Jul 25
It always amazes me to see historic jewelry in museums. I’ve just assumed items so valuable and fragile would not have survived the centuries, but then there they are, neatly lined up in the display cases. Once again proving that everything old is new again, there’s a lot of ancient jewelry that I’d wear today. Here are some of personal favorites!
Gorgeous Egyptian necklace from the Oriental Institute in Chicago. (Photo: Daydream Tourist)
Every day in Ireland seemed to bring another beautiful ruin. Each one a massive stone structure clearly whittled down by time and the encroaching flora. King Henry VIII’s anti-Catholic purge of Ireland left hundreds of Cathedrals and monasteries abandoned to decay. Today they remain inviting and evocative structures to explore and enjoy. Ardfert Cathedral and Abbey is one such peaceful place. Like many of the ruins in Ireland, we had the whole site to ourselves and had an excellent impromptu picnic there.
Coming up on Ardfert Cathedral, County Kerry, Ireland
The sacred way to the Ascelpium, just outside Pergamon, Turkey.
Even without the advantage of modern MRI’s and antibiotics, the Ancient Greeks understood something about health. Just outside many of the largest ruins from the ancient world, you will find a Sanctuary to Asclepius, God of Health. Taking in sick locals and travelers alike, most of these centers included steam-rooms, baths, theaters and doctors ready to interpret the patient’s dreams. Seemingly the best cures resulted from a little relaxation and spa time. And since near death patients were secreted out of the facility, it appeared the no one died at the Ascelpium under the care of the priests.
Every good ancient Roman knew that bathing was important for one’s health. Thermal springs were seen to be something divine and precious, often visited for their purported healing properties. But why rely on historical accounts when you can see for yourself? The thermal spring in the ancient city of Hierapolis, Turkey is active today, open for swimming, and even comes with some very authentic decorations!
Underwater archaeology? Not quite.
As if the ancient Roman city of Ephesus wasn’t already amazing, there is a separate museum within the site that lovers of art and history must see. The recently excavated and partially restored Terrace Houses are located in the center of the site. Homes of some of the wealthiest citizens were built on this valuable real estate (ie. across from the ancient public toilets!) which is evident today in the extensive mosaic floors and frescoed walls. The artwork dates from the 1st century BC to the 7th century AD with several homes torn down and combined into a small basilica during the later part of that period. Remnants of indoor plumbing throughout the homes are also visible.
Daydream Tourist 