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Igreja românica de Santa Marinha, em Moreira de Rei (Trancoso), erguida entre os séculos XII e XIII, apresenta uma estrutura típica do período, com fachada em cantaria e portal de arco de volta perfeita. À sua frente, destaca-se uma necrópole medieval, a maior do género em Portugal, com mais de 700 sepulturas antropomórficas escavadas na rocha. Dispostas em grupos familiares, estas sepulturas revelam a vivência dos locais num arranjo comunitário que integra o adro da igreja e áreas habitacionais. A proximidade das sepulturas à igreja e às habitações revela uma fascinante relação entre o sagrado e o quotidiano na Idade Média.
I've always wanted to stay here, and found myself in Ottawa recently---so much history, architecture details at every turn, and the light---I returned to this stairwell over and over to keep an eye on the shadows. Then headed for the bar.
Chateau Laurier, Ottawa.
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The Jvari Monastery (Georgian: ჯვარი, meaning cross) is one of the most iconic and historic sites in Georgia. Located near Mtskheta, the monastery is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in the country. Built in the 6th century, the monastery is known as one of the earliest examples of Georgian Christian architecture. It was built on the site where, according to tradition, Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia, erected a large wooden cross. Together with other historical monuments in Mtskheta, the Jvari Monastery has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1994. The monastery is located on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Kura rivers and the historic town of Mtskheta. The building is an example of a tetraconch central dome structure with four apses. Despite its simple design, it is considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The Jvari Pass begins at the monastery. The pass is located at an altitude of approximately 2,379 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the Caucasus. It is an important passage through the Caucasus Mountains to Russia. The area is particularly known for its rugged roads, and in winter the pass can be difficult to navigate due to heavy snowfall. The route offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks, valleys and rivers. The Georgian Military Road was originally used as a trade and military route. Today it is a busy road for freight transport to Russia.
The Jvari Monastery is located in Georgia, on a hilltop near the town of Mtskheta, about 20 kilometers north of the capital, Tbilisi. The monastery is still used by believers as a place of worship. The interior of the monastery is relatively simple, with stone walls and icons. The candles and icons create a serene and spiritual atmosphere. Lighting candles in churches is an ancient tradition that has several meanings. The burning candle symbolizes light, faith and prayer. In many Eastern Orthodox churches, such as in Georgia, a candle is often lit as a gesture of devotion, to accompany a prayer or to offer an intention to God or a saint. People often light candles in memory of deceased loved ones, with the light of the candle symbolizing the immortal soul. As a visitor, you can light a candle as a way to participate in the religious tradition and experience the atmosphere. The ritual offers a moment of reflection and connection, even for non-religious visitors. The ancient monastery from the 6th century evokes a sense of peace and spirituality.
Het Jvari-klooster (Georgisch: ჯვარი, wat kruis betekent) is een van de meest iconische en historische locaties in Georgië. Het klooster, gelegen bij Mtskheta, is één van de belangrijkste religieuze en culturele bezienswaardigheden van het land. Het klooster werd gebouwd in de 6e eeuw en staat bekend als een van de vroegste voorbeelden van Georgische christelijke architectuur. Het werd gebouwd op de plek waar volgens de overlevering de heilige Nino, die het christendom naar Georgië bracht, een groot houten kruis oprichtte. Samen met andere historische monumenten in Mtskheta staat het Jvari-klooster sinds 1994 op de UNESCO Werelderfgoedlijst. De ruïne naast het Jvari-klooster is een deel van een oude verdedigingsstructuur en wachttoren. Het Jvari-klooster bevindt zich op een strategisch punt boven Mtskheta, waar de rivieren Aragvi en Mtkvari samenkomen. In veel gevallen zijn deze ruïnes overblijfselen uit dezelfde tijdsperiode of iets later, waarbij ze de religieuze locaties aanvulden met militaire bescherming tegen mogelijke indringers. Het klooster is een voorbeeld van een tetraconch centrale koepelstructuur met vier apsissen. Ondanks zijn eenvoudige ontwerp wordt het beschouwd als een meesterwerk van middeleeuwse architectuur. Het klooster wordt nog steeds gebruikt door gelovigen als een plek van aanbidding. Het interieur van het klooster is relatief eenvoudig, met stenen muren en iconen. De kaarsen en iconen creëren een serene en spirituele sfeer. Het aansteken van kaarsen in kerken is een oude traditie die verschillende betekenissen heeft. De brandende kaars symboliseert licht, geloof en gebed. In veel oosterse orthodoxe kerken, zoals in Georgië, wordt een kaars vaak aangestoken als een gebaar van toewijding, om een gebed te begeleiden of om een intentie te offeren aan God of een heilige. Mensen steken vaak kaarsen aan ter herinnering aan overleden geliefden, waarbij het licht van de kaars symbool staat voor de onsterfelijke ziel. Als bezoeker kun je een kaars aansteken als een manier om deel te nemen aan de religieuze traditie en de sfeer te ervaren. Het ritueel biedt een moment van reflectie en verbinding, zelfs voor niet-religieuze bezoekers. Het oude klooster uit de 6de eeuw roept een gevoel van rust en spiritualiteit op.
O Palácio de Hernando de Ovando, também conhecido como Casa dos Ovando, é um notável edifício renascentista situado no recinto monumental da cidade de Cáceres, em Espanha. Construído em 1519, o palácio sofreu uma remodelação no século XVIII, mantendo, no entanto, o seu carácter histórico.
Na fachada do palácio, destaca-se o brasão da família Ovando, um elemento arquitetónico que realça a importância histórica e social desta edificação. O Palácio de Hernando de Ovando é um excelente exemplo da arquitetura renascentista espanhola e constitui um importante ponto de interesse para os visitantes de Cáceres.
photo rights reserved by Ben
The Jvari Monastery (Georgian: ჯვარი, meaning cross) is one of the most iconic and historic sites in Georgia. Located near Mtskheta, the monastery is one of the most important religious and cultural sites in the country. Built in the 6th century, the monastery is known as one of the earliest examples of Georgian Christian architecture. It was built on the site where, according to tradition, Saint Nino, who brought Christianity to Georgia, erected a large wooden cross. Together with other historical monuments in Mtskheta, the Jvari Monastery has been on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 1994. The monastery is located on a hilltop with a beautiful view of the confluence of the Aragvi and Mtkvari Kura rivers and the historic town of Mtskheta. The building is an example of a tetraconch central dome structure with four apses. Despite its simple design, it is considered a masterpiece of medieval architecture. The Jvari Pass begins at the monastery. The pass is located at an altitude of approximately 2,379 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views of the Caucasus. It is an important passage through the Caucasus Mountains to Russia. The area is particularly known for its rugged roads, and in winter the pass can be difficult to navigate due to heavy snowfall. The route offers breathtaking views of mountain peaks, valleys and rivers. The Georgian Military Road was originally used as a trade and military route. Today it is a busy road for freight transport to Russia.
The Jvari Monastery is located in Georgia, on a hilltop near the town of Mtskheta, about 20 kilometers north of the capital, Tbilisi. The ruins next to the Jvari Monastery are part of an old defensive structure and watchtower. The Jvari Monastery is located at a strategic point above Mtskheta, where the Aragvi and Mtkvari rivers meet. In many cases, these ruins are remnants from the same or slightly later period, when they supplemented the religious sites with military protection against potential invaders. This location offers breathtaking panoramic views and holds deep historical and religious significance. Mtskheta, one of Georgia's oldest cities, was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Iberia. The monastery is part of the UNESCO World Heritage List due to its cultural and architectural importance.
Het Jvari-klooster (Georgisch: ჯვარი, wat kruis betekent) is een van de meest iconische en historische locaties in Georgië. Het klooster, gelegen bij Mtskheta, is één van de belangrijkste religieuze en culturele bezienswaardigheden van het land. Het klooster werd gebouwd in de 6e eeuw en staat bekend als een van de vroegste voorbeelden van Georgische christelijke architectuur. Het werd gebouwd op de plek waar volgens de overlevering de heilige Nino, die het christendom naar Georgië bracht, een groot houten kruis oprichtte. Samen met andere historische monumenten in Mtskheta staat het Jvari-klooster sinds 1994 op de UNESCO Werelderfgoedlijst. De ruïne naast het Jvari-klooster is een deel van een oude verdedigingsstructuur en wachttoren. Het Jvari-klooster bevindt zich op een strategisch punt boven Mtskheta, waar de rivieren Aragvi en Mtkvari samenkomen. In veel gevallen zijn deze ruïnes overblijfselen uit dezelfde tijdsperiode of iets later, waarbij ze de religieuze locaties aanvulden met militaire bescherming tegen mogelijke indringers. Het klooster is een voorbeeld van een tetraconch centrale koepelstructuur met vier apsissen. Ondanks zijn eenvoudige ontwerp wordt het beschouwd als een meesterwerk van middeleeuwse architectuur. Bij het klooster begint de Jvari-pas. De pas ligt op ongeveer 2.379 meter boven zeeniveau en biedt spectaculaire uitzichten op de Kaukasus. Het is een belangrijke doorgang door het Kaukasusgebergte naar Rusland. Het gebied is met name bekend om zijn ruige wegen, en in de winter kan de pas moeilijk begaanbaar zijn vanwege zware sneeuwval. De route biedt adembenemende uitzichten op bergtoppen, valleien en rivieren. De Georgische Militaire Weg werd oorspronkelijk gebruikt als een handels- en militaire route. Tegenwoordig is het een drukke weg voor vrachtvervoer richting Rusland.
caught mid-glide, the gull hovers like a whispered prayer between stone and sky. below her, the blurred cross and church walls seem less fixed, more like echoes. it’s a fleeting gesture of grace — a hymn without words.
Casa Cavassa, a refined Renaissance residence in the historic heart of Saluzzo, was transformed in the late 15th century by Marquis Michele Antonio di Saluzzo into an elegant urban palace blending medieval structure with Renaissance elegance. Today home to the Civic Museum Casa Cavassa, it preserves original frescoes, stuccoes, and period furnishings, offering a rare glimpse into the domestic life and artistic tastes of the noble elite in the Marquisate of Saluzzo. Its harmonious courtyard and richly decorated interiors reflect the cultural flourishing of this independent Piedmontese state before its absorption into the Duchy of Savoy.
photo rights reserved by Ben
The David Gareja Monastery Complex is one of the most unique and historically significant religious sites in Georgia. Located in the Kakheti Kartli region, near the border with Azerbaijan, it is carved into the rocks of a rugged, semi-desert landscape. The monastery was founded in the 6th century by David Garejeli, one of the thirteen Assyrian monks who helped spread Christianity in Georgia. Over the centuries, the complex grew into an important center of religion, art, and scholarship, especially during the medieval period. Despite being repeatedly plundered — by Mongols, Persians, and others — it has always retained its spiritual significance. The complex includes several parts, such as Lavra, the oldest section still inhabited by monks, Udabno, a group of cave monasteries higher up the slopes with centuries-old frescoes, and Bertubani and Chichkhituri, more remote areas with watchtowers, chapels, and hermit cells. All of it is hewn from soft sandstone cliffs, forming a striking fusion of natural form and human devotion. Because the monastery lies on the border, it has become a point of political tension between Georgia and Azerbaijan, as part of the site lies on Azerbaijani territory. From the complex, one can enjoy breathtaking views over the vast, silent semi-desert plains stretching to the horizon. The striking red and pink hues in the ridges are the result of iron-rich clay layers and centuries of erosion, which reveal the layers like a kind of geological pie. These colour contrasts alternate with straw-yellow plains, green shrub cover and dark shadows in the valleys — giving the landscape an almost otherworldly feel. It feels like an area "out of time," ideal for those who love rugged beauty, silence and hidden stories.
The David Gareja Monastery Complex is a centuries-old religious site carved into sandstone cliffs along Georgia’s border with Azerbaijan. Founded in the 6th century by David Garejeli, it became a key center for Christian faith, art, and learning. Despite invasions over the centuries, it remains spiritually important. The site includes cave churches, frescoes, and monk cells spread across a dramatic semi-desert landscape. Its location has sparked border disputes, but the stunning views and colorful, layered terrain give it a timeless, mystical atmosphere.
Het David Gareji-kloostercomplex is een van de meest bijzondere en historische religieuze locaties in Georgië. Het ligt in de regio Kakheti, tegen de grens met Azerbeidzjan, en is uitgehouwen in de rotsen van een ruig, halfwoestijnachtig landschap. Het klooster werd in de 6e eeuw gesticht door David Garejeli. Het complex groeide uit tot een belangrijk centrum van religie, kunst en wetenschap, vooral in de middeleeuwen. In latere eeuwen werd het meerdere keren geplunderd (onder andere door Mongolen en Perzen, maar het behield altijd zijn spirituele betekenis. Het kloostercomplex bestaat uit Lavra-klooster – het oudste deel, nog steeds bewoond door monniken, Udabno – hogerop gelegen grotkloosters met eeuwenoude muurschilderingen en Bertubani en Chichkhituri – meer afgelegen gedeelten met wachttorens, kapellen en cellen. Het hele complex is uitgehouwen in de zachte rotswanden, wat een indrukwekkende combinatie oplevert van natuurlijke vorm en menselijke devotie. Vanaf het klooster ontvouwt zich een indrukwekkend halfwoestijnachtig landschap, met zachtglooiende heuvels, stoffige paden en eindeloze horizonten. De opvallende rode en roze tinten in de heuvelruggen zijn het resultaat van ijzerrijke kleilagen en eeuwenlange erosie, die de aardlagen zichtbaar maken als een soort geologische taart. Deze kleurcontrasten wisselen af met strogele vlakten, groene struikbedekking en donkere schaduwen in de valleien — wat het landschap een bijna buitenaardse uitstraling geeft. Het voelt als een gebied "buiten de tijd", ideaal voor wie houdt van ruige schoonheid, stilte en verborgen verhalen.
The Torre Civica (Civic Tower) of Saluzzo, rising in the heart of the town’s historic center, was built in the 13th century as a symbol of communal power and civic pride. Adjacent to the former Piazza del Comune, it served multiple roles: a watchtower for spotting danger, a bell tower to mark the hours and summon citizens, and a stronghold during periods of unrest. Its simple yet imposing stone structure reflects medieval military architecture, while its survival through centuries of change makes it one of Saluzzo’s most enduring landmarks. Restored in recent years, the Torre Civica stands today as a testament to the town’s communal past and its legacy as a free city within the Marquisate.
The Taj Mahal is located in Agra, India. It was built by Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his third wife, Mumtaz Mahal. The construction began around 1632 and was completed around 1653, employing thousands of artisans and craftsmen. It is widely considered as one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and stands as a symbol of eternal love. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I was early, and lucky enough, to be able to avoid the crowds being included in the photo :)
La Clerecía, em Salamanca, é um edifício histórico construído entre os séculos XVII e XVIII. Originalmente conhecido como Real Colegio del Espíritu Santo, foi fundado pela Companhia de Jesus em 1617. O complexo inclui uma igreja e um colégio, com um claustro barroco.
Após a expulsão dos Jesuítas em 1767, o edifício foi entregue à Real Clerecía de San Marcos. Atualmente, é a sede da Universidade Pontifícia de Salamanca.
A Clerecía oferece aos visitantes a experiência "Scala Coeli", que permite subir às torres e desfrutar de vistas panorâmicas da cidade. O percurso inclui acesso às tribunas da igreja, onde se pode observar o altar-mor e o retábulo barroco.
O edifício é um exemplo do estilo barroco sendo projetado por Juan Gómez de Mora. A sua fachada impressionante é composta por três corpos.
Un instant suspendu devant la Chapelle Notre-Dame de Rocamadour à Camaret-sur-Mer 🌊⛪
Chaque pierre ici murmure des histoires séculaires. Le clocher, droit et majestueux, veille sur une porte en bois. Les nuances chaudes du granit se détachent sur le ciel breton, capturées avec précision au Nikon D800 📷✨
The Royal Palace of Turin, seat of the Dukes and later Kings of the House of Savoy, stands at the heart of the city as a symbol of political power and artistic patronage. Originally a medieval fortress, it was transformed in the 17th century by architects like Carlo di Castellamonte and Guarino Guarini into a magnificent Baroque residence. With its lavish staterooms, grand staircase, and adjacent Royal Armory and Chapel of the Holy Shroud, the palace served as the center of court life and state affairs. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a key part of the Residences of the Royal House of Savoy, reflecting centuries of dynastic ambition and cultural refinement.
A fachada de um edifício residencial na Calle Mercaderes, no centro histórico de Pamplona, reflete a arquitetura eclética do final do século XIX e início do século XX, com clara influência historicista. Apresenta três pisos com varandas em ferro forjado e vãos emoldurados por ornamentações em estuque branco, evidenciando detalhes como mísulas e mascarões. A Calle Mercaderes é célebre por ser uma parte do percurso do "Encierro" durante as festas de San Fermín, onde a sua curva em direção à Calle Estafeta é reconhecida como um dos pontos mais emblemáticos e arriscados da corrida. Este edifício não apenas representa um exemplo da arquitetura tradicional da cidade, mas também o diálogo entre elementos clássicos e intervenções contemporâneas na paisagem urbana.
The façade of a residential building on Calle Mercaderes, in the historic center of Pamplona, reflects the eclectic architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with a clear historicist influence. It has three floors with wrought iron balconies and openings framed by white stucco ornaments, highlighting details such as corbels and mascarons. Calle Mercaderes is famous for being part of the 'Encierro' route during the San Fermín festivities, where its curve towards Calle Estafeta is recognized as one of the most emblematic and risky points of the race. This building not only represents an example of the city's traditional architecture, but also the dialogue between classical elements and contemporary interventions in the urban landscape.
Founded in 726 AD by the Frankish noble Abbo of Provence, the Abbey of Novalesa is one of the oldest and most important monastic centers in the Western Alps. Strategically located on the Mont Cenis pass, a key route between Italy and France, it flourished as a hub of faith, culture, and hospitality for pilgrims and travelers throughout the Middle Ages. Despite repeated destruction by Saracens, fires, and political upheaval, the abbey was continually rebuilt, preserving a rich heritage of Romanesque architecture, medieval manuscripts, and spiritual tradition. Today, the Benedictine monks have returned, reviving its centuries-old legacy in the heart of the Susa Valley.
Montalto Dora Castle rises proudly atop Mount Crovero, reflecting in Lake Pistono and framed by the glacial amphitheater of Ivrea. Built in the 12th century as a defensive stronghold along the Via Francigena, it has endured centuries of sieges, restorations, and transformations. Today, its imposing tower, medieval chapel, and guard walkway evoke tales of noble families and ancient conflicts
like a whisper suspended between centuries, the tower rises—its face lit by invisible prayers, its voice forever swallowed by the night. behind glowing windows, a city breathes in silence, unaware that time itself is watching.
Rua de Quintandona, na aldeia de Quintandona, Penafiel, é um exemplo da arquitetura vernacular preservada, caracterizada pelo uso de xisto e granito. Esta aldeia integra o núcleo do Museu Municipal de Penafiel e destaca-se pela sua ligação à atividade agrícola tradicional e pela organização das casas-pátio. Desde 2003, tem sido alvo de projetos de requalificação que valorizam o património cultural e turístico da região.
Villa della Regina was built in the seventeenth century as a hillside vineyard for Cardinal Maurizio and Princess Ludovica. It was the favored residence of duchesses, princesses, and queens of the House of Savoy until the nineteenth century
Villa della Regina was built in the seventeenth century as a hillside vineyard for Cardinal Maurizio and Princess Ludovica. It was the favored residence of duchesses, princesses, and queens of the House of Savoy until the nineteenth century
Casa Cavassa, a refined Renaissance residence in the historic heart of Saluzzo, was transformed in the late 15th century by Marquis Michele Antonio di Saluzzo into an elegant urban palace blending medieval structure with Renaissance elegance. Today home to the Civic Museum Casa Cavassa, it preserves original frescoes, stuccoes, and period furnishings, offering a rare glimpse into the domestic life and artistic tastes of the noble elite in the Marquisate of Saluzzo. Its harmonious courtyard and richly decorated interiors reflect the cultural flourishing of this independent Piedmontese state before its absorption into the Duchy of Savoy.
A Rua do Jardim do Regedor, em Lisboa, destaca-se pelo charme típico da Baixa Pombalina, com a sua calçada portuguesa, edifícios coloridos e esplanadas acolhedoras. Este local é um ponto de encontro ideal para desfrutar de uma refeição ou de um passeio tranquilo.
For protecting the historical stone
stairway, wooden boards are covered on the original stairs.
Persepolis was founded by Darius I in 518 B.C.
Taken in Perspolis, Iran.
Museu Nacional do Azulejo
A composição evoca as decorações azulejares da Sé Velha de Coimbra, um templo românico do século XII. O interior, revestido no século XVI com azulejos sevilhanos, apresentava uma rica variedade de padrões, demonstrando a perfeita integração do azulejo na arquitetura portuguesa. No entanto, a decoração original foi na maioria removida no século XIX, numa tentativa de restaurar a pureza do estilo primitivo. Os azulejos que restam encontram-se nas naves laterais, mas documentos como fotografias e desenhos permitem-nos vislumbrar a grandeza do projeto inicial, que, com o Palácio Nacional de Sintra, marcou o uso do azulejo em Portugal.
A Calle de El Redín, em Pamplona, é uma rua histórica que faz parte do complexo defensivo da cidade. Contém o baluarte do Redín e guaritas de ‘design’ renascentista. Até aos anos 60, do séc. XX, as muralhas eram usadas por cordoeiros, que aproveitavam o espaço alongado para tecer as cordas. A rua oferece vistas para bairros como Rochapea e San Jorge e é atualmente ponto de passagem dos peregrinos do Caminho de Santiago.
A imagem representa uma escultura de madeira de um rosto grotesco, com olhos vermelhos, presa a uma parede de pedra de uma casa nesta rua. A escultura tem um nariz grande e uma boca aberta, mostrando dentes afiados, junto a uma placa com a inscrição "Euskal Herria", que significa "País Basco" em basco. Na rua estreita, com edifícios de pedra de ambos os lados, a escultura parece um guardião do local ou um espírito da rua.
O Edifício dos Correios de Vitoria-Gasteiz, construído no início do século XX (entre os anos de 1922 e 1928), é um marco arquitetónico da cidade, combinando estilos clássico e modernista, seguindo o projeto do arquiteto basco, Luis Díaz Tolosana, que desenhou também a Escola de Artes e Ofícios na Praça do Conde de Peñaflorida, nesta cidade. A sua fachada, em pedra natural, com arcos e varandas ornamentadas, reflete a importância histórica da cidade como centro administrativo e logístico. Atualmente, funciona como agência postal na Plaza de España.
Recentemente, o edifício foi remodelado para adaptar a sua funcionalidade aos novos tempos, melhorar a sua eficiência energética e, ao mesmo tempo, restaurar as suas fachadas e cobertura.
Shuttleworth House, a Grade II listed Victorian mansion designed by architect Henry Clutton, is part of the Shuttleworth Collection in Old Warden, Bedfordshire. While not always open to the public, it occasionally hosts special events, tours, and private functions, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich history and architectural beauty.
Abandoned mine tracks that still leads into the river while the walls never stops crying from a darker past
A Timeless Blend of Gothic and Renaissance - Il marchesato di Saluzzo: un connubio senza tempo tra Gotico e Rinascimento
photo rights reserved by Ben
The David Gareja Monastery complex is one of the most unique and historically significant religious sites in Georgia. Located in the Kakheti region, near the border with Azerbaijan, the complex is partly carved into the rocks of a rugged, semi-desert landscape. It was founded in the 6th century by the Syrian monk David Garejeli. Over the following centuries, it became an important center of religion, art, and scholarship—especially during the medieval period. Despite repeated invasions, including by Mongols and Persians, it has always remained a place of deep spiritual meaning. This photo shows the courtyard of the Lavra Monastery, the oldest part of the complex. In the upper right corner, you can see the wooden gallery of the building that serves as the communal space for the monks — a place where they eat, gather, and find rest. The timber balcony and extended structure give it a warm, welcoming appearance, even in this remote and austere setting. To the left, in the background, rises the small church with its bell tower, dedicated to David Garejeli himself — the revered founder of the monastery. The weathered stone, the cross motifs in the wall, and the simple architecture reflect the essence of monastic life: simplicity, community, and contemplation. Here in this quiet courtyard, one can feel history, faith, and landscape come together — far from the world, yet full of meaning.
This photo captures the quiet courtyard of the ancient Lavra Monastery at David Gareja. On the right is the monks’ communal hall, where they gather and share meals; in the background stands the simple stone church of Saint David Garejeli. The architecture reflects a life of humility and reflection, set in the stillness of Georgia’s semi-desert hills.
Het David Gareja-kloostercomplex is één van de meest bijzondere en historische religieuze locaties van Georgië. Het ligt in de regio Kakheti, vlak bij de grens met Azerbeidzjan, en is deels uitgehouwen in de rotsen van een ruig, halfwoestijnachtig landschap. Het klooster werd in de 6e eeuw gesticht door de Syrische monnik David Garejeli. In de daaropvolgende eeuwen groeide het uit tot een belangrijk centrum van religie, kunst en wetenschap — vooral in de middeleeuwen. Ondanks herhaalde plunderingen, onder andere door Mongolen en Perzen, bleef het altijd een plaats van diepe spirituele betekenis. Deze foto toont de binnenplaats van het Lavra-klooster, het oudste deel van het complex. Rechtsboven zie je de houten galerij van het gebouw dat dienstdoet als gemeenschappelijke ruimte voor de monniken — een plek waar ze samen eten, bijeenkomen en rust vinden. De houten structuur en het uitkragende balkon zorgen voor een warme en uitnodigende uitstraling, zelfs in deze afgelegen omgeving. Links op de achtergrond prijkt de kleine kerk met klokkentoren die is gewijd aan David Garejeli zelf — de heilige stichter van het klooster. De verweerde steen, de ingelegde kruismotieven in de muur en de sobere architectuur weerspiegelen de geest van het kloosterleven: eenvoud, gemeenschap en contemplatie. Hier, op deze stille binnenplaats, voel je hoe geschiedenis, geloof en landschap samenvallen — ver van de wereld, maar vol betekenis.
Santa Maria di Staffarda Abbey in Revello, near Cuneo, was founded between 1122 and 1138 and is one of Piedmont’s most fascinating and essential medieval monasteries.
L’Abbazia di Santa Maria di Staffarda a Revello, in provincia di Cuneo, è uno dei monasteri medievali più affascinanti e importanti del Piemonte. La sua fondazione risale al periodo compreso tra il 1122 e il 1138.
Racconigi Castle, originated as a medieval fortress and was transformed in the 18th and 19th centuries into a royal residence of the House of Savoy. Expanded and adorned with a romantic garden by King Charles Albert and later King Victor Emmanuel II, it served as a favored retreat for the Italian royal family and stands as a symbol of Savoyard elegance and political heritage.
I wanted to get close to the castle and try out my 7 Artisans 7.5mm f/2.8 fisheye lens. Shot at f/11.
This image is of Fort Edward in Windsor, Nova Scotia. It is a simple structure where the form is informed by its function. The overhanging second storey is to allow soldiers to fire at adversaries storming the fort through holes in the floor. Wood was abundant in British North America. The heavy timber construction was easier to work with than stone yet surprisingly resistant to fire.
-Added to the Cream of the Crop pool as my best of 2006.
Elegante batente de porta em forma de mão, feito de latão dourado polido, instalado numa porta de madeira escura em Ciudad Rodrigo, Espanha. Este tipo de aldrava, comum na arquitetura tradicional ibérica desde o século XVIII, representa a "mão de Fátima" ou "hamsa", um símbolo com raízes no Norte de África, adotado nas tradições muçulmana, judaica e cristã na Península Ibérica. Ciudad Rodrigo, uma cidade histórica fortificada na província de Salamanca, conserva muitos desses elementos decorativos que refletem a influência multicultural da região. Além da sua função prática, estes batentes eram também símbolos de estatuto social e proteção espiritual para as casas, em que a mão frequentemente simboliza a figura feminina como guardiã do lar. Modelos semelhantes continuam a ser procurados para portas restauradas e edifícios históricos, evocando práticas e estéticas de outros tempos.
A sleek, hand-shaped door knocker, crafted from polished golden brass, graces a dark wooden door in Ciudad Rodrigo, Spain, exuding a sense of elegance and refinement. This intricate door knocker, a staple in traditional Iberian architecture since the 18th century, embodies the 'Hand of Fatima' or 'Hamsa', a symbol with deep roots in North Africa, embraced by Muslim, Jewish, and Christian traditions in the Iberian Peninsula. Ciudad Rodrigo, a historic fortified city nestled in the heart of Salamanca province, boasts a treasure trove of decorative elements that embody the region's rich multicultural tapestry. Beyond their practical purpose, these knockers were also symbols of social status and spiritual protection for homes, where the hand often embodies the female figure as a guardian of the hearth. Similar designs continue to be sought after for restored doors and historic buildings, evoking the charm of bygone eras and the beauty of time-honored craftsmanship.
Sortelha, uma das Aldeias Históricas de Portugal, preserva a sua essência medieval com ruas de pedra, casas em granito e uma atmosfera intemporal. Nesta imagem, destaca-se uma das suas imponentes portas, parte das muralhas que envolvem a aldeia.
Detalhes arquitetónicos em ferro forjado, típicos de Lisboa, adornam um elegante quiosque. Estes elementos, de inspiração Arte Nova, destacam-se pela elegância e pela funcionalidade, conferindo beleza e personalidade às ruas da cidade.
Santa Maria di Staffarda Abbey in Revello, near Cuneo, was founded between 1122 and 1138 and is one of Piedmont’s most fascinating and essential medieval monasteries.
L’Abbazia di Santa Maria di Staffarda a Revello, in provincia di Cuneo, è uno dei monasteri medievali più affascinanti e importanti del Piemonte. La sua fondazione risale al periodo compreso tra il 1122 e il 1138.