Destinations

2012-01-22T01:00:00.000+05:30

If you are visiting Prague, you will definitely be take a tour of the Tyn Church, the real name of which is Church of Our Lady before Tyn. The two spires of this powerful looking Gothic church (with a Baroque interior) dominate the skyline of Prague and can be seen from almost anywhere in the city.

.The Tyn Church dominates the old city of Prague and has been the main church since the 14th century. If you look closely at the two spires, you will notice that they are asymmetrical, one being thicker than the other - something which is characteristic of the Gothic architecture of its time and is a representation of both the masculine and feminine sides of the world.

Some Highlights of the Tyn Church ( Source Wikipedia) :

The northern portal is a wonderful example of Gothic sculpture from the Parler workshop, with a relief depicting the Crucifixion. The main entrance is located on the church's western face, through a narrow passage between the houses in front of the church.
The early baroque altarpiece has paintings by Karel Škréta from around 1649.
The oldest pipe organ in Prague stands inside this church. The organ was built in 1673 by Heinrich Mundt and is one of the most representative 17th-century organs in Europe.
The great Danish astronomer Tycho Brahe, who worked for Emperor Rudolph II, was buried in the church in 1601. His beautiful marble tomb slab is located inside.
The church appears in the start of the Revolution Films movie xXx

My Art for Sale

2012-01-20T21:22:00.000+05:30

My Photographs are available for sale as framed prints, canvas prints, greeting cards and much more at http://pravinechester.artistwebsites.com/. Please do visit the website and have a look.

Dinosaurs at the Smithsonian

2011-12-23T22:54:00.001+05:30

No visit to Washington DC can be complete without a visit to the various museums on the National Mall in the city and amongst these museums, the most interesting, informative and educative is the National Museum of Natural History.

The National Museum of Natural History is part of the Smithsonian Institution and houses a national collection of more than 125 million natural science specimens and cultural artefacts. Some of the most popular displays are the dinosaur skeletons, artefacts of early man, a live coral reef and many more. The Museum is a great place to learn about the natural world through specimens, collections and exhibits.

Tyrannosaurus Rex, 40 feet long and still fearsome after 65 million years

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a repository of the natural world. The world's natural and cultural wonders can be found in this preeminent museum. One can see the gigantic fossilized bones of creatures that roamed the earth as far back as 210 million years ago in The Dinosaur Hall

TheTriceratops ( Greek for 3 horned face) is the most distinctive dinosaur of its time - late cretaceous ( 70 million years ago).

A Stegosaurus, a plant eater of the late Jurassic Period - about 145 million years ago.

The Apotheosis of Washington

2011-09-24T22:41:00.002+05:30

Washington DC is a city with many classic sights and architectural wonders - particularly the numerous majestic buildings. The US Capitol is one of those majestic buildings that any tourist must visit. . At the heart of the building is the Rotunda - a circular hall of 96 ft diameter. At the center, a 180 foot above on the ceiling is a massive fresco - ' The apotheosis of George Washington'. This mural consists of a portrait of the first President of the United States rising to the heavens flanked by the figures of Liberty/Authority and Victory/Fame.

The Apotheosis was painted in the true fresco technique by Constantino Brumidi in 1865. Brumidi (1805-1880) was born and trained in Rome and had painted in the Vatican and Roman palaces before emigrating to the United States in 1852. A master of creating the illusion of three-dimensional forms and figures on flat walls, Brumidi painted frescoes and murals throughout the Capitol from 1855 until his death.

If you are tourist on a Trip to DC, remember to book a guided tour into the US Capitol . This can be done online at http://www.visitthecapitol.gov/

US Capitol, Washington DC.

May 2011

Union Station in Washington DC

2011-09-17T23:06:00.001+05:30

There is more to Washington DC than the US Senate and the White House. The best way to see Washington is to take a bus tour. There are three major bus tour companies operating - Tourmobile, Open Top Sightseeing and Old Town Trolley. We took the tour mobile from the Union Station. The Union Station is the city’s main train station with over 32 million people visiting the station in a year. The station has an interesting shopping area and a large food court for a quick bite.

The Union Station in Washington DC

Food Court at the Union Station

Christopher Columbus Memorial

In front of the Union Station is the Christopher Columbus Memorial . The memorial is a large fountain with carvings of a native American, an elderly European, the figure of "Discovery" on the prow of a ship, and a globe. The three flagpoles represent the ships that carried the Columbus discovery party to the New World. Atop each pole an eagle perches on a small sphere .

You will also see a large metallic bell fixed on a stand in front of the station. This is the Freedom Bell donated by the American Legion. The bell is nearly twice the size of the real Liberty Bell

Utsav in front of the Freedom Bell. Note the Union Station in the background.

Washington DC. June 2011

ART DECO DISTRICT IN MIAMI

2011-08-30T09:39:00.000+05:30

Miami in Florida is one of the finest vacation destinations in the US for everyone. The miles of friendly beaches make it difficult to leave Miami. One historice landmark in Miami is The Art Deco District . The Art Deco District is the largest collection of art deco architecture in the world and comprises of hundreds of hotels, apartments and other buildings built between 1923 and 1943.

Simply put, art deco is a style of architecture that in it's hay days of the 20s and 30s was considered ultra modern.

There are 800 structures of historical significance in this area.

The art deco district springs to life as the sun sets and teeming crowds can be seen in the sidewalk cafes and night clubs.

After the sun goes down and neon glows, the famous art deco district of South Beach in Miami springs to life in a colorful and beautiful rhythm of world class entertainment and feasting on the finest cuisines. Visit to the various nightclubs and bars is a must !

Art Deco District, South Beach, Miami
May 2011.

THE BULL ON WALL STREET IN NEW YORK CITY

2011-08-16T10:11:00.004+05:30

As you walk down lower Broadway and approach Wall Street, you will see a a large bronze sculpture of an animal leaning back on it's haunches, head lowered and nostrils flaring as if ready to charge - this is the 'Charging Bull of Wall Street' . This iconic figure of New York symbolises Wall Street and the Financial District. The Wall Street Bull is a symbol of aggressive financial optimism and prosperity.

The bull is 3200 Kg in weight and stands 11 ft tall and 15ft long. The sculpture is a hugely popular tourist attraction and thousands of tourists visit the Bull to see , touch and be photographed with it.

Created by Arturo di Modica, almost US$ 360,000 was spent to create, cast, and install the sculpture following the 1987 stock market crash as a symbol of the "strength and power of the American people. It was installed on December 15, 1989.

New York, May 2011

LANDMARK BUILDINGS OF NEW YORK

2011-08-14T09:52:00.000+05:30

Flatiron Building
New York City has many historical buildings. One famous landmark is the Flatiron Building, one of the first building s in the world to use a steel skeleton. The Flatiron building was completed in 1902

Municipal Building
Another historical building of New York City is the Municipal Building. This forty floors tall building incorporates elements from Roman Imperial, Italian Renaissance and French Renaissance architecture. Built in 1913, the Municipal Building stands 170 Mtrs. The building also

The Building is capped with the 25ft tall Statue of Civic Fame . The figure stands barefoot on a sphere wearing flowing robes and a crown of laurels . The statue is made of copper sheets.

New York City, USA

May 2011.

US CAPITOL

2011-06-11T18:55:00.050+05:30

This year decided to head for the United States for our annual vacation and our first stop was Washington DC - the capital of the country. A beautiful city, Washington has some of the most majestic and grand buildings anywhere and the grandest of these all is The US Capitol, the seat of the US Government.

The building is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. It stands today as a monunent to the country and the American people. The U.S. Capitol houses the meeting chambers of the Senate and the House of Representatives where meetings have been conducted for the last 2 centuries.

The most prominant and famous landmark , probably in the entire United States is the Dome on top of the United States Capitol. The dome was constructed with 8,909,200 pounds of ironwork and finished at a total cost of $ 1,047,291.

Atop the Capitol Dome proudly stands the 'The statue of Freedom'. This was put in place in the year 1863. Freedom is a massive bronze statue standing over 19 ft and weighs 6800 Kg. Her crest peaks at 288 ft above the East Plaza.

Another view of the U.S Capitol

As a visitor , you must go inside the building and see the magnificiant interiors. You can enter the building through the Capitol Visitor Centre located underground on the East side. You could also take a tour of the building - however this has to be booked in advance online through the official site of Capitol - http://www.visitthecapitol.gov/visit/.

The original plaster cast of the Statue of Freedom at the Capitol Visitor Centre

The visitor centre is mainly designed as a holding zone for visitors waiting to take tours of the Capitol. Visitors are free to roam around in the CVC which houses an exhibition hall, 2 gift shops and a 530 seat food court.

The Visitors Centre also has a number of statues on display . These are 24 in number.
Be sure to take an official tour of the US Capitol. It is free but you need to register online for the specific time slot available.
More on the US Capitol in my next post.
Do visit Caught on Camera for many more images and photographs of Washington DC and other interesting places.

KARLSKIRCHE (ST.CHARLES CHURCH) IN VIENNA

2011-04-30T23:34:00.000+05:30

Situated at one of the most popular and central node in Vienna, the 'Karlsplatz' is one of Vienna's important tourist destinations - the Karlskirche. Dating back to 1715, the Karlskirche or St Charles Church in Vienna is unique and one of the most visually stunning churches in Vienna. The Karlskirche combines different architectural styles ranging from Roman, Greek and Oriental. The church was built by Emperor Charles VI to ward of plagues and is dedicated to St Charles Borromeo. The great columns of the building which are an imitation of Roman architecture with the baroque dome on the top make this a most interesting church that has not been replicated anywhere.

The church has a park like setting facing a pool of water which is also a favourite place for people to relax.

This grand church is close to the Karlsplatz Metro station and is surrounded by gardens. Visitors can take a tour of the interiors of the church for a fee . Be sure to take the escalator to go up to the roof.
Vienna
August 2010

GALLERY OF STATUES AT CHARLES BRIDGE

2011-03-12T20:38:00.000+05:30

Certainly, the view of the Charles Bridge from one end with an array of statues lining both sides of the bridge leaves an indelible image in the minds of any visitor. There are 30 baroque statues on this historic Gothic bridge dating back to period between 1683 and 1714.

View of the old town bridge tower with it's numerous sculptures.

Statue of Saints Norbert of Xanten, Wenceslas and Sigismund

St. Cyril and St. Methodius

Statuary of the Holy Crucifix and Calvary

The statue of John of Nepomuk.

Amongst the most notable of all sculptures is the statue of St John of Nepomuk. Legend has it that if you make a wish and touch the statue, your wish will come true.

Make your wish come true !

It is believed that St John was murdered and his body thrown into the river.7 Stars appeared over the spot where his body was thrown . These are depicted as a halo on his statues.

CHARLES BRIDGE IN PRAGUE

2011-03-06T19:57:00.000+05:30

One of the most popular tourist spots in Prague is the Charles Bridge over the river Vtlava river. This 14th century Gothic stone bridge was started in 1357 and was finished in 1402.

A must-see on all tourist's iternery, a visit to Prague would be incomplete without a visit to this all pedestrian bridge. Both sides of the bridge are lined with vendors selling soveniours, musicians and painters with thier paintings of Prague. You could also get your portrait sketched by one of the many painters present.

There is a tower standing on both ends of the bridge giving it a very interesting look.

A great time to visit the Charles bridge is at Dusk when the Prague Castle gets lit up and a breathtaking view of the castle awaits you. Another great time to visit the bridge is early morning when you can have the bridge all to yourself and enjoy the fresh air blowing in from the river.

The bridge is 516 metres long and nearly 10 metres wide and rests on 16 arches and is protected by three bridge towers. It is believed that egg yolk was used to strengthen the mortar during construction to bind the stones blocks together.

Walk down to the Charles Bridge from the Prague Castle when you visit the castle. It is a short interesting walk.

Prague. August 2010

SCHONBRUNN PALACE IN VIENNA

2011-02-14T20:13:00.001+05:30

Holidaying in Vienna means a definite visit to the Schonbrunn Palace, one of the finest and most beautiful baroque palace in Europe.The 1441 room palace was built between 1692 and 1712 and has today become the most important cultural and tourist attraction in Vienna.

The Main Entrance of the Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna.
The palace in 1996 was placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

The Golden Eagle atop each Main Gate of the Palace

The Fountain with the sculptures in the front Yard

Front View of the Schonbrunn Palace

The Palace overlooks and is surrounded by beautiful parks and gardens. Towards the end of this sculptured garden is the Neptune Fountain. This space between the Palace and the Neptune Fountain is known as the Great Parterre. The garden points to a 60 mt high hill which has a building called the Gloriette.

The Palace timings are from 8.30 AM to 5.00PM. Be sure to take a tour of the rooms of the palace. If you don't want to stand in long queues , book online and keep a full day for the tour of the palace and the gardens and parks.

PARAKEETS IN BHARATPUR

2011-02-08T14:27:00.000+05:30

A visitor to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary cannot miss the large number of parakeets that are visible . The most common of these is the Ring-Necked Parakeet ( also called the rose-ringed parakeet) which is a noisy and highly visible bird in India.Extremely popular for their ability to mimic human speech, these birds are often seen as pets - which is really sad . It is always a joy to see animals and birds in the wild rather than in captivity.

Resting amongst the leaves

This one was very curious of me and my camera !

Should I ?

Am I Thirsty !

Who goes there ?

Bharatpur, Dec 2010

BACK TO THE BHARATPUR BIRD SANCTUARY

2010-12-31T13:26:00.077+05:30

This year, after a gap of 2 years made another visit to 'Keoladeo Ghana National Park' popularly known as the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. This park has thousands of migratory birds arriving for breeding every year from October to March. I was particularly keen to visit the park this year as there had been a very good monsoon and I expected the marshes and lakes of the park to have plenty of water for migratory water birds to land. Was therefore unpleasantly surprised to see that most of the park was dry with just some pockets of water in the many ponds, lakes and marshes. Apparently whereas most of North India had excess rainfall, the region of Bharatpur ( which is just 150 Kms from Delhi) recd very little rain. However did manage to see a number of local as well as migratory birds. The most prominent bird at the park is the Painted Stork. This year two there were more than 2 colonies of painted storks nesting and breeding.

A painted stork with it's catch

As usual there were a number of migratory ducks. Spotted some comb ducks, mallards, greylag goose, ruddy sheldock amongst others. Ibises, egrets, cormorants and herons are other water birds that are abundantly present.

Was fortunate to come across a pair of Sarus Cranes that were feeding in the marshy waters. Sarus cranes are always found in pairs. It is believed that in case one of partner dies, the other starves itself to death.

A pair of Sarus Cranes

Was also fortunate to spot some birds of prey at close distances - the Shikra and Crested Serpent Eagle.

This shikra had a just hunted down a rat and was busy eating it's catch. Though not visible in this photograph, the rat is firmly held by the bird in it's claws.

Crested Serpent Eagle on the lookout.

The Keoladeo National Park is situated in Bharatpur in Rajasthan which is short 4 hours drive from Delhi. Bharatpur is also well connected by train and buses.

Bharatpur has a number of hotels to stay which cater to both the Indian and foreign tourists. I would recommend The Bagh - an excellent property with well furnished rooms, excellent service and good food. It also has a library which has a very good selection of books on birds of India. The hotel has a nice garden with numerous trees and many species of birds can be spotted in the trees. You would also be able to spot turkeys roaming the grounds during the day. If you are planning a visit, be sure to carry your binoculars and if you are a photo enthusiast, carry your telephoto lens.

NEPTUNE FOUNTAIN AT THE SCHONBRUNN PALACE

2010-12-10T14:55:00.000+05:30

As we move from the main Palace to the hill, is a pool at the end of which is the Neptune Fountain. A retaining wall curving back forms the back wall of the vast basin. At the centre is a semi oval plinth from which rises the statue of the sea-god Neptune surrounded by his entourage.

Above the rocky grotto stands Neptune in a shell-shaped chariot, his trident in his hand. To his left is a nymph, while on his right kneels the sea-goddess Thetis. Frolicking at the foot of the grotto are the Tritons, creatures who are half-man and half-fish, and belong to Neptune's entourage.

ROMAN RUINS AT SCHONBRUNN

2010-12-04T10:07:00.000+05:30

The Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna is a huge and majestic palace. As you move from the main palace to the grand gardens and up the Schonbrunn Hill and when you descend the hill, at the foot stands a structure which supposedly is in ruins, These are the Roman Ruins , orignally called the ruin of Carthage. Designed by Hohenberg who created the Roman Ruin at Schönbrunn as an entirely new structure on the model of the Ancient Roman temple of Vespasian and Titus, the remains of which had been recorded in an engraving by Giovanni Battista Piranesi dating to around 1756.The Roman Ruins consist of a rectangular pool in the front with a massive semi circular arch overlooking it and walls flanking it giving an impression of a building slowly degenerating and crumbling into the ground,

The main Structure

The Gods of the rivers Danube and Enns

Built in 1978, it is completely integrated into the surrounding landscape making it a very integral part of the vast gardens.

Shots from my Camera: COOT

2010-12-02T20:51:00.000+05:30

Shots from my Camera: COOT: "Coots are common water birds found throughout the Americas and Europe. This was photographed in Switzerland swimming in the Lucerne Lake"

2010-11-28T22:25:00.000+05:30

Was in Shanghai last week and decided to go out for an Indian Meal. Shanghai has a number of Indian restaurants but most of them are not worth a visit. During my last visit in July , I had discovered an interesting Indian restaurant - 'DERA' located in North Xiangyang Road . The restaurant is on the first floor of the building and not visible to a passerby. It has a nice quite ambiance and the food is authentic Indian. The bar is well stocked with the regular whiskies and beer but has a very limited wine selection - also don't expect any exotic whiskies etc. The tandoori dishes are well cooked and food tasty. The service though needs improvement. The address :

Dera Restaurant

2nd Floor, 1 North Xiangyang Road (near Julu Road)

Shanghai

It was however on this visit that I discovered this nice restaurant serving Indian food - ' MASALA ART ' located on Yandang Road . This street has rows of restaurants on both sides of cuisines from around the world and you would probably find all the popular cuisines here. I noticed an Italian, Mexican and Thai food joint here. However back to Masala Art - Nice cosy place, good ambiance, well stocked bar (by Chinese standards) and authentic and tasty Indian food.

For starters, try the all time favourite - Chicken Tikkas washed down with beer - my favourite is Carona which goes well with Indian food. For the main course, don't forget the tandoori dishes - you could try the most popular Indian dish - Tandoori Chicken - or you could try the tandoori pomfret if you are fond of fish. Like always, Dal Makhani and some fresh vegetables with paneer round up the meal very well. If you want a lighter meal, you could exchange the Dal Makhani for the lighter Dal Masala. The restaurant also has a wide variety of spicy masala dishes, both in vegetarian and non vegetarian. For the breads , order a bread basket which would have a mixture of naans, lachha parathas etc. Try all of them.

Waiting for the food

The Location : 

PHONE:		6327 3571

ADDRESS:		397 Dagu Lu, near Shimen Yi Lu

		大沽路397号，近石门一路

AREA:		Jing'an

METRO:		20 mins. walk from Nanjing Rd (W)

HOURS:		Daily 11:30am-2pm, 5:30-10:30pm

CARDS:		Local and international cards accepted

PHONE:		6327 3571

ADDRESS:		397 Dagu Lu, near Shimen Yi Lu

		大沽路397号，近石门一路

AREA:		Jing'an

METRO:		20 mins. walk from Nanjing Rd (W)

HOURS:		Daily 11:30am-2pm, 5:30-10:30pm

CARDS:		Local and international cards accepted

If you are the health conscious type and love walking, the place is a close 20 minutes walk from Nanjing Street ( West). I would however recommend a cab which does not take more than 15 minutes from Nanjing Street.

CAPTIVE BIRDS OF PREY AT PRAGUE CASTLE

2010-11-20T14:21:00.000+05:30

As a visitor to the Prague Castle, when you enter the main complex and turn left towards the sprawling gardens you could come across an unusual sight of majestic birds of prey perched on posts . A closer look will show the legs of all the birds tied to posts . These birds belong to the falconry that exists at the castle.

One of the captive Eagles

Hawks/Falcons waiting for their chance of flight

With quick twists of its neck, this owl was a keen observer of all the tourists

A Falcon with its head Gear - does look pitiable !

The falconry at the castle organises special shows of these birds in flight and also the opportunity to have these powerful birds perch on your gloved hand.

However it is sad to see these mighty birds in captivity, their freedom taken away from them.

HAPPY DIWALI

2010-11-05T09:57:00.001+05:30

Today is Diwali , the festival of lights . This is the most important festival of India. It signifies the triumph of good over evil and victory of brightness over darkness.

Candles and oil lamps ( though these are now being replaced by electric lights) are lit up and placed around homes to give a bright and festive look.

Diwali is derived from the Sanskrit word Deepavali which means an array of lights. Balconies of homes and windows are decked with lights on window sills and parapets.

On Diwali, the goddess Laxmi, a symbol of prosperity, is worshipped. Special Pujas ( prayers ) are performed at home before the beginning of celebrations. People wear new clothes, share sweets and light firecrackers. The North Indian business community usually starts their financial new year on Diwali and new account books are opened on this day.

Puja Place

The place where Puja is held is specially decorated with colours and flowers. This ritual is performed in every Hindu home. The main doors of homes are left open for the evening to enable the Goddess Laxmi to enter homes and bring wealth with her.

The evening ends with family and friends getting together, exchanging gifts and sweets, bursting crackers and dining.

Wish you all a Happy and Prosperous Diwali

COVENT GARDEN IN LONDON

2010-10-10T22:50:00.000+05:30

Street performers, bars, restaurants, shops and theatres - that is Covent Garden. Situated in the heart of London's Westend, Covent Garden would probably be the most lively and action packed entertainment and leisure destination in London.

The Covent Garden Piazza

The area of Covent Garden consists of an Italian style central piazza which is dominated by what orignally was the fruit and vegetable market surrounded by bars, restaurants and fashionable boutiques.

The Apple Market

Built in 1632 by Inigo Jones, the Covent Garden market is a large glass covered building comprising os several arcades of high fashion boutiques, cafes, bars and restaurants and a plethora of arts and crafts. The Apple Market which is a part of this unique market does not sell apples !! It is estimated that 30 million tourists visit this famous tourist destination.

The Covent Garden Market

Covent Garden attracts street performers from all over. You will see numerous mime artists, musicians, jugglers and others entertaining the tourists in the central square. Dont be surprised if a statue springs to life as you approach it and reaches out towards you. This is just one of the acts that you will come across.

A Street Performer

Another scene of Covent Garden

So if you are in London , head for Covent Garden , have a drink at the numerous bars in that area, watch a street performance , shop at one of the fashionable boutiques and in the evening take in the theatre. You could end it with dinner at Belgo !

EATING IN LONDON - BELGO FOR BELGIAN FOOD

2010-10-04T21:26:00.008+05:30

If you are in London and in search for great seafood - head for Belgo at Earlham Street near the Covent Gardens. Belgo is a very unusual restaurant. The main entrance leads to a waiting bar area where you can start off with a glass of beer before you are seated at your table. The main restaurant is in the basement to which you descend in a cage like lift.

View of the Restaurant

The ambiance and look of the restaurant is very different from most places. A bit noisy with tables and benches for seating. Remember to book your table in advance or you may land up waiting for over 30 minutes. Lots of steel visible with no false ceiling. When you think Belgian Food , what does come to mind is seafood and in particular mussels. There is a wide variety of seafood available at the Belgo, however what you must order is a steaming pot of Mussels accompanied by a bowl of freshly made crisp fries with creamy mayonnaise. And of course the Beer without which Belgian food is incomplete.

The Kitchen
The area around the Belgo at Covent Gardens is a very lively and and fun place. There are numerous pubs and other entertainment activities which includes plays and musicals over here.

In front of a theatre showing Chicago

While you are in the area, be sure to spend some time at the covent gardens which is a very unique and interesting place. Lots of street performers, places to eat and shopping.

The surroundings

To find out more about the restaurant click on the following to go to the official site of Belgo

Link to the website of Belgo restaurant in London

HAPPY EATING

THE MYSTIQUE OF STONEHENGE

2010-10-01T23:43:00.000+05:30

Huge stones sticking out of the earth to a height of over 30 ft in a semi circular horse shoe shaped formation in the middle of lovely green meadows - that is Stonehenge. Another must visit place when you are in London, the ancient Stonehenge leaves you full of questions on the origin and purpose of these stones. Stonehenge is an icon symbolizing mystery, power and endurance. There has been a lot of speculation on its original purpose , from being a sacred burial site for high ranking citizens of that age to a temple for the worship of ancient earth deities and a place for human sacrifice . It has also been speculated that this was an astronomical observatory for marking significant events on the prehistoric calendar. One fact is certain, Stonehenge must have been something very important to the ancients to make them take this effort and investment to put up this magnificent structure.

Stonehenge as it is today
The ancient monument of Stonehenge was built as a temple about 5000 years ago as a large earthwork with a circular ditch surrounding a raised bank with upright wooden poles. This was the new stone age or the Neolithic Age.

The Circular ditch around the Central area with the Stones

(Note the Station Stone in the foreground)

About 2500 years ago, when the wooden pillars had begun to rot, the first stones were brought to replace the timber. This 2nd stage of Stonehenge started around 2150 BC when some 82 blue stones from the Preseli mountains from Southwest Wales were transported to the site. These were believed to have been brought by sleighs and rollers and through waterways - travelling a distance of 250 miles. This also marked the beginning of construction and alterations that lasted over 800 years stretching into the Bronze Age.

By this time, Stonehenge was the greatest temple in Britain, its banks, ditches and standing stones arranged in sophisticated alignments to mark the passage of the sun and the changing seasons.

A great Sarsen stone trilithon

These are two massive upright stones capped by a horizontal Intel . This is one of the 5 that originally stood over here.

Part of the outer sarsen circle with the best preserved section of surviving lintels.

It is apparent that the sarsens were carefully trimmed and shaped before being set up in their positions.

The Heelstone at Stonehenge

About 250 ft from the centre of the monument on the northwest periphery of the circle is a single large sarsen stone known as the heelstone. This is about 8 ft in diameter and stands 12 ft above the ground. The purpose of the heelstone however still remains a mystery.

Some Facts about Stonehenge

Age estimated at 3100 BC
Location Wilt shire, UK
OS Reference SU 122 422
Type of stone Bluestone, Sarson, Welsh Sandstone
Worship Lunar, Solar
Access English Heritage - there is a charge to visit the stones.

Stonehenge is an easy 3 hours drive from London. There are numerous tours to Stonehenge during the day. Normally there is no access to the inner circle - however there are special tours on certain days at sunrise and sunset which allow one to go within the circle up close to the stones. However you need to book very much in advance to get a seat on one of these tours. I was in London in August and every tour was full up even though I had tried a month earlier to get a booking.

THE RAVENS OF THE TOWER OF LONDON

2010-09-18T23:03:00.000+05:30

If you are a visitor to the The Tower of London, don't be surprised when you come across some large black birds that look like over sized crows. These are the Ravens of the Tower of London and have a history almost as old the tower itself.

One of the ravens at the Tower of London

There is no authentic record of when these ravens first appeared at the tower, their presence is however surrounded by myths and legends. Legend dictates that at least 6 ravens must always remain at the Tower else the Tower and the Monarchy will fall.

To prevent the ravens from flying away from the Tower, their wings are clipped and have pens to live in.

Pens in which the Ravens live

Currently there are seven ravens at the Tower - this is so in case one of the ravens dies or escapes, six will always remain.

Raven with it's wings clipped

All seven ravens at the tower have names and have their wings clipped. One of the Yeoman warders is the Ravenmaster who cares for the birds.

The Legend of the ravens of the Tower can be traced back to a Medieval chronicler - Geoffrey of Monmouth. In 1136 he wrote a book called Historia Regum Britannia - The History of he Kings of Britain in which he refers to a British King called King Bran Hen. Bran is a Welsh word for Raven. King Bran had requested that on his death in battlefield, his head be buried as a talisman against invasion on the White Mount where the Tower of London now stands. The ravens therefore came to symbolise the king and to this day they are accepted as necessary occupants of the Tower and the legend that should the ravens ever leave the Tower of London, the White Tower will crumble and a great disaster shall befall Britain.

It is believed that King Charles II ( early sixteenth century) was responsible for the declaration that at least 6 ravens should be kept at the Tower at all times to prevent disaster. This has since been followed religiously.

Here are some interesting facts about the ravens of the Tower of London

There are seven ravens currently in residence
The wings of the ravens are clipped so that they cannot fly away
The ravens get a healthy diet of meat, bird biscuits and eggs besides other foods
Ravens can live up to a ripe old age. The oldest raven to live at the Tower was Jim Crow who lived to an age of 44 years.
Ravens who develop bad habits are dismissed from the Tower and sent to a Zoo.
Ravens have also occasionally escaped and have been found at distance from the Tower.

If you plan to visit the Tower of London, book your tickets online and save time standing in queues and save time. Click on the Link below for The official site of the Tower of London is

Official Site of the Tower of London