DRAGONAS CHRISTOPOULOU VIDEO AND IMAGES

Sous les pavés, la plage Η πρόταση αποτελεί μία χωρική ερμηνεία των χαρακτηριστικών φαινομένων του μεσογειακού τοπίου. Ο ακάλυπτος ενός τυπικού οικοδομικού τετραγώνου καταλαμβάνεται από μία ανοικτή πισίνα: η θάλασσα. Πάνω από την πισίνα οι δύο πτέρυγες των δωματίων διαμορφώνονται ως ανάγλυφες επιφάνειες: ο βράχος. Γύρω από τον ακάλυπτο διατάσσονται τα δωμάτια με τρόπο τέτοιο ώστε να ενθαρρύνεται η οπτική επαφή: η πλαζ. Ο ακάλυπτος χώρος αποτελεί μία ζώνη φαινομένων στην οποία μπορούν να γίνουν αντιληπτές: οι μεταβολές του φυσικού φωτός στις ανάγλυφες επιφάνειες του κτηρίου· οι μεταβολές του τεχνητού φωτισμού μέσα από τα δωμάτια· οι μεταβολές του καιρού στον ουρανό και την επιφάνεια του νερού.

Sifnos - 15 August

It is 15 August and everybody notices it in Sifnos

The Stuff of Legends - The Ionian Islands

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Even if there's no history between you and one of Europe's most engrossing countries, you surely know that Greece makes for a culturally rich and tantalizingly beautiful place to spend a vacation. The islands are especially inviting, as they offer the allure of mystery along with the promise of long leisurely days filled with Mediterranean sun. Try the Ionians on for size if breaking from the mainland sounds like the cure to what ails you.

Often called the Seven Islands, this group can be confusing to name and figure out, but once you're here all that matters is the unreal scenery and array of ancient ruins and castles. If you really want to know, their names are Corfu, Ithaki, Kefallonia, Kythira, Lefkada and Zakynthos. They are steeped in an Italian culture due to the fact that Venice claimed ownership of the isles for about 400 years, meaning that everything from the architecture to the food retains a bit of boot-infused flavor.

Property rights have changed hands and earthquakes have shaken the islands, but today they stand proud as a popular and still lovely tourist destination. The island of Corfu is a fine place to start, and though parts of it are a bit trampled by cruisers and picture-snappers, the northeast is a little quieter. Check out the views, the wildflowers, the mountains and more and it will become to clear to see why the greatest of poets found inspiration in Corfu's inherent charm.

For a spectacular beach, save some time to visit Myrtos on the north shores of Kefallonia. Limestone cliffs and Greece's trademark blue seas and matching sapphire skies make it worth the trip; just beware of deep water and undertows. Shipwreck Beach gets lots of love from the postcard photographers, so you may have seen it before. That doesn't mean it shouldn't be placed on the itinerary, however, as this Zakynthos hotspot is worth braving possible crowds. Avoid the peak hours and check out the overlook for the best chance at success.

If there is time left in Keffalonia, don't miss the museums. Archaeology and folklore buffs will be interested in the artifacts and legends that have survived over hundreds of years of tumult. True literary enthusiasts will also love the constantly felt connection to myth and narrative found throughout the Ionians - remember that in addition to its idyllic beaches Ithaka is known as the home of Odysseus. From Homer to Penelope, there are bits and pieces of classic Greek tales and the truths behind them around every corner.

The mild climate is dry and hot during the summer and sometimes rainy in the winter, having the positive effect of creating a lush environment (as opposed to other nearby islands that aren't as green). Colorful villages add depth to the landscape, and authentic tavernas and cafes will keep bellies filled with traditional food and drink. Discos, theatre festivals, the International Odysseus Conference, wildflowers, scenic drives...You get the picture; all the elements of a fabulous holiday are here.

One more thing: experiencing all of these sights and sounds is best done from a comfortable place, and luckily there are dozens of vacation homes to satisfy this requirement. Mediterranean-style villas and secluded studio apartments capture the essence of this fragrant and warm-hearted destination, right down to the private terraces and charming kitchenettes. Everything needed to sleep, eat and exist contentedly alongside your traveling companions while making your way from one point of interest to the next comes as part of a rental property experience, and if the concept sounds unfamiliar or frightening, be assured that everyday people just like yourself are the ones who make the happiest renters.

If you've never gone Greek before it's about that time, so make sure your passport is ready to go and start preparing for a trip to a nation of cultural pride, visual beauty and oh-so appealing Ionian Islands Vacation Rentals.

Visit HomeAway.com and begin a vacation journey by choosing the perfect villa, apartment or beach house.

Kalimera Kriti Hotel & Village Resort - Facilities

www.ellada.net An unobtrusive atmosphere of stylish serenity imbues the vast Reception Hall, with its multicoloured inlaid marble flooring. A spectacular sea view welcomes the visitor through the surrounding bay windows. Through Minoan patios, the Hall area is linked to the Conference Halls and Lounges with large Verandas opening on to the Sissi Bay. The superb design of the spacious Main Building is inspired by the architecture of the Minoan palaces, incorporating neoclassic elements. The three villages are harmoniously spread out in the landscape. Their bungalows are built along the lines of traditional Cretan Architecture. Only the most precious of materials have been used; multicolored Greek marble, carved hard stone and above all love and respect for an environment of unbelievable beauty. You can call us @ + 30 2810 300330 For more informations : www.ellada.net

BIBLE: HISTORY OR HOAX V - KING SOLOMON & HIS "LUXURIOUS" TEMPLE

Rabbi Kaufmann wrote in "The Biblical Era" book, that "The foundations of the Hebrew/Jewish religion such as myth of the Creation, devotional exercise, order of the clergy, prophecies, psalms, code of laws and morals are inherited from the traditions of the Middle East. The New Testament was written in the 4th century AD in Greek language and translated to Latin in the 6th century AD. They were the "Codex Sinaiticus" and the "Codex Vaticanus". In order to legalize the "new religion" and establish the priesthood and church hierarchy, bishop Eusebius of Caesarea (260 to 340 AD.), a Church historian made an appropriate selection of parts of the Hebrew Canon of scriptures, known as the "Old Testament" and integrated them into a carefully revised collection of Christian writings, known as the "New Testament". The early Church Fathers accepted them in 325 AD at the first Council of Nicea (Turkey) and the combined books became the "Holy Book" of all the Christian Churches. The legend of the King Solomon's Temple is in the adopted Hebrew Scriptures, called the "Old Testament". We have to look back into history if we want to find out the truth. Solomon was the son of David, but since David himself was a mythological hero, with no historical proof to the contrary, we are under no obligation to believe he had a son named Solomon. According to Chronicles 9:23: "all kings of the earth sought his presence."If this be so, it is strange none of them mention him. His time allegedly was ...

Getting the Best Holiday Deals in 2009

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New Year is about to begin, and now is the best time to decide for the best holiday destinations. Spain, Thailand, Vietnam, Beijing, and places like Greek island are going to be the popular destination for the year 2009.

Because of the tremendous popularity of Olympics being held in Beijing, it is presumed that a lot of tourists will head towards Beijing for an exciting holiday season. However, the only hindrance and drawback of visiting China is the communication problem.

The best holiday deals are offered by many countries all over the world for the year 2009. However, some of the most desired destinations to visit in 2009 with best possible holiday deals include places like South America, Hungary, Morocco, Thailand, New Zealand, Jordan etc.

South America is one of the most exciting places among all the European cities in the world, and is an important place to consider for a holiday venture in the year 2009. The holiday deal is relatively cheap, and the place offers great charm and beautiful scenes and sights to its visitors.

The best holidays deal is the one that suits you in terms of the budget, and is worth spending money for. The capital of Hungary, Budapest is a great place to visit. The Castle Hill is the most attractive district, and the paprika-accented food of this place is more than just luring. This place has a lot to offer with its historical background, and its architecture being the biggest temptation for art lovers. Apart from this, the place is most suited for low budget visitors, and the holidays deal for the year 2009 are relatively cheaper than other Eastern European countries.

Morocco is another exciting place to visit in the holiday season of 2009. Cities like Rabat, Fes, and Marrakech are more inclined to portray the cultural and historical background of this Muslim country. However, Casablanca which is also the capital of Morocco is relatively a busy place with a lot of hassle and chaos. The Atlas mountain range is worth visiting. All in all, Morocco offers a great holiday package especially to the cultural and historical lovers.

Keeping aside of all you have heard about Ethiopia before, set out to plan a holiday to this place in the year 2009. The place has a lot to offer, and is quite adventurous from exploratory point of view. A lot of tourists are now visiting this place, and are overwhelmed by its history and culture. The Omo Valley in Ethiopia offers a look at the tribal life of Africa. The holiday package for the year 2009 is relatively cheap, yet lavishing.

Other important places to visit in the year 2009 include Queenstown in New Zealand, Jordan, and Kathmandu in Nepal. The best holiday deals are the ones which include cheap flights, cheap rents and accommodation, and yet offers great fun to spend your best time in. The places just mentioned above fulfill the criteria of being the best holiday destination for the year 2009 in every possible manner.

Visit this website for cheap holidays to loads of destinations.

Roman Architecture

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Roman architecture is a fusion of traditional Greek and the Etruscan elements, where arches were developed and horizontal beams were supported by columns. Later, three dimensional counterpart of the arch, namely the dome was introduced. Apart from this, Roman architects found their inspiration from the Greek architecture at large.

The basic building materials of the Roman architecture are stones, developed concrete, and highly expensive marble. The idea behind mosaic, a decoration of colorful chips of stone inset into cement, was brought from Greece. Roman homes joined the well known mural decorating floors, walls, and grottoes in geometric and pictorial designs.

Architecture of the Romans was always eclectic and was characterized by varying styles attributed to different regional tastes and diverse preferences of a wide range of patrons. In general, Roman monuments were designed to serve the needs of their patrons rather than to express the artistic ability of their makers.

Roman architecture was also considered to be an exact copy of the Greek building style. But, the Romans have also contributed to the classical architectural styles. The two developments of Roman buildings styles are the tuscan and composite orders. Tuscan is a shortened, simplified variant on the doric order of the Greek style. Composite is a tall order with the floral decoration of the Corinthian and the scrolls of the ionic building style of the Greeks.

The Roman Colosseum is the best-known amphitheatre in the world, which is more correctly termed the Amphitheatrum Flavium, after the Flavian dynasty that built it. The Pantheon is a building in Rome, which was originally built as a temple to the seven deities of the seven planets of the Roman state religion. Since 7th century, it has been a Christian church. The Colosseum and the Pantheon are some of the buildings built during this period.

Roman contribution to the architecture of the modern world is the development of concrete for building purposes. And the other contribution is the Empire's style of architecture that can be still seen throughout Europe and North America in the arches and domes of many governmental and religious buildings.

Architecture provides detailed information on Architecture, Architecture Designs, Architecture Schools, Landscape Architecture and more. Architecture is affiliated with Residential Architects [http://www.Architects-Web.com].

Ancient Egyptian Pyramidolgraphia

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Khufu (Cheops), the second king of the IVth Dynasty, was the son and successor of Sneferu by Queen Hetepheres I, daughter and heiress of King Huni (Hu), the last King of the IIIrd Dynasty. This Greek name Cheops is the one by which Khufu is popularly know today. According to the ancient records he reigned for 23 years. Concerning his character, the eminent Egyptian Egyptologist, Professor Ahmed Fakhry, states "Some of the classical authors wrote that Khufu was a great tyrant and was hated by his subjects; unfortunately, such ideas are still repeated. But ancient Egyptian history provides no such evidence at all to support these stories. Khufu's reign fostered Egyptian architecture and art. Had he really been an oppressive tyrant he could never have left the land in such a stable economic position. If the stories of the later authors had an element of truth it would have been impossible to preserve the cult of Khufu for so many centuries after his death. Monuments of Khufu date for several periods of Egyptian history down to Ptolemaic times, more than two thousand years after his death".

Pyramidographia or Pyramidography deals with the writings pertaining to the Pyramids. The earliest of these would be the plans for the construction of the Great Pyramid. These plans were delivered even before the first of all Pyramids began. They were given to Imhotep, the architect and vizier of King Zoser, the second King of the IIIrd Dynasty of Egyptian monarchs and were stated to have been "let down from Heaven", or, in present-day language "divinely inspired", which modern research has proved to be true.

The building of at least seven practice Pyramids--the Step Pyramid at Saqqara, the Bent Pyramid and the Northern Stone Pyramid both at Dahsur--and the Pyramidization of the Mastaba at Meidum all took place between the delivery of the plans for the Great Pyramid and its actual erection on the Giza Plateau. These practice or experimental Pyramids, in preparation for the building of the Great Pyramid, were the first Pyramids ever to be built. The Step Pyramid at Saqqara is thus the oldest large stone building existing in the World today--the World's oldest "skyscraper" still standing. The Great Pyramid was the 3rd geometrically true pyramid built.

No trace of the plans for the World's premier monument, the Great Pyramid, has ever been found however. The Hieroglyphic dating, with Khufu's cartouche, on the walls of the relieving compartments (sometimes called the Chambers of Construction) above the roof of the King's Chamber, identifies the time of the erection of the Great Pyramid with the reign of King Khufu (Cheops), of the IVth Dynasty of Egypt.

Michael Starkford is an independent researcher, historian, and writer who is a major contributor the ongoing work at Ken Klein Productions. http://www.kenkleinproductions.net

If you have not had a chance to view the Virtual Tour of the Great Pyramid or the "Prelude to the Pyramids" (30 min video) free at Ken Klein Productions, please visit the site today.

History of Granite and Marble

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Natural stones are rock formations formed by nature. These stones are formed naturally by enormous pressure under the earth. Natural stones were used in decorating and sculpturing right from the moment civilization was born. These natural stones are time tested for their natural beauty. Ancient buildings and monuments made of natural stones during early civilizations still stand erect narrating the beauty and durability of natural stones.

Modern people want to make their home stand out of the rest and they used natural stones for their floors and walls to bring about eternal beauty.

Granite and marble are two main natural stones widely used in the stone industry. These stones are used in constructions as well as in monumental sculpture. Commercially, these stones are mined for use as architectural stones for flooring, cladding, curbing, counter tops and much more to be used at home.

Granite is a widely occurring igneous rock. The texture of granite is generally medium to coarse grains. Porphyritic texture is very common in granite rocks. Various colors of granite stones are widely available and most of the times, granite is available as a massive rock. The beauty of granite is attributed to the deposits like quartz, feldspar, and mica. Consistent granite has same pattern throughout the stone. Variegated granite has various veins forming different patterns that are not easy to match.

It was the ancient Egyptians who quarried granite exclusively for use in various constructions. Most of their monuments were built using granite and limestone. The only remaining ancient wonder, The Great Pyramid of Cheops was built using limestone. The famous Pharaoh which is a symbol of outstanding Egyptian civilization was built with granite blocks. The Egyptians had marvelous sculpting skills and the granite blocks of Pharaoh were sewn in a perfect manner that you can't slide even a piece of paper between the rocks.

Pure white marble is a metamorphic rock of very pure limestone. Marble is found extensively in various countries like Belgium, France, Great Britain, Greece, India, Spain and Italy. From classical times, pure white marble was considered as the best of its kind. In the beginning, only white marble was considered worthy and colored marble was considered impure. However, this belief was just short-lived because very soon, ancient civilizations appreciated colored marbles too and used colored marbles in various monuments and sculptures even though pure white marble is always regarded high. Freshly quarried marble is easy to sculpture and the stone hardens as it ages.

Ancient Greeks were very much advanced in civilization and they were really fascinated about marble. Finest architecture and sculpting are specialties of Greek architecture and marble has been used in various Greek buildings. Exquisite statues with detailed carvings were made out of marble. Buildings built using Marble lasted for several ages. The Parthenon which was built in 441-437 BC is considered as a symbol of ancient Greek civilization and this scintillating building was built using Pentelicon marble.

The Greek empire extensively used marbles in their constructions. Temple of Artemis is one of the ancient wonders of the world and it consists of 127 marble columns each of which is 5 stories tall. It was the first grand structure made using marble. The magnificent construction was destroyed by various civilizations that took over Greece, but you can still find foundation and a few columns of the wondrous marbles.

When natural stones were widely used in constructing monuments and temples, it was the Greek empire that brought marble to personal use. References to baths and pools lined with marble can be seen in ancient literature. Thassos marble was widely used in bathrooms and this type of marble is still quarried today for commercial uses. Building constructions using marble was popular in India too and the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World was constructed using pure white marble stones.

After the Egyptian and Greek civilizations made some wonders with natural stones of granite and marble, the Roman Empire decided to try its hands on both granite and marble. Many of the roads of the Roman Empire were built using granite. Public baths became popular in Rome and these baths were made of granite. Pantheon in Rome used granite stones for columns and you can see these columns standing tall even today.

Romans loved granite and marble for different reasons. They used granite extensively for constructions because the stone is highly durable and strong. Marble was mainly used for aesthetic reasons because Romans believed marble to be the most beautiful stone. Construction pattern of Egyptians and Greek was different from Romans. While the former civilizations used massive granite and marble stones to build constructions, Romans used bricks and mortar for buildings and then, lined them with marble and granite slabs. It is because of this reason that Romans were able to build marble cities in a short duration.

The renaissance period is a golden period for all types of artwork. Artists and sculptors were interested in using natural stones for their artwork. Quarrying methods were improved by the time and technical use was invented. Innovative and novel users of natural stones increased during the renaissance period. Famous Michelangelo made several beautiful sculptures out of marble. Ornate decorations made using marble and granite were used in decorating churches, temples and other buildings of magnificent nature. Meanwhile, natural stones were carved into decorative pieces for use at home.

It was only during modern times that natural stones were brought close to mankind. Quarrying techniques were improved greatly and there was no need for men to die in quarries dealing with dynamites. Innovative technologies were used in mining natural stones. Also, the world started thinking about eco friendly materials to be used to construct homes. Architects and designers were overly enthusiastic about natural stones that were used in building monuments. In the last decade, people preferred to use more durable, yet stylish materials for constructing homes.

Marble and granite are available in various patterns and colors and it was not easy to find the same pattern of stones. This uniqueness of natural stones made people want for more use of natural stones. In the ancient periods, marble and granite were used for lining and decoration. People trusted durable stones and lay flooring using granite and marble. Apart from their baths, living room, bed room and other rooms in the home had natural stone flooring.

Even though natural stones add exquisite beauty to the home, they are highly porous in nature. Harsh substances can easily damage these natural stones. However, thanks to latest technologies, that it is possible to add more strength to the stones and seal the porous nature so that these stones can be used extensively at homes. It was only during the last few years that countertops made of marble and granite became popular.

Natural and exquisite stones which were only used by kings and emperors are now available for a common man because floor tiles made of natural stones are much more affordable now. Consumers must be very cautious while buying floor tiles and countertops made of marble and granite because natural stones are now made synthetically too. If you prefer aesthetic beauty for your stylish family, always ensure that you buy natural stones that were widely preferred by aristocrats of the past.

Don't hesitate to visit us at:

http://www.fantasymarbleandgranite.com

Sicily Tours - A Perfect Place to Spend Your Vacation

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Do you want to spend your vacation in the hearts of eternal nature, surrounded by panoramic landscapes and mountains, with lush Blue Ocean bordered by glazy sands? To put in, do you want to experience heaven on the earth to meet divine isolation and pleasure? If yes, then you must spend your holidays in Sicily.

Sicily is the land where god has engrafted his best natural artistry and endowed with mesmerizing calmness. No wonder, Sicily is considered as the jewel of Mediterranean!

Tour Sicily to Learn History

What would better than learning and exploring new things while spending your holidays? Well, Sicily is the place to come! It has a glorious past that still is alive in the spread monuments and ruins. Several archaeological sites in Sicily are the centers of attraction of history lovers all round the globe.

Selinunte - yet another example of Greek architecture Agrigento - a popular Greek Temple Valley Segesta - Greek temple, now its ruins are only there Eraclea Minoa - is a Greek ruin Piazza Armerina - also part of world heritage known for Roman mosaics Several facts and myths related to Sicily history will really astonish. But for that you need to come to Sicily

Tour Sicily to Enjoy: Sicily has lots of dimensions. Therefore people come here for scores of reasons and enjoyment is one of the main draws about Sicily. You can see and experience loads of things that are exclusively available in Sicily only.

The Etna volcano: It is one of the active volcanoes in the world. It is a magnificent mountain; from its top you can have the best view of enamoring Sicily.

Taormina: This is one of the most astonishing mountain towns in the world. It is filled with lush greenery along with the cleanest atmosphere. In addition, ride to Taormina with the cable car is one of the memorable moments! Summers fests are something not to be missed at Taormina.

Beaches: Beaches are the main attractions of Sicily. Filled with glazy sand, beaches are simply amazing at Sicily.

People and Lifestyle: See the lively and great hospitable people of Sicily. They welcome you heartily and treat you the best. Must see their wonderful and impressive lifestyles!

Tour Sicily to Sport: Water sports and mountaineering are some of the main sports to be enjoyed at Sicily! Scuba diving, sailing, fishing, bathing, swimming, and many more, people enjoy the clean ocean water to the max. In addition, you can also enjoy mountaineering and exploring new corners of beauty.

Tour Sicily to Eat, Drink and Fun: It is said that Sicily cuisines are the tastiest in the world! If don't believe, then you must try out wonderful food recipes like pasta, rice, ice-creams, pastries etc at Sicily. Fruits like orange, lemon, and almonds must not be missed. Sweet, sour, veg or non-veg or any other taste, Sicilian cuisine offers all.

Sicily is one of the oldest wine regions in the Europe. Your Sicily tour is quite incomplete without having appetizing drinks! It's pretty difficult to amass the beauty and class of Sicily into words. Spending holidays in Sicily gets more convenient with the affordable and world class accommodation available You get loads of choices for staying and its up to you which way want to enjoy the unbelievable beauty Sicily.

Have all the details and information about Sicily tours, Mediterranean Tours and find out here how you can make your Sicily tour better and much more pleasurable. Experience the raw Sicily exclusively at tourinmed.com

The Heretic Pharaoh Akhenaten and the Queen Nefertiti

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In an era where a plethora of divine beings existed and were worshipped, Pharaoh Akhenaten's name is penned down in history for being the first to adopt monotheism. The Pharaoh was also known as the Heretic King. However, under his father, Amenhotep III, he abided by all the Egyptian culture norms and rituals upholding the belief of polytheism. It was his marriage to the Neferititi of Akhmin, a political move that led to him supporting monotheism.

After entering into wedlock with the Nefertiti of Akhmin, he commenced to worship one sole divine power in the guise of God Aten. Thereafter, he abandoned the facet of royalty attached to his name by eliminating Amenhotep and keeping the moniker, Akhenaten instead. The word Akhenaten personified an individual who served Aten. His wife also changed her name to Nefer-Nefru-Aten, denoting 'Beautiful is the Beauty of Aten'.

This progressive and unorthodox ideology of the ruler was condemned by the priests of Thebes. Although, this resentment could not challenge his authority as a king but it did lead to the establishment of a new court on the east bank of the Nile, adjacent to Amarna. The king's religious conviction of monotheism was a debatable issue and was opposed by many. However, there were others to the score of almost 20,000 who adopted the philosophy of Akhenaten and started residing at Akhenaten el-Armana.

The city of Akhenaten el-Armana also came to be known for its art and architecture. The city was designed on urban lines with beautiful gardens and splendid pieces of architecture. The grand royal avenue constructed parallel to the River Nile showcased the superior architecture under him. The avenue encompassed an open area referred to as the 'Window of Appearance' especially marked for holding speeches and presenting honors by the ruler to the deserving servers of the dominion. In those days itself, the architecture had reached the level of modernity that led to the construction of a bridge between two buildings within this avenue.

Egyptian art also flourished under the reign of Heretic Pharaoh Akhenaten. The stone tablet wall relief was the most prevalent style of artistic excellence known as stelae. The Pharaoh motivated the transformation in the line of thought of the artists from depicting death towards celebrating life through their art. The wall reliefs were made for aesthetic and religious reasons and represented paintings and text together. The opposition to his monotheistic convictions initiated the demolishment of the king's heritage by the opposing priests of Thebes. Very little of his legacy still exists in the form of artifacts. The Akhenaten and Family wall relief in the Altes Museum at Berlin is one such remembrance. This piece of art symbolizes the innate art form that Akhenaten supported in contrast to the existing royal and posed art forms. The wall relief highlights Akhenaten and Nefertiti with their two daughters, the father kissing one and the other daughter playing with the mother's earrings.

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Greek Mythology, Alexander the Great.

Ancient Greek Poetry

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There may have been a time when, besides the epic and the two species of poetry Hesiod represented, the Greeks had only folk songs with refrains. Following this mythopoeic, religious, seasonal, and festival art, the lyric arose as a spontaneous creation, not like the poetry of Occidental nations that at the very least had Latin church hymns as models. The elegy may well have appeared as a great innovation, even as a kind of debasement.

Modern lyric poetry contrasts most sharply with the Greek, recognizing hardly any set limits or laws and seeking to escape discipline for pleasure. Greek lyric poetry on the other hand was, by its connection with singing and conviviality, with dancing and instrumental music, bound to detailed standards of composition and performance, being thereby protected against sublimation into nothingness.

Our discussion of Greek poetry does not claim to be a clearly arranged literary survey; we shall deal with poesy only as a free expression of life and as a cultural force in the nation. The individual states and social castes took part in many ways, now here, now there, now stressing this aspect, now that. Beginning with the epic bards, poetry fell into all sorts of hands but remained a high art nonetheless, its forms commanding the utmost respect.

It was a long time before the old poetry gave way to new forms, this event occurring only after all imaginable contents had been poured into the old forms. Greek poetry grew slowly and consistently, each order giving way when its season of fruition was over. No foreign literature, no religion with foreign imagery, interrupted this development; hence we shall proceed in accordance with the development of the various forms.

A large number of poets enjoyed renown from the outset, and though their works were topical and involved in contemporary affairs, their names endured. Complete collections of their works were made early, and it is a misfortune that apart from Pindar and the tragedians so little has survived. Later Greeks possessed these works intact and consciously treasured them as significant cultural developments.

Poetry accorded with the life of the individual as well as with that of the nation; it was not faced with a division into the educated and the uneducated, being accessible to every freeborn Greek. Its original source was the body of myths known to rich and poor alike, as were the rites of worship; yet it remained a sublime art.

Ancient Greece is always an interesting topic for those who aren't Greeks along with everything ancient such as Ancient Greek Jewels or even the Greek Gods of Mount Olympus.

The Business of Fashion

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When the first human being, in Eden or on earth, covered his body with leaves, or later with an animal skin, the fashion industry was founded at that time. Though we are not familiar with the style and attire of that time until the ancient civilizations preserved few images in the solidity of rocks, through cave paintings and through rock-cut sculptures.

Terra Cotta figurines of the oldest Harappan Age show interesting headdresses that can be compared with any modern hairstyle with a heavy look. The Dancing Girl of Mohenjo Daro with bangles in her arms is not behind any fashion sculpt of any age. While no one can deny the allure and glamour of Cleopatra; a woman with great political skills and a long nose, who crafted many fashion styles from jewelry to outfits of the great Egyptian Empire of Scissors.

But fashion is not only associated to women always! In ancient times of Cleopatra, Scissors always wore clothes that were royal, expensive, stylistic, attractive and special. At the same Egyptian soil, the Pharaohs were never behind. The great Biblical Character of Moses, if taken as an Egyptian Prince, was always a portrayed, in tales and later in movies, in a charismatic outfit.

While in the Western part of the globe, the Greeks and Romans not only marked high standards in Art, Architecture, and Warfare, but their unique and intricate concepts of a perfect and godlike human body, especially of males, supported the appealing army uniforms and court-wears.

The supernatural characters of illustrious Greek, Egyptian and Indian Mythologies did provide extraordinary range of apparel; well preserved in the form of painting and sculpture.

These ancient models are still the greatest sources of inspiration for modern day fashion designers and the origins of the evolved form of cultural trends prevailed through continents from Australia to America and from Asia to Africa.

Cultural influences are stronger when we consider the economic aspect of the fashion industry. Business needs market where it can present fresh ideas and products in every new day. Although in this global age, acculturation is very much on. But even then there are many cultural aspects that can instigate or impede certain trends. A colorful bikini is a great fashion market item in Western or secular and modern cultures, but it is almost a taboo in some rigid and fundamental areas. Contrary to that, a veil is popular in fundamental countries, but has no market in secular or modern world. However, so many fashion articles could get the status of cross-cultural ambition. Especially in ornaments, there is not much difference across the globe with exception of little diversity in shape, material and style. Earrings, bracelets, pendants, bangles and rings are always, and everywhere, in fashion since ages having big market scope in all societies and cultures.

On the individual level, fashion is not just a simple word or an uncomplicated attitude, or even an overwhelming desire. Fashion is a multifarious dogma that can influence an individual in many ways.

"As process it is [fashion] sustained through some complex amalgamation of inspiration, imitation and institutionalization, all of which seem necessary, even though the nature and degree of their fusion is, as we can infer from fashion history, quite variable." (Fred Davis. Fashion, Culture and Identity. P. 123)

Therefore, the multifaceted incorporation of fashion, where force an individual at the same time, it also institutionalize itself on many grounds. This institutionalization is not only at the academic level, but due to its capacity of holding an individual, society, or even the whole world has created a huge market for investors.

This feature has made fashion, throughout past decades, an industry with small to bulk product possibility that can be marketed all around the world. It attracted many business tycoons and groups of companies to invest in fashion industry, or to label some of their products as fashion products. This idea initially covered the clothes brand but soon after, it encompassed every utility of everyday life. From earrings to pendants, from watches to glasses, from shoes to wallets, from perfumes to hairstyles, everything was produced and marketed, exported and imported on such a huge scale that it actually influenced the economy of various countries. Apart from the individual fashion, bathroom accessories, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom décor, landscaping of gardens and lawns, furniture, automobiles, electronics or even language accents, everything got under the broad term of fashion. Products singularly and brands collectively helped and polished lifestyle across the continents. So, inevitably fashion market got vitality.

Despite quality, comfort and durability the exclusivity of a product and its luxurious look are the reasons that produce scope for a product to be marketed. That is the market policy of almost every fashion company revolves around these features.

Simultaneously, the marketing and availability of various products have developed the customers' sense of selection and exposure with a comparative buying power. Fashion is not always brand conscious; it is item based as well. Sometime, the need for a particular item may force us to go beyond the brand-range and select something less popular. This is a challenge all the famous brands have to cope with. Ian Griffiths and Nicola White, in their edited work: The Fashion Business- Theory, Practice, Image, commented on item shopping as:

"Item shopping is still very much part of our lives, but market saturation has taken its toll and replacement purchases of core product continue to decline. Added to this is the changing profile of the customer, who, through constant exposure, is becoming wiser, more astute, more confident in mixing products and consequently, likely to be less brand loyal."

The customer satisfaction is very important in the fashion industry; either it is attained by making customer needful for an upcoming product through advertising, or by providing him what he is striving for. The former caused the creative and design department to experiment with new ideas and shapes while the latter forced the quality controlled production with maintained standards.

Modern day fashion is rapid, short lived, more corporate in its structure, and psychological than ever before. Due to better and quick sources of communication and information, the international or external markets are open for every fashion company to do business, multinational companies can be found with variety of products in all the continents with complex network and appropriate marketing policies according to the socio-cultural requirements of a certain country. Especially, when we talk about the couture and cosmetics, contemporary trends are getting more and more cross-cultural due to viewership of various fashion channels on TV. This is far quicker source than the print media. So, the skills and concepts are also crossing the geographical and ideological boundaries of different parts of the world regardless of ethnic rigidity and conventionalism. That is one reason that fashion is also taken as the reflection of the progress in some developing countries. Fred Divis described clothing as a visual metaphor in his compilation; Fashion, Culture and Identity:

"As visual metaphor the clothing that is dress (one should perhaps distinguish between the two) is capable of communicating many things including something as subtle, for example, as the wearer's reflexive awareness..."

This is what has made fashion companies responsible for customer care at the same time, when they were thinking to be profitable. You can find friendly policies of such companies towards its employees, suppliers and customers. Together with the advertising campaigns, Fashion Weeks with new designs and colors, serve additionally to promote new concepts. These Fashion Weeks not only display an array of new products, but also serve to communicate with the audience visually. Dresses and accessories worn by models doing catwalk, are more lively and enthralling than the mere display on mannequins. Normally with a range of Fall, Spring, Summer and Winter collection, Fashion Weeks boost market demands and promote its associated businesses as well. Fashion Shows now have become cultural events which are happily sponsored by the corporate sector.

At modern day fashion companies, there is an underlying and long standing commitment to ethical trading, based upon the belief, that business can be both profitable and responsible. So, fashion companies believe that building meaningful long term relationships with employees, suppliers and communities is good business practice for them and is what the customers expect popular brands. This is, and always has been, the founding principle of different brands as Corporate-Social responsibility.

Fashion is not only a phenomenon for luxurious life, but this concept deals with humanity as well. True meaning of fashion is to put life at ease and to facilitate humanity with its respective life style. That is why, modern fashion companies are conscious for the fact of supporting special people of society with special needs. This phenomenon is causing fashion to be responsive towards special people.

Therefore, the market and its demands may vary from community to community. For example, the range may get different in a London store in comparison with the variety at a Singapore or China store. No doubt, in the modern world, 'East meets West' but climate, culture, sociology and psychological needs can force fashion designers and companies to provide a vast canvas for the diversity of customers worldwide. But there are few items that are evergreen. Jeans and Bags are such commodities that are always in demand and ask for the latest styles and comfort at the same time.

Modern day fashion is global, human, culture and society friendly. At one end it emphasizes collective psychology and trends of a society, and at the other end, it deals with the individual needs of customer care. Healthy trends, balanced life, and busy lifestyle are, what the modern fashion companies have to consider deeply. It is no more a matter of looking good and attractive, true fashion and accessories join comfort and trend together. Fashion companies are somehow, have become institutes that are shaping behaviors, psychology and healthy and innovative thinking. The concept of being relaxed and making others too, by wearing good looking, comfortable, trendy and eye-catching outfits in soothing or energetic colors, is the order of the modern day.

"The obstacles to recognition which they [elements] interpose give an extra fillip to the process of the recognition and increase our pleasure by providing a chain of difficulties to be overcome."
(Carl Thurston. The Structure of Art.p 39)

Amorgos Greece - For Peace and Authentic Tradition

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Amorgos is an excellent vacation destination among the Greek islands. Surrounded by imposing rocky cliffs, the valleys of Amorgos are dotted with beautiful flowers and vegetation and the coastline strip is filled with some very unique beaches that serve as lovely tourist spots.

Amorgos is a place where nature is abundant. It is a soothing experience to just keep hiking along the countryside paths to see the various exotic creations of nature on the island. The picturesque villages and the generous nature of the locals make the tour around the island memorable. Also you will come across the authentic traditional culture that the islanders hold dear to their heart despite the chances of commercialization brought on by tourism.

Chora is the capital of Amorgos, a lovely traditional village positioned on the slopes of a hill. The road leading to this village is quite long and winding. The highest point of this village is dominated by a 13th century Venetian castle. Chora is a lovely place and comprises of pretty white washed houses and narrow paved alleys, while the view from some points is amazing.

Close to Chora, there is the top attraction of the island, the Byzantine Monastery of Panagia Hozoviotissa. The architecture of this monastery is highly acclaimed since it is carved into the walls of the cliff on which it stands. According to local tradition, each Easter the icon of Virgin Mary is taken out of the monastery to be roamed about the entire island.

Amorgos is also home to spectacular beaches. Some of them have clear nice soft sand, whereas others are filled with small pebbles that are strewn all over the coastline. The most famous beach of Amorgos is probably Agia Anna, in a walking distance from the monastery of Hozoviotissa. If you have seen the film "The Big Blue", you will probably recognize this place, as some scenes from the movie were filmed in the isolate beach of Agia Anna.

The most popular tourist resorts of Amorgos are Katapola and Aegiali, which also serve as the main ports of the island. One on the northern side and the other on the southern, these two seaside villages were fishing villages once but over the last years, they grow into peaceful tourism resorts with many facilities to offer.

As the atmosphere of Amorgos is highly relaxing, these two resorts are following this style. Although most hotels on the island are located there, visitors will not feel crowded or packed. They will laze in the sandy beaches, relax and enjoy the hot Greek sun with the beautiful landscape of Amorgos around them.

More information about Amorgos island and Amorgos hotels.

El Greco - A Post-Byzantine, High Renaissance, Mannerist Wave of Creativity

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El Greco, real name Domenikos Theotokopolous, is recognized as one of the most innovative artists in the art history. He was born in Candia, Crete (then a part of Venice (Italy) & now in Greece), in 1541, in a well to do Greek orthodox family. It was rumored that Domenikos converted to Catholicism sometime after he travelled to Europe at the age of twenty-six. Very little is known about his family except that his father Georgios Theotokopoulos was a merchant and tax collector and he had an elder brother Manoussos Theotokopoulos. The artist acquired the nickname Greco (the Greek) during his stay in Italy, as the citizens there found it difficult to pronounce his name. Later, when he moved to Spain his name was finalized as El Greco. His

El Greco's talents ranged from painting, sculpting, & engraving to architecture. His initial learning started as an icon painter at the Cretan School. He studied Greek & Latin literatures, and got well versed in the Post-Byzantine Art. By 1563, he had achieved mastery in his field. Around 1567, he went to live in Venice, Italy. Here he furthered his artistic skills under the great masters of High Renaissance, like Titian (1490-1576) and Tintoretto (1518-94). Theotokopolous' prominent work that finished before 1567, 'The Dormition of the Virgin,' displayed a touch of Mannerism blended with the Byzantine elements. In 1570, he travelled to Rome and set up a workshop there. The same year, he made a portrait of his friend and the great Italian Miniaturist Giorgio Giulio Clovio (1498-1578), which established his talents as an extraordinary portraitist. Giulio Clovio even once described the painter as 'a rare talent in painting.'

Greco finally settled in Toledo, Spain, in 1577. Here he received his very first commission for the Church of San Domingo el Antiguo at Toledo. During 1977-79, he made nine paintings for them, including 'The Assumption of a Virgin' (1577-79) and 'Trinity' (1579). El Greco lived with his Spanish female companion Jeronima de Las Cuevas. She was also the mother to his only son Jorge Manuel Theotocopuli (1578-1631). Greco and Jeronima never married, as it was believed that the artist had an estranged wife in Italy.

Greco's son became one of his few followers. The artist even had a brief stint at the Spanish Court, where he painted the 'Allegory of the Holy League' (1578-79), and 'Martyrdom of St Maurice' (1580-1582). Unfortunately, King Phillip did not approve of the artist's flamboyant style & anti naturalist approach and soon he was replaced.

El Greco was in the habit of signing all his works with his full Greek name. His works were mostly based on religious themes. He had a great love for color and exaggerated expressions. Michelangelo (1475-1564) greatly inspired Greco. The artist never actually gained much popularity in his time. His fantastical paintings with elongated figures, vibrant coloring, and bold brushwork were often met with perplexity and ridicule. Considered a forerunner of Expressionism and Cubism, it was only by the 20th century that the art world (including writers) began to appreciate Greco's highly individualistic and evolved style, far apart from traditional art. 'The Burial of Count Orgaz' (1586) is considered as one of his greatest masterpieces. He also learned about the Roman Architecture.

El Greco fell seriously ill while working on his last commission for Hospital Tavera. He passed away at the age of 73, on April 7, 1614. He was buried in the Church of Santo Domingo el Antigua. His home in Toledo, Spain, which was also his workshop, was later converted into a museum.

Annette Labedzki received her BFA at the Emily Carr College of Art and Design in Vancouver, B.C. Canada. She has more than 25 years experience. She is the founder and developer of an online art gallery featuring original art from all over the world. Please visit the website at http://www.Labedzki-Art.com. It is a great site for art collectors to buy original art. Artists can join for free and their image upload is unlimited.

La Tour Fontaine Apartments For Rent - HOUSTON, TX

HOUSTON apartments - La Tour Fontaine apartments for rent in HOUSTON, TX. Get into the swing of things! Call 866.508.1266 or Visit www.apartments.com for apartment prices, pictures, videos, floorplans, availability. A Classical European Mid-Rise! With historically accurate and faithfully produced architecture, La Tour Fontaine is pure 18th century Paris today, the essence of the romantic and historic citadel of France. The design of La Tour is drawn from the from the traditional residences of the Parisian left bank. At La Tour, the pediments and pilaster are Greek, the mansard towers are Louie XV, and Italian and Gothic influences are apparent. The classical grand lobby is true to its French Heritage with granite and white marble flooring; elaborate iron stair railing, and periodic chandaliers. When you would rather not take the time , we will. Once you become a resident of La Tour Fontaine, as with an elegant hotel, you are greeted and assisted by a concierge. Your service is immediate and complete. Your apartment home at La Tour will stand as a new tribute to strenght and permanence of tradition and will speak to the best architectural history while becoming a landmark edifice in Houston.

Armenian Genocide Film Photographs: Turkish SOLDIER beheads Armenian: HOLOCAUST #1

Decapitations occurred as a rule to save bullets! FIRST HOLOCAUST of 20th CENTURY: 2007 Film soon to be released in USA 2010 or 2011, across the nation or on Spanish and English CABLE TELEVISION. It show one of the popular methods of Genocide employed in the genrocide era of 1071AD to today. (Turkey continues to kill the Armenian Church, architecture, erases Armenia from law, music, history and educational textbooks). The alphabet of "Turkey" was codified by Armenian linguists led by Hagop Mardaean. Armenian Balyan family, Sinan, and others built all the major architecture of Turkey, except for the confiscated Byzantine (Greek/Graeco-Armenian) churches. Turks would pounce on a village with feigned (faked) friendship (a policy of OSMAN GHAZI, spawn of the Saljuq Turks with their tens of thousands of Armenian slave girl concubines and abducted Christian boy (converted by sword to Islam) armies--JANISSARY army)), ALWAYS killed the men, abducted the females for sex slavery or sale, turned CHURCHES into GAY BATHhOUSES.. Thus, more Muslim Turks, less Christians! This parasitism went on for 900 years! The Avakians are a rich Christian Armenian family. Aram, a land-owner living in a small town in historic Armenia (now occupied by Muslim Turkey), and Assadour, a successful doctor from Venice, are brothers who have not seen each other for a long time and decide to meet in historic Christian Armenia. While Assadour prepares himself for his trip to his native land, the Armenian part ...

Guide to Trieste, North East Italy

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Introduction

Trieste is an Adriatic coastal city in northeastern Italy, close
to the border with Slovenia. The sea in the Gulf of Trieste is
very clear and clean, with limestone cliffs and rocky
beaches. The centre of the city has a mid-European feel,
more Austrian than Italian, Trieste was the seaport of the
Hapsburg Empire.

Unique Points

You can enjoy a combination of a sea/beach holiday and the
attractions of a cultural city.

It is an ideal destination for a short break but you could
easily spend a week here too. The Verdi Theatre hosts an
opera season in the winter and an operetta festival in
summer. You can swim in the beautiful clear sea, stroll the
promenade, and walk along the cliff paths. Take in the
wonderful art collection at the Revoltella Museum. You can
sip coffee on Piazza Unita Italia with its grand 19th century
buildings, which face onto the sea.

Getting there

Ryanair flies into Trieste from London Standsted. The
airport is 35 kms west of Trieste but there is regular public
transport on Coach 51 into Trieste.

Getting around

If you do decide to hire a car, it is worth checking that you
can take it into Slovenia and Croatia if you are considering
day trips there.

Trieste has a good public transport network.

There is a "Trieste by Bus" city tour in 13 stops. This is
available on Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm from the end of
June to mid October. The two and a half hour trip allows
you to see the city's main attractions. The cost is around
five euros per person.

You can take the Opicani tram up to the Carso plateau, 348
metres above sea level. This funicular tramway was built in
1902. The tram leaves from Piazza Oberdan in the city
centre up Scorolo hill to the plateau above.

History

According to folklore Trieste was founded by Tergeste, a
friend of Jason and the Argonauts. Ancient Tergeste as a
Roman colony is dated to around 178 BC. It became more
important during the reign of Octavian when roads were
improved.

The city has had many rulers during its history: Goths,
Byzantines, and Lombards. In the 13th century Trieste was
forced to swear allegiance to Venice. To escape Venetian
domination, Trieste sought the protection of Duke Leopold
of Austria. Trieste was of great importance to the Hapsburg
Empire as a seaport and was made a Freeport in 1719.
Without customs barriers the port and city flourished.

At the end of the First World War with collapse of the
Hapsburg Empire, Trieste was returned to Italy in 1918.
Trieste was taken over by the Third Riech when Italy
withdrew from the Second World Ward in September 1943.
Two years later there was a 40-day Occupation by Tito's
Yugoslav forces. After 9 years under an Anglo-American
government Trieste was handed over to the Italian
government.

Trieste's history may help explain why 70% of Italians
apparently did not know that Trieste was part of Italy in a
recent opinion poll!
With EU enlargement Trieste is ideally placed as the only
natural port in the centre of Europe. Trieste is one of three
finalists to host the international Expo of Science,
Technology and Culture in 2008. If its bid is successful
there will be more investment in the area and Trieste will
become better known on the world map.

Literary Connections

The Irish author James Joyce lived in Trieste during the
early part of the 20th century. When he first arrived he
worked as a tutor at the Berlitz School of English. He went
on to write "The Dubliners", "The Portrait of an Artist as a
Young Man" and start "Ulysses" in Trieste. The rich mix of
central European and Eastern Mediterranean culture in
Trieste is said to have had a great influence on his writing.

Joyce was English tutor to Itali Svevo, the Italian novelist.
Svevo was born in Trieste in 1861, his Mother was part of a
Triestian Jewish family, and his Father was of German
descent. Joyce encouraged and praised Svevo's work and
Svevo wrote critiques of Joyce's work.

Svevo's book, "The Confessions of Zeno", was virtually
ignored in Italy. However Joyce recommended the book to
publishers in France, where it was hailed as a masterpiece.
The book is an autobiography of Zeno, written for Zeno's
psychoanalyst, to help get to the bottom of his smoking
addiction.

Svevo is credited by Welleck as "an Italian novelist with
permanent appeal as a psychoanalytical psychologist and
as a portrayer of the inhabitants of Austrian and later Italian
Trieste and their often uncertain national allegiance."

Jan Morris wrote the book, "Trieste and the Meaning of
Nowhere". Morris claims this is her final book, a self-
examination based in Trieste. Morris changed gender.
Jan Morris first visited Trieste at the end of the Second
World War as young Welsh soldier. She describes how the
city "curiously haunted her" . She revisited the city as an
elderly woman.

Morris describes Trieste as "natural capital of the nation of
nowhere". By this she means a home for the so-called
"Fourth World" . This is a scattered group with the common
values of humour and understanding, usually exiles in their
own communities but probably numerous enough to form
their own nation.

I laughed at Clay Risen's comment in his piece about
Trieste in the Square Table in Spring 2003. He observed
that "Trieste is the only city in Eruope which appears more
often in reflective essays than in guide books of newspaper
travel sections."

Exploring the city

The best way to explore the city is to walk around.

The Piazza dell' Unita d'Italia is the heart of the city. The
square was created towards the end of the 19th century. It
houses the City Hall, with its clock tower featuring statues of
Mikeze and Lakeze, figures from Trieste folklore;
Government House, with its gilded mosaic wall
decorations; and the former Head Office of Lloyd Triestino,
built in Renaissance style by an Austrian architect.

The Victory Lighthouse lights the Gulf of Trieste and
commemorates the dead of the First World War. It stands
almost 70 metres high with a scaled dome containing a
statue of winged Victory. At the base of the column is the
anchor of the torpedo boat Audace, the first Italian ship to
enter the harbour in 1918. The lighthouse took 4 years to
complete and was officially opened in 1927.

The Old Stock Exchange is a fine example of neo-classical
architecture, resembling a Greek temple. The Old Stock
Exchange stands by the so called Grand Canal. However
this is rather an misnomer as the canal is very short. There
is a statue of Joyce by one of the bridges.

The Arco di Riccard is a Roman gate to the city thought to
date from 33 AD. It is in Piazzetta di Ricordo in the old city.
You can see the Roman amphitheatre at the foot of San
Guisto hill.

The Verdi Opera Theatre opened in 1801. It is of a similar
style to La Scala in Milan.

Museums

There are many museums in Trieste, most of which are
closed on Mondays.

Probably the best is The Revoltella Museum, which was
founded in 1872 when Baron Revoletta left his home and art
collection to the city of Trieste. He also set up an
endowment, which enabled a larger collection to be
acquired. The Art Gallery has now spread over three
buildings in order to house the ever-expanding collection by
many Italian and other artists.

Other museums include:

The Regional Centre for the Study of Ancient and Modern

Military History

The Civic Museum

The Museum of Oriental Art

Piccolo Pharmacy Museum

The Railway Museum

Café society

As Trieste is a port it was one of the first European cities to
take to coffee in a big way. The first coffee houses in Trieste
opened at the beginning of the 18th century. These cafés
become very popular with artists and intellectuals. Several
of the original cafes are going strong, the Tommeseo and
the Cafee degli Specchi.

Triestines are very particular about their coffee. If you order
a cappuccino the Trieste version will be a black coffee with
a little milk. You would need to order an Italian cappuccino.
Mixing spirits with coffee is a no-no, viewed as a beverage
favoured by foreign lorry drivers!

Cultural and Sporting Events

The Barcolana is held on the second Sunday of October.
This is a sailing competition which has run for 30 years and
has almost 2000 vessels competing. There are other
events during the week such as the Saturday nighttime
regatta. The winner is the boat, which can achieve the
highest number of laps around the San Guisto basin. The
Music Festival takes place for three evenings at the Piazza
d'Italie. There is a line up of Italian and international talent
and it's free.

From October to May the concert and opera season unfolds
in the historic neo-Classical Teatro Comunale Giuseppe
Verdi (opened in 1801 and designed by Matteo Petch,
architect of Milan's La Scala) and the modern Sala
Tripcovich. The festival of Light Opera is held in July and
August at the Verdi. Figures of international renown
congregate in Trieste for performances of such works as
Fritz Kreisler's "Sissi", "The Land of Smiles" and Franz
Lear's "Judith".

Castello Miramare

This castle was built for Archduke Maximilian as a
residence by the sea. Maxilmilian and his wife, Charlotte of
Belgium, came to live here in 1860. However their stay only
lasted for 4 years as Maximilian was despatched to Mexico,
where he been offered the throne in an attempt to end the
Civil War there. Rebel forces killed Maximilian. Charlotte
lived at the Castello alone briefly and then returned to her
native Belgium. You can visit the castle and gardens.

In July and August the tragic love story is brought to life in a
"Sons et Lumieres". The voice of the Castle caretaker
recounts the love story of Maximilian and Charlotte.
Performances in English and German can be requested on
Saturdays by phoning +39 40 414177

Castello di Duino

This old castle dates from the 11th century, the only
recognisable remains are the tower and an arch. The new
castle was completed in the 15th century.
Legend tells that in medieval times a young princess fell in
love with a local boy. Her Father locked her away in a tower
and had her lover killed in the courtyard below and the
corpse thrown in the sea. In despair the Princess leapt
from the tower, her screams turned her to stone as she
hurtled down. Near the shore is a rock that looks like a
woman's body. Some say that "Dama Biance" still haunts
the area searching for her lost love.

Duino Castle has only recently opened its doors to the
public. Prince Carlo Allessandro and his family still live in
the castle. The castle has accommodated many famous
guests: Dante, Listz and Struass.

The coastal path, the Rilke Promenade from Duino to
Sistians is named after the German poet, a guest at the
castle from 1911 - 1912.

The Grotta Gigante, the Giant Cave

This cave is the largest accessible cave in the world. It is
estimated that you could fit St Peters Cathedral inside. The
cave was first explored in 1840 by Lidner. In 1904, a four-
year project started to turn the cave into a tourist attraction. It
took 4000 candles to light the cave, electricity was only
installed in 1957.
There are hourly guided visits. You can find out about
opening hours by phoning 040 327312.

Swimming

The beach at Sistinna Spiaggia is said to be one of the best
in Italy. It can be reached by the no. 51 and 21 buses from
Trieste. Grignano is closer to Trieste and is reached by the
no. 36 bus.

Where to eat

Harry's Grill in the Hotel Gran Duchi is one of Trieste's most
exclusive restaurants. I have eaten at this restaurant. I was
even served with a pre-starter, a delicious titbit of stuffed
aubergine, and a pre-dessert, a lovely strawberry mousse.
The accompanying bread and bread sticks has been freshly
baked. My (proper) starter was stuffed pasta, the main
course was sea bass, topped off with white chocolate
mousse rippled with passionfruit sauce. It is entirely
possible to have a lighter meal, if you can resist the
temptation. In Summer you can sit out on the
pedestrianised square. Main courses cost from 16 - 26
euros. Piazza dll"Unita d"Italia 2, tel: 040 660606

Al Bragozzo is the best-known restaurant at the port, which
specialises in seafood. The simply yet creatively prepared
meals pay homage to the sea and its heritage by combining
the elements of Italian cuisine and the riches of the
Mediterranean. Specialties include spaghetti alla Giorgio
(with tomatoes and herbs), ravioli stuffed with herbs,
monkfish braised with artichokes (and cooked with white
wine), and spaghetti with lobster. There are also many
preparations of salmon and shrimp. You can eat at the
outdoor tables, weather permitting, if you visit in the
summer. Main courses cost from 10 - 25 euros. Riva
Nazario Sauro 22. tel: 040 303001.

There are many buffets in Trieste. These are restaurants
which specialise in pork, often in various stews, sausages
and soups. Two of the best known are:
Re di cappe, Via Geppa 11, tel 040 370330
Da Giovanni, Via S Lazzaro 14, tel 040 639396

Day trips

Exploring the Carse

The Triestine cares starts at Montefalcone in the north and
stretches down adjacent to the Slovenian border. The area
is known as a paradise for botanists with a mixture of
continental flora and Mediterranean vegetation. There is talk
of the area achieving national park status.

The Carsic house in Rupingrande has a collection of
traditional furniture and local costumes.

During the first week in May the works of local painters are
exhibited during the Majence Festival, in San Dorligo delle
Valle.

The best known event is the Carsic Wedding, every second
year on the last Sunday of August in Monrupino. There are
dances every night of the preceeding week. On the wedding
day the bridal procession, all dressed in traditional
costume, walk to the fortress church for the marriage
ceremony.

Grado and Aquiliea

Aquiliea was founded in the first century BC. It occupies a
strategic defence location. It became a Patriarchs's seat
andmany beautiful churches were built. The Bascilica is
considered to be one of the most important monuments of
early Christianity. There are two museums to visit there.

Grado was the extreme southern part of the port of Aquileia.
Now it a beautiful island city joined to the mainland by a
causeway. It boasts 20 kms of fine sandy beaches. Grado
was very popular as a spa during the days of the Austrio
Hungarian Empire with its healing sands.
Grado can be reached by the no 21 bus from Trieste. There
is also a boat service during the Summer.

Muggia

Muggia is a pretty coastal town just south of Trieste, which
can be reached by ferry from Trieste during the summer.
The town is of Venetian origin, surrounded by medieval
walls with a 14th century castle and a pretty port.

Slovenia

The Slovenian border is just a few kilometres from Trieste.
The Lipica Stud and Riding School is under a half hour drive
from Trieste. It was originally founded in 1580 by Archduke
Charles for breeding royal horses for the Austrian court.
Now you can tour the stud farm (6 Euros) or have a riding
lesson, starting at 16 euros.

Croatia

Croatia can be easily reached through by passing through
the narrow strip of coastal Slovenia.

Wine Country

Every Sunday during April, May and June you can visit
specific wineries in the area to try their products.

There are various wine itineraries you can follow.

Venice

Venice can be reached by direct train from Trieste. The
journey takes around two hours. The train takes you right
into the centre of Venice.

You can read the full guide with photos and a selection of accommodation at http://www.europealacarte.co.uk/Italy/trieste.html

Karen Bryan is a UK based independent travel consultant and writer. Her website, Europe a la Carte, http://www.europealacarte.co.uk, helps you discover some less well known destinations in Europe.

Art Style, Movements and Influence Of Western Art

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Art is always and everywhere the secret confession, and at the same time the immortal movement of its time – Karl Marx Since ancient age to modern art we have come across multiple art styles & movements. Most of them were new creation or transformation of one or other styles. Efforts by individual, group or brotherhood and schools lined up multiple art style in art history. This is my attempt to bring to light foremost & known art styles, movements and influence. If everything is not covered; its reference will be left for details.

If it is topic of art history then the most coined term would be an art style that covers the period of European history at the close of the middle ages and the rise of the modern world. An art style which born in 14th century and lived up to 17th century. An art movement which was later broken down in more than eight regional forms of development by historians. That means "rebirth" and was characterized by a radical development in the arts, medicine, politics and sciences in Europe.

That’s none other than Renaissance!! That was time in which individual expression and worldly experience became two of the main themes. Renaissance is Italian origin and later it was known as one of the most known European Art Movements. By region – Renaissance was identified by own regional movement in Italy, England, German, Northern Europe, French, Netherlands, Poland and Spain. By period it is known as Early Renaissance, High Renaissance, Harlem Renaissance and Northern Renaissance. The word Renaissance is now often used to describe other historical and cultural moments (e.g. the Carolingian Renaissance, the Byzantine Renaissances).

Leonardo da Vinci was the model Renaissance man representing the humanistic values of the period in his art, science and writing. Michelangelo and Raphael were also vital figures in this movement, producing works regarded for centuries as embodying the classical notion of perfection. Renaissance architects included Alberti, Brunelleschi and Bramante.

Renaissance Classicism sowed two different movements— Mannerism and the Baroque. Mannerism was a reaction against the idealist perfection of Classicism. The appeal of Baroque style curved deliberately from the amusing and intellectual qualities of 16th century Mannerist art to an intuitive appeal aimed at the senses. Baroque employed an iconography that was direct, simple, obvious, and dramatic.

Baroque art drew on certain broad and heroic tendencies in Annibale Carracci and his circle, and found inspiration in other artists such as Correggio, Caravaggio, and Federico Barocci nowadays sometimes termed 'proto-Baroque'. Although Baroque was antiquated in many centers by the Rococo style, beginning in France in the late 1720s, more than ever for interiors, paintings and the decorative arts, Baroque architecture remained a practical style until the arrival of ascetic Neoclassicism in the later 18th century. Ingres, Canova, and Jacques-Louis David are among the best-known neoclassicists.

Neoclassicism was nothing but a reaction against both the surviving Baroque and Rococo styles, and as a desire to return to the perceived "purity" of the arts of Rome & Ancient Greek. Neoclassicism was also solitary representation of the American Renaissance movement. As Mannerism discarded Classicism, Romanticism too refused the ideas of the Enlightenment and the aesthetic of the Neoclassicists. Romanticism movement turned world’s attention toward landscape and nature as well as the human figure and the supremacy of natural order above mankind's will. Hudson River School was highly influenced by Romanticism.

However Neoclassicism sustained to be a foremost vigor in Academic Art through the 19th century and beyond. Academic Art was a relentless antithesis to Romanticism or Gothic revival.

In 19th Century, after impacts of industrialization - Poverty, squalor, and desperation were to be the fortune of the new working class. Where Romanticism was optimism towards mankind; situation put art looking towards reality giving chance to Realism. Social Realism, Magic Realism, Photo Realism and Contemporary Realism are newer forms of Realism. Related movements were the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood and Arts and Crafts Movement.

Neo-classical movement rejected the extreme romanticism of Dada (that hunted the discovery of authentic reality through the abolition of traditional culture and aesthetic forms), in favor of control, religion and a dyed-in-the-wool political programme. Dada ignored aesthetics. Dada became an influential movement in modern art. It also influenced Surrealism, Pop Art and Fluxus.

Realism’s concept of seeing world by human eye gave birth to Impressionism. Use of bright color improving more visibility (as opposed to Academic art) and strokes that were mixed in viewer's eyes were key features of impressionism. The Group of Seven was strongly influenced by European Impressionism of the late Nineteenth Century.

Fauvism & Post-Impressionism followed Impressionism. Later Fauvism; modern art started shaping self in multiple new forms including Cubism, Expressionism, Abstract Art, Dada, Abstract Expressionism , Futurism, Naïve art, Op Art, Surrealism, Minimalism, Pop Art and other. Modern art and its forms itself needs separate discussion.

After its transformation of several forms; painting is yet breathing in ‘Contemporary Art’ and ‘Post Modern Art’.

Reference:

Art History Style Study References

Blog On Art History, Style & Artists [http://historyofart.wordpress.com]

Art & Painting

Read More About Known Artists

Review - Ayn Rand For Beginners

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Ayn Rand for Beginners, Andrew Bernstein, 2009, ISBN 9781934389379

Here is a simple introduction to the life and philosophy of Ayn Rand. Along with being the founder of Objectivism, she also wrote Atlas Shrugged and The Fountainhead, two of the 20th Century's most famous novels.

The Fountainhead takes place in the 1920s and 1930s, and is about Howard Roark, a modernist architect in a society that prefers buildings that look like Gothic cathedrals or Greek temples. He is expelled from college, gets fired from one job and loses commissions because of his absolute refusal to compromise his principles. After, unwillingly, working in a quarry, because he was forced out of the architecture field, Roark designs a revolutionary apartment house in New York City. As part of a socialist plot to neutralize Roark, his revolutionary design for a religious temple is criticized as sacrilege, so Roark is branded an enemy of religion and a public enemy. Commissioned to design a government housing project, Roark's design is changed without his knowledge or consent. Does Roark let it go ahead, or not?

In Atlas Shrugged, America is being pushed toward socialism by politicians and intellectuals; also, America's greatest minds are literally disappearing. Where are they going?

In an isolated part of the Colorado Rockies, Dagny Taggart, railroad owner, finds America's missing smart people. They are on strike against a moral code which says that moral goodness is found in sacrificing one's self for others, not in finding personal happiness. Taggart also meets John Galt, inventor of an ultra-efficient motor, and leader of the strike. The state kidnaps Galt, and tortures him, in order to force him to become economic dictator of America, and to fix America's precarious economy. Does Galt give in, or stay true to his principles?

For anyone who has read either of Rand's books, and still don't understand them, this is the book. For anyone who wants to know more about Objectivism, this is the book. For anyone who simply wants to know more about a famous person of the 20th Century, this is the book. It is a gem.

Paul Lappen is a freelance book reviewer whose website, http://www.deadtreesreview.com, has over 700 reviews on all subjects, with an emphasis on small press books.

MONTPELLIER Antigone (Automne / Autumn)

Montpellier (South of France ) , a street in Antigone ( district ) and the " place Thessalie " ( in Antigone too ) in Autumn 2007 . Montpellier (Sud de la France) , une rue du Quartier " Antigone " et la place Thessalie (au centre d'Antigone) avec sa fontaine et ses arbres ( Automne 2007 ) . .

Malta Adventure

5000 BC First people on Malta: Ghar Dalam Cave about 7400 years ago: near end of video (after 2.30 minutes) 3600-2000 BC Malta's 'Megalithic' temples are the oldest free-standing stone buildings in the world, older than the Pyramids. (near end of video) 800-480 BC Phoenician rule 700-600 BC Greek influence. 480-218 BC Carthaginian rule. 218 BC Roman rule begins. 60 AD Shipwreck of St. Paul on Malta. 395-870 AD Byzantine rule. 870-1090 AD Arab rule. 1091-1194 AD Norman rule. 1283-1412 Aragonese rule. 1412-1530 Aragonese and Castilian rule. 1350 Establishment of Maltese Nobility. 1530 Knights of St. John take possession 1800 British rule begins. Valetta, with its Baroque architecture, is a World Heritage City (near start of video). Across Grand Harbour from Valetta are the Three Cities: Vittoriosa, Cospicua and Senglea (after 1.30 minutes).

Google DC Talks: Democracy Online - Can the Internet Bring Change?

Is the Internet stoking democratic change or is its impact hyped? Are repressive regimes conditioning people not to expect free expression on the Internet? Is online organizing little more than a game of Whac-a-Mole with one form of repression being replaced by another? What are the implications for political organizing of the recent discovery that the email accounts of dozens of Chinese human rights advocates appear to have been hacked? Join Google and Freedom House to answer this question and many more. Moderator: Pablo Chavez, Managing Policy Counsel, Google Panelists: Larry Diamond, Professor & Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution, Stanford University Daniel Calingaert, Deputy Director of Programs, Freedom House Omid Memarian, Iranian Dissident Blogger

Off the Beaten Track in Snowdonia - Clynnog Fawr

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If you look at Clynnog Fawr on a map, chances are you'll write it off as just another sleepy little village on the A499, stuck halfway between its better-known neighbours Caernarfon and Pwllheli. On most maps - the vague, online variety at least - Clynnog Fawr is just a dot next to a long, bare road, with no distinguishing features other than that it's now off the main road, since a new bypass was completed in 2009. On a drive from Caernarfon to Pwllheli, if it wasn't for the impressive outline of St Beuno's church, you could miss Clynnog Fawr in a blink.

But for such a tiny place - you can walk from one end of the village to the other in under ten minutes - Clynnog Fawr has a surprising number of interesting things to see and do.

First of all there's an expansive beach, which can be reached either by walking down the lane to the side of the church or by taking a ten-minute hike along a hedgerow-lined public footpath with spectacular views of Snowdonia's mountains and coast. The beach is mostly pebbly, but when the tide goes out large areas of smooth, shimmering sand are revealed which, along with the many rock pools, make Clynnog beach an exciting place for children to explore. Apart from the occasional dog-walker, chances are you'll have the whole beach to yourself... bliss!

If you're feeling energetic, walk northwards along the beach - crossing a couple of fast-flowing streams as you go - towards the even tinier hamlet of Aberdesach. Along the way you'll see many varieties of birds including shy ringed plovers, beautiful red-billed oystercatchers, and graceful herons. Keep an eye on the sea, too; seals have been known to pop by and say hello.

Take the church route back from the beach, and after the first gate by Bachwen Farm, turn to the right so you're heading in the direction of the mountains (you'll see Gyrn Ddu to the left on the horizon, and Yr Eifl to the right, dipping down into the sea). Keep going along the footpath and before long you'll find yourself face to face with Dolmen Bachwen, Clynnog Fawr's very own Neolithic burial chamber. It's surrounded by a low iron fence - presumably to protect it from sheep-inflicted damage, as the dolmen is on farm land - but this won't prevent you from reaching out and touching the stones, which were erected by our ancestors some 4,000 years ago.

Head back towards St Beuno's church and pop in to see the beautiful architecture and the exhibition. Beuno was an important Celtic saint who founded a monastery in Clynnog Fawr which later became the church. St Beuno's is on the old pilgrim route to Bardsey, where it is said that 20,000 saints are buried; tributes left by pilgrims paid for the medieval church to be built in such grand style, and these were collected in a special chest, carved from a single piece of ash, which is still in the church today. In the churchyard is a sundial which is said to date from the 10th century.

The church is very beautiful and its oldest surviving parts date back to the early 16th century, while some of the oldest gravestones in the churchyard commemorate parishioners who died in the early 1700s. The lychgate is also very old; look up into the roof and you'll see graffiti dating back to the 1930s, though of course the building is much older than that.

St Beuno was said to have possessed miraculous healing abilities. There are at least two legends which tell of Beuno reattaching the heads of decapitated women; one of these miracles took place in Clynnog Fawr itself, and on the spot where the maiden was resurrected a spring appeared, which was henceforth known as Ffynnon Beuno, or "Beuno's Well". The well is contained within a small medieval stone walled enclosure, and it's a lovely place to sit and read, or just enjoy the sunshine and fresh air. You'll find Ffynnon Beuno on the old road (now a cycle path) on the way out of Clynnog Fawr - walk south out of the village and you'll see the well behind an unlocked gate to your left.

Finish your visit to Clynnog Fawr with a refreshing pint of Welsh ale and a hearty home-cooked meal at the village's 19th century coaching inn - named, appropriately enough, Y Beuno. Or, take refreshment at the nearby Bryn Eisteddfod country house hotel. If you're keen to see more of Clynnog Fawr and the surrounding areas, both establishments offer comfortable accommodation that makes the perfect base while you explore the rest of Snowdonia's mountains and coasts.

Steven Jones is Senior Tourism Services Officer at Cyngor Gwynedd Council, a Welsh local authority whose not-for-profit Snowdonia Mountains and Coast website provides visitors to Snowdonia with a wealth of useful information about the region, including activities, attractions, history and culture. The site also enables visitors to search an extensive database of Snowdonia accommodation, and to plan their holidays in some of Snowdonia's most popular towns and villages.

Visit Lavenham of Suffolk - Full of Medieval Wonder

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The village of Lavenham is a lively flourishing place full of delightful surprises at every turn. This is a destination that is likely to attract those who are interested in medieval times. The village has been titled the most complete medieval town in Britain for its collection of Tudor and medieval themed architecture.

The town is very steeped in the wool trade, and this will be very evident from the shops and many wool items on display. Lavenham wool has been sold all around the world, and these people are very proud of their work, which is of the highest quality.

The buildings and structures in the area are quite awe-inspiring; you will not be surprised to know that this is a favorite are for photographers to visit. The possibilities for incredible photos here are very unique and will gain attention for their uniqueness.

The most popular attraction at Lavenham is the church of St Peter and St Paul. This majestic structure is on a hill at the end of a long tree-line drive. You will be breath taken with the grandeur of this picturesque scene. The church features a tower that is 141 feet, making it the highest village church tower in all of Britain. In a town that has never had more than 2000 residents, this church seems a bit out of place, yet intriguing. It has brought Lavenham the tourist industry that they have so come to depend upon.

There are several featured tours available for a visitor of Lavenham to take. One is a ninety minute audio tour that will take you through the entire town. There is also a guided walk along the railway, as well as another that takes you on a country ramble.

A yearly event that brings many travelers to the area is the Lavenham Rare Breeds Motor Show. If you have any interest in rare antique cars, this will be the event of a lifetime for you.

For a wide selection of Lavenham hotels just click here.