Enjoy Distinctively European Architecture
Europe’s cities are filled with every style of architecture imaginable. Oftentimes, these styles coexist side by side and somehow make each city even greater than the sum of its parts. Government buildings, hundreds of years old, stand in regal fashion next to sleek, modern museums and libraries, making for an enjoyable juxtaposition that just begs to be captured by your camera. From old castles in San Marino to grandiose Lithuanian cathedrals, you’ll be inspired by the markedly different buildings designed by the famous architects of Europe.
Scandinavia offers some prime examples of Contemporary architecture. Denmark’s capital, Copenhagen,
is particularly well known for its Contemporary offerings. Visit the stunning Royal Playhouse built on the Langelinie waterfront promenade. Sip a coffee or cocktail in the cafe while you take in the water views, or see a world-class drama or comedy in one of its three performance spaces.
is particularly well known for its Contemporary offerings. Visit the stunning Royal Playhouse built on the Langelinie waterfront promenade. Sip a coffee or cocktail in the cafe while you take in the water views, or see a world-class drama or comedy in one of its three performance spaces.
The Romanesque style of architecture abounds in churches and church-related buildings and is prevalent throughout much of Europe. See stunning samples of this style in the cathedrals and monasteries of Spain and Central Europe, and also in the gorgeous chateaux in France. Many provide guided tours that are as entertaining as they are educational. In Spain, take the path of the pilgrims and find less-crowded churches in smaller rural towns, or venture to one of the more famous Romanesque churches, such as Galicia’s Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela.
Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is also considered to be a capital of the Art Nouveau or Jugendstil style of architecture. Characterized by beautifully rounded corners and sweeping curves, there are many opportunities to view Art Nouveau–style structures throughout Brussels. Walking tours are plentiful, and you can also visit a museum dedicated to Victor Horta, one of the founders of this distinctive style.
Totalitarianism is a fascinating style of architecture and urban development that is often found in former Communist countries of southeastern Europe. See a striking example of this style in the monumental Freedom Square in Bratislava, Slovakia. The cultural implications of Totalitarianism are mainly political in nature, as Totalitarian buildings were designed to be impressive and imposing – and as reminders of who really was in charge. Increasingly popular architectural tours make structures like these more accessible, even inspiring, to design lovers from all over the world.