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What amazing architecture. The picture was cropped to get a feel of the size of these city buildings that tower over you in the distance.
This spherical panorama was taken in the Presbytery at Ely Cathedral in Cambridgeshire, England. Architecturally, the cathedral is outstanding both for its scale and stylistic details. Having been built originally in a monumental Romanesque style, the galilee porch, lady chapel and choir were rebuilt in an exuberant Decorated Gothic style. The present building dates back to 1083, and it was granted cathedral status in 1109.
The east end of the cathedral, shown here, was completed in 1252. The Presbytery was built to house the shrine of St Etheldreda, the founder of the original monastery that occupied this site from 673. The shrine attracted pilgrims for centuries until it was destroyed in the Reformation. At the top of the image you can see the ornately carved wooden choir stalls. Above them are the organ pipe console and the 14th century central octagon tower lantern. If you look closely you can also see the finely decorated Victorian ceiling of the nave leading off into the distance beyond the octagon tower.
Following the roof down towards the bottom of the image leads us to the great east window of St Etheldreda's Chapel and, below this, the glowing High Altar. On the right is an example of one of the beautiful Victorian stained glass windows that surround the Presbytery.
Ref: en.wikipedia.org
Am Westufer des alten Zollhafens reiht sich ein Bürogebäude an das andere. Auch hier haben die Projektentwickler und Architekten auf eine außergewöhnliche Architektur Wert gelegt. Die schlanke klassische Form des Rheinturms hebt sich deutlich von der Büro Architektur ab.
Mehr Fotos und Berichte von meinen Fotowalks, Touren und Berichten: www.maco-activetours.de
On the western bank of the old customs port, one office building is lined up after another. Here too, the project developers and architects placed emphasis on exceptional architecture. The slim, classic shape of the Rhine Tower stands out clearly from the office architecture.
More photos and reports from my photo walks, tours and reports: www.maco-activetours.de
Sagrada Família, Barcelona, España.
El Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia, conocido simplemente como la Sagrada Familia, es una basílica católica de Barcelona (España), diseñada por el arquitecto Antoni Gaudí. Iniciada en 1882, todavía está en construcción (noviembre de 2016). Es la obra maestra de Gaudí, y el máximo exponente de la arquitectura modernista catalana.
La Sagrada Familia es un reflejo de la plenitud artística de Gaudí: trabajó en ella durante la mayor parte de su carrera profesional, pero especialmente en los últimos años de su carrera, donde llegó a la culminación de su estilo naturalista, haciendo una síntesis de todas las soluciones y estilos probados hasta aquel entonces. Gaudí logró una perfecta armonía en la interrelación entre los elementos estructurales y los ornamentales, entre plástica y estética, entre función y forma, entre contenido y continente, logrando la integración de todas las artes en un todo estructurado y lógico.
La Sagrada Familia tiene planta de cruz latina, de cinco naves centrales y transepto de tres naves, y ábside con siete capillas. Ostenta tres fachadas dedicadas al Nacimiento, Pasión y Gloria de Jesús y, cuando esté concluida, tendrá 18 torres: cuatro en cada portal haciendo un total de doce por los apóstoles, cuatro sobre el crucero invocando a los evangelistas, una sobre el ábside dedicada a la Virgen y la torre-cimborio central en honor a Jesús, que alcanzará los 172,5 metros de altura. El templo dispondrá de dos sacristías junto al ábside, y de tres grandes capillas: la de la Asunción en el ábside y las del Bautismo y la Penitencia junto a la fachada principal; asimismo, estará rodeado de un claustro pensado para las procesiones y para aislar el templo del exterior. Gaudí aplicó a la Sagrada Familia un alto contenido simbólico, tanto en arquitectura como en escultura, dedicando a cada parte del templo un significado religioso.
The Expiatory Church of the Sagrada Familia, known simply as the Sagrada Familia, is a Roman Catholic basilica in Barcelona, Spain, designed by architect Antoni Gaudí. Begun in 1882, it is still under construction (November 2016). It is Gaudí's masterpiece and the greatest exponent of Catalan modernist architecture.
The Sagrada Familia is a reflection of Gaudí's artistic plenitude: he worked on it for most of his professional career, but especially in his later years, where he reached the culmination of his naturalistic style, synthesizing all the solutions and styles he had tried up to that point. Gaudí achieved perfect harmony in the interrelationship between structural and ornamental elements, between plasticity and aesthetics, between function and form, between content and container, achieving the integration of all the arts into a structured and logical whole. The Sagrada Familia has a Latin cross plan, five central naves, a three-aisled transept, and an apse with seven chapels. It boasts three façades dedicated to the Birth, Passion, and Glory of Jesus. When completed, it will have 18 towers: four at each portal, making a total of twelve for the apostles, four over the transept invoking the evangelists, one over the apse dedicated to the Virgin, and the central dome tower in honor of Jesus, which will reach 172.5 meters in height. The temple will have two sacristies next to the apse and three large chapels: the Assumption Chapel in the apse and the Baptism and Penance Chapels next to the main façade. It will also be surrounded by a cloister designed for processions and to isolate the temple from the exterior. Gaudí applied a highly symbolic content to the Sagrada Familia, both in architecture and sculpture, dedicating each part of the temple to a religious significance.
Azeula Fortress (Koroghli or Kojori Fortress) is located in Tbilisi, 2 km south of Kojori settlement, on Mount Azeula. There are stunning views from the fortress. This is a perfect place for a picnic and relaxing in nature. If you are very busy and having no much time, Kojori Forest and the fortress will become your friend and it will fill you with unexpected impressions.
History
Until the XV century, Kojori Fortress was called Agara Fortress. It is known that Tabakhmela, Tsavkisi, Shindisi and Kojori were called Agaras in ancient times. An important caravan route passed through these Agaras. The agara fortress was built on the crossroad of these routes. This fortress is sometimes called as Korogli Fortress too. This name has been established since the XVIII century. The famous geographer of the XVIII century Vakhushti Bagrationi calls Kojori Fortress Azeula.
Azeula fortrtress is built on a high mountain peak of volcanic origin that makes it difficult for the enemy to reach and conquer it. This fortress had a great strategic importance for feudal Georgia. During the "Great Turkism", Agarata fortress was into the hands of the enemy. In 1118 he was occupied by David the Builder and later he gave it to Ivan Orbeli 1123.
In 1177, Demna Batonishvili and Ivane Orbeli were arranging conspiracy in Agarata fortress. In the same year, King George took over the fortress after a 25 days siege. Agara's fortress was became the possession of King George and Queen Tamar. Azeula has long been considered as the abbey of Georgian kings.
In September 1795, during the invasion of Agha-Mohammad-Khan in Georgia, the Georgians were fighting against the Persian invaders near the Azeula fortress. Here was the fight between Georgian Junkers and the Russian XI Army. The bodies of the killed people were taken to Tbilisi and buried near the wall of the Great City Council, but many Junkers were buried there near the Azeula fortress. Nowadays, a memorial is erected to honor the memory of the Junkers.
Architecture
The general plan of Azeula fortress doesn’t exist. It has been renovated many times. The ruins of the fence and its two towers at the south-western and northeastern ends are preserved. The fortress is built of crushed stone and brick. Its oldest layer dates back to the second half of the XI century, and fragments of the wall date back to the XVI-XVIII centuries.
Cathedral Church of St. James in Toronto, Ontario, Canada is the home of the oldest congregation in the city. The parish was established in 1797. The Cathedral, with construction beginning in 1850 and opening for services on June 19, 1853, was one of the largest buildings in the city at the time. It was designed by Frederick William Cumberland and is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture.
The church is designated under the Ontario Heritage Act[1] and is the episcopal seat of the Anglican Church of Canada's Diocese of Toronto.
Royal St. George's College, on Howland Avenue, is the church's choir school and is open to boys in grades 3 through 12.
The Hawa Mahal of Jaipur built in 1799, by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, is the most recognizable monument of Jaipur. This is one of the many corridors of Hawa Mahal in typical Rajputana architecture. The 953 perforations on the facade of the Hawa Mahal serve as a breeze-making device for those who stand inside its ramping corridors!
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Bakong is the first temple mountain of sandstone constructed by rulers of the Khmer empire at Angkor near modern Siem Reap in Cambodia. In the final decades of the 9th century AD, it served as the official state temple of King Indravarman I in the ancient city of Hariharalaya, located in an area that today is called Roluos.
In 802 AD, the first king of Angkor Jayavarman II declared the sovereignty of Cambodia. A few decades later, his successors constructed Bakong in stages as the first temple mountain of sandstone at Angkor.
The structure of Bakong took shape of stepped pyramid, popularly identified as temple mountain of early Khmer temple architecture. The striking similarity of the Bakong and Borobudur temple in Java suggests strongly that Borobudur was served as the prototype of Bakong.
The pyramid itself has five levels. It was reconstructed by Maurice Glaize at the end of the 1930s according to methods of anastylosis. On the top there is a single tower that is much later in provenance, and the architectural style of which is not that of the 9th century foundations of Hariharalaya, but that of the 12th-century temple city Angkor Wat.
Though the pyramid at one time must have been covered with bas relief carvings in stucco, today only fragments remain. A dramatic scene-fragment involving what appear to be asuras in battle gives a sense of the likely high quality of the carvings. Large stone statues of elephants are positioned as guardians at the corners of the three lower levels of the pyramid. Statues of lions guard the stairways.
Mehrere Bundesländer, nicht alle, veranstalten in unregelmäigen Abständen Landesgartenschauen, bekannt unter der Abkürzung LAGA. In Sachsen findet sie 2022 vom 23. April bis 9. Oktober in der durch ihre Renaissancearchitektur bekannten Stadt Torgau an der Elbe statt. Der größte Bereich der LAGA ist der seit dem 19. Jahrhundert bestehende Stadtpark auf dem Glacis der ehemaligen Festung Torgau. Die Festung Torgau entwickelte sich im 17. und 18. Jahrhundert aus einer Erweiterung der mittelalterlichen Stadtmauer. 1811 wurde sie als sächsische Festung unter König Friedrich August I. auf Anforderung Napoleon Bonaparte ausgebaut. Nach Ende der Befreiungskriege musste Torgau 1815 vom Königreich Sachsen an Preußen übergeben werden. Die Festung wurde nun als preußische Festung weiter ausgebaut, bis sie 1889 aufgegeben und in den folgenden Jahrzehnten größtenteils abgerissen wurde. Der Stadtpark, den wir vor fünf Jahren zuletzt gesehen hatten, wurde durch Blumenbeete, einen Ornissteg genannten Steg zur Beobachtung der Vögel auf dem See und erneuerte Wege deutlich und nachhaltig aufgewertet. Daneben gibt es den "Jungen Garten" mit Spielplätzen, Sport- und Skate-Anlagen, das neu erschlossene Erholungsgelände der Eichwiesen, durch das man zu den Elbwiesen gelangt mit einem Aussichtsturm und ein kleineres Areal am Weg von der Elbe zum Schloss mit einem Konzertplatz und einer Dahlenschau.
Several German federal states, not all, hold state garden shows at irregular intervals, known by the abbreviation LAGA. In Saxony, it is being held in 2022 from 23 April to 9 October in the town of Torgau on the Elbe, famous for its Renaissance architecture. The largest area of the LAGA is the city park, which has existed since the 19th century on the glacis of the former Torgau Fortress. Torgau Fortress developed in the 17th and 18th centuries from an extension of the medieval city wall. In 1811 it was expanded as a Saxon fortress under King Friedrich August I at the request of Napoleon Bonaparte. After the end of the Napoleonic Wars, Torgau had to be handed over from the Kingdom of Saxony to Prussia in 1815. The fortress was now further developed as a Prussian fortress until it was abandoned in 1889 and largely demolished in the following decades. The city park, which we last saw five years ago, has been significantly and sustainably upgraded with flower beds, a footbridge called Ornissteg for bird watching on the lake and renewed paths. In addition, there is the "Young Garden" with playgrounds, sports and skating facilities, the newly developed recreational area of the Eichwiesen (Oak Meadows), through which one can reach the Elbe meadows with a lookout tower, and a smaller area on the path from the Elbe to the Renaissance castle with a concert area and a dahlia show.
A majestic example of medieval architecture, the Castle of the Princes of Acaja towers over Fossano’s historic center with its corner towers and inner courtyard. Built in the 14th century as a fortress, it was later transformed into a noble residence, preserving its grandeur and timeless charm.
The Registan was the heart of the ancient city of Samarkand of the Timurid dynasty, now in Uzbekistan. The name Rēgistan means "Sandy place" or "desert" in Persian.
The Registan was a public square, where people gathered to hear royal proclamations, heralded by blasts on enormous copper pipes called dzharchis - and a place of public executions. It is framed by three madrasahs (Islamic schools) of distinctive Islamic architecture.
The three madrasahs of the Registan are: the Ulugh Beg Madrasah (1417–1420), the Tilya-Kori Madrasah (1646–1660) and the Sher-Dor Madrasah (1619–1636). Madrasah is an Arabic term meaning school.
In this serene tableau, a charming gondola is securely tethered to the quay, gently bobbing on the calm waters of a canal that winds through Aveiro. The stillness of the scene allows for a detailed appreciation of the city's architectural splendor, which frames the waterway in a picturesque panorama.
The gondola, adorned with intricate details and vibrant colors, rests peacefully against the backdrop of Aveiro's unique architecture. The surrounding buildings, a fusion of historic charm and contemporary design, stand as silent witnesses to the city's rich cultural tapestry. Traditional Portuguese azulejos embellish some structures, contributing to the visual poetry of the setting.
As the gondola remains anchored to the quay, the scene unfolds with a tranquil elegance. The canal's surface mirrors the beauty of the cityscape, creating a reflective canvas that showcases Aveiro's architectural diversity. Pedestrians amble along the waterfront, taking in the sight of the moored gondola and the architectural wonders that define this Portuguese gem.
This scene captures the essence of Aveiro in repose, inviting contemplation of the city's history and the seamless integration of its architectural heritage with the contemporary pulse of urban life. The gondola, though stationary, becomes a silent protagonist in the narrative of Aveiro's captivating charm.
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This image showcases the beautiful Baroque cityscape of Modica, a jewel of Sicily, as seen from the vantage point of the Church of San Pietro. The foreground is dominated by the church's intricate statues, each standing tall on stone pedestals, representing saints who contribute to the spiritual gravitas of the site. This church, a masterpiece of the Sicilian Baroque style, was rebuilt in the late 17th century after the devastating earthquake of 1693, which shaped much of the architectural history of the Val di Noto region.
The city of Modica, visible in the background, unfolds like a living postcard with its tiers of pastel-colored and ochre-toned buildings stacked along the hillside. This historical layering reflects centuries of architectural evolution, with medieval and Renaissance influences nestled alongside the more dominant Baroque features. The narrow streets and traditional balconies adorned with plants create a picturesque and inviting atmosphere that has earned Modica a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Architecturally, the area is defined by its harmony of form and function, with limestone facades and terracotta rooftops blending seamlessly into the rugged Sicilian landscape. The Church of San Pietro itself is a prime example, featuring an ornate facade, detailed carvings, and a grand staircase leading to its entrance, which enhances its imposing presence. Surrounding structures complement this aesthetic with arches, columns, and wrought-iron details that highlight the artisanship of the period.
Modica is also celebrated for its culinary traditions, particularly its unique chocolate, which follows a centuries-old Aztec recipe introduced by the Spanish. The city's chocolatiers craft this delicacy with a grainy texture and rich flavor, making it a must-try for visitors. Alongside chocolate, Modica's markets and restaurants offer a range of Sicilian specialties, such as arancini, cannoli, and pasta dishes that reflect the island's diverse cultural influences. This blend of history, architecture, and gastronomy makes Modica a captivating destination for any traveler.
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Yueh Hai Ching Temple is a Chinese temple in Singapore.
The current structure of this shrine dating back to 1850 and then it was substantially renovated in 1895. Since then, it has undergone several restorations.
Temple is an expression of a Taoist temple of Chinese architecture.
The temple was designated as a National monument of Singapore in 1996. Its restoration and conservation in 2011 earned the Award of Merit at the 2014 UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Awards.
A quaint pedestrian street in Évora, Portugal, during twilight. The cobblestone pathway glistens under the warm glow of streetlights, enhancing the charm of the historic architecture. The buildings, with their white-washed walls and terracotta roofs, showcase traditional Portuguese design, complete with ornate balconies and windows. A few people are seen walking with umbrellas, suggesting a gentle rain is adding to the ambiance of this peaceful evening. The scene invites you to wander through this quaint European town, soaking in its tranquil atmosphere after dusk.
Zunda Towers (until 2022 Z-Towers), a high-rise building in Raņķa Dam, Pardaugava area, Agenskalns neighbourhood. It is the tallest building in Riga and Latvia. The development of the building project started in 2006 and was completed in Q4 2017. The building was designed by No Rules Just Architecture, the tower facade was designed by architect Helmut Jahn.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/K%C3%B8dbyen
The White Meat City from the 1930s is considered a masterpiece in functionalist architecture.
The relief depicting a bull was made by the sculptor J. Utzon-Frank.
A very direct movie from 1936 about the activities in the Meat District: filmcentralen.dk/museum/danmark-paa-film/film/kodbyen
Durham Cathedral, in the city of Durham, County Durham.
It was built between the late 11th and early 12th century to house the bodies of St Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. It attests to the importance of the early Benedictine monastic community and is the largest and finest example of Norman architecture in England.
The innovative audacity of its vaulting foreshadowed Gothic architecture. The Cathedral lies within the precinct of Durham Castle, first constructed in the late eleventh century under the orders of William the Conqueror.
The Castle was the stronghold and residence of the Prince-Bishops of Durham, who were given virtual autonomy in return for protecting the northern boundaries of England, and thus held both religious and secular power.
The Cathedral and Castle are located on a peninsula formed by a bend in the River Wear with steep river banks constituting a natural line of defence. These were essential both for the community of St. Cuthbert, who came to Durham in the tenth century in search of a safe base, and for the Prince-Bishops of Durham, protectors of the turbulent English frontier.
Durham Cathedral's relics include: Saint Cuthbert's, transported to Durham by Lindisfarne monks in the 800s; Saint Oswald's head and the Venerable Bede's remains. The Durham Dean and Chapter Library contains: sets of early printed books, some of the most complete in England; the pre-Dissolution monastic accounts and three copies of Magna Carta.
Information Sources:
Architecture the Light - 7 | Photo Diary
Architecture photography
Hong Kong, 2020
works by photomanm
discover more at www.photomanm.com
#architecture #Architecturephotography #B&W #black&white #blackandwhite #Central #commercialphotography #Financial #geomaticsarchitecture #geomaticsarchitecture #HongKong #International #Photography #セントラル #ホンコン #建築攝影 photomanm.com/architecture-the-light_7/
One of the nicest things of my trip were the animals in those countries roaming around freely. everywhere there were cows, sheep, horses, goats dogs and cats, camels, dromedaries, and pigs. I am a biologist, and I feel very connected to animals. It always fulfills me with joy if I see them around.These two calves melted my heart away, and I think the expression of the left one, will do the same to you!
Another thing is the amount of flowers in the fields, and it is probably related to the animal life outside. What a difference with my own country, and the ecodeserts there.
This picture was taken in Georgia, in the village of Ushguli (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ushguli). The wonderful architecture, the great landscape and the millions of butterflies will for me be ever engraved into my memories (I will post later more of this wonderful place).
Almost two months ago I came back from my journey over a part of the Silk Road to and through Central Asia. 4 months of traveling through 14 countries (Germany, Austria, Hungary, Romania, Turkey, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Kirgizstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Iran) before I flew home from Teheran. An impressive journey in countries that are extremely beautiful, with lovely and welcoming people and diverse cultures and history.
Intense traveling with more than 20000 kilometers in our mobile home on sometimes roads that hardly could be called that way. We saw many villages and cities (some wonderful, others very ugly), countries that are transforming from the old Soviet era into something more related to older cultures and the way people live, often funded by oil readily available around the Caspian sea. We saw the amazing mountains south of the Black Sea, the wonderful Caucasus, and the high mountains in the far east close to China with peaks over 7000 meter, and not to forget the (Bulgarian) Alps!
We crossed the great steppe of Kazakhstan. a drive of at least 5000 km, the remnants of lake Aral, once one of the biggest lakes of the world, saw a rocket launch from Baikonur (this little part is Russian owned), we crossed many high mountains passes, and drove the breathtaking canyon that comes from the Pamir, beginning at ca 4500 meter, and going down for ca. 400km to an altitude of 1300 meter, driving for 100's of kilometers along the Afghan border.
And then the numerous lakes with all sorts of different colors from deep cobalt blue to turquoise, and one rare spectacle in Turkmenistan where a gas crater is burning already for more than 40 years. And finally and certainly not the least to mention an enormous amount of wonderful, hospitable and welcoming people. The woman often dressed in wonderful dresses, and bringing a lot of color in the streets of almost of all countries we visited.
Vienna is one of the most fascinating capitals in the world in terms of visual arts and architecture. The Habsburgs encouraged and supported the arts with great munificence.
Tuchlauben
Vienna
Explore December 6, 2023
"This digital oil painting, modeled after a photograph of a street in Taormina, is a vibrant display of the typical terracotta colors that dominate the beautiful architecture of Sicily’s small towns. The scene is alive with the warm hues of the buildings, their rustic charm accentuated by the play of light and shadow. The narrow street, lined with these traditional structures, leads the viewer’s eye towards the heart of the town. Today, these quaint towns are bustling with tourists, adding a lively contrast to the timeless appeal of the architecture. The painting beautifully captures the essence of Sicily, making it a visual treat for the viewer."
RX_02557_20240509_Taormina
Discover the portuguese architecture, the other face of the iberian architecture. I travelled along the Atlantic in search of key elements, shapes and perspectives. Order, geometries and proportions unite with the human presencies creating an almost magical result.
I learned about the recent history of Portuguese architecture, the most famous works and the less- known faces of these and other important architects. From Porto to Lisbon, land, sea, landscape and architecture; from the Tajo River to the Duero, from the Iberian land to the Atlantic Ocean, I was able to discover and enjoy the magical and unforgettable cities, nearby but also unknown.
I have visited emblematic buildings and the latest construction projects in a country that has been at the top of the architectural world for decades, from buildings with simple lines to the precise use of light.
photo rights reserved by Ben
The Gergeti Trinity Church, located in Georgia, is situated on a mountain top near the village of Gergeti, near Stepantsminda Kazbegi in the Caucasus region, at an altitude of about 2,170 metres. The fog in the foreground of the photo enhances the mystical character of the location, while the snow-capped peaks and the dark silhouettes of the church emphasise the dramatic atmosphere of the landscape. This area is popular with hikers and photographers for its breathtaking views and historical value. The impressive snow-capped peaks of Kazbek Mount Kazbek in the background are hidden by the fog. The Georgian Orthodox church was built in the 14th century and is a beautiful example of medieval Georgian architecture. The church is an important national symbol of Georgia and attracts many pilgrims and tourists every year. Behind the Gergeti Trinity Church lies Kazbek (in Georgian: მყინვარწვერი, Mkinvartsveri), with an altitude of 5,054 meters one of the highest and most famous mountains in Georgia and the Greater Caucasus. Although the mountain is hidden in this photo, Kazbek is known for its impressive presence and mythological significance. Kazbek is an extinct stratovolcano. The name Mkinvartsveri means the Icy Peak in Georgian. The mountain is popular among mountaineers and adventurers. The standard route for the ascent usually starts from Stepantsminda, with the Gergeti Trinity Church serving as the starting point. Kazbek is often covered in snow and ice, which adds to the spectacular and mysterious appearance of the region. On clear days, the summit offers beautiful panoramic views of the Caucasus.
Gergeti Trinity Church is a 14th-century church in Georgia, located at an altitude of 2,170 meters near the village of Gergeti. It is located near Stepantsminda (Kazbegi), overlooking the majestic Mount Kazbek in the Caucasus. The church is an important symbol of Georgia and attracts many pilgrims and tourists. Due to its remote location, it offers spectacular and mystical views of the mountains.
De Gergeti Trinity Church, gelegen in Georgië, bevindt zich op een bergtop bij het dorp Gergeti, nabij Stepantsminda Kazbegi in de Kaukasus-regio, op ongeveer 2170 meter hoogte. De mist op de voorgrond van de foto versterkt het mystieke karakter van de locatie, terwijl de besneeuwde bergtoppen en de donkere silhouetten van de kerk de dramatische sfeer van het landschap benadrukken. Dit gebied is geliefd bij wandelaars en fotografen vanwege het adembenemende uitzicht en de historische waarde. De indrukwekkende besneeuwde toppen van de Kazbek Mount Kazbek op de achtergrond zijn door de mist niet zichtbaar. De Georgisch-orthodoxe kerk is gebouwd in de 14e eeuw en is een prachtig voorbeeld van middeleeuwse Georgische architectuur. De kerk is een belangrijk nationaal symbool van Georgië en trekt jaarlijks veel pelgrims en toeristen. Achter de Gergeti Trinity Church ligt de Kazbek (in het Georgisch: მყინვარწვერი, Mkinvartsveri), met een hoogte van 5.054 meter een van de hoogste en bekendste bergen in Georgië en de Grote Kaukasus. Hoewel de berg op deze foto verscholen is, staat Kazbek bekend om zijn indrukwekkende aanwezigheid en mythologische betekenis. Kazbek is een uitgedoofde stratovulkaan. De naam Mkinvartsveri betekent de IJzige Top in het Georgisch. De berg is populair onder bergbeklimmers en avonturiers. De standaardroute voor de beklimming begint meestal in Stepantsminda, waarbij de Gergeti Trinity Church als startpunt dient. Kazbek is vaak bedekt met sneeuw en ijs, wat bijdraagt aan de spectaculaire en mysterieuze uitstraling van de regio. Op heldere dagen biedt de top een prachtig panoramisch uitzicht over de Kaukasus.
The Capitol Building in Madrid, also known as Edificio Carrión, is an iconic landmark located on Gran Vía. Famous for its distinctive curved facade and the Schweppes neon sign, it exemplifies 1930s Art Deco architecture. The building houses a cinema, shops, and offices, and its rooftop offers stunning views of Gran Vía and the surrounding area.
Had a great tour guide in Genoa, Italy and learned so much about the town and country. The city's main square, which connects the historic center with the modern city, was stunning with such a nice mixture of different types of architecture. The fountain was lit up at night with huge images related to Genoa projected on the building behind it. Such a cool vibe.
The United States Air Force Academy Cadet Chapel, completed in 1962, is the distinguishing feature of the Cadet Area at the United States Air Force Academy north of Colorado Springs. It was designed by Walter Netsch of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill of Chicago. Construction was accomplished by Robert E. McKee, Inc., of Santa Fe, New Mexico. Originally controversial in its design, the Cadet Chapel has become a classic and highly regarded example of modernist architecture. The Cadet Chapel was awarded the American Institute of Architects' National Twenty-five Year Award in 1996 and, as part of the Cadet Area, was named a U.S. National Historic Landmark in 2004.
-wiki.
The Courtyards Festival of Córdoba is a courtyard competition in Córdoba, Spain held since 1921 and generally held during the first and second week of the month of May. Participants decorate and open their courtyards for free so that they can be visited during festival hours. In 1980 they were declared a Fiestas of National Tourist Interest of Spain, and after a long process, they managed to be add to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO on December 6, 2012.
The courtyards during the Festival are separated in two types. Monumental and stately courtyards are courtyards inside palaces of the local aristocracy or notable religious buildings. Competition courtyards are those participated in the competition. The competition courtyards are categorized as courtyards with old architecture (pre 70's buildings) and courtyards with modern or renovated architecture. The Festival continued to receive higher number of visitors. In 2018, there were 150,000 visitors during the Festival
The Cathedral of Zamora is a Catholic Cathedral located above the right bank of the Duero River. It remains surrounded by its old walls and gates. Built between 1151 and 1174, it is one of the finest examples of a Spanish Romanesque architecture. The bell tower, with a height of 45 meters, was added in the 13th century in a Romanesque style.
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Betlemi Street in Tbilisi is a charming, historic neighborhood in the Old Town, at the foot of the Narikala Fortress. The neighborhood is known for its narrow, winding streets, colorful wooden balconies, and traditional Georgian architecture. The wooden balconies reflect a style that dates back to the 19th century. The street takes its name from the nearby Betlemi Churches, which play an important role in Tbilisi’s religious history. The neighborhood exudes a picturesque atmosphere and takes visitors back in time, with old houses often adorned with wrought iron railings and weathered staircases. The mix of religious and cultural sights, such as the Betlemi Churches and hidden courtyards, makes it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals who appreciate the city’s historic charm. The higher parts of the neighborhood also offer beautiful views of Tbilisi. Centrally located in this district, Upper Betlemi Church is a historic Georgian Orthodox church perched high on the slopes of the Old Town. Also known as the Church of the Nativity of Christ, this church was originally built in the Middle Ages and has been renovated several times since then, reflecting Tbilisi’s dynamic history. The simple yet beautiful stone architecture is typical of Georgian religious buildings, and the serene atmosphere inside provides a place of peace and reflection for both worshippers and visitors. The church is part of the larger Betlemi complex, which includes a lower church and a monastery, all of which are important religious sites in Tbilisi.
The view from Upper Betlemi Church in Tbilisi is breathtaking. Situated on a hill in the Old Town, this church offers panoramic views of the entire city. You can see the winding Kura River flowing through Tbilisi and the mix of historical and modern architecture that makes the city so special. From this height, you can also see iconic landmarks such as the Narikala Fortress, Metekhi Church, the famous funicular and the imposing Sameba Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox cathedrals in the world. The golden dome of the cathedral gleams in the sun, standing majestically against the Tbilisi skyline. The view is particularly beautiful at sunset, with the golden glow enveloping the city in a warm, magical atmosphere. This view, along with the rest of the Old Town, enhances the special charm of this historical site and offers an impressive panorama that shows both the modern and traditional sides of the city.
De Betlemi-straat in Tbilisi is een charmante, historische wijk in de oude stad, aan de voet van het Narikala-fort. Deze buurt staat bekend om zijn smalle, kronkelende straatjes, kleurrijke houten balkons en traditionele Georgische architectuur. De houten balkons weerspiegelen een stijl die teruggaat tot de 19e eeuw. De straat dankt haar naam aan de nabijgelegen Betlemi-kerken, die een belangrijke rol spelen in de religieuze geschiedenis van Tbilisi. De wijk ademt een pittoreske sfeer en brengt bezoekers terug in de tijd, met oude huizen die vaak versierd zijn met smeedijzeren hekwerken en verweerde trappen. De mix van religieuze en culturele bezienswaardigheden, zoals de Betlemi-kerken en verborgen binnenplaatsen, maakt het een geliefde plek voor zowel toeristen als locals die de historische charme van de stad waarderen. Vanuit de hoger gelegen delen van de wijk heb je bovendien een prachtig uitzicht over Tbilisi. De Upper Betlemi-kerk, centraal gelegen in deze wijk, is een historische Georgisch-Orthodoxe kerk die hoog op de hellingen van de oude stad staat. Ook bekend als de Geboortekerk van Christus, werd deze kerk oorspronkelijk in de middeleeuwen gebouwd en is sindsdien meerdere keren gerenoveerd, wat de dynamische geschiedenis van Tbilisi weerspiegelt. De eenvoudige maar prachtige stenen architectuur is typisch voor Georgische religieuze gebouwen, en de serene atmosfeer binnen biedt een plek van rust en reflectie voor zowel gelovigen als bezoekers. De kerk maakt deel uit van het grotere Betlemi-complex, waaronder een lagere kerk en een klooster, die allemaal belangrijke religieuze bezienswaardigheden vormen in Tbilisi.
Excerpt from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jogyesa:
Jogyesa (Jogye Temple) is the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. The building dates back to the late 14th century and became the order's chief temple in 1936. It thus plays a leading role in the current state of Seon Buddhism in South Korea. The temple was first established in 1395, at the dawn of the Joseon Dynasty; the modern temple was founded in 1910 and initially called "Gakhwangsa". The name was changed to "Taegosa" during the period of Japanese rule, and then to the present name in 1954.
Jogyesa is located in Gyeonji-dong, Jongno-gu, in downtown Seoul. Natural monument No. 9, an ancient white pine tree, is located within the temple grounds. Jogyesa Temple is located in one of the most popular cultural streets in Seoul, Insa-dong, near the Gyeongbokgung Palace.
The Jogyesa Temple used to be known as Gakhwangsa Temple which was founded in 1395. During the Japanese colonial period (1910–1945), the temple become one of the strongest fortresses of Korean Buddhism. Gakhawangsa Temple emerged as the temple of the resistance to Japanese efforts to suppress Korean Buddhism. In 1937, a movement for the establishment of a Central Headquarters began which was successful with the building of the Main Buddha Hall of Jogyesa Temple in Seoul in 1938.
The temple became known as Taegosa Temple in 1938 and by its current name of Jogyesa Temple in 1954. The name Jogyesa Temple was chosen to denote the structure's status as the main temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism (Buddhist sect which combines and integrates the Korean Zen and Textual Schools of Buddhism). The Jogye Order has 1700 years of history and is the most representative of Korean Buddhism Orders. The Jogye Order is based on the Seokgamoni doctrine and teachings of the Buddha, and it focuses on the mind and nature of this.
The Daeungjeon (Main Buddha Hall) was constructed in 1938 of pine wood from Baekdu Mountain, and it's always filled with the sounds of chanting. In the main temple courtyard there are two trees which are 500 years old, a White Pine and a Chinese Scholar tree.
The White Pine tree is about 10 meters high and gave the nearby area “Susong-dong” its name (Song means 'pine tree'). This tree was brought by Chinese missionaries during the Joseon Dynasty. This pine tree sits besides the Main Hall, and its branch towards the Main Hall is only partially alive. One side of this tree is adjacent to the passage, while the other side sits next to the building. Therefore, because the area is inadequate for the tree to grow, the Lacebark pine is not preserved well and since the Lacebark pine is a rare tree species and is valuable in biology, it is designated and protected as a Natural Monument.
The Chinese Scholar tree, which is 26 meters tall and four meters in circumference, silently stands watch over the temple grounds.
Jogyesa Temple's features is a mix of traditional temple and palace architecture. The lattice designs found on the doors and windows of the Daeungjeon are unique in their own right. The temple also features the Geuknakjeon (Hall of Supreme Bliss) in which the Amitabha Buddha is enshrined, the Beomjongnu, a structure where a bell which enlightens the public with its sound is housed, and an information center for foreign nationals.
The Temple also has colorful matsya (Sanskrit for "fish") which is sacred to Hindu-Buddhists as it is one of the avatar (incarnation) of Hindu deity Vishnu which has been described in detail in Matsya Purana and 6th BCE Buddhist text Anguttara Nikaya.
To enter the temple, visitors must pass through the Iljumun or "one pillar gate". The Iljumun is an entry that represents is the division that separates the mortal world from the world of Buddha.
This image showcases a stunning street view in Palermo, Sicily, taken from an ultra-low angle that accentuates the grandeur of the historic architecture. The primary focus is on the Palermo Cathedral (Cattedrale di Palermo), an iconic landmark that exemplifies the cityâs rich cultural heritage. The cathedral's design is a harmonious blend of various architectural styles, including Norman, Moorish, Gothic, and Baroque influences, reflecting the diverse civilizations that have shaped Palermo over centuries.
The left side of the image features a row of ornate palazzi, likely dating back to the Renaissance or Baroque periods. These buildings exhibit traditional Sicilian architectural features, such as arched windows, intricately carved stone details, and iron balconies. The street itself exudes a timeless charm, with its cobblestone pavement and warm-toned facades that are characteristic of Mediterranean urban settings.
Palermo's historical significance is deeply tied to its role as a cultural crossroads in the Mediterranean. Founded by the Phoenicians and later ruled by the Romans, Arabs, Normans, and Spanish, the city has absorbed influences from each era. The Palermo Cathedral, originally built in 1185, stands as a testament to this layered history. Its evolution over the centuries, with additions from different periods, embodies the city's dynamic past.
Culinary traditions in Palermo are equally rich and diverse, with street food playing a central role. Visitors to the area might enjoy sampling dishes such as arancini (stuffed rice balls), pane e panelle (chickpea fritters served in a sandwich), and the famous cassata siciliana, a traditional dessert. The cityâs vibrant food markets, such as Ballarò and Vucciria, provide an immersive experience into Palermoâs gastronomic culture, which, much like its architecture, reflects a tapestry of influences from its multicultural history.
RX_03064_20240515_Palermo
Kievan Rus' architecture.
The cathedral's name comes from the 6th-century Hagia Sophia cathedral in Constantinople (meaning Holy Wisdom, and dedicated to the Holy Wisdom rather than a specific saint named "Sophia".
Architecture-wise, its model could have been the 13-domed oaken Holy Sophia Cathedral in Novgorod (c. 989), which Yaroslav I the Wise determined to imitate in stone as a sign of gratitude to the citizens of Novgorod who had helped him secure the Kievan throne in 1019.
This building dates from 2005. Architect is Erick van Egeraat (EEA, Erick van Egeraat associated architects).
This building has won the 2007 Rietveldprize for architecture. The building is named after a famous Dutch internist and it is used for medical education. The architect was inspired by this and one can clearly see the blood veins going through the building (the red stairs), the bones in the restaurant (this white pillars) and the lungs (the glass centre).
Published:
- Hijmans van den Berghgebouw, Onderwijscentrum, 30/10/2014
Republic Square, Yerevan, Armenia.
Republic Square is the central square of the city, created under the guidance of architect A. Tamanian in 1926. It was called Lenin Square until 1991. The square is well-known for its monumental national architecture. The square's shape is combined of two geometrical figures: an oval and a trapeze. Five buildings are included in the architectural complex.
From the east and west, the House of the Government of Armenia and the House of the Ministries are symmetrically located. On the wall of the House of the Government overlooking the square is the city chiming clock. The building includes some traditional decor elements. The columns and arches on the facades of the buildings are covered with subtle carving of ancient Armenian nature. The composition is completed with the building of Marriott Armenia Hotel, the House of Communication and the building of the Museum with fountains, which are lit at night, in front of them. The oval part of the square is distinguished by its beautiful mosaic decoration.
Excerpt from www.amo.gov.hk/en/historic-buildings/monuments/hong-kong-...:
Tung Lin Kok Yuen is situated at No. 15, Shan Kwong Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong, being a Buddhist monastery founded in 1935 by Lady Clara Ho Tung and her husband Sir Robert Ho Tung. The name of the monastery was derived from the couple’s name Sir Robert Ho Tung and Lady Clara (Dharma name Lin Kok).
Lady Clara was a Buddhist and lay patron who had a passionate desire to spread the wisdom and practice of Buddhism as well as to promote the education of women. She founded the Po Kok Free School and the Po Kok Buddhist Institute in Hong Kong in the early 1930s to provide education for women and training for nuns. After Tung Lin Kok Yuen was first built, it housed both the School and the Buddhist Institute. As it is located in the residential area of Happy Valley, Tung Lin Kok Yuen marked the emergence of an urban monastery model in Hong Kong, as contrasted to the traditional monastery setting in the mountains.
With its arrowhead-shaped building plan, Tung Lin Kok Yuen’s appearance resembles a “giant ship” symbolising one of Mahayana Buddhism’s concepts of ferrying all beings to the “other shore”, or in other words enlightenment itself. The architect responsible for the building design was Fung Tsun, and Venerable Shi Ai Ting provided extensive advice for details which embody the Buddhist doctrine. While Tung Lin Kok Yuen adopted Western structural forms, it retained traditional Chinese designs in both its interior and exterior decorations such as flying eaves, brackets and glazed tile roofs. Following the traditional Chinese layout for a Buddhist monastery, it had a Skanda Hall, the Grand Buddha Hall and a Tripitaka Library in designated sequence. On each side of the Grand Buddha Hall were the Dharma Bell and the Dharma Drum. Behind the Grand Buddha Hall there was a courtyard which was redeveloped in 1954 into a three-storied Lin Kok Memorial Building. This was also designed by Fung Tsun to be integrated with the original building in the same style of architecture. The first floor of the Lin Kok Memorial Building now houses the Bhaisajyaguru Buddha Hall.
Tung Lin Kok Yuen was declared a monument in 2017.
Althorne, Essex – St Andrew’s Church
These are more examples of Essex Churches that show the Architecture, the Interiors, the Exteriors and especially the Stained Glass Windows that I have taken over the last year or two. Have included Commonwealth War Graves as a mark of respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Althorne is a small village about 9 miles from Maldon, Essex. St. Andrew’s church was built in the late 14th century, it had modifiations in the 16th. The nave is late 14th, the West Tower is circa 1500, the chancel, early 16th and the South Porch 1800’s. It was restored in the 20th century, much of the Chancel Arch, most of the Chancel windows were replaced. It is built of flint and stone-rubble. There are two bells in the tower, one from 1480 and the other 1638 but not in use.
There is a brass plaque on the north wall in memory of three boys who drowned in the River Crouch on Easter Monday 1919, a very sad incident.
There hangs above the south door a Georgian coat of arms of the House of Hanover. The is a fine sculptured font of seven panels and a number of brass panels decorate the walls. One dedicated to William Hyklott, 1508 “which paide for the werkmanship of the wall of this churche”
by Johannes van den Broek, Jaap Bakema
Aula Technical University Delft.
The Aula of the Technical University in Delft located on the north side of the campus was built from 1959 to 1966 by the Dutch practice Van den Broek & Bakema. The building houses an auditorium with 1300 seats, four trapezoid lecture halls with 250 to 350 seats, the senate hall and the university cafeteria. The auditorium is connected via a walkway to the Physics Department. In an earlier draft, the project from 1958 the project included an administrative tower which was not realised.
The auditorium looms above the main entrance. The hall is shaped like a saucer (hence the building's nickname "the UFO") and is supported by triangular concrete columns. The lecture halls at the rear are supported by a similar construction. To support the 15 metre overhang prestressed concrete had to be used. The ends of the prestressing cables are left exposed. The building has a collapsed roof. Steel frames were used for the exterior walls.
Besides the auditorium Van den Broek and Bakema also designed the campus' boiler house and thee Faculty of Civil Engineering and Architecture. The cafeteria on the ground floor was refurbished in 1998/99 according to a design by Mecanoo.
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Windsor Castle is a royal residence at Windsor in the English county of Berkshire. The castle is notable for its long association with the English and later British royal family and also for its architecture. The original castle was built in the 11th century after the Norman invasion by William the Conqueror. Since the time of Henry I, it has been used by succeeding monarchs and is the longest-occupied palace in Europe. The castle's lavish, early 19th-century State Apartments are architecturally significant, described by art historian Hugh Roberts as "a superb and unrivalled sequence of rooms widely regarded as the finest and most complete expression of later Georgian taste". The castle includes the 15th-century St George's Chapel, considered by historian John Martin Robinson to be "one of the supreme achievements of English Perpendicular Gothic" design. More than 500 people live and work in Windsor Castle. Originally designed to protect Norman dominance around the outskirts of London, and to oversee a strategically important part of the River Thames, Windsor Castle was built as a motte and bailey, with three wards surrounding a central mound. Gradually replaced with stone fortifications, the castle withstood a prolonged siege during the First Barons' War at the start of the 13th century. Henry III built a luxurious royal palace within the castle during the middle of the century, and Edward III went further, rebuilding the palace to produce an even grander set of buildings in what would become "the most expensive secular building project of the entire Middle Ages in England". Edward's core design lasted through the Tudor period, during which Henry VIII and Elizabeth I made increasing use of the castle as a royal court and centre for diplomatic entertainment. Windsor Castle survived the tumultuous period of the English Civil War, when it was used as a military headquarters for Parliamentary forces and a prison for Charles I. During the Restoration, Charles II rebuilt much of Windsor Castle with the help of architect Hugh May, creating a set of extravagant, Baroque interiors that are still admired. After a period of neglect during the 18th century, George III and George IV renovated and rebuilt Charles II's palace at colossal expense, producing the current design of the State Apartments, full of Rococo, Gothic and Baroque furnishings. Victoria made minor changes to the castle, which became the centre for royal entertainment for much of her reign. Windsor Castle was used as a refuge for the royal family during the bombing campaigns of the Second World War and survived a fire in 1992. It is a popular tourist attraction, a venue for hosting state visits, and the preferred weekend home of Elizabeth II.
Doddinghurst, Essex – All Saints
These are more examples of Essex Churches that show the Architecture, the Interiors, the Exteriors and especially the Stained Glass Windows that I have taken over the last two to three years. Hope you enjoy them as much as I did visiting them.
Doddinghurst is a village about 3.8 miles outside Brentwood in Essex and the Church is situated in Church Lane.
The church was built in the 13th century with additions in the 14th (the timber-framed belfrey) and 16th centuries(the timber framed porch to the south door). A large part of the interior of the church was restored in 1887 as was the exterior. Here the walls were either rebuilt or refaced.
One of the bells in the tower was cast by Robert Mot who also made one for the ‘Mayflower’, the lead ship of the ‘Pilgim Fathers’.
The Bell Tower itself was in poor condition, so in 2001 restoration took place allowing the Belles to be rung again.
There are some fine examples of Victorian stained glass throughout the church, a nice church to visit.
The Abbey Church of Saint Peter & Saint Paul
Originally an Augustinian Abbey founded in 1138 it was dissolved in the first phase of Henry VIII's suppression of the monasteries in 1536 and converted into the towns parish church. The church retains much of its Norman architecture.
The small market town of Bourne is located in south Lincolnshire on the main road between Lincoln and Peterborough.
A quick trip back to a visit to Tintern Abbey and a view of the inside of the Abbey .
Tintern Abbey is a national icon – still standing in roofless splendour on the banks of the River Wye nearly 500 years since its tragic fall from grace.
It was founded in 1131 by Cistercian monks, who were happy to make do with timber buildings at first. Abbot Henry, a reformed robber, was better known for his habit of crying at the altar than for his architectural ambitions.
A simple stone church and cloisters came later. But then, thanks to the patronage of wealthy Marcher lords, the white-robed monks began to think bigger.
In 1269 they began to build a new abbey church and didn’t stop until they’d created one of the masterpieces of British Gothic architecture. The great west front with its seven-lancet window and the soaring arches of the nave still take the breath away.
So grateful were the monks to their powerful patron Roger Bigod that they were still handing out alms on his behalf in 1535. But by then King Henry VIII’s English Reformation was well underway.
Only a year later Tintern surrendered in the first round of the dissolution of the monasteries – and the great abbey began slowly to turn into a majestic ruin.
The Registan was the heart of the ancient city of Samarkand of the Timurid dynasty, now in Uzbekistan. The name Rēgistan means "Sandy place" or "desert" in Persian.
The Registan was a public square, where people gathered to hear royal proclamations, heralded by blasts on enormous copper pipes called dzharchis - and a place of public executions. It is framed by three madrasahs (Islamic schools) of distinctive Islamic architecture.
The three madrasahs of the Registan are: the Ulugh Beg Madrasah (1417–1420), the Tilya-Kori Madrasah (1646–1660) and the Sher-Dor Madrasah (1619–1636). Madrasah is an Arabic term meaning school.
Belton House is a stately house a few miles north of Grantham. It was built for Sir John Brownlow between 1685 & 1688 and has been described as a compilation of all that is finest of Carolean architecture. The house is Grade I lsted and has been in the care of the National Trust sine 1984.
The Baptistery of Parma is a religious edifice in Parma, northern Italy. Architecturally, the baptistery of Parma Cathedral marks a transition between the Romanesque and Gothic styles, and it is considered to be among the most important Medieval monuments in Europe.
The city council of Parma commissioned Benedetto Antelami to build the baptistery in 1196. The attachment of the citizens to the project was tactile. Men put stones in the foundation to commemorate their families.
The outside of pink Verona marble is octagonal with four tiers of open loggias. Eight turrets crown the top of the building. In May 2022 the tallest underwent a 3D aerial scan to support conservation work.
The lowest part of the baptistery is encircled with bas-relief sculptures of animals, fabulous beasts, sea monsters, centaurs, mermaids, and unicorns.
The "Portal of the Virgin" faces north and overlooks the Piazza del Duomo. It is named after the figure of the Virgin and Child in the lunette above it. The door is decorated with scenes of the Adoration of the Magi and an angel instructing Joseph to flee to Egypt. The Bishop used to make his solemn entrance through here. The "Portal of Judgment" faces west. The lunette above depicts the Redeemer sitting on a throne. The "Portale della Vita" or Door of Life faces south, and the scene in its lunette shows a man eating honey in a tree.
The most striking part of the Baptistery is its painted domed ceiling. The vault is divided into six concentric horizontal bands, with a different series of frescoes in each. The red circle in the middle represents the upper heaven. Sixteen rays come down from the keystone, each corresponding to an arch. The lower part of the interior contains sixteen arches, forming alcoves each containing a painted scene. All these are 13th and 14th century frescoes and paintings, many as ex votos.
The large, octagonal baptismal basin stands the center. Made of Verona marble, it was designed for baptism by immersion. A baptismal font, located in the south-western niche, has been used for baptism by affusion since the 14th century. An altar in marble is located in the eastern apsidal niche. Above the altar, in the semi-dome, is a "Christ in Glory" surrounded by the symbols of the four evangelists and two angels.
Excerpt from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jogyesa:
Jogyesa (Jogye Temple) is the chief temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. The building dates back to the late 14th century and became the order's chief temple in 1936. It thus plays a leading role in the current state of Seon Buddhism in South Korea. The temple was first established in 1395, at the dawn of the Joseon Dynasty; the modern temple was founded in 1910 and initially called "Gakhwangsa". The name was changed to "Taegosa" during the period of Japanese rule, and then to the present name in 1954.
Jogyesa is located in Gyeonji-dong, Jongno-gu, in downtown Seoul. Natural monument No. 9, an ancient white pine tree, is located within the temple grounds. Jogyesa Temple is located in one of the most popular cultural streets in Seoul, Insa-dong, near the Gyeongbokgung Palace.
The Jogyesa Temple used to be known as Gakhwangsa Temple which was founded in 1395. During the Japanese colonial period (1910–1945), the temple become one of the strongest fortresses of Korean Buddhism. Gakhawangsa Temple emerged as the temple of the resistance to Japanese efforts to suppress Korean Buddhism. In 1937, a movement for the establishment of a Central Headquarters began which was successful with the building of the Main Buddha Hall of Jogyesa Temple in Seoul in 1938.
The temple became known as Taegosa Temple in 1938 and by its current name of Jogyesa Temple in 1954. The name Jogyesa Temple was chosen to denote the structure's status as the main temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism (Buddhist sect which combines and integrates the Korean Zen and Textual Schools of Buddhism). The Jogye Order has 1700 years of history and is the most representative of Korean Buddhism Orders. The Jogye Order is based on the Seokgamoni doctrine and teachings of the Buddha, and it focuses on the mind and nature of this.
The Daeungjeon (Main Buddha Hall) was constructed in 1938 of pine wood from Baekdu Mountain, and it's always filled with the sounds of chanting. In the main temple courtyard there are two trees which are 500 years old, a White Pine and a Chinese Scholar tree.
The White Pine tree is about 10 meters high and gave the nearby area “Susong-dong” its name (Song means 'pine tree'). This tree was brought by Chinese missionaries during the Joseon Dynasty. This pine tree sits besides the Main Hall, and its branch towards the Main Hall is only partially alive. One side of this tree is adjacent to the passage, while the other side sits next to the building. Therefore, because the area is inadequate for the tree to grow, the Lacebark pine is not preserved well and since the Lacebark pine is a rare tree species and is valuable in biology, it is designated and protected as a Natural Monument.
The Chinese Scholar tree, which is 26 meters tall and four meters in circumference, silently stands watch over the temple grounds.
Jogyesa Temple's features is a mix of traditional temple and palace architecture. The lattice designs found on the doors and windows of the Daeungjeon are unique in their own right. The temple also features the Geuknakjeon (Hall of Supreme Bliss) in which the Amitabha Buddha is enshrined, the Beomjongnu, a structure where a bell which enlightens the public with its sound is housed, and an information center for foreign nationals.
The Temple also has colorful matsya (Sanskrit for "fish") which is sacred to Hindu-Buddhists as it is one of the avatar (incarnation) of Hindu deity Vishnu which has been described in detail in Matsya Purana and 6th BCE Buddhist text Anguttara Nikaya.
To enter the temple, visitors must pass through the Iljumun or "one pillar gate". The Iljumun is an entry that represents is the division that separates the mortal world from the world of Buddha.