The Roman Pantheon is arguably the most important building in the history of architecture. It’s magnificent dome has served as the inspiration for many other buildings, including the Florence Duomo, St. Peter’s Basilica, and the U.S. Capitol Building. The building itself is almost entirely intact, allowing modern visitors the opportunity to experience the grandeur of Ancient Rome from over 2,000 years ago. [Read more…]
Discovering Things to Do in Florence, Italy
By MarcusObal (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 or GFDL], via Wikimedia Commons
Having taken a look at the city of Florence and fit in your exercise for the day, you could consider some of these other top things to do in Florence, Italy. [Read more…]
Toledo, Spain: City of Wonder
Photo Credit: By Dina Spencer
Toledo, Spain is a cultural gem. Upon entering the old town through the keyhole-shaped city gate, visitors will feel as though they have been transported back several centuries to a magical kingdom. Tucked away from the hustle and bustle of Madrid, its quaint medieval charms make the city a hot destination and a must-see for any traveler’s list of places to see in Spain. Toledo was named a UNESCO World Heritage City in 1986, adding this famed status to its already impressive achievements. With more than 2000 years of history, settled since 193 BC, Toledo has been influenced by Jews, Christians and Muslims, noted in the city’s architectural styles. The diverse city was a center for culture and religion for several centuries as well as an important art center during the Renaissance and was home to El Greco. Today, Toledo is the capital of the autonomous community of Castile-La Mancha and offers visitors a wealth of architecture, art, cuisine, and a glimpse into Spain’s colorful past. [Read more…]
Majestic Welsh Castles: Cardiff Castle & Caerphilly Castle
If you happen to be visiting the United Kingdom, it’s worth your while to stop in Wales. Known as “rebel territory” for many years by the English, it’s now a safe, friendly, and charming area with intriguing historic sites and rolling landscapes. It boasts castles that are more than 2,000 years old. If you’re short on time, it’s recommended to concentrate your time in Cardiff, the capital. Cardiff, Wales is a small, quaint city that has medieval architecture alongside modern sports arenas, free Wi-Fi, and well-connected public transportation. Though rainy much of the year, in spring and summer the city is awash with brightly colored flowers and lush green spaces. Bute Park, surrounded by the castle and the river Taff, is a sprawling and stunning green space that is perfect for an afternoon picnic or a leisurely stroll. A short bus ride away is St. Fagan, an outdoor history museum full of historic replicas of homes and shops.
Photo Credit: Dina Spencer
Cardiff Castle
One of the city’s top attractions is Cardiff Castle, or Castell Caerdydd in Welsh. Originally built by the Romans in the year 55 A.D., the castle still stands strong and fortified in the city center after many years of upgrades and renovations. [Read more…]
Getting High at the Seattle Space Needle
Photo credit: By Yatharth (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
The Cologne Cathedral – Not Just For Pilgrims
By Jiuguang Wang (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
