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The Historic Centre (Old Town) of Tallinn is an exceptionally complete and well-preserved medieval northern European trading city on the coast of the Baltic Sea.
The city developed as a significant centre of the Hanseatic League during the major period of activity of this great trading organization in the 13th-16th centuries.
Visit to the Tower of London the 2nd of July 2021. I had to book a ticket on line so booked the first slot at 9am. It was very slow there due to Covid-19 but great to visit without the crowds that would be there from all over the world in normal times. The Tower of London dates back to 1066 with the White Tower being built in 1078. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our hotel terrace provided the perfect platform for capturing the sunset over the Genova Centro Storico district and the Apennine mountain range that surrounds this amazing city.
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Captured during a leisurely stroll downtown on one of the rare sunny mornings in March, I'm always on the lookout for images to enhance my projects or to simply capture moments that catch my eye. This particular scene falls into the latter category. It's a reflection of Korenlei in the Leie—a unique perspective on one of Ghent's landmark locations, with the presence of the little duck adding a charming finishing touch - Graslei, Ghent, Belgium.
Before leaving St Andrews for Newcastle to catch our ferry back to IJmuiden, we took a leisurely stroll around the town. St Andrews is globally recognized as the "home of golf," boasting the Old Course—one of the oldest golf courses in the world and a frequent host of the Open Championship. Golf lovers consider St Andrews a must-visit, with its several prestigious golf courses. The town is also famous for the University of St Andrews. Founded in 1413, it's the oldest of Scotland's four ancient universities and the third oldest in the English-speaking world, renowned for its excellent education and research. Also, St Andrews is rich in history, with a medieval layout and ancient ruins that tell tales of its past. Key attractions include the St Andrews Cathedral ruins, once the largest church in Scotland, and the dramatically located St Andrews Castle, perched on a cliff overlooking the sea. The town also offers beautiful beaches and a picturesque coastline, making it a truly fabulous place to explore – St Andrews, Scotland, UK
The Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, Saint Peter, Saint Paul and Saint Swithun, commonly known as Winchester Cathedral, is the cathedral of the city of Winchester, England, and is among the largest of its kind in Northern Europe. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Winchester and is the mother church for the ancient Diocese of Winchester. It is run by a dean and chapter, under the Dean of Winchester.
The cathedral as it stands today was built from 1079 to 1532 and is dedicated to numerous saints, most notably Swithun of Winchester. It has a very long and very wide nave in the Perpendicular Gothic style, an Early English retrochoir, and Norman transepts and tower. With an overall length of 558 feet (170 m), it is the longest medieval cathedral in the world. With an area of 53,480 square feet (4,968 m2), it is also the sixth-largest cathedral by area in the UK, surpassed only by Liverpool, St Paul's, York, Westminster (RC) and Lincoln.
History
Though churches were recorded in Winchester as early as 164, the first Christian church can be traced back to c. 648, when King Cenwalh of Wessex built a small, cross-shaped building just north of the present building. This building, known as the Old Minster, became the cathedral for the new Diocese of Winchester in 662, a vast area stretching from the English Channel to the River Thames, the bishopric having been transferred from Dorchester on Thames, Oxfordshire by Bishop Wine. The design of this early church cannot be confirmed, for no trace other than ground plan exists today, but Wolstan mentions a gateway tower situated some distance from the west end. Wine died in c. 672, but one of his later successors, Swithun, would become one of the most famous Bishops of Winchester.
Whether Swithun himself oversaw any expansion of the Old Minster is unknown, but it is recorded in Acta Sanctorum that from 963 to 984, Bishop Æthelwold greatly expanded the church, the works being finished by the following Bishop, Alphege. The church was rededicated in 993, and consisted of a central tower, north and south aisles, transepts, crypt and an apse, and was briefly the largest church in Europe. Also on the site was the New Minster, in direct competition with the neighbouring Old Minster. The New Minster was begun by Alfred the Great but completed in 901 by his son Edward the Elder. These two monasteries existed side by side, the monks becoming virtually intertwined with one another. Swithun's body, which according to his wishes had been buried in the graveyard outside the church, was brought inside and housed in a magnificent shrine.
Bryggen is a historic harbour district in Bergen, one of North Europe’s oldest port cities on the west coast of Norway which was established as a centre for trade by the 12th century.
In 1350 the Hanseatic League established a “Hanseatic Office” in Bergen. They gradually acquired ownership of Bryggen and controlled the trade in stockfish from Northern Norway through privileges granted by the Crown. The Hanseatic League established a total of four overseas Hanseatic Offices, Bryggen being the only one preserved today.
St Mary’s Church is a Church of England parish church of the Diocese of Oxford in Old Amersham, Buckinghamshire, and a grade I listed building.
The site of St Mary's Church has had Christian associations for many centuries. Early missionary monks of St Augustine and St Birinus – the Apostle of the West Saxons – travelled via the Roman Road known as Akeman Street, converting the local population to Christianity and baptising them in the River Misbourne. A place of worship has existed on this site since around 1140. The present church dates from the 13th century with additions and extensions in the 14th and 15th centuries – the tower dates from the 15th Century.
The parish has connections with the persecution of the Lollards in the early 1500s when a group of locals known as the Amersham Martyrs were burned at the stake on the hill overlooking the old town. The Amersham Martyrs Memorial was placed on a hill overlooking the church in 1931. In 1553, Scottish reformer John Knox preached his last sermon at Amersham before going into exile to flee the wrath of Queen Mary. Despite these associations with early Protestant radicalism, the parish has a moderately High Church tradition today.
The patrons of the parish are the Drake family, the Lords of the Manor of Amersham, related to the famous naval captain Sir Francis Drake. Around 1637, Sir William Drake purchased the Borough of Amersham from the Earl of Bedford. There are numerous memorials to Drake family members in St Mary's Church. Several descendants of the Drakes have served as rector of the parish, including Rev. Edward Drake, who commissioned a major restoration of the church in 1890, and the external appearance of the church dates from this time.
This description incorporates text from the English Wikipedia.
Besides Aberdeen beach, which I found very interesting with all the activity that reminded me of the way Martin Parr captured life at the British coast, there's also the old town. The old town reflects the city’s medieval past and is home to Aberdeen University and the noteworthy St. Machar's Cathedral. St. Machar's Cathedral is one of the oldest buildings in Aberdeen. It dates back to 580 AD when St. Machar, a disciple of St. Columba, is believed to have founded a church on the site. St. Machar’s efforts were part of a broader wave of Irish missionary activity in Scotland during the early medieval period, which played a crucial role in spreading Christianity throughout the region. The current structure was started in 1136 and was completed in its original form in the 16th century. The cathedral is a great example of Scottish medieval architecture, with its fortified west front and unique granite construction. Inside, you'll find a flat wooden ceiling decorated with heraldic shields, which were added in the 16th century – St. Machar’s Cathedral, Aberdeen , Scotland, UK
Tower Of London dating back to 1088. Great place to visit and the crown jewels are on show too. 5th of May 2017.
Tintern Abbey (Welsh: Abaty Tyndyrn) was founded on 9 May 1131 by Walter de Clare, Lord of Chepstow. It is situated adjacent to the village of Tintern in Monmouthshire, on the Welsh bank of the River Wye, which at this location forms the border between Monmouthshire in Wales and Gloucestershire in England. It was the first Cistercian foundation in Wales, and only the second in Britain (after Waverley Abbey).
The west front of the church, with its seven-light Decorated window, was completed around 1300. The abbey fell into ruin after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century. Its remains have been celebrated in poetry and painting from the 18th century onwards. In 1984, Cadw took over responsibility for managing the site. Tintern Abbey is visited by approximately 70,000 people every year.
This description incorporates text from the English Wikipedia.
A church in the village of Stanton St Bernard, which became the parish church of All Saints, was first mentioned in 1267, when it belonged to Wilton Abbey. However, a Norman font indicates it may be somewhat older.
The tower was added in the 15th century, then in 1832 all except the tower was rebuilt in Gothic style; a further rebuilding of the chancel became necessary in 1859. The church lost its resident vicar as early as 1929 and is now part of the Vale of Pewsey team.
This description incorporates text from the English Wikipedia.
Southwell Minster, located in the picturesque town of Southwell, Nottinghamshire, is a stunning example of medieval architecture and rich history. This magnificent cathedral is renowned for its breathtaking Norman and Gothic features, including the exquisite carved stonework of the Chapter House, famously known as the "Leaves of Southwell." These intricate carvings depict plants, animals, and human figures, showcasing the incredible craftsmanship of the 13th century.
The Minster has been a place of worship for over 1,000 years, with its origins dating back to Saxon times. Today, it serves as the cathedral for the Diocese of Southwell and Nottingham, offering a place of reflection, community, and beauty. Whether you're drawn by its history, stunning architecture, or peaceful atmosphere, Southwell Minster is a must-visit for lovers of art, history, and photography.
Chichester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester. It is located in Chichester, in West Sussex, United Kingdom. It was founded as a cathedral in 1075. I visited again on the 28th of July 2021. Had a nice walk around inside the cathedral and around the outside too where the changing clouds made an interesting backdrops
Chichester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester. It is located in Chichester, in West Sussex, United Kingdom. It was founded as a cathedral in 1075. I tool these photos in 2018 with my Canon DSLR camera
The windows in the north transept end of Rochester Cathedral are filled with stained glass in memory of Archdeacon King. In this, the lower tier of three from the left are depicted: St. Philip, the deacon, with a representation below of the laying on of hands (Acts 6:6); the Lord Jesus, with three angels on either side, and underneath a scene with six figures, including a saint in chains before a judge; and St. Stephen, the proto-martyr, with the scene of his death beneath. These were all executed by Clayton & Bell in or around the early 1880s.
Rochester Cathedral in the English county of Kent, formally the Cathedral Church of Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary, is the seat of the Diocese of Rochester, the second oldest bishopric in England after that of the Archbishop of Canterbury. The edifice is a Grade I listed building
There has been a cathedral on this site since 604, but after the Norman Conquest, the by now decayed building was replaced by a new Rochester Cathedral, constructed beginning in 1080 by Bishop Gundulf.
The building was dedicated in either 1130 or 1133, but was badly damaged by fire almost immediately, and then again in 1137 and 1179, with the east end almost complete destroyed. This was replaced around the turn of the 13th Century. There was a significant period of extension in the late 13th and early 14th Centuries, which added much Decorated work while leaving the Norman-Romanesque superstructure largely intact.
The cathedral suffered a steep decline after the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, during which time its estates were confiscated by the Crown, and it became dilapidated and fell into disrepute. Samuel Pepys, the diarist, would later dismiss it as a "shabby place". After William Laud, Archbishop of Canterbury, visited the cathedral in 1633 and complained about its general state, there seems to have been a significant programme of repairs, only to fall into disrepair again under Oliver Cromwell’s Commonwealth, although remedial work began as early as 1664 after the Restoration. Almost inevitably, the Cathedral was “restored” by George Gilbert Scott in the 1870s.
This description incorporates text from the English Wikipedia.
Yesterday, I posted a picture of Bremen's historic market square. Today, I’m sharing another shot from the same location, but from the opposite side of the Town Hall. This new angle gives you a better view of the Roland Statue, a key historical landmark in Bremen that symbolizes the city's independence and freedom. Erected in 1404 after the original statue was destroyed, it stands about 10 meters tall and depicts Roland, a medieval knight. He holds a sword and a shield with the imperial eagle, representing the protection of Bremen’s liberties. Both the statue and the Town Hall are UNESCO World Heritage sites. According to legend, as long as Roland stands, Bremen will remain free.
Chichester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester. It is located in Chichester, in West Sussex, United Kingdom. It was founded as a cathedral in 1075. I visited again on the 28th of July 2021. Had a nice walk around inside the cathedral and around the outside too where the changing clouds made an interesting backdrops
I just love Italy...words can't describe the beauty of all and photos don't do it justice. It's simply overwhelming, I would love to be a permanent tourist there and I'd never get bored or run out of ideas.
Chichester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester. It is located in Chichester, in West Sussex, United Kingdom. It was founded as a cathedral in 1075. I visited again on the 28th of July 2021. Had a nice walk around inside the cathedral and around the outside too where the changing clouds made an interesting backdrops
Arundel Castle in West Sussex England. This Norman castle dates back to 1067 and is the seat of the Duke of Norfolk.
Chichester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester. It is located in Chichester, in West Sussex, United Kingdom. It was founded as a cathedral in 1075. I visited again on the 28th of July 2021. Had a nice walk around inside the cathedral and and around the outside too where the changing clouds made an interest back drop
The Belfry of Bruges is an 83 m high medieval bell tower in the center of Bruges, Belgium.
The American poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote a poem about the checked history of the belfry:
In the market-place of Bruges stands the belfry old and brown;
Thrice consumed and thrice rebuilded, still it watches o'er the town.
The organ console, dizzyingly located, offers a fine vantage for photographing the clerestory of Holy Cross, Seend, and indeed the interior of the church as a whole.
Holy Cross is the parish church in the Wiltshire village of Seend (pop. 1,132), just outside Devizes. It is part of the Church of England Diocese of Salisbury. The west tower dates to the 14th Century (with a 15th Century bell stage), most of the church dates slightly later, to around 1450, with the North Aisle rebuilt in 1498, and the chancel much more modern, being largely the product of an 1876 ‘restoration’ by A.J. Style.
The church has a rich collection of Georgian and Victorian memorials, and some pleasant Victorian and Edwardian glass.
I took this shot before-and-after I celebrated Mass and preached here on a Sunday morning.
St Oswald's -
The church of St Oswald stands on its own amid fields by the River Windrush, all that remains of the deserted medieval village of Widford. It's a beautiful setting.
There has been a church here since late Saxon times, though much of the present building dates from the eleventh century. Inside, a few fourteenth-century wall paintings survive. In fact there has been a building of some kind on this site for nearly two thousand years, since the church itself stands on the floor of a much earlier Roman building.
By Swinbrook, Oxfordshire, 13 July 2016
Arundel Castle in West Sussex England. This Norman castle dates back to 1067 and is the seat of the Duke of Norfolk.
The beautiful medieval town of Dinan in Brittany France. Brittany is a truly beautiful region of France to visit
Noravank Monastery is a 13th-century Armenian religious complex located in a narrow gorge near the town of Yeghegnadzor in Vayots Dzor Province. Surrounded by steep red cliffs, the monastery is one of Armenia’s most well-known historical and architectural landmarks.
The complex is best known for Surb Astvatsatsin (Holy Mother of God) Church, designed by the medieval architect, sculptor, and miniaturist Momik. His design is notable for its vertical structure and unusual exterior staircase leading to the second floor - an architectural feature rare for Armenian churches. The church also features detailed stone carvings, including crosses, decorative reliefs, and biblical scenes.
Today, Noravank is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims, appreciated for its historical significance, striking setting, and well-preserved medieval architecture. The combination of natural landscape and cultural heritage makes it one of Armenia’s most iconic sites - and a true masterpiece of Momik’s legacy.
Salisbury Cathedral, formally the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, is an Anglican cathedral in Salisbury, England. The cathedral is the mother church of the Diocese of Salisbury and is the seat of the Bishop of Salisbury.
The building is regarded as one of the leading examples of Early English Gothic architecture. Its main body was completed in 38 years, from 1220 to 1258.
The spire, built in 1320, at 404 feet, has been the tallest church spire in the United Kingdom since 1561. Visitors can take the "Tower Tour", in which the interior of the hollow spire, with its ancient wooden scaffolding, can be viewed. The cathedral has the largest cloister and the largest cathedral close in Britain at 80 acres. It contains a clock which is among the oldest working examples in the world, and has the best surviving of the four original copies of Magna Carta.
The ruins of Kirkham Priory are situated on the banks of the River Derwent, at Kirkham, North Yorkshire, England. The Augustinian priory was founded in the 1120s by Walter l'Espec, lord of nearby Helmsley, who also built Rievaulx Abbey. The priory was surrendered in 8 December 1539 during the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Legend has it that Kirkham was founded in remembrance of l'Espec's only son who had died nearby as a consequence of his horse being startled by a boar. The area was later used to test the D-Day landing vehicles, and was visited by Winston Churchill. The ruins are now Grade I listed and in the care of English Heritage.
Gatehouse ruins
Kirkham Priory gatehouse ruins. The armorials of various benefactors are visible sculpted on stone escutcheons
The Gatehouse of Kirkham Priory, built c. 1290–95, is a specimen of English Gothic medieval architecture. It is a rare survival of such a gatehouse, comparable to that of Butley Priory in Suffolk. It has a wide arch of continuous mouldings with a crocketed gable running up to the windows, with sculptures of S.George and the Dragon on the left, and David and Goliath to the right. Above the arch is Christ in a pointed oval recess, plus two figures below of St. Bartholomew and St. Philip, in niches. There are also many escutcheons with the armorials of the various benefactors of the Priory, including the arms of de Ros, Scrope, de Forz, Vaux, FitzRalph & Espec (3 cart-wheels, each with 6 spokes).
Chichester Cathedral, formally known as the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, is the seat of the Anglican Bishop of Chichester. It is located in Chichester, in West Sussex, United Kingdom. It was founded as a cathedral in 1075. I visited again on the 28th of July 2021. Had a nice walk around inside the cathedral and around the outside too where the changing clouds made an interesting backdrops
Bryggen is a historic harbour district in Bergen, one of North Europe’s oldest port cities on the west coast of Norway which was established as a centre for trade by the 12th century.
In 1350 the Hanseatic League established a “Hanseatic Office” in Bergen. They gradually acquired ownership of Bryggen and controlled the trade in stockfish from Northern Norway through privileges granted by the Crown. The Hanseatic League established a total of four overseas Hanseatic Offices, Bryggen being the only one preserved today.