The first national style created in the mountain region of Poland : Zakopane style
Zakopane style architecture is unusual in that it takes its name from a small village in the mountain region of Southern Poland, which was believed to have the power to cure many illnesses. Towards the end of the 19th century, the notion that breathing “healthy” air could improve symptoms or even cure a variety of […]
The symbol of the Netherlands keeps turning: Working windmills in one of the oldest industrial areas in the world
Bicycles, tulip fields, wooden clogs and windmills. We can only be in the Netherlands, a country known for its canals, art history, and of course those deliciously sticky syrup pastries called stroopwafel. This small but vibrant European country also has an important maritime history. Throughout the 1600s, the Dutch navy was arguably the most powerful […]
Portuguese azulejos: a popular decorative art and the symbol of a nation
Throughout history, Portuguese architecture followed contemporary popular style, from Baroque to Renaissance and Neoclassicism, even developing its own unique style called Manueline. However, throughout these ever-changing architectural elements, one, in particular, remained in constant use, both for decorative purpose and as a construction material: the azulejos. For centuries, the colorful glazed ceramic tiles have been one of the […]
Gargoyles: The grotesque carved creatures of Christian architecture were borrowed from ancient pagan religions
Gargoyles are instantly recognizable, grotesque, carved creatures peering down from the tops of churches and cathedrals. However, their origin has nothing to do with Christianity; in fact, they are borrowed symbols that were incorporated into Christian buildings. Their history dates back to ancient, pre-Christian times when they acted as protective talismans against the powers of evil. […]
Some of the most charming and colorful streets from cities around the world
While architecture of the 21st century is often focused on constructing massive buildings and designing the world’s tallest residential and futuristic skyscrapers, some historical, vibrant streets around the world are a true breath of fresh air. Widely regarded as one of the most romantic towns in the world, Colmar in France is known for its […]
Art Deco architecture in Havana: Many of these remarkable buildings are falling into disrepair
The city of Havana has always been a unique mixture of architectural styles from different periods, all existing side-by-side. One of the most popular styles in Havana is Art Deco. The city is full of residential buildings, theaters, hospitals, and churches built in this classic style, although they have certain elements unique to Cuba. Art […]
The Animal Wall: One of the most favorite features of Cardiff Castle
One of the most interesting structures in Cardiff, Wales, is the famous Animal Wall. The wall, located in the Castle Quarter of Cardiff city center, was financed by John Patrick Crichton-Stuart, the Third Marquess of Bute. One of the richest men of his time, the Marquess was a well-known architectural patron who financed the construction […]
One of Gaudí’s most iconic works: Barcelona’s remarkable Park Güell
Park Güell is a spectacular public park and one of the early landmarks of Catalan Modernism. The park was designed in 1900-1914 by Antoni Gaudí, one of the most famous architects of all time. However, the original plan for the site was not to create the most iconic park in Barcelona, but a residential area, […]