I have always loved this scene that is shown on travel posters and promos on television. Gondolas are truly magnificent boats. Their timeless beauty adorn the waters of Venice as a testament to the romantic allure of this city surrounded by water.

inside the new Port authority path station, the Oculus.

This incredible structure is a testament to all, and the resilience of Freedom..

Ca' Corner della Regina, Venice, Italy

A testament to history I actually shot this in colour and was pretty pleased with it. However i decided to change it to black & white as I felt it reflected the drama and the beauty of the scene better. This is the main part left of old abbey in the town of Kilwinning, Scotland. There’s actually other outer walls that I will post soon, but this is the most complete part still standing. Kilwinning was a Tironensian Benedictine monastic community, named after Tiron in the diocese of Chartres. The abbey was dedicated to Saint Winning and the Virgin Mary, and founded sometime between 1162 and 1188 with monks coming from Kelso.[1] The patron is not known for certain, but it may have been Richard de Morville, Lord of Cunninghame and Great Constable of Scotland, perhaps with the backing and assistance of King William of Scotland. This was one of those days when I set out it was lovely sun and only to arrive at my location to find it clouding over. I actually thought I had completely missed my window of opportunity before the sun went down when the cloud cover broke one last time to create this soft light.

The Monastère de Brou, located in the town of Bourg-en-Bresse, is a stunning example of flamboyant Gothic architecture. It was constructed in the early 16th century by Marguerite d’Autriche, Duchess of Savoy, as a testament to her love for her deceased husband, Philibert le Beau.

The centerpiece of the monastery is its church, adorned with a polychrome glazed tile roof. Inside the church lie the princely burials of Philibert II of Savoy, Marguerite of Austria, and Marguerite of Bourbon. These tombs are a masterpiece of finely sculpted details, crafted by the best regional and Flemish artists of the time.

One of the remarkable features of the Monastère de Brou is the chapel of Margaret of Austria, which houses a stunning stained glass window depicting the Assumption and a white marble altarpiece portraying the Seven Joys of the Virgin. The altarpiece is adorned with seven niches, each representing a significant event in the life of the Virgin Mary, such as the Annunciation, the Nativity, and the Assumption.

The church's choir also features old stained glass windows, wooden stalls, and a rood screen, all created by master glassmakers from Lyon and other talented artists.

Aside from the church and its treasures, visitors can explore three cloisters within the monastery: the first cloister, the large cloister, and the cloister of the outbuildings. Each cloister offers unique architectural and artistic elements.

Furthermore, the monastic buildings house a municipal museum, where an impressive collection of art is presented. The art collection includes Flemish and French paintings ranging from the 15th to the 20th century, old religious sculptures, Renaissance furniture, Bressan furniture, and Meillonnas earthenware.

A visit to the Monastère de Brou promises to be a delightful experience, showcasing the rich history and artistic excellence of the region during the 16th century. The monastery serves as a testament to the love and devotion of Marguerite d’Autriche to her husband and stands as a timeless masterpiece of Gothic art.

Luxor Hotel & Casino

Las Vegas, NV

Cambridge, England

Testament - 'something that serves as a sign or evidence of a specified fact, event, or quality'

This is another perspective of the standing stone that sits up on Ipstones Edge (I posted a photo a month or two back). It certainly bears testament in a number of ways, testament to what it once was (I don't know! probably a big gatepost), testament to the people who originally laid the stone hundreds of years ago - seeing as it's still standing proud despite the strong cross winds that have battered it over the centuries, and also testament to the people who once carved their initials on it.

I hate seeing things with history defaced but I must admit, I carved into to trees when I was a teenager - didn't seem to matter then! it was usually Panda (what I was known as back then!) loves (insert name of then girlfriend) and a heart! Oh dear, at least I grew up!

The Old Church in Dunlewey, Ireland, is a mysterious and captivating relic of a bygone era. This tiny church, perched on the edge of the dramatic and windswept Dunlewey Lake, has withstood the test of time and the elements for over 150 years.

The church was originally built as a memorial to James Russell, a wealthy hop merchant and local landlord who died in 1848 and is buried in a vault under the church floor. The church was consecrated in 1853 as a Chapel of Ease to Tullaghabegley, the parish consisting of the current Gweedore and Cloughaneely parishes.

Despite its age and isolation, the Old Church remains a testament to the resilient spirit of its builders, who erected this simple structure using local marble and red brick. The church was used as a place of worship for the local community, and was used for this purpose for many years. However in 1955 the roof was removed for safety reasons; the furniture and fittins were distributed to other churches in the diocese.

Today, the Old Church stands as a silent witness to the passing of time, its walls and roofless structure are worn by the relentless Irish winds. Despite this, the church remains a place of serene beauty, its simple lines and spare decor serving as a reminder of the simple faith of its builders.

Visitors to the Old Church will find it a peaceful and inspiring place, a quiet haven amidst the rugged wilderness at the foot of Mount Errigsal. The interior of the church is plain and unadorned; visitors are encouraged to sit quietly and reflect, to bask in the quiet beauty of this simple space.

The Old Church is also a popular location for photographers and artists, who are drawn to the haunting beauty of this remote location. Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life, the Old Church in Dunlewey is a must-visit destination.

In heaven (‘ in our native land’, as Aquinas always puts it), there will be the entirely satisfactory ‘sense of an object’, there will be light; but meanwhile, the only guarantee that it is God who is present to the self is that nothing else in particular is so present, and that no consistent set of words or ideas (about God or anything else) is at work. It is a darkness in which the only significant human act is the will’s movement of desire–the bare readiness to abide in hope and longing in the darkness, to be content with nothing else because anything else would be less than God.

-The Wound of Knowledge The Wound of Knowledge Christian Spirituality from the New Testament to St John of the Cross, ROWAN WILLIAMS

(French follows)

The spectacular Boldt Castel is a testament to the tragic love story that began in the late 19th century between the millionaire George C. Boldt, a prominent hotelier and proprietor of the famous Waldorf Asteria Hotel in New York, and Louise Augusta Kehrer known for her grace and beauty. She was the light of George’s life, and he credited her for much of his success. The dream and grander of the Rhineland-style of Boldt Castle began in 1900 in Alexandria Bay, on picturesque Heart Island, nestled in the calm waters of the St. Lawrence River in the Thousand Islands area of New York State.

It was to be a gift to Louise, a symbol of his undying love and devotion. George spared no expenses with the finest architectural details of the six story, 120 luxurious room castle, complete with tunnels, Italian gardens, playhouse and dove-cote. However, the love story took a sorrowful turn in 1904 when Louise tragically died due to heart failure at age 42. Her sudden death left George devastated and he immediately stopped the project; he never returned to the island. The fairytale castle was abandoned for 73 years. In 1977, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property and started important restoration efforts. Today, it is a major tourist attraction for visitors from around the world. Their love, though marked by sadness, continues to resonate through the halls and towers of Boldt Castle, capturing the hearts of all who visit.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

********************

Le spectaculaire château de Boldt témoigne de l'histoire d'amour tragique qui a commencé à la fin du XIXe siècle entre le millionnaire George C. Boldt, hôtelier de renom et propriétaire du célèbre hôtel Waldorf Asteria à New York, et Louise Augusta Kehrer, connue pour sa grâce et sa beauté. Elle était la lumière de la vie de George, et il lui a attribué une grande partie de son succès. Le rêve et la grandeur du château de Boldt, de style rhénan, ont commencé en 1900 à Alexandria Bay, sur la pittoresque Heart Island, nichée dans les eaux calmes du fleuve Saint-Laurent dans la région des Mille-Îles de l'État de New York.

Il devait être un cadeau à Louise, un symbole de son amour et de son dévouement éternels. George n’a pas lésiné sur les dépenses pour les plus beaux détails architecturaux du château de six étages et de 120 chambres luxueuses, avec des tunnels, des jardins à l’italienne, une salle de jeux et un théâtre ainsi qu'un pigeonnier. Mais l'histoire d'amour prit une tournure tragique en 1904, lorsque Louise mourut tragiquement d'une insuffisance cardiaque à l'âge de 42 ans. Sa mort soudaine laissa George dévasté et il arrêta immédiatement le projet ; il ne revint jamais sur l'île. Le château de conte de fées fut abandonné pendant 73 ans. En 1977, la Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquit la propriété et entreprit d'importants travaux de restauration. Aujourd'hui, c'est une attraction touristique majeure pour les visiteurs du monde entier. Leur amour, bien que marqué par la tristesse, continue de résonner dans les salles et les tours du château de Boldt, capturant le cœur de tous ceux qui le visitent.

Inscrite au registre national des lieux historiques en 1978.

✨ Production Credits ✨

Sim Build: Myrdin Sommer

Story Creators: Cate Infinity, Myrdin Sommer, Dia G

Robot Creators: Poppy Morris, Myrdin Sommer, Balaclava

Sound Engineers: Christo Winslet, Poppy Morris

TourBot: Poppy Morris, Myrdin Sommer, Marvyn42

Produced By: Cate Infinity of The Refuge Productions

About Drone Haven

Drone Haven, a city long abandoned by humanity, stands as a haunting testament to the fleeting significance of humankind in the grand narrative of nature. Rusted skyscrapers rise from fractured earth, their decayed frames wrapped in vines and moss, bearing witness to nature’s quiet reclamation.

Please take a visit to the wonderful Drone Haven, it is so immersive, and eclectically done.

maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/TheRefuge/27/140/22

“Ancient Corinth was one of the largest and most important cities of Greece, with a population of 90,000 in 400 BC.[1] The Romans demolished Corinth in 146 BC, built a new city in its place in 44 BC, and later made it the provincial capital of Greece.” As a young child, I memorized all the books of the Bible. It was amazing to me to now stand in a place that the apostle Paul had written about.

From a photograph taken in the Spring of 2018 and developed further in January 2022.

Copyright Stan farrow FRPS

Ein Ausschnitt des Lutherzimmers auf der Wartburg. Hier nahm Luther nach dem Reichstag zu Worms, der im die Reichsacht einbrachte, die Übersetzung des Neuen Testaments vom Lateinisch-Griechischen ins Deutsche auf. Das gelang ihm innerhalb von nur 11 Wochen! Dabei hielt er nicht an den wörtlichen Formulierungen fest, sondern orientierte sich am Sinn des Textes. Seine Vorstellung: „nicht die Buchstaben in der lateinischen Sprache fragen, wie man soll deutsch reden, sondern man muß die Mutter im Hause, die Kinder auf der Gassen, den gemeinen Mann auf dem Markt drum fragen, und denselbigen auf das Maul sehen, wie sie reden und danach dolmetschen; da verstehen sie es denn und merken, daß man deutsch mit ihnen redet.“ Viele Worte, die wir noch heute in der deutschen Sprache verwenden, lassen sich auf Martin Luther zurückführen: friedfertig, Machtwort, Lästermaul, Morgenland... Aber auch Redewendungen wie „aus seinem Herzen keine Mördergrube machen“ und „ein Stein des Anstoßes sein“ stammen von ihm. Und so nahmen die Dinge ihren Lauf in der Zeit 4. Mai 1521 bis zum 1. März 1522, als Martin Luther auf der Wartburg zu Eisenach versteckt war. Vor über 500 Jahren.

(French follows)

The spectacular Boldt Castel is a testament to the tragic love story that began in the late 19th century between the millionaire George C. Boldt, a prominent hotelier and proprietor of the famous Waldorf Asteria Hotel in New York, and Louise Augusta Kehrer known for her grace and beauty. She was the light of George’s life, and he credited her for much of his success. The dream and grander of the Rhineland-style of Boldt Castle began in 1900 in Alexandria Bay, on picturesque Heart Island, nestled in the calm waters of the St. Lawrence River in the Thousand Islands area of New York State.

It was to be a gift to Louise, a symbol of his undying love and devotion. George spared no expenses with the finest architectural details of the six story, 120 luxurious room castle, complete with tunnels, Italian gardens, playhouse and dove-cote. However, the love story took a sorrowful turn in 1904 when Louise tragically died due to heart failure at age 42. Her sudden death left George devastated and he immediately stopped the project; he never returned to the island. The fairytale castle was abandoned for 73 years. In 1977, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property and started important restoration efforts. Today, it is a major tourist attraction for visitors from around the world. Their love, though marked by sadness, continues to resonate through the halls and towers of Boldt Castle, capturing the hearts of all who visit.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

********************

Le spectaculaire château de Boldt témoigne de l'histoire d'amour tragique qui a commencé à la fin du XIXe siècle entre le millionnaire George C. Boldt, hôtelier de renom et propriétaire du célèbre hôtel Waldorf Asteria à New York, et Louise Augusta Kehrer, connue pour sa grâce et sa beauté. Elle était la lumière de la vie de George, et il lui a attribué une grande partie de son succès. Le rêve et la grandeur du château de Boldt, de style rhénan, ont commencé en 1900 à Alexandria Bay, sur la pittoresque Heart Island, nichée dans les eaux calmes du fleuve Saint-Laurent dans la région des Mille-Îles de l'État de New York.

Il devait être un cadeau à Louise, un symbole de son amour et de son dévouement éternels. George n’a pas lésiné sur les dépenses pour les plus beaux détails architecturaux du château de six étages et de 120 chambres luxueuses, avec des tunnels, des jardins à l’italienne, une salle de jeux et un théâtre ainsi qu'un colombier. Mais l'histoire d'amour prit une tournure tragique en 1904, lorsque Louise mourut tragiquement d'une insuffisance cardiaque à l'âge de 42 ans. Sa mort soudaine laissa George dévasté et il arrêta immédiatement le projet ; il ne revint jamais sur l'île. Le château de conte de fées fut abandonné pendant 73 ans. En 1977, la Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquit la propriété et entreprit d'importants travaux de restauration. Aujourd'hui, c'est une attraction touristique majeure pour les visiteurs du monde entier. Leur amour, bien que marqué par la tristesse, continue de résonner dans les salles et les tours du château de Boldt, capturant le cœur de tous ceux qui le visitent.

Inscrite au registre national des lieux historiques en 1978.

Ogunquit, ME Late day light, Perkins Cove

There are literally hundreds, if not thousands of abandoned homes strewn throughout the countryside in Alberta. They did not fall out of the sky, but rather, were thoughtfully placed with the intentions of building a life within the four walls and a roof - a very long time ago.

When I come across these homesteads, I just have to stop. I don’t know why I am drawn to these old relics. Fossils of the past. It is as if can hear their heart beat in the solitude of the countryside.

Who lived here? What kind of life did they have? Did they conquer their hardships or challenges? It is without a doubt that the occupants encountered insurmountable struggles.

I try to imagine the essence of the house. Were there moments of joy and contentment despite the harshness and difficulties of the environment? I find it incredulous that it still stands even though it has been ravaged by time.

My imagination begins to percolate.

I want to hear the happy, contagious squeals of children giggling as they raced to the warmth of their beds at night; the sound of Mother humming as she lovingly brushed her daughter’s hair by the fire, or Father whistling with an air of fulfillment at a satisfying day of work that had been done and in anticipation of the hot meal waiting for him as he walked in, through the door. Goals, dreams and aspirations were quietly shared in the secrecy of night. Stolen kisses and affirmations of love and commitment were whispered as the children slept.

I wonder if this house had been enough for them? Why did they leave? What were their parting thoughts as they turned the key for that one last time? So many questions. No answers…

I snap a photo of the old gal.

I start driving down the lonely road but take one last look in my rearview mirror. I see a house surrounded by mass plantings of flowers, a thriving garden, chickens milling about and a clothesline that has a congregation of well worn clothes that are being gently seduced by an unusually warm summer breeze. The children are playing Kick-the-can out in the fields.

The joy of their laughter is a welcome sound to their Mother and Father who are sitting together on the porch sipping lemonade and enjoying a respite from the monotony of chores. No words pass between them. They bask in the silence of their mutual contentment.

I see a house that was once brimming with life and love. It stands proud and tenacious as a testament to those who happen to pass by on this lonely country road and those who have the ears to hear the echoes of laughter wafting in the wind, proclaiming that this house was more than four walls and a roof - it was a home…

Matthew the Apostle, also known as Saint Matthew and possibly as Levi, was, according to the New Testament, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. According to Christian traditions, he was also one of the four Evangelists as author of the Gospel of Matthew, and thus is also known as Matthew the Evangelist, a claim rejected by most biblical scholars, though the "traditional authorship still has its defenders."

On the right, a fragment of the fresco "The Cathedral of the Reverend Fathers of Kyiv-Pechersk, resting in the Far Caves", as a cathedral memory of the monks of the Kyiv-Pechersk Lavra, revered by saints and buried in the Far (Feodosius) Caves of the Lavra.

Погляд з другого (від вівтаря) компартименту бічної правої нави в напрямку трансепту та головного іконостасу.

На правому вітрилі над аркою проходу, що веде до трансепту:

- Святий євангеліст Матвій - Левій Матвій, (також Святий Матвій; євангеліст Матвій; Левій Алфєєв) - один з дванадцяти апостолів, найближчих учнів Ісуса Христа, персонаж Нового Завіту. Вважається автором першого канонічного Євангелія – Євангелія від Матвія;

Праворуч, на стіні компартименту (південна стіна бічної нави, яка межує з приділом Іоана Богослова), фрагмент фрески «Собор преподобних отців Києво-Печерських, у Далеких печерах відпочиваючих», як соборна пам'ять ченців Києво-Печерської лаври, шанованих святими та похованих у Далеких (Феодосієвих) печерах лаври. На передньому плані Преподобний Феодосій Печерський.

In the Kiev tract of Dorogozhichi, a unique monument of Orthodox architecture and spirituality has been preserved since the 12th century - the church in honor of the saints Cyril and Athanasius of Alexandria, which is simply called Kirillovskaya for short. After St. Sophia Cathedral, this is the second oldest temple in the capital, preserved to this day from the times of Kievan Rus.

У київському урочищі Дорогожичі з ХІІ століття збереглася унікальна пам'ятка православної архітектури та духовності – церква на честь святителів Кирила та Афанасія Олександрійських, яку скорочено називають просто Кирилівською. Після Софійського собору це другий за давниною храм у столиці, що зберігся донині з часів Київської Русі.

Кирилівська церква будувалася як сімейний усипальниця роду князів Ольговичів. Першою тут була похована вдова Всеволода Марія – дочка святого князя Мстислава Великого та онука Володимира Мономаха. Саме вона втілила у життя задум рано померлого чоловіка про зведення Кирилівського храму та монастиря. З Іпатіївського літопису відомо, що у 1171 році обитель вже існувала. Сама княгиня прийняла у монастирі схіму. Тут же було пострижено перед смертю і потім поховано її сина, князя Святослава Всеволодовича – одного з головних героїв «Слова про похід Ігорів».

This image captures the striking beauty of an aged wooden door in Palermo, steeped in history and character. The door's weathered surface bears the marks of time, with peeling paint, cracks, and patina that hint at decades, if not centuries, of use. Intricately carved details at the top of the frame suggest a touch of Baroque influence, characteristic of Palermo's rich architectural heritage. A faint emblem or crest is still visible above the doorway, though it has faded with time, likely representing the historical or familial significance of the building.

To the left of the door, mismatched wooden planks reinforce the structure, a testament to a pragmatic yet artistic approach to preservation. The lock and metal handle are robust and functional, contrasting with the delicate craftsmanship of the frame. These elements tell a story of a building that has served both practical and aesthetic purposes. A splash of orange on the left adds a contemporary touch, possibly from a modern repair or addition.

Surrounding the door, the textured stone and marble facade hint at a building of importance, blending materials and styles that reflect the eclectic influences in Palermo's architecture. The sunlight illuminates the scene, accentuating the textures and tones, from the warm wooden hues to the cool marble details. This doorway is not just an entrance but a gateway into the layered history of Palermo, inviting the viewer to imagine the stories it could tell.

RX_03121_20240515_Palermo

(French follows)

The spectacular Boldt Castel is a testament to the tragic love story that began in the late 19th century between the millionaire George C. Boldt, a prominent hotelier and proprietor of the famous Waldorf Asteria Hotel in New York, and Louise Augusta Kehrer known for her grace and beauty. She was the light of George’s life, and he credited her for much of his success. The dream and grander of the Rhineland-style of Boldt Castle began in 1900 in Alexandria Bay, on picturesque Heart Island, nestled in the calm waters of the St. Lawrence River in the Thousand Islands area of New York State.

It was to be a gift to Louise, a symbol of his undying love and devotion. George spared no expenses with the finest architectural details of the six story, 120 luxurious room castle, complete with tunnels, Italian gardens, playhouse and dove-cote. However, the love story took a sorrowful turn in 1904 when Louise tragically died due to heart failure at age 42. Her sudden death left George devastated and he immediately stopped the project; he never returned to the island. The fairytale castle was abandoned for 73 years. In 1977, the Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquired the property and started important restoration efforts. Today, it is a major tourist attraction for visitors from around the world. Their love, though marked by sadness, continues to resonate through the halls and towers of Boldt Castle, capturing the hearts of all who visit.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.

********************

Le spectaculaire château de Boldt témoigne de l'histoire d'amour tragique qui a commencé à la fin du XIXe siècle entre le millionnaire George C. Boldt, hôtelier de renom et propriétaire du célèbre hôtel Waldorf Asteria à New York, et Louise Augusta Kehrer, connue pour sa grâce et sa beauté. Elle était la lumière de la vie de George, et il lui a attribué une grande partie de son succès. Le rêve et la grandeur du château de Boldt, de style rhénan, ont commencé en 1900 à Alexandria Bay, sur la pittoresque Heart Island, nichée dans les eaux calmes du fleuve Saint-Laurent dans la région des Mille-Îles de l'État de New York.

Il devait être un cadeau à Louise, un symbole de son amour et de son dévouement éternels. George n’a pas lésiné sur les dépenses pour les plus beaux détails architecturaux du château de six étages et de 120 chambres luxueuses, avec des tunnels, des jardins à l’italienne, une salle de jeux et un théâtre ainsi qu'un colombier. Mais l'histoire d'amour prit une tournure tragique en 1904, lorsque Louise mourut tragiquement d'une insuffisance cardiaque à l'âge de 42 ans. Sa mort soudaine laissa George dévasté et il arrêta immédiatement le projet ; il ne revint jamais sur l'île. Le château de conte de fées fut abandonné pendant 73 ans. En 1977, la Thousand Islands Bridge Authority acquit la propriété et entreprit d'importants travaux de restauration. Aujourd'hui, c'est une attraction touristique majeure pour les visiteurs du monde entier. Leur amour, bien que marqué par la tristesse, continue de résonner dans les salles et les tours du château de Boldt, capturant le cœur de tous ceux qui le visitent.

Inscrite au registre national des lieux historiques en 1978.

This photograph of Gambir Street, Kuching, taken in September 2024, captures a historic enclave where heritage whispers through the weathered shophouses and narrow alleyways. Once the beating heart of Kuching’s trade scene during the Brooke era, Gambir Street stands as a testament to its multicultural past, where Indian Muslim and Chinese merchants traded goods with local Sarawakian natives.

At the center of the frame lies the historic Masjid India (Masjid Bandar Kuching), established in 1834. Revered as Sarawak's oldest mosque, it served the Indian Muslim community—merchants and laborers who migrated here, leaving an indelible mark on Kuching’s identity. The mosque, nestled amidst a labyrinth of shophouses, reflects the quiet strength of faith and commerce that shaped this vibrant neighborhood.

The shophouses lining the street are architectural relics, their wooden shutters and aging facades bearing witness to over a century of trade. These buildings once housed bustling shops selling spices, textiles, and traditional goods—commodities that drew traders from far and wide. Streets like Gambir Road, and connecting lanes such as the iconic Indian Mosque Lane (Lorong Sempit), allowed shoppers and traders alike to weave through a sensory mosaic of aromatic spices, brilliant colors, and cultural exchanges.

Historically, this area was Kuching’s spice trade center, where goods like turmeric, curry leaves, and exotic ingredients filled the air with fragrance. It also served as a link to India Street, previously called Kling Street in the 1850s and renamed in 1928 by Charles Vyner Brooke, to honor its Indian traders. Here, commerce and community flourished side by side, with medicine men, shopkeepers, and merchants creating a hub of life and culture that remains alive to this day.

This photograph preserves more than a visual—it freezes time, offering a poignant reflection of Kuching’s soul. Gambir Street, with its architectural elegance and enduring legacy, continues to tell stories of trade, community, and multicultural harmony. It is a living museum where history, faith, and culture come together, offering an intimate glimpse into Kuching’s rich past.

Raspberry-topped cone

Affixed to a wall

Permanence fleeting sensation

Fallout4

solo wooden figure from clancy warner’s ‘whitewashing history’ group sculpture

original photographs, snapseed, procreate, apple pencil

Thomas the Apostle, also known as Didymus was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus according to the New Testament. Thomas is commonly known as "Doubting Thomas" because he initially doubted the resurrection of Jesus Christ when he was told of it (as is related in the Gospel of John); he later confessed his faith ("My lord and my God") on seeing the places where the wounds appeared still fresh on the holy body of Jesus after the Crucifixion of Jesus. While it is often assumed he touched the wounds in art and poetry, the scriptures do not say that he touched the wounds, merely that Jesus invited him to do so, with it being unclear if he actually felt them.

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thomas_the_Apostle

Bartholomew the Apostle was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus according to the New Testament. Most scholars today identify Bartholomew as Nathanael, who appears in the Gospel of John.

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bartholomew_the_Apostle

Andrew the Apostle also called Saint Andrew, was an apostle of Jesus. According to the New Testament, he was a fisherman and one of the Twelve Apostles chosen by Jesus. The title First-Called stems from the Gospel of John, where Andrew, initially a disciple of John the Baptist, follows Jesus and, recognizing him as the Messiah, introduces his brother Simon Peter to him.

Andrew the Apostle was born to a Jewish family in Bethsaida, in Galilee, possibly between 5 and 10 AD. The New Testament states that Andrew was the brother of Simon Peter, and likewise a son of Jonah.

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Andrew_the_Apostle

Matthew the Apostle (Saint Matthew) was one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. According to Christian traditions, he was also one of the four Evangelists as author of the Gospel of Matthew, and thus is also known as Matthew the Evangelist.

Matthew is mentioned in Matthew 9:9 and Matthew 10:3 as a tax collector (in the New International Version and other translations of the Bible) who, while sitting at the "receipt of custom" in Capernaum, was called to follow Jesus. He is also listed among the Twelve Disciples, but without identification of his background, in Mark 3:18, Luke 6:15 and Acts 1:13.

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_the_Apostle

Mark the Evangelist or Saint Mark, was the person who is traditionally ascribed to be the author of the Gospel of Mark.

According to Christian tradition, one of the four evangelists, the author of the Gospel of Mark. Mark the Evangelist is included among the seventy apostles and is identified with Mark-John, a disciple of the Apostle Peter; he is credited with the role of the founder of the Alexandrian church, which later became one of the most important episcopal sees.

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_the_Evangelist

Saint Peter also known as Peter the Apostle, Simon Peter, Simeon, Simon, or Cephas, was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus Christ and one of the first leaders of the early Christian Church. He appears repeatedly and prominently in all four New Testament gospels as well as the Acts of the Apostles. Catholic tradition treats Peter as the first bishop of Rome—or pope—and also as the first bishop of Antioch.

According to Christian tradition, Peter was crucified in Rome under Emperor Nero. The ancient Christian churches all venerate Peter as a major saint and the founder of the Church of Antioch and the Church of Rome,

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saint_Peter

Philip the Apostle was one of the Twelve Apostles of Jesus according to the New Testament. Later Christian traditions describe Philip as the apostle who preached in Greece, Syria, and Asia-Minor.

All three Synoptic Gospels and the Book of Acts list Philip as one of the apostles; he is always listed on the fifth place. The Gospel of John recounts Philip's calling as a disciple of Jesus. Philip is described as a disciple from the city of Bethsaida, and the evangelist connects him with Andrew and Peter, who were from the same town. He also was among those surrounding John the Baptist when the latter first pointed out Jesus as the Lamb of God. It was Philip who first introduced Nathanael (sometimes identified with Bartholomew) to Jesus. According to Butler, Philip was among those attending the wedding at Cana.

en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Philip_the_Apostle

Фрагмент лівої сторони іконостасу - Апостольський (верхній) і Святковий ряди. (ХІХ ст., малюнок у стилі примітивізму). Церква Покрови Пресвятої Богородиці з Канори. Пирогів.

Ікони Апостольського ряду - святі апостоли зліва направо:

Фома

Варфоломій або Вартоломій (також Натанаїл, Bar-Tôlmay). Мабуть він був родичем або близьким другом апостола Філіппа, оскільки саме Філіпп привів Варфоломія до Ісуса, і в списках апостолів вони згадуються поруч.

Апостол Варфоломій — один з перших учнів Христа, покликаний четвертим услід за Андрієм, Петром та Філіпом. Варфоломій згаданий у списках апостолів в Євангелії від Матвія, від Марка, від Луки, а також в Діяннях Апостолів. Ім'я «Варфоломій» можливо є арамейським патронімічним ім'ям (за батьком) «bar talamai» — «син Талмая», де Талман — перекручене на арамейський лад грецького ім'я Птолемей.

Андрій

Матвій

Марко

Петро (поза світлиною)

Ікони Празникового ряду (ліворуч від ікони Таємна вечеря) зліва направо:

Різдво Пресвятої Богородиці

Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Введення Богородиці в Храм

Введення в Храм Пресвятої Діви Марії

Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Благовіщення Пречистої Діви Марії або Благовіщення Пресвятої Богородиці

Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary or Annunciation of the Lord

Різдво Христове

Christmas of Christ

Стрітення Господнє

The Presentation of the Lord

Богоявлення або Хрещення Ісуса Іоанном Хрестителем (поза світлиною)

Baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River by John the Baptist

Sentinel of Stone stands as a striking testament to the power of time and erosion. This lone white hoodoo, set against the fiery backdrop of Bryce Canyon’s iconic amphitheater, commands attention with its stark contrast and elegant form. Carved by the forces of nature, it rises like a silent guardian, watching over the ever-changing landscape. The interplay of light and shadow enhances the textures and colors, making this scene a captivating glimpse into the geological artistry of the Southwest.

Antioch Baptist Church

Estab. 1886

Taliaferro County, GA

Explore Front Page!

Mahamuni Temple in Mandalay, Myanmar, stands as a venerable symbol of Buddhist devotion. Constructed in 1784, it houses the highly revered Mahamuni Buddha image, believed to bear the imprint of Gautama Buddha himself. This sacred site has endured centuries, surviving wars and conflicts. Pilgrims flock to witness daily rituals, including the application of gold leaf to the revered Buddha, a testament to the unwavering reverence bestowed upon this iconic figure. The temple's historical significance and spiritual aura make it a pivotal center of worship and a cultural treasure, contributing to the rich tapestry of Myanmar's religious heritage.

Wisconsin Horizons by Phil Koch

Turning natural landscapes into portraits of nature.

fineartamerica.com/profiles/phil-koch

Sunrise, spring of 2016 in the Great Smoky Mountains.

Oconaluftee Overlook.

Explore: #96 on Monday, April 17, 2017

Photo By: Cate Infinity

Collaborative Build By: Dia G and Myrdin Sommer

In the end "All prayers went unanswered"

Location: Drone Haven

Drone Haven, a city long abandoned by humanity, stands as a haunting testament to the fleeting importance of humankind in the grand narrative of nature. Rusted skyscrapers rise from fractured earth, their decayed frames wrapped in vines and moss, bearing witness to nature’s quiet reclamation. Faded posters and graffiti whisper a warning from a forgotten era: “The End is Near!” On the city’s outskirts, a survivalist camp briefly clung to life. Dreamers and pragmatists built it as humanity’s final stand, cultivating gardens and creating shelters in defiance of the inevitable. Yet disease, dwindling resources, and discord proved stronger than their resolve. The camp fell silent, overtaken by creeping greenery, its remnants a poignant symbol of resilience overshadowed by decline. At the city’s heart lies the ruins of a once-famous butcher shop, its walls weathered and its windows shattered. Moss softens its rusted fixtures, and vines snake through every crevice. Outside, the grim message echoes: “The End is Near!” This decaying relic serves as a stark reminder of human hubris and the fragile nature of survival. Amid the ruins, drones roam like spectral caretakers. Left by their creators, these machines continue to perform their programmed duties, planting native flora during their annual Echocycle rituals. They maintain Drone Haven as a paradox—a city simultaneously embodying human ambition and nature’s enduring dominance. Yet even the drones are not eternal. As creations of humankind, they too are bound by the finite nature of energy. Like their creators, they will eventually exhaust their resources and cease to function. This juxtaposition—humanity’s ephemeral existence and its legacy in the mechanical species it forged—underscores the fragility of all things, natural or artificial. Drone Haven whispers a layered tale: a reminder that humanity, for all its self-importance, is but a fleeting presence in the face of nature’s vast, enduring cycles. In its rusted beams and flowering vines, it reflects on collapse, resilience, and the inescapable truth that all energy is finite and ultimately consumed.

️🔮Goodbye ️

On the left hand of the Virgin Mary, the second from her (in the photo, the first on the left), a handsome old man with a long gray beard - a tireless researcher of Kyiv shrines, the cathedral archpriest of St. Sophia Cathedral Pyotr Lebedintsev, a teacher at the Richelieu Lyceum, an archaeologist and historian, a connoisseur of Byzantium, a highly educated person, appears as a wise old man, frozen in majestic calm.

On the left hand of the Virgin Mary, the third from her (in the photo, the second from the left), in the image of the Apostle Luke, the young apostle, has an undeniable resemblance to Vrubel himself. According to the icon-painting tradition, this place was usually assigned to the Apostle Luke, who was not only a disciple of Christ and an evangelist, but also an icon painter, the author of the first pictorial image of the Mother of God. It is symbolic that Vrubel sees himself in the place of Luka, that is, in the place of an icon painter.

По левую руку Девы Марии, второй от неё, (на фото первый слева), в образе апостола Иоанна, благообразный старец с длинной седой бородой – неутомимый исследователь киевских святынь, кафедральный протоиерей Софийского собора Пётр Лебединцев, преподаватель Ришельевского лицея, археолог и историк, знаток Византии, высокообразованный человек, предстаёт мудрым старцем, застывшим в величавом спокойствии.

Пётр Гаврилович Лебединцев - Кафедральный протоиерей Киевского Софийского собора. Церковный историк и археолог, основатель Исторического общества Нестора-летописца, почетный член Киевской духовной академии.

Коли у травні труна з тілом Тараса прибула до Києва, значну частину клопотів з поховання узяв на себе Петро Лебединцев, який був священиком у Подільському Успенському соборі Києва. 20 травня у церкві Різдва Христового на Подолі отець Петро відслужив панахиду за покійним Тарасом. Отець Феофан разом зі своїм братом Петром проводжали земляка в останню путь до пароплава, який доставив прах Шевченка з Києва до Канева.

«Зовнішність отця Петра була настільки виразною, що саме з нього художник Михайло Врубель, під час розпису Кирилівської церкви, вирішив писати одного з апостолів композиції «Зішестя Святого Духа». «По ліву руку Богоматері, другий від неї, благовидний старий із довгою сивою бородою – це кафедральний протоієрей Софійського собору П. Г. Лебединцев, археолог і історик, знавець Візантії, високоосвічена людина».

/Син Адріана Прахова мистецтвознавець Микола Прахов/

По левую руку Девы Марии, третий от неё, (на фото второй слева), в образе апостола Луки, молодой апостол, имеет несомненное сходство с самим Врубелем. По иконописной традиции это место отводилось обычно апостолу Луке, который был не только учеником Христа и евангелистом, но и иконописцем, автором первого живописного образа Богоматери. Символично, что Врубель видит себя на месте Луки, то есть на месте художника-иконописца.

Я із захопленням дивлюся на образи, написані Врубелем і навіть не намагаюся осягнути його далекий загадковий світ, в якому він по-своєму бачив красу і намагався розповісти про неї сучасникам. Новий технократичний світ оточує нас. І я боюся, що тонка нитка Аріадни, що тягнеться до розуміння геніального світу Врубеля, стає все більш примарною і буде втрачена назавжди.

The Crump Theatre in Columbus, Indiana is a stunning testament to the town's rich architectural history. The vibrant marquee still glows with life, reflecting the theatre's enduring presence in the cultural fabric of Columbus. The Crump Theatre stands as a nostalgic beacon harking back to the golden age of theatre. The theater is currently undergoing a volunteer led restoration effort.

An iconic example of mid-century modern telecommunications architecture, stands as a striking testament to functionalist design. Rising 279.2 meters into the sky, its sleek, cylindrical form is punctuated by a series of observation decks and antenna platforms, creating a rhythmic interplay of mass and void.

The tower, clean and unadorned, emphasizes its sculptural purity, while the stacked horizontal elements provide a dynamic contrast to its otherwise monolithic verticality. This interplay of geometric forms evokes a sense of engineered elegance, where function dictates aesthetics with an almost minimalist restraint.

Photographed in isolation, the Heinrich-Hertz-Turm becomes an abstraction of itself lines and curves distilled to their essence. The structure’s stark contrast against the sky enhances its imposing presence, transforming it into a solitary beacon of modernity. This is an architecture of utility elevated to an art form, where simplicity and precision converge to create an enduring visual impact.

I still don't have anything new to post... So I decided to upload another shot taken in November after a bit of freezing rain. We have had several severe Ice storms during the last decade here in southeastern Oklahoma. The birch tree in this shot gives you an idea of the damage caused by the past storms. The new growth on the tree is a testament to the resilience of mother nature.

Hope you all had a great Christmas and wish you all the best in 2011!!

The tree and the pit winding gear have been around much longer than the factory chimney on the right.

As the sun gracefully dips into the golden embrace of the evening sky, the value of the lighthouse takes on an even greater significance. In the fading daylight, its luminous beacon emerges as a steadfast guardian, a symbol of hope and guidance. Against the canvas of twilight, the lighthouse stands tall and unwavering, ready to cast its radiant light into the obscurity of night, offering solace and direction to those navigating treacherous waters. Its worth transcends its physical form; it becomes a metaphor for the light of knowledge and the reassurance of safe passage through life's turbulent seas. With each passing sunset, the lighthouse's value grows, a testament to the enduring power of illumination in the face of darkness.

Borkum

maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Golden%20Place/132/139/32

startrail

Es probable que fuese construido durante el reinado de Alfonso VIII entre finales del siglo XII y comienzos del siglo XIII, para proteger Castilla de los ataques navarros que se producían a través del puente de San Vicente, al reivindicar esta última La Bureba, La Rioja y parte de las tierras de Soria, que habían pertenecido a su corona, pero que se encontraban en poder de los castellanos desde que fueron conquistadas por Alfonso VII. Lo seguro es que no fue construido antes de 1177, ya que no figura en la lista de castillos fronterizos de la zona, elaborada por Sancho VI.

En 1367 aparece citado por primera vez, cuando Enrique de Trastámara pactaba con Carlos II de Navarra en Santa Cruz de Campezo que no debía dejar pasar por su territorio a Pedro I el Cruel ni al Príncipe Negro. A cambio Enrique entregaba al rey navarro varios castillos, entre ellos éste, el de La Guardia, el de San Vicente y el de Buradón.

En 1389 pertenecía a los Manrique. En el testamento de Pedro Manrique de Lara de 1440, dejaba a su hijo Diego Martín Manrique (primer conde de Treviño) la tenencia de los castillos de Davalillo y Bilibio y a la muerte de éste en 1458, pasarían a su segundo hijo también llamado Diego.

La tenencia del castillo estuvo vinculada (aunque era propiedad real) a los Manrique, duques de Nájera, hasta al menos 1656, cuando murió Francisco María Monserrat, octavo duque de Nájera, pero desde 1465 los poblados de Davalillo y San Asensio fueron comprados por María Enríquez, de la familia Velasco, encontrándose estos enfrentados con los Manrique, lo que provocó disputas que como consecuencia llevaron al movimiento de población de Davalillo a San Asensio hasta la completa despoblación del primero.

Estructura

Parte interior de la muralla del castillo. Hay varias hileras de mechinales, ménsulas y rozas.

Toda la fortaleza está construida en buena fábrica de sillería en piedra arenisca con relleno de morrillo. Tiene planta poligonal de siete lados.

La muralla aunque ha perdido sus almenas se encuentra en buen estado. Cuenta con torrecillas redondas de flanqueo en los ángulos y en los centros de los lienzos, siendo todas macizas a excepción de la que se encuentra a la izquierda frente a la entrada, que contaba con una aspillera. En la parte interior de la muralla hay varias hileras de mechinales, ménsulas y rozas que hacen suponer la existencia de construcciones complementarias para habitación de la guarnición, cuadras y almacenes. Así mismo se estima la brocal del pozo de la aljibe.

Al fondo el Castillo de San Vicente de la Sonsierra.

La torre del homenaje está adosada a la cerca en el extremo oriental, tiene planta cuadrada y contaba con cuatro pisos, cubiertos con bóveda de cañón apuntado. La planta baja se estima que servía de capilla y consta de un tramo rectangular con bóveda de cañón, su entrada se encuentra en el lado derecho de la torre. Estaba iluminada por tres aspilleras situadas dos en el muro occidental y otra en el centro del ábside. El acceso al resto de pisos se realizaba por la segunda planta, donde hay una pequeña puerta en arco de medio punto en la cara norte.

La puerta principal de entrada se encuentra protegida por dos cubos huecos con elementos de defensa y precedida por un zaguán de 2 metros, cubierto con bóveda de cañón apuntado. La puerta primitiva era en arco apuntado, bajo el que se colocó posteriormente un dintel.

En el exterior hay restos de un muro que podría ser la cerca del poblado de Davalillo que se extendía ladera abajo.

The heaven opens. This is from 3 years ago in September, amazing what you find when you dig into the hard drive!

Beauly firth

Inverness-shire

Scotland

Weihnachten gilt als Fest des Friedens, denn als der Engel, der laut Neuem Testament den Hirten die Botschaft von der Geburt Christi überbrachte, riefen die himmlischen Heerscharen, die dazugekommen waren "Ehre sei Gott in der Höhe und Frieden auf Erden und den Menschen ein Wohlgefallen". Leider fallen aber auch an diesen Tagen an vielen Orten der Welt Bomben auf unschuldige Menschen, wird geschossen und gemordet, nicht nur, aber auch von Mächten, die sich als christlich bezeichnen. Ich weiß, dass es naiv ist, aber dennoch wünsche ich mir und allen, dass die Menschheit zur Besinnung kommt und erkennt, dass wir alle eine große Familie sind, dass niemand über dem Anderen steht, dass wir aufeinander angewiesen sind, um etwas Größeres zu erreichen als mehr Macht, Territorium und Reichtum, nämlich die Grundlagen für unser aller Überleben auf der Erde zu sichern.

Christmas is considered a festival of peace, for when the angel who, according to the New Testament, brought the message of the birth of Christ to the shepherds, the heavenly host who had come shouted ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men’. Unfortunately, bombs are also dropped on innocent people in many places around the world on these days, people are shot at and murdered, not only, but also by powers that call themselves Christian. I know it is naive, but I still wish for myself and everyone that humanity comes to its senses and realises that we are all one big family, that no one is above the other, that we are dependent on each other to achieve something greater than more power, territory and wealth, namely to secure the foundations for the survival of us all on earth.