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Europe's rich medieval past
Through books, movies and television series, Europe of medieval times is known to so many of us. We are familiar with the knights in hand-forged armor, the fast and nimble horses that took these men into battle, and the great castles that once offered shelter to kings, queens, and royal courts. We can even recognize the musical cues of the medieval era, with its lute strumming and flute playing minstrels who performed songs in the great halls of chateaux. But what if we told you that in Europe, …
Two secret UNESCO Sites for the Historically Curious
Europe is the home to a myriad of remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which connect visitors to the past in the most tangible of ways. Whether it’s a grand palace, a historic city center, an ancient monastery, or a Roman aqueduct, Europe has them all. What’s more, soon they will be ready to welcome historically curious visitors just like you. To whet your palate for a wonderful future of travel to Europe, here are two UNESCO sites to consider visiting. Both have distinct and exceptional …
A People on the Move
Tracing the Routes of Jewish Heritage in Europe In spite of a turbulent history, the remarkable legacy of the Jewish faith is readily found all over Europe. Whether you practice Judaism or not, there is much to discover and enjoy in Europe’s many Jewish heritage sites. Discover the ancient origins of Judaism and follow a winding path through centuries of persecution, resilience and cultural enlightenment. The journey is likely to be just as inspiring as the destinations themselves. One of the …
Discover your European Roots
Have you ever flipped through old family records, perhaps a book of photographs, or a diary your forebearers left behind? Has the history of your family ever piqued your interest? Perhaps a cousin or aunt has traced your family roots back several generations so that you can see the names and dates of birth of the people from whom you have descended. If you answered yes to any of these questions, or if what you just read made you curious about your background, keep reading to learn how a visit …
The destination of dreams
Cyprus, from a magical point of view Whether a kid or a kid at heart kid, Cyprus has all the ingredients that comprise a beautiful and exciting fairytale, or an adventurous and fascinating time-capsule ride through 11,000 years of history and civilization! Its real soul, however, rests in its Heartland of Legends! This is a region where every rock, tree, river, bridge and waterfall has its own story to tell: Places where ancient gods, nymphs, kings and queens walk hand in hand with brave …
The home of kings
Madrid's Royal Palace Madrid's Royal Palace was built in the 18th century by order of Philip V on the site of the old Alcázar fortress, a former Moorish castle. Sachetti began the works in 1738, and the building was completed in 1764. It has a square floor plan with a large central courtyard. Sabatini designed the southeast wing and the Great Staircase, or Staircase of Honor. The Puerta del Príncipe gateway on the east side gives access to the central courtyard. The Sabatini and Campo del Moro …
Diocletian's Palace
Croatia's living museum The world-famous Diocletian's Palace appeared on the Adriatic coast more than 1700 years ago when the area's beauty compelled the famous Roman emperor, Diocletian, to build his residence. Today, Diocletian's Palace is the center of the modern city of Split , which grew around the palace. It attracts many visitors who seek a relaxing, enjoyable time and is a must-visit site in Central Dalmatia for all who are interested in history. Diocletian’s Palace is one of the …
Regal Netherlands
Discover the royal side of the Netherlands If royal experiences are on your list while traveling, visit the Netherlands and get up close to the House of Orange-Naasau in cities such as Delft and The Hague. Delft Start your exploration of royal Delft at Museum Prinsenhof , the place that witnessed one of the most important events in Dutch history. In 1584, this is where William of Orange was shot in the stairwell by Balthasar Gerards after the king of Spain put a price on the royal head. Today, …
Sintra: a royal retreat
Journey through the history of Portugal Near Lisbon, the beautiful town of Sintra , the “Moon Hill” is a place full of magic and mystery, where nature and man have combined in a symbiosis so perfect that UNESCO classified it as a World Heritage site . The listing necessitated the creation of a special category for Sintra — that of a "cultural landscape" — in consideration of its natural riches and the historic buildings in the town and mountains. Sintra National Palace , also known as the Town …
Royal Ireland
Explore Ireland’s regal roots From ancient kings to enduring strongholds, Ireland’s royal heritage may surprise you. The High Kings of Ireland date back to the 5 th century AD, the most famous of all being Brian Boru. He was known as a fearsome warrior and his descendants, the O’Briens, were powerful figures in Ireland for many centuries. The Hill of Tara in County Meath is home to the Lia Fáil (Stone of Destiny), and when the rightful king placed his foot on the stone, it is said to have …