#there was another building by the visitors center that was wooden and octagonal and inside was an exhibit of plein air paintings

[elastica1995]

reading house of leaves

[bitotrip]

Vakil Complex: the Outstanding Attraction of Shiraz

Introduction to Vakil Complex

During the reign of Karimkhan (the founder of Zand Dynasty) in Shiraz lots of monuments were built. Among these monuments Vakil Complex has always had its place. Built in 1777 the Vakil Complex consists of a bath, a bazaar, and a mosque which are close to each other and they attract people from all over the world each year.

Vakil Bath

Located in the center of Shiraz City, this bath was built during Zandieh Dynasty under the command of Karimkhan. Aside from its eye-catching design, the place was built based on the most modern techniques of time. The main entrance for example, is small and low additionally, the bath itself goes lower than the surface; all of these is to keep the warmth inside the bath. The sudatorium is covered with cobbles under which warm steam flows so that the bath gets warm more quickly. Underneath the dome are beautiful motifs whose stories roots in the religion, tradition, interests, and dreams of the people of that era. Today, the bathhouse has become a museum and is open to the visitors from 8 to 20.

Vakil Bazaar

Considered as one of the main shopping centers in Iran, Vakil Bazaar is cruciform and consists of four main parts: North, South, East and West. Located in the center of the city, this bazaar is a good place in Shiraz to buy goods such as carpet, pistachio, jewelry, and handicrafts with reasonable prices. In addition, this bazaar was built in 18th century by the order of Karim Khan after his visit to Lar’s bazaar which was built in Safavid era. Therefore the amazing architecture of Vakil bazaar is an adaptation of Safavid architecture and it definitely will take your breath away.

To the south of Vakil Bazaar lays another bazaar called Saraye Moshir (Golshan). It consists of two floors with wooden doors made of teak. All the shops are situated around a central yard with an octagonal pond in the middle and orange trees, flowers and plants around it. If you want to buy handmade jewelry and silverware this is a perfect place.

Vakil Mosque

With an area of ​​over 11,000 square meters, exquisite architecture, extraordinary carvings, and tiles in beautiful and varied colors, Vakil Mosque attracts thousands of tourist to Shiraz every year. The front door opens to an eight-sided corridor consisting of a beautiful and imprinted ceiling with flower tiles and the beautiful expressions of Laleh al-Allah in the Kufic script.

But perhaps one of the designs and arts of the architect of this monument, that has caught the attention of its visitors, is the stunning columns that were expertly designed and constructed with great care. This magnificent monument consists of an entrance, corridor, yard, large seraglio, winter seraglio, altar, marble pulpit, two verandas, and a pearl arch.

The unique architecture in the construction of Vakil Mosque is an example of ancient Iranian architecture, where you can find remarkable harmony between the beauties of this world and the religious culture of the people of that time. The tiles in the different parts of the Vakil Mosque in Shiraz are remarkable in their kind. The altar, for example, reflects the architecture and design of Zandieh’s buildings with ornamental ceilings and phrases written in the middle tiles.

If you are interested in visiting Vakil Mosque, you may also want to know its visiting hours. The mosque opens at 8:30 and closes at 18 in spring and summer and at 19 in fall and winter.

The post Vakil Complex: the Outstanding Attraction of Shiraz appeared first on BitoTrip.

source https://bitotrip.com/vakil-complex-shiraz/

[wikitopx]

Nestled on two hills above the right bank of the Loire River, this enchanting town is distinguished by exquisite elegance.

Blois architecture diversifies the grandeur of the past residents. Dominating the city landscape are the magnificent Château de Blois (once home to the kings of France) and Cathédrale Saint-Louis, both of which overlook the spectacular River Valley. Blois became prominent in the 15th century, and the Renaissance spirit was felt throughout the city. Earl Blois's Hoelsels particuliers, the impressive aristocratic castle and the houses of exotic half-wooden guards give the historic area a special space.

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1. Château Royal de Blois

One of the top attractions in the River Valley, the majestic Château Royal de Blois has an illustrious history. Famous residents include the Duke of Orleans, the seven kings of France, the prince/poet Charles d'Orléans and several Count Blois who led the Crusades.

Built from the 13th to the 17th centuries, the castle is a marvelous Renaissance architecture with ornate loggia, galleries and oriel windows.

Tourists cross Louis XII wing (built from 1498 to 1503). Over the doorways appears the crowned porcupine, the emblem of Louis XII. The Salle des Etats are remnants of the castle from the 13th century, and the Francis I wing has a richly decorated octagonal staircase.

2. Vieux Blois (Old Town)

The historic center of Blois has a unique old-world atmosphere. Vieux Blois is characterized by the houses of handsome half-wooden guards, narrow sidewalks and picturesque stairs. Just east of Saint-Louis Cathedral is the 18th-century Ancien Evêché, the Palace of the former Bishop, now the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall).

The adjoining gardens, the Jardins de l'Évêché, are classified as a "Jardins Remarquables" (Remarkable Gardens) and are definitely worth visiting. Created in the 17th century, the expansive green space includes the Rose Garden (Roseraie) with a great variety of flowers and a terrace with views of the River Valley landscape.

The Jardins de l'Évêché is open year-round with extended hours in summertime. The Rose Garden is open from May 15th through September 30th.

3. Maison de la Magie (House of Magic)

In Maison Massé, opposite Château Royal, this unique museum is the only museum in Europe devoted entirely to magic as a performing art. The museum takes visitors into the magical world of magic while offering a surprisingly entertaining experience.

Visitors are amazed by the museum's creative presentation, including a fire-breathing dragon that appears every half hour.

In an exhibition space of 2,000 square meters, a large area dedicated to the famous magician Jean Eugène Robert-Houdin, who was born in Blois. Several rooms present Houdin's life and work.

There are also exhibits that explain the history of magic art and other areas displaying many optical illusions. Throughout the year, the museum introduces magic shows with award-winning artists and other talented magicians.

4. Eglise Saint-Nicolas

Eglise Saint-Nicolas stands in the shadow of the Château de Blois in historic Blois district, where narrow streets are lined with special old houses. Formerly a Benedictine monastery church, the building was built between the 12th and 13th centuries.

Saint-Nicolas Church features early Gothic art, including the beautiful capital. The sumptuous facade features three portals topped by a harmonious gallery of arches. An exquisite rose window allows light to filter into the sanctuary. An unusual detail is a giant gutter above the rose window.

Inside the church, visitors are awed by the bright sanctuary, which is illuminated by artistic stained-glass windows.  Numerous modern windows, creating a stark contrast to the ancient structure.

Address: Parvis Saint-Nicolas, 41000 Blois

5. Eglise Saint-Vincent-de-Paul

In the heart of Blois near Château de Blois, this 17th-century church shows its Baroque style with its graceful proportions. The Church of Saint Vincent de Paul was constructed over many years and was finally completed thanks to donations from Gaston d'Orléans.

Typical of a Jesuit church, the facade features three levels of Doric and Corinthian columns. The ornately decorated interior has a sense of drama with its carved red marble columns and opulently adorned chapels.

The church displays many fine sculptures, including two commemorative monuments. Surrounding the church are overgrown gardens that offer a sense of tranquility.

Address: Place Victor Hugo, 41000 Blois

6. Cathédrale Saint-Louis

Saint-Louis Church stands on high ground in the old town, northeast of Château de Blois. There was a church on this site in the early Christian period, rebuilt and changed in the 12th, 16th and 17th centuries.

However, the cryptocurrency dates back to the original church of the 10th century. The church was destroyed by a hurricane in 1678. In addition to the church, the tower, and the western facade, the church was completely rebuilt.

The intricate gothic architecture interior stunned visitors with its spaciousness. The church has contemporary stained glass windows by artist Jan Dibbets. Free guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the cathedral and its stained-glass windows.

Address: Place Saint-Louis, 41000 Blois

7. Eglise Saint-Saturnin

One of the oldest churches in Blois, Saint Saturnin church was built on the foundation of a pre-Roman chapel. Anne de Bretagne provided donations that allowed enough funds to reconstruct the building in the 16th century.

Unfortunately, the church became a victim of the Religious War; It was damaged in 1568 and later restored in the 16th century. The interior stunned visitors with its beautiful gothic architecture. Other noteworthy architectural and artistic elements are the hexagonal staircase, vibrant stained-glass windows, fine paintings, and statues.

Address: 13 Rue Munier, Blois

8. Jardin de Plantes Médicinales

An amazingly calm oasis in Vieux Blois (Old Town), this flavorful garden is surrounded by the ancient walls behind the church. The lush green space flourishes with vibrant flowers and leafy trees, which attract many chirping birds.

However, the garden, also known as the "Jardin des Cinq Sens" (Garden of the Five Senses), is distinguished by its variety of aromatic herbs and medicinal plants.

One of the most delightful things to do in Blois explores this garden and become immersed in a glorious sensory experience of sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Admire the colorful flowers, listen to the soothing bird voices, recognize the aroma of herbs, feel the texture of the plants and even taste some edible herbs.

The garden is open year-round Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5:30 pm. The entry is free.

Address: Place Saint-Louis, Blois

9. Festivals

In the summer, the city of Blois hosts a vibrant festival called "Des Lyres d'été". Held in July and August, the festival includes a series of outdoor performances: music concerts, cinema, dance, street theater, storytelling, circus acts, and magic tricks.

Events take place in public squares throughout the city center and at the Creusille port along the Loire. There are also fireworks and a concert on the opening night.

Another interesting festival, "Carnaval de Blois", takes place in March. An event admired by many fans, the Blois Carnival celebrates the end of the winter with a parade of bands and street theaters.

A jubilant procession winds through the city from Place du Chateau all the way to the Place de la République. In keeping with the festive spirit, the event ended with the highly anticipated performance at Halle aux Grains (2 Place Jean Jaurès).

10. Fondation du Doute: Museum of Contemporary Art

The Fondation du Doute is a daring museum of contemporary art focused on the period of 1960 to 1970. The gallery displays works by more than 50 artists, including a total of about 300 works.

The 1,500-square-meter gallery space represents a diverse array of works, which allows for an in-depth appreciation of contemporary art. The platform encourages visitors to discuss, ask questions and challenge their perception of art.

Bringing the art world to your lunch break, the museum has a trendy casual restaurant, Café le Fluxus, serving snacks and pastries in a creative setting. Occasionally the café is open in the evenings for concerts and other events.

Address: 14 Rue de la Paix, Blois

More ideals for you: Top 10 things to do in Battipaglia

From : https://wikitopx.com/travel/top-10-things-to-do-in-blois-707755.html

[www9981-blog]

Historic library weaves 'Harry Potter'-style tourist magic in Rio

From the outside, it looks like another historic edifice in Rio's rundown city center.

Inside, however, is a multi-tiered library so spectacular, so ornate, that stunned visitors feel like they've walked into a movie fantasy set.

"In 'Harry Potter' we've seen libraries like this!" exclaimed Didier Margouet, a 57-year-old French tourist, looking around at the shelves of leather bound books climbing the walls under an octagonal skylight of red, white and blue stained glass.

"Yes, like in the movies," agreed his partner, Laeticia Rau, 50.

The Royal Portuguese Reading Room -- the Real Gabinete Portugues de Leitura in Portuguese -- was built in the late 19th century under the stewardship of an association of Portuguese migrants that still cares for the institution.

Its Gothic-Renaissance architecture and plethora of carvings, tiles and sculptures celebrate the glory of the Portuguese discoveries era in the 15th and 16th centuries.

Holding some 350,000 books, some of them very rare, the library today is more a tourist attraction and selfie backdrop than a reading room, though for a few it remains an indispensable haven for the largest collection of Portuguese-language books outside of Portugal.

- Loyal reader -

One such loyal reader is Carlos Francisco Moura, an 86-year-old who writes about the history of Portugal.

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He arrived in Brazil from Portugal aged four with his parents, and from childhood became a regular visitor. Now retired from his profession as architect, Moura spends his time leafing through the tomes, copying information for his own books.

"This is the alma mater of the Portuguese in Brazil -- the reading room is that, and a lot more," Moura told AFP, sitting at one of the dark wooden desks.

The library is a valuable resource, he explained, because since the 1930s it has become a repository of every book published in Portugal.

Brazil's historic connection with its former colonial ruler runs deep. In 1808, Portugal's king and his government made Rio de Janeiro the capital of the Portuguese Empire.

Later, the king's son declared independence and made himself the emperor of Brazil. Portuguese remained the country's principal language, and with it a two-way literary culture between the two countries. Today, the Portuguese and Brazilian flags both fly on the library's exterior.

- Custodian -

Orlando Inacio, 67, manages the place. He too came from Portugal as a boy -- and has never returned.

"It's a real point of pride to know that this library created by Portuguese is one of the most beautiful in the world," he said.

Giving a bit of its history, he traced the library's roots back to an association of Portuguese immigrants started in 1837.

"The aim was to help the immigrants, who in general were little educated, to improve their knowledge, their education," he said.

The association continues to fund the library, its members paying a monthly amount that helps cover part of its overheads. The rest of the income comes from other buildings owned by the association that are rented out.

Inacio acknowledged that the internet has brought changes, reducing the need for researchers and bookworms to frequent the place except for consulting rare books that are otherwise unavailable.

But his delight in his everyday office is evident. He is, after all, custodian of a temple of literature steeped in history, connecting Portugal and Brazil in a bond of language. 

[caveartfair]

8 Awe-Inspiring Treehouses around the World

Scientists believe that early human ancestors, like most great ape species, dwelled in trees. More recently in human history, treehouses became popular in the Roman era and then later in the Renaissance, when the wealthy Medici family constructed them in the gardens of their villas in the Tuscan countryside. And in the mid-19th century, a Parisian suburb called Le Plessis-Robinson drew fashionable city dwellers to its chestnut-tree bars and restaurants, where roast chicken and champagne would be carried up to diners on rope pulley systems.

Today, treehouses are still common in regions of Asia with seasonal flooding, and the Korowai people in Papua, Indonesia, continue to live in treehouses to avoid capture by rival clans. In Western culture, new building technologies, a growing interest in the use of environmentally sustainable materials, and a desire to escape city life and retreat into nature have fueled a resurgence of interest in treehouses in recent years. (The most wished-for listing on Airbnb worldwide is a treehouse located in the heart of Atlanta. The house is divided into three distinct areas—“Mind,” a sitting room for reading and relaxing; “Body,” a bedroom that sleeps two; and “Spirit,” a hammock deck surrounding a 165-year-old pine tree.)

Below are eight of the most fascinating modern treehouses around the world, designed by leading architectural studios; small, eco-forward firms specializing in treehouses; and free spirits in search of an off-the-grid lifestyle. Some are private residences, while others are hotels or educational centers welcoming the most adventurous of nature fanatics.

Foster Huntington, Cinder Cone

Skamania, Washington

The Cinder Cone. Photo by @fosterhunting. Courtesy of Foster Huntington.

The Cinder Cone. Photo by @fosterhunting. Courtesy of Foster Huntington.

The Cinder Cone. Photo by @fosterhunting. Courtesy of Foster Huntington.

The Cinder Cone. Photo by @fosterhunting. Courtesy of Foster Huntington.

The Cinder Cone. Photo by @fosterhunting. Courtesy of Foster Huntington.

The Cinder Cone. Photo by @fosterhunting. Courtesy of Foster Huntington.

In 2011, Foster Huntington, an up-and-coming menswear designer living in New York, purchased an ’87 Volkswagen Vanagon, quit his office job, and drove across the United States, documenting his off-the-grid lifestyle on social media and his popular blog, “A Restless Transplant.” Eventually, he settled in southern Washington, where he and his friends constructed a treehouse on a hilltop overlooking the Columbia River Gorge. Named the Cinder Cone for its location on an old volcano site, the treehouse-complex consists of two structures—the Studio and the Octagon—which are connected by a rope bridge. On the ground level, a large concrete skate bowl offers yet another outdoor adventure. “I could’ve bought a house,” Huntington told the New York Times in 2015. “But this is so much better. For me, it’s realizing a childhood dream.”

Snøhetta, The 7th Room

Harads, Sweden

The 7th Room at Treehotel. © Johan Jansson. Courtesy of Snøhetta.

The 7th Room at Treehotel. © Johan Jansson. Courtesy of Snøhetta.

The 7th Room at Treehotel. © Johan Jansson. Courtesy of Snøhetta.

The 7th Room at Treehotel. © Johan Jansson. Courtesy of Snøhetta.

The 7th Room at Treehotel. © Johan Jansson. Courtesy of Snøhetta.

The 7th Room at Treehotel. © Johan Jansson. Courtesy of Snøhetta.

Norwegian interdisciplinary design firm Snøhetta has tackled projects as far-ranging as reindeer observatories, museums, and fish markets. In 2017, they revealed the 7th Room, a new addition to the Treehotel—a magical treehouse resort in the remote pine forests of Northern Sweden, and a bucket-list item for both design and nature seekers.

Supported by 12 columns, the nearly 500-square-foot Nordic cabin is perched, seemingly weightlessly, around 32 feet above ground. The architects sought to blur the boundaries between shelter and nature: on the cabin’s bottom surface, a trompe-l’oeil black-and-white print of the forest allows the structure to virtually disappear into its surroundings. Up above, large windows offer 360-degree views of the Lapland forest and the Lule River, and a netted terrace that connects the two bedrooms provides an ideal spot for stargazing.

Joel Allen, The HemLoft

Whistler, Canada

The HemLoft. Photo by Heidi Hermanski. Courtesy of Joel Allen.

The HemLoft. Photo by Heidi Hermanski. Courtesy of Joel Allen.

The HemLoft. Photo by Heidi Hermanski. Courtesy of Joel Allen.

The HemLoft. Photo by Heidi Hermanski. Courtesy of Joel Allen.

The HemLoft. Photo by Heidi Hermanski. Courtesy of Joel Allen.

The HemLoft. Photo by Heidi Hermanski. Courtesy of Joel Allen.

Former software developer Joel Allen was inspired to begin a new career in carpentry when he befriended a free-spirited elderly carpenter at a garlic festival in 2008. After picking up basic woodworking skills, he had the idea to build an egg-shaped treehouse in the backwoods of Whistler, where he was based, and found the perfect location in a mossy outcrop overlooking a stand of old-growth hemlock trees. After installing the foundation, Allen finished his “HemLoft” with second-hand materials, including wooden doors, glass sheets, and lumber—all scored for free off of Craigslist.

Tham & Videgård Arkitekter, Mirrorcube

Harads, Sweden

Mirrorcube at Treehotel. Photo by Åke E:son Lindman. Courtesy of Tham & Videgård Arkitekter.

Mirrorcube at Treehotel. Photo by Åke E:son Lindman. Courtesy of Tham & Videgård Arkitekter.

Mirrorcube at Treehotel. Photo by Åke E:son Lindman. Courtesy of Tham & Videgård Arkitekter.

Mirrorcube at Treehotel. Photo by Åke E:son Lindman. Courtesy of Tham & Videgård Arkitekter.

Mirrorcube at Treehotel. Photo by Åke E:son Lindman. Courtesy of Tham & Videgård Arkitekter.

Mirrorcube at Treehotel. Photo by Åke E:son Lindman. Courtesy of Tham & Videgård Arkitekter.

Tham & Videgård’s Mirrorcube (2008–10) is another fascinating, and almost imperceptible, dwelling at Sweden’s Treehotel. The aluminum structure is covered in mirrored glass that reflects the blue skies and pine trees of its surroundings. Inside the small cube—measuring roughly 13 feet on each side—a minimal, hygge interior offers a double bed, living room, bathroom, and roof terrace. The glass exterior is laminated with a transparent ultraviolet color that is visible only to birds (so that they don’t collide into the structure). According to the architects, Mirrorcube represents the inherently challenging relationship between man and nature, and the need for high-tech materials and equipment in order to experience remote places with harsh climates.

baumraum, Treehouse Solling

Uslar, Germany

Treehouse Solling. Photo by Markus Bollen. Courtesy of baumraum.

Treehouse Solling. Photo by Markus Bollen. Courtesy of baumraum.

Treehouse Solling. Photo by Markus Bollen. Courtesy of baumraum.

Treehouse Solling. Photo by Markus Bollen. Courtesy of baumraum.

Treehouse Solling. Photo by Markus Bollen. Courtesy of baumraum.

Located in a small valley in Lower Saxony, this treehouse was designed by baumraum, a German firm that specializes in treehouses, for a family seeking a playful haven for their young son and their friends. The idyllic site includes a small brook and two large ponds. A long terrace connects several sturdy hemlock spruce trees with the treehouse, which is perched above the pond. Inside the arched two-story structure, an upper bedroom with a domed skylight provides an expansive view of the night sky. During the day, the terrace serves as a perfect observation point for spotting creatures in the water and the surrounding forest.

Terunobu Fujimori, Teahouse Tetsu

Hokuto, Japan

Exterior, Teahouse Tetsu by Terunobu Fujimori. Photo by Dana + LeRoy, via Flickr.

Interior, Teahouse Tetsu by Terunobu Fujimori. Photo by Dana + LeRoy, via Flickr.

Architect and architectural historian Fujimori is best known for his towering, whimsical tree houses; he once said that “a building should not resemble anyone else’s buildings, past or present, or any style that has developed since the Bronze Age.” Nestled among cherry blossoms in the Kiyoharu Art Village—an arts complex including galleries, a ceramic studio, library, and chapel—the minimal yet fantastical Teahouse Tetsu (2009) rests roughly 13 feet above ground on a single 80-year-old cypress trunk. Between museum excursions, visitors can take a break to admire the structure and its surrounding scenery, or climb up the ladder and enter the house for an open view of the park.

Rebelo de Andrade Studio, Tree Snake Houses

Bornes de Aguiar, Portugal

Rebelo de Andrade Studio sought to “recreate the fantasy of tree houses” for Pedras Salgadas Park, an upscale retreat in northern Portugal. Long, narrow, and angular, the resulting Tree Snake Houses (2013) were constructed of raw materials, like slate and wood on their exterior, to create the impression of a wild snake gliding through the woods. Sustainability was central to the treehouses’ design, with features including water reuse, water solar panels, and low-consumption LED technology. The studio is currently developing more models of the houses for other terrains, like the Mountain Snake House, the River Snake House, and the Sand Snake House.

Mithun, Sustainability Treehouse

Mount Hope, West Virginia

Immersed in West Virginia’s woodsy Summit Bechtel Reserve, the Sustainability Treehouse (2013) was designed by integrated design firm Mithun for the Boy Scouts of America and functions today as an educational facility for the study of ecology and resource conservation. The treehouse itself is a shining example of environmental leadership: Its vertical, multi-story design minimizes disturbance to the forest, local timber was used to build the structure, and it’s a net-zero energy, net-zero water facility, thanks to a rainwater recovery system and both wind- and solar-generated energy. On its indoor and outdoor platforms, visitors can learn about the surrounding site and ecosystem, as well as sustainable design, through interactive exhibits and galleries.

from Artsy News