty. Here the sea meets the land in an eternal dance, sculpting monumental cliffs that stand like guardians of an ancient sanctuary.
Legend has it that its name comes from a rock formation that once resembled the figure of a bear and her cub. This landscape is not only a gift of geography, but also the wild and untamed spirit of a coast where silence is broken only by the sound of the waves and the whisper of the wind.
Looking at this landscape is an invitation to introspection, to connect with the essence of the natural world and to contemplate the sublime power of nature.
***
Aninhada entre falésias dramáticas e o rugir incessante do Atlântico, a Praia da Ursa emerge como um recanto intocado de beleza natural. Aqui, o mar encontra a terra em uma dança eterna, esculpindo rochedos monumentais que se erguem como guardiões de um santuário ancestral.
A lenda conta que o nome deriva de uma formação rochosa que, em tempos, lembrava a figura de uma ursa com o seu filhote. Este cenário, além de ser uma dádiva da geografia, guarda em si o espírito selvagem e indomável de uma costa onde o silêncio só é quebrado pelo som das ondas e pelo sussurro do vento.
Contemplar esta paisagem é um convite à introspeção, à conexão com a essência do mundo natural, e à contemplação da força sublime da natureza.
Arches and the Milky Way. It's some of the good stuff in life. This is in the desert southwest where the skies are dark and the arches are BeaUtiful!
Porth Wen Brickworks near to Amlwch, Anglesey is a disused Victorian-era fire brick factory. The bricks were built from quartzite to line steel furnaces.
The site includes three distinctive beehive-style down-draught kilns, chimneys, engine and boiler houses, storage and warehouse buildings, and remnants of an incline tramroad.
It operated from roughly 1850 until WWI (1906–1908 under Steibel, then Charles Tidy), with production briefly resuming 1924–1924 or until 1949.
It closed mainly due to transport challenges — the poor harbour and sea erosion.
Explore star July 6, 2025
Hello. A big sorry for being so far behind in commenting. I hope to catch up soon. I have been busy and the internet has been slow. Wishing everyone a happy Saturday and a great weekend. Many thanks for your kind comments and support. Once again Sorry for the delay in commenting. Kind regards Pat
This hidden gem located along the Little White Salmon River on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge is always a wonderful sight to see!
If you plan to visit for yourself, please read up on what is the acceptable route that avoids the private property that is in close proximity.
Constructive criticism always appreciated.
Taken with Sony a6000 and Rokinon 8mm f/3.5 fisheye.
A true hidden gem! Vortex Falls has been on my bucket list for a long time and I finally made a visit to this off-trail beauty. Located near North Bend, Washington.
photo rights reserved by Ben
The David Gareja Monastery complex was founded in the 6th century by the monk David Garejeli. It consists of dozens of caves, churches, chapels, and hermit cells scattered across the sandstone hills along the border between Georgia and Azerbaijan. For centuries, the monastery served as a major center of faith, art, and learning. It is especially renowned for its distinctive rock-cut architecture and impressive medieval frescoes. This photo captures the modest and understated beauty of monastic life: weathered stone, hidden doors, silence, and simplicity — a place where spirituality is quite literally carved into the rock. A small cell is hewn from the soft sandstone, with a wooden door marked by a carved cross. The stonework around the entrance features arched brickwork that reflects Byzantine influence, typical of medieval Georgian religious architecture. On either side, the natural forms of the rock wall remain clearly visible — giving the impression that the structure has grown out of the mountain itself. A narrow staircase to the right leads to other parts of the monastery or additional cave cells. During our visit, we were the only visitors, allowing us to explore the entire complex in complete silence. From the monastery, you can enjoy breathtaking views over the vast, quiet semi-desert plains.
The David Gareja Monastery is a 6th-century monastic complex carved into sandstone hills near the Georgia–Azerbaijan border. Known for its cave churches, ancient frescoes, and unique rock-cut architecture, it once served as a spiritual and cultural center. This photo highlights the quiet beauty of monastic life—simple stone structures blending into the landscape, with a carved doorway and a peaceful, timeless atmosphere.
Het David Gareja Monastery complex werd in de 6e eeuw gesticht door de monnik David Garejeli en omvat tientallen grotten, kerken, kapellen en kluizenaarsverblijven, verspreid over de zandstenen heuvels langs de grens van Georgië en Azerbeidzjan. Eeuwenlang was het klooster een belangrijk centrum van geloof, kunst en studie. Het staat vooral bekend om zijn unieke rotsarchitectuur en indrukwekkende middeleeuwse fresco’s. Deze foto laat de bescheiden, ingetogen schoonheid van het kloosterleven zien: verweerde stenen, verborgen deuren, stilte en eenvoud — een plek waar spiritualiteit letterlijk in de rotsen is verankerd. Een kleine cel is uitgehouwen in de zachte zandsteenrots, met een houten deur waarin een kruis is uitgesneden. De muur rondom de ingang is afgewerkt met bakstenen bogen die wijzen op Byzantijnse invloeden, typerend voor de middeleeuws-Georgische religieuze bouwstijl. Links en rechts blijven de natuurlijke vormen van de rotswand duidelijk zichtbaar — het lijkt alsof het gebouw uit de berg zelf is voortgekomen. Rechts leidt een smalle trap naar andere delen van het klooster of naar grotcellen. Tijdens ons bezoek waren we de enige bezoekers, waardoor we het hele complex in volledige rust konden verkennen. Vanaf het klooster strekt zich een adembenemend uitzicht uit over de stille, uitgestrekte semi-woestijnvlakten.