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Top Historic Sites in Europe, Part 2

Erin — Tue, 19 Dec 2017 09:58:19 +0000

Welcome to Part 2 of my Top Historic Sites in Europe series! I’m glad you came back to check out some more fantastic sites. Europe is a region that has had human activity for over 37,000 years and is just full of history. Last week we looked at 10 famous sites in Europe and why they’re worth visiting. Today we’re looking at 10 more of the amazing places around Europe that you really shouldn’t miss. England – Tower of London The Tower of London has had a lively history in the thousand years it has been standing and has been used for a variety of purposes over the years, ranging from a royal residence, a prison for the elite, an armory, a menagerie, home of the Royal Mint, a public record office, home of the Crown Jewels, and, most recently, a museum. The hill on which the Tower of London sits was first settled in 1066 when the Norman’s, led by William the Conqueror, conquered England. The White Tower, the most prominent building in the fortress and where the fortress draws its name, was built around 1078. The buildings around the White Tower was added during the 1190s by Richard the Lionheart, and a wharf was built in 1285 by Edward I. The Tower of London was the home of England’s royalty until the year 1547. After that, the Tower of London was only used by royalty during the few days before the coronations of Edward VI, Mary I, and Elizabeth I. By the time Charles II was crowned in 1660, the castle fortress’s royal accommodations were in such disrepair that he opted to forgo the tradition of staying in the Tower of London the night before his coronation, then ending the tradition. After the royal residence was moved from the fortress, the most famous use of the Tower of London began: that of a prison and execution ground for nobility. Though, the Tower prison was a bit more comfy than our modern view of a medieval prison. The prisoners here were mainly members of the royal family and wealthy nobility who were able wander the grounds at times and to also purchase comforts such as tapestries and higher-quality food. There were cases of torture during the Tower’s reign as a prison, but during the roughly 200 years the Tower was used as a prison, there are only 48 documented cases of torture being used. As for executions, only 7 people are known to have been executed inside the fortress walls between 1066 and the First World War. The 112 other known executions took place on a hill adjacent to the fortress, which is known as Tower Hill. And then there are all those who went ‘missing’ from the Tower, but that’s another story. Another famous use for this site is as the home of the Crown Jewels. The Crown Jewels have been housed at the Tower of London since the reign of Henry III in the 13th century. The Jewel House was destroyed in 1669 and the Crown Jewels were moved to Martin Tower, where Colonel Thomas Blood constructed an elaborate, but failed, plot to steal them. The Crown Jewels have been housed in various locations around the Tower of London until 1994, when the Crown Jewels were moved to the Jewel House inside the Waterloo Block, which is behind the White Tower. The most unique and unknown historic fact about the Tower of London is that a Royal Menagerie was once kept inside the fortress. King John first brought lions to the Tower during the late 12th or early 13th century and until 1830, a wide range of exotic animals, such as leopards, hyenas, baboons, wolves, bears, elephants, and tigers, were kept on the grounds. Now, all that is left are wire sculptures of wild animals and six live ravens. These are kept due to a prophecy that says the city of London will fall once ravens leave the Tower. Erin Tracy is the owner and author of this blog, Traveling Thru History, which she uses to share her love of history, culture, and travel with her readers. You can also find stories and pictures of her travels on her Facebook page. Slovakia – St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral Often described as the easternmost Gothic cathedral in Europe, St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral in Košice is Slovakia’s largest church and, together with the nearby St. Michael’s Chapel and Urban’s Tower, a National Cultural Monument. Construction of the cathedral was done in five staves beginning in the late 14th century and finishing in the early 16th century, at which time it was dedicated to a Hungarian saint (today’s Slovakia was part of the Hungarian empire). The cathedral consists of five naves, two towers, and three chapels, and is adorned with some of the finest Gothic stonework, altarpieces, windows, and frescoes. The main St. Elizabeth altar includes one of Europe’s largest sets of Gothic paintings, of which there are 48 total. The church’s architectural significance rests in how the central nave and the transept have the same length, forming a Greek cross. This also creates a large indoor space, and allows for three large decorative gables outside. St. Elizabeth follows the style of many other medieval cathedrals in that it has its own crypt, which houses many famous remains. The most famous are the remains of Francis II Rakoczi, the Hungarian nobleman and national hero who led an 18th century independence uprising against the Habsburgs. The cathedral also boasts several legends. The most popular holds that somewhere within the walls there is a hollow building stone, which, if removed, would cause the entire cathedral to collapse. Another says the only non-zoomorphic gargoyle, that of a woman holding a goblet and a bottle, is the alcoholic wife of a builder who immortalized her thusly in revenge for her tarnishing his name. Yet another legend has it that the St. Matthias lantern has the power to absolve the criminal guilt of anyone who can climb into it. St. Elizabeth’s is very dear to the people of Košice. They view this cathedral as the city’s crown jewel and unofficial symbol. It was the first of its Seven Wonders, as voted by a poll of the city’s residents in 2009. The best time to visit are outside of mass, which times can be found here. On sunny days, climbing to the top of Sigismund Tower rewards visitors with a 360-degree view of the historic Košice downtown and surrounding areas. Peter Korchnak is a Košice native and an author. He blogs at Where Is Your Toothbrush?, a food travel website, and several other outlets while sharing his adventures on Facebook. Latvia – Riga Cathedral Located in the heart of Riga’s Old Town, Riga Cathedral stands proudly for all to see. The Cathedral is the biggest medieval church and one of the oldest religious buildings in Latvia and also the whole Baltic region. While the original foundation stone was laid in 1211, the actual construction wasn’t get underway until 1215. Riga Cathedral was originally envisioned as a basilica, but the design was later changed and a hall church was built instead. One of the most unique construction features for this cathedral is that the materials changed over time from natural stone to brick. At the beginning of the 15th century, the hall church was enlarged by building the western cross-nave and side chapels. The tower of the Cathedral can be first seen in a cosmography dating back to 1559, so it is estimated the tower was added during the early . According to records, Riga Cathedral Tower was the highest spire in the whole city of Riga at that time. The cathedral was damaged by a city-wide fire in 1547 and the Gothic spire burned down entirely. A new tower was built in 1595, and the famous Riga Cathedral Rooster, which visitors today see a replica of, can be dated back to this post-fire reconstruction. The Gothic spire was demolished in 1775 due to structural concerns and was replaced with the Baroque style present-day tower. Riga Cathedral has undergone numerous renovations throughout the 20th century. At one point from the late 1950s, the Cathedral was converted into a concert hall as religious ceremonies were prohibited under Soviet rule. The Cathedral has since been restored to replace the altar and the seating. Today, visitors can appreciate the beautiful brick architecture combining Romanesque, early Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau influences. The Cathedral serves as a busy cultural hub for performance, worship, and art – and don’t forget to wave to the Rooster high atop its perch! Lisa and Eric of Penguin and Pia are a German and Canadian travel couple brought together by Instagram. Now, they travel the world, inspire others to waddle, and tell stories in two languages, which you can follow on their Facebook page. Turkey – Hagia Sophia The Hagia Sophia in Istanbul has quite a history, both culturally and architecturally. It was first a Greek Orthodox patriarchal basilica, then it was a Roman Catholic cathedral, then it was a Greek Orthodox patriarchal basilica, again, then an imperial mosque, and now it is a museum. Hence, if there was one place in Istanbul that combines the different stages of Turkish history, it is definitely the Hagia Sophia. Constructed in 537 AD, Hagia Sophia was once the seat of the Patriarch of Constantinople. For a short period between 1204 and 1261 it was converted into a Roman Catholic cathedral by the invading Crusaders, but after they left it resumed its function as a Greek Orthodox patriarchal basilica. In 1453, Hagia Sophia became an Ottoman mosque and remained a mosque until 1931, when it underwent renovations to make it into a museum. The museum opened in 1935 and, since then, has been a popular site for tourists travelling to Istanbul. Not only is Hagia Sophia located in an area that is perfect for anyone who would like to visit mosques and get an insight into Istanbul’s history, but it is also a truly magical place. One of the most striking features of Hagia Sophia is the massive dome. This feature is striking both the interiorly and exteriorly. Such a feat was considered the epitome of Byzantine architecture and is said to have literally “changed the history of architecture.” That’s just the exterior. The interior of the dome is striking in its adornment of beautiful mosaics and stunning marble pillars. When visiting Hagia Sophia, visitors can explore two floors. When entering through the Imperial Gate, visitors will be wowed by Byzantine relics and stunning mosaics. Then, as you start making your way into the upper gallery, you will enter the nave and find several mosaics and runic graffiti. This is the best place to have a look at the dome. The dome is one of the most interesting parts of Hagia Sophia and still drives many art historians, architects and engineers crazy as it has a very innovative way compared to what the original architects actually envisioned for the dome. The first few domes placed on top of Hagia Sophia collapsed due to poor design and natural disaster, but ancient architects finally found a way to make this one stay, in spite of natural disasters, which continues to baffle those who study it. Aside from the dome, Hagia Sophia has other unique design elements. Apart from typical elements that you can find in most churches or mosques, such as Christian mosaics and Islamic minarets, the Hagia Sophia hosts some very special features: figurative decorations of Christ, prophets, and historical figures that were added during the second half of the 9th century. The list of things to see at Hagia Sophia is endless you’ll want to set aside several hours to take it all in properly. Clemens Sehi and Anne Steinbach found the online travel magazine, Travellers Archive, which combines detailed travel documentaries and in-depth travel guides to mostly unexplored destinations. You can follow their adventures on Facebook. Bosnia & Herzegovina – Mostar Bridge The Mostar Bridge (a.k.a Old Bridge/Stari...

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Top Historic Sites in Europe, Part 1

Erin — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 09:15:22 +0000

A region that was settled around 35,000 BC, Europe is just full of ruins and historically significant sites. I’ve been to Europe a few times and it has always amazed me how many amazing things there are to see. History mixed with modern and ruins surrounded by technology. Europe really is such a wonderful place. Seeing as Europe is so old, there are hundreds of thousands of historic sites around the region. It’s hard to pick favorites, so I asked a group of travel bloggers which were their favorite historic sites around Europe. There are too many for one post, so this will be a five-part series showcasing the most memorable historic sites for each country. Take a look below and let me know what you think of these picks. Germany – Frauenkirche The large sandstone facade of the Frauenkirche “Church of our Lady” sits dominant on the landscape in the former East German city of Dresden. Dresden has a rich history as a center of arts and culture in the 18th century. Sadly, the grand baroque city was heavily bombed during the second world war and the Frauenkirche was damaged. Due to political unrest, reconstruction of the city stagnated until German reunification in 1990. The Dresden Frauenkirche has remained a symbolic landmark throughout the cities turbulent history, and not only for its religious significance. George Bähr, the Dresden city architect and one of the best German baroque architects of the time, was commissioned to design the church. The huge stone dome, which became known as the Steinerne Glocke or “Stone Bell” was to be the focal point of the masterpiece, a feat of engineering not seen at the time. Construction of this Lutheran church took place between 1726 and 1743. The strength of the 12-tonne dome was put to the test during the Seven Year War in 1760 when lore states the dome was pummeled with 100 cannonballs and still held strong. Again, though, on February 15th, 1945, Dresden was heavily bombed. The Frauenkirche initially held strong, but as the city turned into an inferno of fires, the heat is thought to have melted the copper ring strengthening the dome and weakened the structure of the stone pillars. The dome collapsed into the church. Dresden locals collected and documented the rubble, hoping to rebuild the church that was so central to their city. But, under East German communist rule, religion was discouraged, and city planners wanted to clear the site. Eventually it was agreed to preserve the site and the rubble remained. Grass grew around the site and sheep even grazed in the square that had once been the center of the city for the past 1,000 years. Following the fall of the Berlin wall and German reunification, it was decided to rebuild the Church which was to be a symbol of Dresden’s rise from the now long cold ashes. The project was funded through lotteries and donations from around the world and the church was finally completed in 2005. The cross which sits atop the Frauenkirche was smithed by hand using 18th-century techniques by Alan Smith and was gifted to the city of Dresden by the Duke of Kent as a symbol of peace. Kaylie of Happiness Travels Here is a doctor and New Zealander who moved to Dresden, Germany, with her husband, 6-month-old daughter, and 3-year-old son in 2014. Together they have visited more than 30 countries around the world and share their adventures on Facebook. Serbia – Kalemegdan Belgrade’s fortress on the confluence of the Danube and Sava river has been inhabited long before it was called the ‘White City’. Prehistoric tribes in this region did not leave a huge mark, so known history starts with the Celtic tribe of Scordisci, who called the city ‘Singidunum,’ in the 3rd century BC. The Scordisci defeated Thracian and Dacian tribes that previously lived in and around the fort, so Kalemegdan’s history predates written record. After the Scordisci took possession of what is now known as Belgrade, the fort was fought over dozens of times throughout the centuries. The third time I visited the Kalemegdan, I met a guy on a park bench who could name all the 26 or so civilizations that have fought over the region, chronologically. I can try to tell you about them, but it will be a sorry imitation compared to what this guy did. Basically, the Scordisci invaded the area, only to be replaced by centuries of Roman emperors. After Rome’s collapse, the territory falls under the Byzantine empire and the city is renamed Belgrade. Attila the Hun makes a visit and lays the city to ashes, after which Emperor Justinian I rebuilds the fort around 535 AD. The Byzantines lose it, then gain it again while fighting off invasions by various groups like the Huns, Avars, and Goths. Legend says when Attila the Hun died, his grave ended up underneath the fortress as the structure expanded out towards the river. After the Byzantine’s gain the area back, the first Bulgarians take it, then lose it to the Franks. The Franks get visited by the Hungarians, after which it gets retaken by the Byzantine empire and then the Crusaders passed through. A tug-of-war between the second Bulgarians and the Hungarians happened until a Serbian king took control during the 12th century and then the Hungarians gifted the fortress to Serbia when the Hungarian prince married a Serbian princess. In 1427, Kalemegdan was returned to Hungary. In 1521, the Ottomans come by and decide to stay while fighting the Habsburg empire. During the occupation of the Turks, Austria and Serbia both invaded various times. During the 20-year Austrian occupation, Kalemegdan was rebuilt and modernized. The Ottomans left in the 19th century when Serbian rule had been established and modern-day Belgrade was born with Kalemegdan as the core and oldest section of the city. Today, the Kalemegdan is Belgrade’s most visited and enjoyed public space. People not only come to immerse themselves in history but also to have a picnic and catch up with an old friend. Visiting the citadel is free of charge, so don’t skip it! Iris of Mind of a Hitchhiker has hitchhiked the equivalent distance of twice around the Earth. She writes about her encounters and adventures on her blog and shares her experiences on Facebook. Hungary- Parliament The most important part of the architectural heritage of Budapest was created at the end of the 19th century during the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy era. Even amongst the most beautiful buildings to visit in Budapest, the majestic building of the Hungarian Parliament stands out. This magnificent building is one of the most spectacular Neo-Gothic buildings in Europe, which also includes Baroque and Renaissance elements. Its construction took about a decade and the building was officially inaugurated for the 1000th anniversary of Hungary in 1896. The Hungarian Parliament is the third largest Parliament building in the whole world with 691 rooms, 20 kilometers of stairs and is 96m (315ft) tall. It is just as tall as St. Stephen’s Basilica, the main cathedral of the Hungarian Catholic Church. Many Hungarians still remember when a huge red star was present at the central tower of the building, which is fortunately only a distant memory now, since it was removed when Communism fell in 1990. The Parliament building is found at one of the main squares of the city, Kossuth Square, and looks down on the Danube River. The best place to take an exterior picture of the building is from the Buda Side of the Danube River, either from the Batthyány Square or from up in the Buda Castle. From there you will appreciate even more the harmony of the building than from close range. You can visit the Parliament building on a guided tour when the National Assembly is not in session. During the visit you will have the chance to walk on the majestic stairs, gaze at the very detailed architecture of the halls and lobbies, and you also get the chance to see the Hungarian Crown Jewels, which were moved here from the National Museum at the end of the last century. The best way to get to the Parliament is by subway (M2), which stops at Kossuth Square itself. It’s recommended to book your tickets in advance, since usually queues are long and the number of tickets sold per day is limited. Gábor of Surfing the Planet is a Hungarian travel blogger and photographer who has lived in Spain for more than a decade with his Italian wife, Rachele. Together they write about long-term travel and weekend getaways on their blog, which they also share on their Facebook page. Romania – Peles Castle Romania’s Peles Castle is one of Europe’s most stunning castles. While it’s often referred to as a castle, Peles is actually a palace, both in form and function. Built on the medieval route that linked Transylvania to Wallachia, in the Carpathian Mountains, it’s 80 miles north of Bucharest. The palace was commissioned in 1874 by King Carol I, the first King of Romania, as an extravagant summer home. The Royal family used Peles Castle up until 1954. Peles Castle is home to 160 rooms, formal gardens with statues and fountains, and intricate murals across its exterior. Many of the rooms celebrate specific cultures like The Turkish Parlor, The Florentine Room, and The Moorish Salon. It was a palace built ahead of its time. Not only was it the first European castle lit entirely by electrical current, but the electricity was made from its own plant. Peles Castle is a delight to wander, with rooms full of stained-glass windows, Murano crystal chandeliers, and European art. A few notable rooms include; the Music Room, the Armory, and The Hall of Honour. The Hall of Honour covers three floors and is home to retractable stain glass panels, alabaster sculptures, and carved woodwork. On a grand scale, it leaves a lasting impression. The Armory may not seem fancy to all, it is still impressive, nonetheless. King Carol I was a proficient soldier who also helped improve Romania’s military. He amassed a large collection of over 4,000 pieces which range from European to Oriental and date from the 19th century back to the 15th. The Queen, a writer herself, was a fan of the arts, from music to literature and fine art. Carved of teak with frescoes, her Music Room is one of Peles Castle’s most breathtaking rooms. So, whether you’re looking for a great day trip from Bucharest or on the hunt for a slice of Europe’s brilliant history, Peles Castle is a must visit. Please note: you’ll want to splurge on paying extra for the pass to take photographs. Stephanie is the gal behind The World As I See It, where she shares her adventures, tips, and guides from her travels around everywhere from Europe to her own backyard of Ontario, Canada. She loves getting lost in cities, on the hunt for street art or a cute café, but also finding herself in the great outdoors, exploring trail after trail, all of which she shares on her Instagram. Greece – Acropolis of Athens The Acropolis of Athens is the most popular landmarks and a symbol of the city of Athens in Greece. The Acropolis is an ancient citadel which sits atop a hill overlooking the city of Athens and houses several ancient buildings which are of great historical importance. The site can be accessed after a short hike which leads to the main entrance of the site termed as Propylaea. The first structure once inside is the magnificent Parthenon. The temple, dedicated to the goddess Athena and which is almost in ruins, is still one of the imposing buildings of exemplary Greek architecture. The most striking part of the Parthenon is the 58 columns enclosing the central part of the structure. On your left will be the Erechtheion, another beautiful ancient Greek temple dedicated to both Athena and Poseidon. The interesting feature here is...

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