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Things to Do in Indonesia

Erin — Sat, 23 May 2020 07:34:03 +0000

Looking for things to do on your next trip to Indonesia? Check out the activities recommended by travel bloggers for the best things to do in Indonesia. #TBIN

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Visiting Bath

Erin — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 08:20:26 +0000

Bath was designated by UNESCO in 1987 and is the only city in the UK to be declared a World Heritage site. Once a Roman spa town called Aquae Sullis, the Romans built baths and a temple on the surrounding hills, turning Bath into the elegant retreat it still is today. Located about an hour and a half from London, Bath has a variety of fascinating sites that span early Roman times to late Georgian. The juxtaposition of such different styles of architecture nestled in a valley surrounded by rolling green hills really makes Bath unique. Walking the streets of Bath is like taking a step back in time to the beautiful Georgian period of elegance and innovation with sprinklings of different eras mixed in. THE ROMAN BATHS If the architecture doesn’t do it for you, consider the Roman Baths. The first shrine at the site of the hot springs was built by Celts and was dedicated to the goddess Sulis, whom the Romans identified with Minerva. When the Romans took over the site and built a temple sometime between 60–70 AD, they dedicated the temple to both Sulis and Minerva in hopes of appeasing both populations. Over the next 300 years, the bathing complex was gradually built up until the Roman civilization went into decline and eventually left Bath in 407 AD. A scant population continued to live in the city, but over time the walls and grand buildings fell. The Saxons claimed Bath in 577 AD and turned it into a fortified city. Around that time, the original temple was destroyed. Flooding and silt deposits covered the temple ruins and the original springs. The temple surrounding the baths was eventually built over, to remain in obscurity until 1880 when they were rediscovered. New buildings were built over different portions of the springs during the following centuries. The 12th and 16th centuries saw the addition of King’s Bath and Queen’s Bath, though the current building over the springs is from the 18th century. The temple ruins have been incorporated into the current building design, allowing visitors the opportunity to visit the actual baths used in Roman times, view the temple ruins, and sip the mineral-rich thermal waters. If you desire to try out those waters, you can also enjoy luxurious relaxation in a more modern thermal spa in the city. JANE AUSTEN For those literature-minded visitors, Bath was home to Jane Austen from 1801-1806. Visit where she lived, check out the Jane Austen Centre, and take a walk on streets she would have ambled down. One of Jane Austen’s residences in Bath was No 4 Sydney Place, where she lived for three years. While it is now a private residence, visitors may take a photo of the front where a sign is seen designating it as a residence of a famous former occupant. Jane also lived with her mother and sister at 25 Gay Street for around 1-1.5 years, though the Jane Austen Centre is not there, either. It is in a similar apartment down the street at 40 Gay Street. BATH ABBEY Another famous site in Bath that shouldn’t be missed is Bath Abbey. Bath Abbey was founded in the 7th century and has been modified and rebuilt over the centuries. The fan vaulted ceiling was added in the 1530s and restored to the original style during the late 1860s. One of the unique attributes of this ceiling is that along with being visually stunning, this particular architectural component serves a functional purpose. The fan element is used as a method of distributing the weight of the roof to the support columns and providing structural stability. An interesting fact about Bath Abbey is that the stained glass currently in place is not the original. Unfortunately, the original windows from the early 1500s were removed and sold when King Henry VIII began dissolving monasteries in 1539. All stained glass in the Abbey were added in the late 1860s when Bath started becoming a popular tourist destination. PULTENEY BRIDGE Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon is one of the most photographed examples of Georgian architecture in the city and one of only four bridges in the world to have shops across its full span on both sides. Designed by Robert Adam, the bridge took five years to build between 1769-1774. The architecture is classical, with pediments, pilasters and tiny leaded domes at either end. Another claim to fame this bridge boasts is being the scene of Javert’s suicide in the 2012 film version of Les Misérables. THE ROYAL CRESCENT The Royal Crescent is another famous and cherished site to visit in the city. This building is a row of 30 terraced houses laid out in a sweeping crescent shape. Designed by the architect John Wood, the Younger, and built between 1767-1774, it is among the greatest examples of Georgian architecture in the United Kingdom and is a Grade I listed building. Although some changes have been made to the various interiors over the years, the Georgian stone façade remains much as it was when it was first built. I could go on and on about the fascinating things to see in Bath, but there are just too many. There are world-class museums, festivals that draw visitors from all around the world, breathtaking views, beautiful gardens and parks, a variety of art galleries, fantastic eateries, eclectic shops, and plenty of historic marvels. Whatever your interests are, Bath has plenty for visitors and locals to explore. TIPS: Plan to spend at least an entire day in Bath. There are far too many things to see in just a few short hours. If you are interested in architecture, book one (or more) of the many architectural tours operating in the city. Arrive early in the morning to watch the city come alive. Make the trip to Alexandra Park to get the best views over the city. Stop at Sally Lunn’s House to try the most famous local delicacy, the Sally Lunn bun. Visit Green Park Station for locally produced food and artwork. Plan for 2-3 hours at the Roman Baths if you want to read all the signs and view all the displays. Make the trek to the bottom of the Roman Baths for a free sample of the spa water. Take advantage of the many free walking tours that operate around the city. WHEN TO VISIT: Overall, there isn’t really a bad time to visit Bath. In the spring, the flowers are blooming and the weather is relatively calm. May is a good month to visit as temperatures are moderately cool, rainfall is the lowest of the year, days are long, and flowers are in bloom. September is also a good time to visit with warmer temperatures than May and low rainfall, though the days are shorter and there are not as many flowers. WHERE TO STAY: Bath boasts almost 300 places of accommodation, including more than 80 hotels, over 180 bed and breakfasts, and two campsites. WHERE TO EAT: I won’t profess to be foodie enough to recommend which places there to eat are the best. There are over 100 restaurants and over 100 pubs and bars. You will find anything from quaint cafes to cultural dining experiences to locally sourced restaurants to award-winning upscale dining. Whatever your preferences are, you will find something to your liking in Bath. HOW TO GET THERE: Railway. The most direct route is the Great Western Railway from Paddington Station. The train makes five stops and will reach Bath Spa Railway Station in just under an hour and a half. Flying. Bristol Airport. Bristol Airport is located about 20 miles from Bath. Transit from Bristol airport will take about an hour. The Air Decker bus will take you to Bristol Temple Meads Railway Station where you can catch the train to Bath. The Bristol Airport Flyer coach service will take you to Bath with stops along the way. Gatwick Airport. Gatwick Airport is located in South London, approximately 140 miles east of Bath. Transit time varies. You can take a train from the airport to Reading Train Station where you can pick up a train service to Bath. Heathrow Airport. Heathrow Airport is 100 miles east of Bath. Transit from Heathrow will take about 2-2.5 hours. National Express coach service goes direct from the airport to the center of Bath. Sightseeing tours. Many tours make stops in Bath. It should be noted that, depending on the tour, the stop in Bath will be anywhere from 1-3 hours.

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Top Historic Sites in Europe, Part 3

Erin — Tue, 26 Dec 2017 14:00:32 +0000

Welcome to Part 3 of my Top Historic Sites in Europe series! I’m glad you came back to check out some more fantastic sites. So far we’ve done the top historic sites from 20 countries in Parts 1 and 2 and today you’ll get to see 10 more in Part 3! I have really loved learning more about these countries along with the significance of some of their historic sites and I’m so excited to share this with you. With a recorded history going back over 37,000 years, there are just way too many fascinating places to see them all. That’s why I’ve partnered with other travel bloggers to find out which sites are of the most historic and significant importance for each of these countries. I hope you’ll enjoy what we’ve put together today. Belgium – Bruges Market Square and Belfry Bruges (or Brugge) is deservedly one of the most popular cities to visit in Belgium. The city experienced its golden age during the late medieval period, between the 12th and 15th centuries, during which time Bruges was one of the busiest ports in the world. However, when the river channel leading into Bruges began to fill with silt, the city gradually lost its importance, along with much of its population. Soon, all that was left of the city that was once Belgium’s crown jewel were its beautiful medieval buildings. It was these historic buildings that first attracted tourists in the late 19th century, and brought new life back to the city. At the heart of Bruges lie multiple squares, home to the most important buildings of the city, with the largest square being the Markt, or Market Square. Regular markets have been held in this square since the 10th century and are still held to this day. Surrounding the square are impressive guild houses, including the Provincial Palace, the Cloth Hall and towering above all, the Belfry. The Belfry of Bruges is one of the most famous sites in Belgium. Belfries were a type of medieval bell tower used throughout the region of Flanders and the neighboring Duchy of Burgundy in France. Along with tolling the hours and half hours, they also served as a source of civic pride to the cities and towns, separate from the landmarks built by the church and feudal lords. Along with being an important bell tower, the Belfry of Bruges housed the city’s treasury and archives and was used as a watch tower to keep an eye out for fires and other dangers. The Belfry in Bruges dates back to the mid 13th century. It was first built in 1240, but was heavily damaged by a fire in 1280, after which it was rebuilt. Unfortunately, the archives house inside the belfry were destroyed during that same fire. The belfry has stayed mostly the same since it was rebuilt in 1280. An octagonal top was added in the late 1400s along with a wooden spire holding an image of St. Michael holding a banner while standing atop a dragon, this addition was struck by lightning in 1493, which resulted in the destruction of the octagonal top and the belfry’s bells. Another wooden spire was added shortly thereafter, but it, too, was destroyed by fire in 1741. It wasn’t until 1822 that the Gothic stone parapet was added to the top, which has stood, undamaged, ever since. When you visit Market Square, it’s possible to climb to the top of the Belfry of Bruges and take in a magnificent panoramic view of the city. Halfway up you’ll reach the Treasury, which is where the city’s charters, seal and public funds were kept during the Medieval period. And, at the very top, is the chamber for the bells – all 47 of them! Even if you don’t climb the tower, the market square is one of the best places in Bruges to dine out any time of the day, or just settle for a drink, with the square these days lined with restaurants. Or just stop by one of the many gelato shops and relax by the fountain, taking in the beautiful surroundings. Shandos Cleaver is the founder and blogger-in-chief of Travelnuity, a travel blog focused on dog-friendly travel around the world. She’s currently travelling around Europe with her Miniature Dachshund, Schnitzel, and shares about their adventures on Facebook. Belarus – Mir Castle Mir Castle is one of the most renowned fortifications in Belarus. Construction on what would eventually become Mir Castle took place during the early 1400s in an area which was then called the Grand Duchy of Lithuania. This private estate remained in the Gedyegoldovish family for roughly 60 years before it fell into the hands of Duke Yury Ilinich. Due to political ambitions and regional hostilities, Duke Ilinich decided to build a fortress castle in what is now called the Belarusian Gothic style. The way Mir Castle was built is unique. The five 25-foot high towers of the castle were planned as independent centers of resistance that were capable of supporting adjacent towers. Each tower was designed so that the towers next to it could deliver flanking fire to increase defensive capabilities. One construction aspect of note is that the tower walls were designed with three layers: the two outside layers are made of brick and stone while the middle layer is made up of small stones and broken bricks. Unfortunately, neither Duke Ilinich nor any member of his family ever saw the completion of Mir Castle. Within 40 years, the entire Ilinich family was gone. Duke Ilinich’s grandson left the Mir Estate to his cousin, Prince Mikolaj Krzysztof Radziwill, in whose family the estate remained for the next three centuries. Prince Radziwill finished construction of Mir Castle by adding two three-story living quarters to the northern and eastern walls of the castle and rebuilt three of the towers. He also added a fortified gate to the entrance. Over the centuries, Mir Castle has gone through multiple periods of grandeur and decay, as well as surviving many conflicts. Several restorations have been done over the years, but it wasn’t until 1922 that a full-scale extensive restoration was undertaken, which took 16 years. Sadly, Mir Castle was taken by the Germans during WWII and used as a ghetto for roughly 800 Jews who lived nearby. After Belarus was liberated by the Allies in July 1944, Mir Castle was used as a refuge for the hundreds of Mir residents whose homes had been destroyed during the war. The last of the families staying in the castle left in 1962 and it once again fell into disrepair. In 1983, another extensive restoration was done on Mir Castle and it was opened to the public on December 16, 2010. Nowadays, Mir Castle is a living museum of history as well as a venue for cultural festivals and events. Mir Castle was one of the highlights of my visit to Belarus. It has a nice lake and park on its territory, which are the most enjoyable during warm months. The entrance to the territory, parks, lake is free. To visit museums inside the castle, you need to get a ticket. One day per month (last Wednesday of the month, as a rule) there is a free entry for everyone. Budget traveler, Eastern European, living with local people in India to explore the country from a different angle! Beyond traveling, Natalia is an events & marketing specialist by day and a blogger at My Trip Hack. Twitter: https://twitter.com/mytriphack Albania – Ruins of Apollonia and the Church of St. Mary Apollonia was founded in 588 BC by Greek colonists and named after the god Apollo (not very original as there were 23 other Apollonias along the Mediterranean coast). This Apollonia was the biggest and most important of them all, with a population of 60,000, a record in ancient times. Over the next 800 years, it became a major port for slaves, agriculture, pottery and asphalt. Due to the slave trade, Apollonia rose to become an important city-state: the city minting its own coins and, in 229 BC, became a Roman Protectorate. Apollonia supported Julius Caesar during the Roman Civil War of the 1st century and was rewarded with the title of “Free City,” meaning it didn’t pay tax to Rome. Under Roman rule, Apollonia also became a major centre of learning. Julius Caesar even sent his nephew Octavius, the future Emperor Augustus, to study here. Unfortunately, an earthquake in the third century changed everything for Apollina. Due to the changed landscape from the earthquake, the course of the Vjosa river changed, causing the harbour to silt up and prevent vessels from entering. This resulted in a major downturn in trade and started the slow decline Apollonia’s importance. Over time, the silted river became a mosquito-ridden swampland, increasing the frequency of malaria outbreaks. Added to this, the social structure of the city was failing and the Goths were invading the region. Apollonia was no longer a pleasant place to live and, by 800 AD, the city was largely abandoned. During the 9th century, after most residents had left the city, the monastery of St Mary was built by the small group of Christians who remained. in the ruins of the city and was rebuilt in the 14th century. During communist times, religion was banned, so the monastery was used to house livestock and supplies. Since the fall of communism, the Church of St. Mary was returned to its original use and the former monastery buildings were modified to house a small museum and cafe. With its ancient architecture and dim candle lit rooms, St. Mary’s is once again a place of peace. These days Apollonia attracts not only tourists but also newlyweds who want to get their photos taken amongst the ruins. Around the site are the remains of public buildings, temples, theatres, fountains, villas and the old city walls. If you’re looking for things to do in Albania and are interested in Ancient Greece then a day trip to Apollonia is a must. Ron and Michele are Australians who have decided to live life with less things and have more experiences. Their blog, Legging It Travel, covers their travel experiences across more than 30 countries, which they share on their Facebook page. Croatia – Diocletian’s Palace Diocletian’s Palace is one of the few UNESCO Heritage Sites with residents who live, work, and play inside the palace walls. If you’ve ever wanted to experience living in history, staying in this modern community allows you to soak up the site’s history and marvel at how relevant it is for every aspect of contemporary life. Long neglected, but now undergoing a renaissance, the Palace is popular with visitors who arrive by cruise ship from other countries, ferry from the Dalmatian islands, and Croatians on holiday. Roman Emperor Diocletian, who ruled from 284-305A.D., famously resigned his position due to declining health, wanting to spend the remainder of his days by the seaside close to where he was born. His plan was to grow tomatoes in the lovely Mediterranean setting in what is now the city of Split, Croatia, on the Dalmatian Coast. This just might be the world’s oldest surviving, upscale retirement home on the water. Constructed at the turn of the 4th century A.D., the palace complex’s residential areas, storehouses, public gathering spaces and temples were supported by a military garrison. Abandoned for several hundred years, and then neglected during Yugoslavia’s Communist regime, the buildings are now repurposed and individual property values within the Palace walls are rising. Foreign nationals looking for an inexpensive holiday home have invested in apartments here, many of which have required restoration within the confines of protected, heritage status. Visitors will experience a bustling, yet relaxed vibe which incorporates historical heritage and clever renovations. Innovative restaurants, upscale accommodations and specialty shops are interspersed among historical squares, a circular oculus open to the sky, colonnades and arches, and ornamental entry gates designated as Gold, Silver and Iron. A stay...

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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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