How architecture and contrasts changed Europe’s cities.
Surrounded by the green mountains of Rila, Bulgaria, a colourful monastery blends seamlessly with the landscape. Its Balkan architectural style will certainly catch your eye, but it is in the story behind its foundation that you will find clues to Bulgaria’s gripping past. Located on the highest Balkan Peninsula Mountain, the Rila monastery was founded in the 10th century (between 927-968) by St John of Rila, an Orthodox hermit, who chose to live in isolated caves.
There was a time when Slovakia had more than 300 wooden churches. Built in harmony with nature, all parts of the church had to be made of wood using exquisite joinery skills. Indeed, nails had to remain unused inside the master craftsmen’s toolboxes. Behind this story, lies a search for beautiful simplicity. Around 50 of these wooden churches remain, mainly in the Carpathian Mountains region. These sacred places offer a glimpse into original architectural methods and cultural influences.
On a visit to Den Bosch, you’ll be greeted by a little angel statue, wearing jeans, with a laptop bag over the shoulder and a mobile phone in hand. There is only one button on the angel’s mobile phone and, according to the artist, it is used as ‘a direct line to heaven’.Visiting the Cathedral may take you back through the ages to ancient times, but do not assume the journey is always about the past. Damaged by many fires, the Cathedral has been renovated several times.
This is the first gothic cathedral built in red brick between the 12th & 13th centuries in Roskilde, and became the main burial site for Danish monarchs. Around 3 million bricks were needed to build the impressive structure that visitors can see here today. Inside, you will find several burial chambers and chapels that have been added throughout the years, with hundreds of flagstones lining the cathedral floor marking the identities of its occupants.
In 1939, a military conflict between Finland and Russia forced around 190 monks living in the Valamo monastery, Lake Ladoga, Russian Federation, to be evacuated as forces advanced. Soldiers appropriated the building and the monks soon found a new home: Heinävesi in Eastern Finland. They settled down in the current location in 1940, creating the New Valamo Monastery, which became an active centre of Orthodox religious life and culture.
Climbing a mountain can be an act of faith. Leaving everything behind, aiming only for the top. Visitors wishing to get away from the crowds and embrace a moment of solitude might consider heading for Croagh Patrick, Ireland. Located in County Mayo, in the west of the country, Croagh Patrick is considered one of the holiest mountains in Ireland, with its pilgrimage tradition stretching back over 5 000 years to the Stone Age.
Lourdes, in south-western France, will always be remembered as the place where the Virgin Mary appeared to Bernardette Soubirou, a 14-year-old girl in 1858. . This was the first of eighteen apparitions that would later turn Lourdes into the most well-known pilgrimage destination in France. At the time, scepticism about Bernadette’s visions was evident, but she would eventually be beatified by the Catholic Church in 1927.
The Aglona basilica was assembled by Dominican monks between 1768 and 1780. In the middle of a warm European summer, visitors can always get away from the big cities and experience faith, tales and legends in Aglona.
Europe is unique in every way. So, it’s no coincidence that it offers some of the most unique lodging options in the world. Whether you’re backpacking through Spain or you’re a spending a month in Norway for school, you’re sure to find an unforgettable place to sleep at night. Consider this gallery your guide to some of the most unique places to stay in Europe.
Sometimes you need to see something from another perspective to understand its beauty. In Europe, every perspective hides a new discovery, even under the water. From the shores of Italy to the clearwaters of Iceland, find what’s hiding beneath the surface of Europe with this gallery.
Romance comes naturally in Europe. With so many things to see and do, it’s no coincidence that Europe is one of the top destinations in the world for romantic getaways. From popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower to lesser-known spots like waterfalls in Iceland, browse this gallery to prep for the best romantic sightseeing in Europe.
Explore some of the grandest of Europe’s palaces in this breathtaking photo gallery.
Try top spots and experiences for coffee lovers.
The therapeutic use of hot springs has been present in Europe from ancient times to the present day, giving birth to a number of spa towns well-known for the beauty of their buildings, or long tradition of welcoming guests and the healing properties of its springs.
Combine these favorites at Lola Bikes & Coffee.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the views. Some of Europe’s most magical natural wonders come in the form of waterfalls. From raging falls in Iceland to babbling brooks in Hungary, they come in many forms. See some of the favorite falls here before seeing them firsthand on your trip to Europe.
Dumplings are the epitome of the South Tyrolean cuisine and an indispensable part of every menu. Dumplings are made of South Tyrolean white bread, which is dried and cut into cubes for making dumplings. The basic dough is made of type 00 white flour, South Tyrolean milk, pasteurised free-range eggs, fresh or frozen onions, dried, fresh or frozen parsley and chives if desired. South Tyrolean speck dumplings contain 15 – 20 % diced speck (PGI).
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Daktyla are delicious Cyprus sweets in the shape of fingers, dipped in syrup and filled with almonds and cinnamon.
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