Swiss Guards act as bodyguards of the Pope. They also protect the 108-acre Vatican City and the pontifical villa of Castel Gandolfo. Roman Catholic Church recruits them to the Pontifical Pope’s Army. It is the the world’s smallest army with a strength of 135 active personnel. Swiss Guards have kept the Popes out of harm’s way for more than 500 years. …
Swiss Guards – the Pope’s Army in Vatican City Read More »
Amsterdam Harbour is a 13th century port on the bank of a former bay known as IJ. It is the second largest port in the Netherlands, after Rotterdam. …
Amsterdam Harbour busy port near city centre Read More »
Santa Croce Basilica is the largest Franciscan church in the world. This is a beautiful and celebrated basilica. It dates back to the thirteenth century. Wealthy Florentine families funded the construction. It is a vast church and well-known for its Florentine art. …
Santa Croce Basilica – Architecture and Art TreasuresRead More »
Santa Croce Basilica – Architecture and Art Treasures Read More »
Netherlands is a small country of 17 million people. It is famous for its tulip gardens, wooden windmills, cheese, canals, millions of bicycles and fields below the sea level. Here are my reflections on this remarkable country and people.
Netherlands is largely a secular country. About forty percent of the population say that they have no religion. Thirty percent are catholic and 20% are Protestant. …
The Netherlands – Some General Reflections Read More »
Top Rome attractions involve classical ruins, age-old places of worship and iconic fountains. Rome is a modern and vibrant city where you will come across wonderful eateries, museums and activities. The city can be overwhelming to the visitors who may not know where to go first. Rome has a long history behind it. But there are landmarks that are almost obligatory, such as the Colosseum and Vatican Museums.
Founded by Pope Julius II in early sixteenth century, Vatican Museums is one of the largest museums in the world. Popes amassed the collection over the centuries. The museums hold 70,000 works of art, out of which 20,000 are on display. Visitors walk through 7 km of halls and corridors. At the end of the route is Sistine Chapel which contains Michelangelo’s famous fresco The Creation of Adam. …
Top Rome Attractions: Must-See Landmarks Read More »