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Posts tagged ‘architecture’

Jun 14

Basilica Cistern, Istanbul
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Basilica Cistern, Istanbul

Basilica Cistern, Istanbul

Basilica Cistern entrance view, Istanbul (Photo: Daydream Tourist)

How does a city surrounded by the ocean get enough fresh water to support a population of nearly half a million people?  The answer for Byzantine Emperors Constantine and Justinian I was a 19km aqueduct that emptied into a massive reservoir beneath Constantinople.  Today you can visit the Basilica Cistern; the entrance is about a block away from the Hagia Sophia.  The cavernous pool is cool, dimly lit and a quiet retreat from the tourist commotion above.  I thought it was incredibly beautiful and peaceful and spent about an hour very slowly wandering through it.

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Jun 8

black ceiling element, Süleymaniye Mosque, Istanbul
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Shapes and Details in Istanbul

I found some interesting shapes and decorative details while at the big Ottoman sites in Istanbul (the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Süleymaniye Mosque).  So let’s start with those.

Blue Mosque, Istanbul Read more

May 14

New York Public library

New York Public Library

NewYork City Public Library Lion

Iconic Lion of the New York City Public Library (Photo: Daydream Tourist)

While I was in town, I stopped by the New York Public Library to do some research for the Friedrich Wahle Project.  While I was able to cross out one lead, most of the books I needed were in storage or locked up in the prints department.  I did at least get to wander around and enjoy the beautiful library interior which made the trip over to Bryant Park well worth it.

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Apr 2

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The Mycenae Archaeological Site

Mycenae wall

Mycenae outer wall viewed from below (Photo: Daydream Tourist)

Don’t go to Mycenae if you want classical Greek architecture.  It does not have elegant ionic columns or passionate friezes of Gods battling.  It is not sophisticated artistically but still worth the trip.  You visit Mycenae because it is a fortress so impressive and old that is was selected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  (And #6 in my series.)

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