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Vista da Ponte da Carvalha, uma estrutura do início do século XVII construída no período filipino. Apesar do seu estilo remeter para a arquitetura romana, a ponte foi erguida com técnicas e materiais da época moderna. Composta por seis arcos de alvenaria em pedra, atravessa a Ribeira da Sertã, integrando-se na paisagem da Alameda da Carvalha, um espaço de lazer e convívio local. Este património destaca-se pela sua relevância histórica e arquitetónica, mantendo-se como um símbolo das ligações regionais ao longo dos séculos.
Visited the Hearst Catle during the memorial weekend, and was very impressed by the design, architecture, and the POOLS!!!
The architecture was just amazing to see, and the tour was quite awesome too...although I was way too busy in taking photos, rather than listening to our excellent tour guide's introduction...:-)
For more information, check out following links,
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.
Este pequeno anexo agrícola, integralmente construído em xisto, é um exemplo representativo da arquitetura vernacular de Quintandona, em Penafiel. Estas construções, outrora vitais para o apoio à atividade agrícola, serviam como armazéns de colheitas ou abrigos para animais. As paredes robustas em xisto, unidas a seco ou com argamassa, e a cobertura de telha cerâmica tradicional, asseguram isolamento térmico. A arquitetura funcional e simples, com uma única porta de madeira, reflete a adaptação ao trabalho no campo. Quintandona, uma aldeia preservada desde o século XIII e integrada na Rota do Românico, demonstra a coexistência entre a paisagem rural, a arquitetura tradicional em xisto, e elementos modernos. A aldeia tem sido alvo de um projeto de recuperação que visa preservar este valioso património arquitetónico e cultural, testemunho de um modo de vida rural praticamente inalterado até meados do século XX.
This small agricultural annex, built entirely of schist, is a representative example of the vernacular architecture of Quintandona, in Penafiel. These buildings, once vital to agricultural activity, served as crop storage or animal shelters. The sturdy schist walls, joined dry or with mortar, and the traditional ceramic tile roof ensure thermal insulation. The functional and simple architecture, with a single wooden door, reflects its adaptation to work in the fields. Quintandona, a village preserved since the 13th century and part of the Romanesque Route, demonstrates the coexistence of the rural landscape, traditional schist architecture, and modern elements. The village has been the subject of a restoration project that aims to preserve this valuable architectural and cultural heritage, testimony to a rural way of life that remained virtually unchanged until the mid-20th century.
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.
La Castiglia, the historic palace of the Marquises of Saluzzo, rises prominently in the heart of the town as a symbol of medieval power and civic identity. Built in the 13th century and expanded over successive centuries, it served as both a fortress and a noble residence, reflecting the autonomy and prestige of the Marquisate. With its distinctive crenellated towers, Gothic mullioned windows, and elegant loggias, the palace blends military architecture with refined courtly style. Today, it houses the Museo Civico, preserving artifacts and artworks that tell the story of Saluzzo’s rich political, cultural, and artistic heritage.
Bathed in the golden light of morning, the yellow tower and surrounding facade of Palácio Nacional da Pena rise from the misty hills of Sintra like a vision from a dream. The vibrant ochre walls, trimmed with stone battlements and Gothic arches, represent the exuberant spirit of 19th-century Romanticism that transformed this royal retreat into one of Europe’s most imaginative architectural landmarks.
Commissioned by King Ferdinand II, the palace blends Moorish, Manueline, and Gothic influences into a single fantastical composition. The round tower, capped with crenellations and patterned tiles, anchors the sprawling structure, while the surrounding parapets and minaret-like spires add a whimsical, almost theatrical quality. Beneath the color and ornament lies a deep philosophical intent—an expression of the Romantic ideal that art, nature, and architecture could merge to evoke wonder and emotion.
Every angle of Pena reveals new contrasts: the soft texture of aged stucco against carved stone, the interplay of shadow beneath repeating arches, and the vivid saturation of yellow against a flawless blue sky. It’s a place where architecture transcends utility to become poetry—bold, playful, and unmistakably Portuguese.
The yellow tower and facade of Palácio Nacional da Pena in Sintra, Portugal, embody Romantic architecture at its peak—a fusion of imagination, history, and royal artistry overlooking the Serra de Sintra.
A fachada de um prédio na Rua da Junqueira, em Belém, Lisboa, é caracterizada pelo revestimento em azulejos decorativos e varandas de ferro forjado. Esta rua histórica, que remonta ao século XIII, desenvolveu-se ao longo do rio Tejo e é conhecida pela sua ligação à aristocracia lisboeta dos séculos XVIII e XIX, período em que surgiram palácios e casas nobres na área. Os azulejos cerâmicos, comuns na arquitetura portuguesa desde o século XIX, são utilizados tanto para proteger as paredes da humidade como para decoração, refletindo a herança cultural e artística da cidade, frequentemente associada ao período romântico e à Arte Nova.
A Igreja de São Pedro em Portovenere ergue-se sobre um promontório rochoso, num exemplo notável de arquitetura medieval da Ligúria. Construída no século XIII sobre as ruínas de um templo romano, esta igreja apresenta características românico-góticas com a sua distinta fachada zebrada em mármore branco e pedra negra. Situada na costa da Ligúria, no norte de Itália, faz parte do Património Mundial da UNESCO desde 1997, juntamente com as Cinque Terre e as ilhas de Palmaria, Tino e Tinetto. A sua localização estratégica no promontório rochoso oferecia uma vista privilegiada do Golfo de La Spezia e integrava-se no sistema defensivo da República de Génova. A robusta muralha que a circunda serviu como proteção contra invasões marítimas, testemunhando a importância estratégica deste local ao longo dos séculos.
When capturing this facade in Saint-Malo at dusk, I wanted to seize the contrast between the geometric rigor of the architecture and the warmth of the illuminated windows. The selective black and white treatment emphasizes this duality, transforming each lit window into a golden lantern piercing through the austerity of granite. I was particularly drawn to the perfect symmetry of the openings and how the lights seem to play a silent game of chess across the facade.
The architectural details - the ornate roof dormers, wrought iron balconies, flowered window boxes - add a historical dimension that anchors the image in Saint-Malo's heritage. What fascinated me was how contemporary life expresses itself through these centuries-old windows, creating a dialogue between past and present, between the coldness of stone and the warmth of the homes within it.
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.
The Abbey of San Michele della Chiusa, perched atop Mount Pirchiriano, stands on a site of ancient religious significance. According to legend, Saint Michael appeared here in the 4th century, leading to the construction of a sanctuary. The current Romanesque and Gothic abbey, developed from the 10th century onward, became a major pilgrimage destination on the route to Santiago de Compostela and remains a masterpiece of medieval architecture and spiritual tradition.
O interior da Sé Catedral de Lamego apresenta uma notável riqueza artística e arquitetónica, refletindo várias épocas e estilos. A catedral é composta por três naves divididas em três tramos, cobertas por abóbadas de aresta que assentam em arcos de volta perfeita e robustos pilares. Um dos elementos mais impressionantes são os tetos, pintados na primeira metade do século XVIII pelo célebre pintor-arquiteto italiano Nicolau Nasoni. Estas pinturas exibem composições barrocas triunfantes em perspetiva, combinando temas arquitetónicos com episódios bíblicos.
As arquivoltas do portal românico da Igreja de São Pedro, em Leiria, são ornamentadas com figuras antropomórficas esculpidas em calcário, que podem simbolizar pecadores em busca da salvação celestial. Esta ornamentação, rara em Portugal, reflete influências da arte anglo-normanda, possivelmente trazidas por comunidades britânicas após a Conquista de Lisboa em 1147. Características da arquitetura românica portuguesa dos séculos XII e XIII, as arquivoltas exibem uma decoração escultórica ao longo do arco, criando uma narrativa visual que tipicamente representa figuras bíblicas e elementos simbólicos da comunidade cristã medieval. Essa ornamentação demonstra a importância do portal como elemento de transição entre o espaço profano e o sagrado, funcionando como um instrumento didático e devocional para os fiéis. Localizada perto do castelo de Leiria, a Igreja de São Pedro, construída pelos cónegos regrantes de Santo Agostinho e associada à fundação do mosteiro de Santa Cruz de Coimbra, é um dos raros exemplares de arquitetura românica na região, destacando-se pela sua relevância histórica e cultural.
The archivolts of the Romanesque portal of the Church of São Pedro, in Leiria, are decorated with anthropomorphic figures carved in limestone, which may symbolize sinners seeking heavenly salvation. This ornamentation, rare in Portugal, reflects influences from Anglo-Norman art, possibly brought by British communities after the Conquest of Lisbon in 1147. Characteristic of Portuguese Romanesque architecture from the 12th and 13th centuries, the archivolts display sculptural decoration along the arch, creating a visual narrative that typically represents biblical figures and symbolic elements of the medieval Christian community. This ornamentation demonstrates the importance of the portal as a transitional element between the profane and sacred spaces, functioning as a didactic and devotional tool for the faithful. Located near the castle of Leiria, the Church of São Pedro, built by the canons regent of Saint Augustine and associated with the foundation of the monastery of Santa Cruz de Coimbra, is one of the rare examples of Romanesque architecture in the region, standing out for its historical and cultural relevance.
Rua General Pando, em Ciudad Rodrigo, Espanha. Uma via estreita de pedra, ladeada por edifícios históricos de pedra e varandas de ferro forjado, onde os restaurantes e tabernas convidam a descobrir os sabores da região.
Plaza de Sagasta, em Zamora, com destaque para a arquitetura de Arte Nova. Os edifícios, com as suas fachadas ornamentadas e janelas amplas, refletem a elegância deste estilo, enquanto a estátua no centro da praça acrescenta um toque artístico ao espaço urbano.
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.
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.
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.
Black and white picture of Jubelpark in Brussels. Jubelpark, also known as Parc du Cinquantenaire, is a large public park created in 1880 to mark the 50th anniversary of Belgium’s independence. Under the reign of King Leopold II, the park was developed, with the grand triumphal arch, completed in 1905, serving as its focal point. Surrounding the arch are notable museums, including the Royal Military Museum, AutoWorld Museum, and the Art and History Museum. While Leopold II was responsible for many architectural projects, much of his legacy has been criticized due to his colonial actions during his rule, especially in the Congo - Brussels, Belgium
The western wing of Lagnasco Castle is the most recent addition, built between the 15th and 16th centuries. Commissioned by the Marquises Tapparelli d’Azeglio, it marks the transformation from a military fortress to a noble residence. This section features refined Renaissance decorations, including grotesque frescoes.
O portal românico da igreja de São Pedro, em Leiria, destaca-se pelas suas arquivoltas decoradas com motivos esculpidos e pelas colunas encimadas por capitéis ornamentados. Esta igreja, construída no século XII, é um dos poucos exemplares da arquitetura românica na região, testemunhando a importância histórica e religiosa do local.
A Timeless Blend of Gothic and Renaissance - Il marchesato di Saluzzo: un connubio senza tempo tra Gotico e Rinascimento
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.
Washington Island Stavkirke is a stave church located in Washington Island, Wisconsin. It is owned and operated by Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church and is positioned a few hundred yards away from it.
The construction
The volunteer-led construction of the church began in 1983 and was modeled after the Borgund Stave Church in Borgund, Lærdal, Norway, which was built in 1150. It was created to reflect the Scandinavian heritage of Washington Island and was originally proposed by James Reiff, who was the acting pastor of Trinity Evangelical Lutheran church from 1978–1985.[1][2][3] The building has twelve 18-foot masts all harvested locally from the island. Eleven of the masts are pine and one is white fir. 9,600 four-inch wide shingles make up the six-tiered roof of the Stavkirke.[4] The church was completed and dedicated in the summer of 1995.[5] Wikipedia
Golden light surrounds the church of Peterhof Palace near St Petersburg, Russia.
The Peterhof Palace is a series of palaces and gardens located in Saint Petersburg, Russia, laid out on the orders of Peter the Great. These Palaces and gardens are sometimes referred as the "Russian Versailles". The palace-ensemble along with the city center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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 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.
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
this photograph, taken in south tyrol at the kalkofen, presents a small, rustic window nestled in a textured stone wall, framed by a backdrop of the peitlerkofel mountain. the weathered stones, mixed with patches of white mortar, tell stories of time and resilience, while the lace curtain inside hints at a touch of delicate warmth within. as the sunlight softly illuminates the scene, it captures the rugged beauty of alpine life, offering a quiet reflection on simplicity and the passage of time. this image feels timeless, connecting the viewer to a past era in this remote mountainous region.
No interior da Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, encontram-se capitéis românicos, ricamente ornamentados com motivos vegetais e figuras mitológicas, datando do século XII, testemunhos da mestria e devoção dos artistas medievais.
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.
Just about to enter the gate, but you know, there is no castle. Only the gate was renovated and there is a large empty square inside.
The Otago Gold Rush began in 1861. Miners from many parts of the world flocked to the region and by 1862 prospectors were working all the rivers in the area, including the Kawarau River. One such site was Gee’s Flat, which today is known as Goldfields.
While activity at Gee’s Flat appears to have fallen off during the 1870s, there was renewed effort during the 1880s with the use of ground sluicing. In the early 1900s at least two parties worked Gee’s Flat along with a solitary elderly Chinese miner. The last full-time miner left Gee’s Flat in 1969.
Detalhe decorativo de uma coluna na igreja de Saint-Eustache, em Paris. A riqueza de cores e padrões geométricos realça o estilo gótico tardio, evidenciando influências renascentistas que marcam este imponente edifício do século XVI.
Vista do interior do transepto da Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, destacando a grandiosidade da arquitetura românica com os seus imponentes arcos de volta perfeita e robustas colunas. Este espaço, repleto de peregrinos, reflete a importância espiritual deste templo como destino final do Caminho de Santiago.