The statues on the facade of St. Peter's in Rome. The most important Basilica of the Catholic Church has 13 statues and a clock on its facade. I'm not going to copy what you can easily find online, I'll leave you the photo!
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At the top are the statues, some over 5.7 m high, of Jesus, John the Baptist and eleven of the twelve apostles (Saint Peter is missing). On the sides of the same are two clocks made in 1785 by Giuseppe Valadier, the clock on the left, called Oltremontano, indicates the real time, the one based on the time zone, while the one on the right, called Italian, indicates the solar Italic time with the count starting at sunset of each day and the completion of the twenty-fourth hour at the following sunset; furthermore, another difference, the one on the left has the two classic hands of the hours and minutes while the one on the right has a single hand. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The statues of the facade of San Pietro in Rome – Les statues de la façade de San Pietro à Rome – Las estatuas de la fachada de San Pietro en Roma – As estátuas da fachada de San Pietro em Roma – Die Statuen der Fassade von San Pietro in Rom – Những bức tượng ở mặt tiền của San Pietro ở Rome
Some statues on board the Ex Costa Firenze. When I was on board the Costa Firenze a couple of years ago I took some photos of some of the statues that were there. Dante and especially these two of a girl walking her dog (which were at the Sunset Bar) that reminded me so much of my wife walking our pitbull.
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Costa Firenze is the fifth Vista-class cruise ship built at the Marghera shipyard. Originally designed for the Chinese market by Costa Asia, a subsidiary of the Italian shipping company Costa Crociere, following the COVID-19 pandemic it was subsequently deployed for the European market. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
Some statues on board the Ex Costa Firenze – Quelques statues à bord de l’Ex Costa Firenze – Algunas estatuas a bordo del Ex Costa Firenze – Algumas estátuas a bordo do Ex Costa Firenze – Einige Statuen an Bord der Ex Costa Firenze – Một số bức tượng trên tàu Ex Costa Firenze
Colorful animal statues at Park Güell in Barcelona. Park Güell, located on the Carmel hill in Barcelona, is one of the most famous works of Antoni Gaudí, the Catalan architect known for his unique and visionary style. Among the many artistic and architectural elements that characterize this park, the colorful animal statues occupy a special place, captivating visitors of all ages with their liveliness and originality. Designed and built between 1900 and 1914, Park Güell was initially intended to be a residential garden city, but the project was later abandoned and transformed into a public park. Gaudí conceived the park as a place where nature and art blend harmoniously, creating a unique and magical environment.
The colorful animal statues of Park Güell are distributed throughout the park and are one of the most distinctive features of the site. Made primarily using the trencadís technique, a form of mosaic using colored ceramic fragments, these statues reflect Gaudí's passion for nature and organic forms.
In my photos you can find the Salamander (El Drac) and a snake: probably the most famous statue in the park is the salamander located at the main entrance. Known as “El Drac” (The Dragon), this colorful figure has become an icon of Barcelona. The salamander, with its bright mosaic of colors, welcomes visitors and perfectly embodies Gaudí’s aesthetic, which combines natural forms with an explosion of color. Other reptilian statues, such as snakes and lizards, are scattered throughout the park. These figures, decorated with trencadís, seem to emerge from the ground, creating a surprising and playful effect. Each statue is unique, with different color schemes and designs, which shows Gaudí’s attention to detail.
The colorful animal statues in Park Güell are not just decorative elements, but carry a deep symbolic meaning. Gaudí, deeply religious and a lover of nature, saw these animals as symbols of regeneration, life and spirituality. The salamander, for example, is often associated with alchemy and fire, representing transformation and purification. Visiting Park Güell and admiring its colorful animal statues is an experience that stimulates the senses. The bright colors of the mosaics, the sinuous shapes of the statues and the harmonious integration with the natural landscape create a visually fascinating and stimulating environment. Every corner of the park offers new surprises, making the visit a continuous adventure.
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Park Güell (Parc Güell in Catalan and Park Güell in its original name) is a 17.18-hectare public park with gardens and architectural elements located in the upper part of the city of Barcelona, on the southern slope of Mount Carmel. Conceived as an urban complex, it was designed by the architect Antoni Gaudí, the greatest exponent of Catalan modernism, under the direction of the entrepreneur Eusebi Güell and inaugurated as a public park in 1926. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The colorful animal statues at Park Guell in Barcelona – Statues d’animaux colorées au parc Guell à Barcelone – Estátuas coloridas de animais no Parque Guell em Barcelona – Coloridas estatuas de animales en el Parque Güell de Barcelona – Bunte Tierstatuen im Park Güell in Barcelona – Những bức tượng động vật đầy màu sắc tại Công viên Guell ở Barcelona
The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.
The rose window of the facade of the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi. A few months ago I was, together with my wife, on holiday for a few days in Umbria. One of the stops of the holiday was Assisi and obviously we could not miss a visit to the famous Basilica of which I describe a detail in this post.
The rose window of the Basilica of Saint Francis in Assisi is one of the most distinctive architectural features of this important place of worship. Located in the city of Assisi, in Umbria, the basilica is famous for being the main church dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi, the founder of the Franciscan order. The rose window is located on the upper facade of the basilica, above the main portal. It is a decorative element of great artistic and symbolic value. Rose windows are typically round or polygonal and are characterized by an interweaving of colored glass that create geometric or figurative patterns.
In addition to the upper basilica, the lower basilica is also a significant site, containing the crypts where St. Francis is buried. Both parts of the basilica are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and attract visitors from all over the world for their artistic beauty and spiritual significance.
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The upper church has a simple “hut” façade. The upper part is decorated with a central rose window, with the symbols of the Evangelists in relief on the sides. The lower part is enriched by the majestic splayed portal. On the left side of the façade, in the seventeenth century, the Loggia delle benedizioni was placed, from which, in the past, the Holy Veil of the Madonna was displayed. On the same side, shortly after the construction of the upper church, the bell tower, once spire-shaped, was raised. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The rose window of the facade of the church dedicated to Saint Francis in Assisi – La rosace de la façade de l’église dédiée à Saint François d’Assise – El rosetón de la fachada de la iglesia dedicada a San Francisco en Asís – A rosácea na fachada da igreja dedicada a São Francisco em Assis – Das Rosettenfenster an der Fassade der dem Heiligen Franziskus geweihten Kirche in Assisi – Cửa sổ hoa hồng trên mặt tiền nhà thờ kính Thánh Phanxicô ở Assisi
The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.
The Spires of the Milan Cathedral: Icons of Elegance and History. The Milan Cathedral, with its majestic presence and extraordinary beauty, is one of the most iconic architectural masterpieces in Italy and the entire world. This Gothic structure, which dominates the heart of the city, is known for many evocative details, including its impressive spires. In this article, we will explore the history and importance of the spires of the Milan Cathedral. The spires, or pinnacles, are slender and pointed architectural elements that adorn the top of the Duomo. They are one of the most recognizable landmarks of the cathedral and are an essential part of its identity. The spires are located at the top of the towers, facades and central nave of the Duomo, giving the structure a distinctive and evocative silhouette. The arches of the Milan Cathedral are also not only structural elements, but also works of art in themselves. Their shapes and proportions have been carefully designed to ensure a harmonious and evocative appearance. Each arch is adorned with carved details and Gothic decorations depicting religious figures, scenes from the Bible and floral motifs. These decorations make the arches true masterpieces of craftsmanship and design. Construction of the Milan Cathedral began in the 14th century, under the guidance of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo, but it took several centuries to complete. The spires were added during the 19th century restoration work, when the main architect, Carlo Amati, decided to embellish the Cathedral with these Gothic elements. The spires were designed to harmonize with the existing Gothic architecture of the Cathedral, creating a harmonious fusion between the original style and the new. Construction of the Milan Cathedral began in the 14th century, under the guidance of Archbishop Antonio da Saluzzo, but it took several centuries to complete. The spires were added during the 19th-century restoration, when the main architect, Carlo Amati, decided to embellish the Duomo with these Gothic elements. The spires were designed to blend in with the existing Gothic architecture of the Duomo, creating a harmonious blend of the original style and the new. In addition to being decorative elements, the spires also serve practical purposes. During the 19th-century restoration, they were made of lightweight, durable materials, including iron, to withstand the elements and temperature fluctuations. The spires acted as a counterweight, reducing the overall weight of the roof and stabilizing the structure. Additionally, some of them acted as a directional cross, indicating the direction of Milan to sailors when spotted from afar. Today, the spires of Milan Cathedral are a world-famous tourist attraction. Visitors from all over the world flock to admire these spectacular architectural elements and to enjoy the panoramic views of the city that can be enjoyed from the roof of the Duomo. The spires are not only witnesses to the history and culture of Milan, but are also a symbol of innovation and architectural beauty.
In conclusion, the spires of the Milan Cathedral are a stunning example of how art, religion and functionality can merge into one structure. These soaring Gothic elements not only adorn the Milanese sky, but also tell a story of commitment, perseverance and enduring beauty. They are a testament to human greatness and architectural prowess that continues to capture the imagination of those who contemplate them.
Have you ever visited the Milan Cathedral? Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.
This is the official website of the cathedral: duomomilano.it.
Click here if you want to see all the photos I took:
Here is where the cathedral is located:
Symbol of the Lombard capital, and located in the homonymous square in the center of the metropolis, it is dedicated to Santa Maria Nascente. It is the largest church in Italy. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The spiers of the Milan Cathedral: icons of elegance and history – Les flèches de la cathédrale de Milan : icônes d’élégance et d’histoire – Las agujas de la Catedral de Milán: iconos de elegancia e historia – As torres da Catedral de Milão: ícones de elegância e história – Die Türme des Mailänder Doms: Ikonen der Eleganz und Geschichte – Những ngọn tháp của Nhà thờ Milan: biểu tượng của sự sang trọng và lịch sử – 米兰大教堂的尖塔：优雅和历史的象征 – ミラノ大聖堂の尖塔: 優雅さと歴史の象徴
The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.
The majestic Cordonata Capitolina: a journey into the heart of Rome. In the heart of Rome, among the ancient ruins and the majestic works of art, there is a place that enchants and fascinates with its timeless beauty: the Cordonata Capitolina. This imposing staircase, located in the famous Piazza del Campidoglio, is an icon of Roman history and a symbol of the greatness of Ancient Rome. The Cordonata Capitolina was designed by the famous Renaissance artist and architect Michelangelo Buonarroti in the 16th century. The aim was to create an imposing staircase that would connect the Piazza del Campidoglio to the Roman Forum, thus underlining the grandeur of the place and the connection between ancient and modern Rome. The staircase is characterized by a series of white marble steps, framed by elegant parapets. At the center of it stands a statue of Emperor Marcus Aurelius on a magnificent pedestal. This equestrian statue, one of the few remaining from the Roman era, represents an important connection with the imperial history of Rome. For anyone visiting Rome, the Cordonata Capitolina is a must-see. Not only does it offer the opportunity to admire the work of a genius like Michelangelo, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the thousand-year history of this extraordinary city. Walking along these steps is like taking a journey through time, a stroll through the eras that have made Rome the legendary city it is today. The Cordonata Capitolina is a tribute to the greatness of Rome, a tribute to timeless art and architecture, and a reminder of its extraordinary history.
So, when you visit Rome, do not miss the opportunity to climb the Cordonata Capitolina and admire the eternal city from its most spectacular view. It is an experience that will remain etched in your memory forever, an encounter with the magnificence of Rome and its eternal beauty.
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It was designed by Michelangelo Buonarroti in the 16th century, commissioned by Pope Paul III, as part of the redevelopment of the Campidoglio. The Capitoline Cordonata, easy to access and transit because it was also designed for the transit of men on horseback, widens slightly towards the top, where the large statues of the Dioscuri, Castor and Pollux are located. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The majestic Capitoline Cordonata: a journey into the heart of Rome – La majestueuse Cordonate Capitoline : un voyage au cœur de Rome – La majestuosa Cordonata Capitolina: un viaje al corazón de Roma – A majestosa Cordonata Capitolina: uma viagem ao coração de Roma – Die majestätische kapitolinische Cordonata: eine Reise ins Herz Roms – Capitoline Cordonata hùng vĩ: hành trình vào trung tâm Rome – 雄伟的卡皮托利欧科尔多纳塔：罗马市中心之旅 – 雄大なカピトリーノ コルドナータ: ローマ中心部への旅
The text of the post was written with the help of ChatGPT, a language model from OpenAI.
A couple of statues on the Ponte Sant’Angelo in Rome. In addition to the classic Roman monuments, on my last visit to the capital, I also tried to photograph something less famous. These, for example, are two of the many statues of angels (one by Bernini holding out the inscription INRI and the other holding the tunic that the soldiers played dice for) that adorn the famous bridge that crosses the Tiber and leads to Castel Sant’Angelo.
Have you ever crossed this bridge? Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.
Ponte Sant’Angelo, also known as pons Aelius (bridge of Aelius), pons Hadriani (bridge of Hadrian) or Ponte di Castello, is a bridge that connects Piazza di Ponte S. Angelo to Lungotevere Vaticano, in Rome, in the Ponte and Borgo districts. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
A couple of statues on the Ponte Sant’Angelo in Rome – Quelques statues sur le Ponte Sant’Angelo à Rome – Un par de estatuas en el Ponte Sant’Angelo en Roma – Um par de estátuas na Ponte Sant’Angelo em Roma – Ein paar Statuen auf der Ponte Sant’Angelo in Rom – Một vài bức tượng trên Ponte Sant’Angelo ở Rome – 罗马圣天使桥上的几个雕像 – ローマのサンタンジェロ橋にあるいくつかの彫像
A glimpse of the square called Prato della Valle in Padua. One of the most famous views of the city of Padua is the beautiful square called Prato a Valle, a huge space with a beautiful circular canal surmounted by statues.
Have you ever visited beautiful Padua? Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.
To see all the photos I took in the Venetian city click here:
The statues were fundamental to the transformation of the Prato not only visually but also financially. In fact, they were paid for by individual citizens or groups upon payment of a sum that could vary between 135 and 150 zecchini and which served both for the living cost of the statue and as a contribution to the general works of the Prato. Continue and learn more on milanofree
The statues and the small canal of Prato della Valle in Padua – Les statues et le petit canal de Prato della Valle à Padoue – Las estatuas y el pequeño canal de Prato della Valle en Padua – As estátuas e o pequeno canal de Prato della Valle em Pádua – Die Statuen und der kleine Kanal von Prato della Valle in Padua – Những bức tượng và con kênh nhỏ Prato della Valle ở Padua – 帕多瓦普拉托德拉瓦莱的雕像和小运河 – パドヴァのプラート・デッラ・ヴァッレの彫像と小さな運河
Guglie ed archi del Duomo di Milano. Salendo in cima al duomo si rimane immersi in un labirinto di archi, guglie e merletti in pietra. Uno spettacolo persino difficile da fotografare.
Hai mai visitato il Duomo di Milano? Aggiungi un tuo comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.
To see all the photos I took on the roof and inside the Duomo click here:
This is the official website of the cathedral: duomomilano.it.
Simbolo del capoluogo lombardo, e situato nell’omonima piazza al centro della metropoli, è dedicata a santa Maria Nascente. È la chiesa più grande d’Italia. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
Here is where the cathedral is located:
Spiers and arches of the Milan Cathedral – Flèches et arcs de la cathédrale de Milan – Agujas y arcos de la Catedral de Milán – Pináculos e arcos da Catedral de Milão – Türme und Bögen des Mailänder Doms – Các ngọn tháp và mái vòm của Nhà thờ Milan – 米兰大教堂的尖顶和拱门 – ミラノ大聖堂の尖塔とアーチ
The tomb of Galileo Galilei in Santa Croce in Florence. The beautiful Basilica of Santa Croce is also called the Pantheon since many personalities who have made the history of Italy are buried inside it. One of these is Galileo Galilei whose tomb is located in the left nave of the church.
Do you know or have you visited this beautiful church in Florence? Add your own comment or go to the bottom of the site to read what other visitors have written.
Galileo's tomb is decorated with a bust by Giovan Battista Foggini and the personifications of Astronomy (by Vincenzo Foggini) and Geometry by Girolamo Ticciati. The surrounding frescoes are remains of the fourteenth-century decoration of the nave, attributed to Mariotto di Nardo. Continue and learn more on Wikipedia
The tomb of Galileo Galilei in the basilica of Santa Croce in Florence – Le tombeau de Galileo Galilei dans la basilique de Santa Croce à Florence – La tumba de Galileo Galilei en la basílica de Santa Croce en Florencia – O túmulo de Galileo Galilei na basílica de Santa Croce em Florença – Das Grab von Galileo Galilei in der Basilika Santa Croce in Florenz – Ngôi mộ của Galileo Galilei trong vương cung thánh đường Santa Croce ở Florence – 佛罗伦萨圣十字大教堂的伽利略·伽利莱墓 – フィレンツェのサンタ・クローチェ聖堂にあるガリレオ・ガリレイの墓
