Friday, July 11, 2008

Colosseum

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The Colosseum - the greatest amphitheatre of the antiquity - was built in Rome, Italy, about 1920 years ago. It is considered an architectural and engineering wonder, and remains as a standing proof of both the grandeur and the cruelty of the Roman world.
After the splendour of imperial times, the Colosseum was abandoned, and in turn it became a fortress for the medieval clans of the city, a source of building materials, a picturesque scenery for painters, a place of Christian worship. Today it is a challenge for the archaeologists and a scenario for events and shows.
In this site you'll find information on history, architecture and on the games that were held in the amphitheatre, there are also news on the events in the Colosseum, practical information for a visit, FAQs, a page of feedback with the most usual questions asked by our readers, and much more, like figures and plans,a sitemap and even a page on the cats of the arena.
Please read this disclaimer: those of you who know about the Roman amphitheatre are kindly requested to do no more than smile at my efforts on these pages, and write me to correct it if you feel so inclined; those of you who come to the subject for the first time should certainly not take my opinions as gospel.


The Colosseum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in all of Rome. Walk in the steps of gladiators and marvel at the incredible architecture of this ancient wonder. You'll even get to see the underground area where the lions and tigers were kept. The cost of normal adult admission to the Colosseum is 9 Euros. UE citizens under 18 and over 65 get in free.

Italy Travel Guide

Italy is one of the most spectacular countries in the world. No matter what part of Italy you visit, you're in for an amazing experience. Many travelers to this country head to Rome, and it's easy to see why. There's so much to see in this ancient city, such as the Coliseum and Pantheon, for a start. If fine art is what you're looking for, then you must visit the Capitoline Museums, one of the most impressive collections of ancient art in Italy.

Other cities in Italy that are worth a visit include Milan, Florence, and Pompeii - the home of the mighty Mount Vesuvius. And don't forget about Venice - Italy's city on the water. Take an authentic gondola ride down streets made of water and visit some of the best restaurants, shops and museums in all of Italy. Fine accommodations, great shopping, delicious cuisine, rich history and an amazing natural landscape are just a few benefits of traveling to Italy.


Bologna, Italy - EuropeBologna, Italy is one of the oldest and most cultured city in the world. Thought to be the cuisine capital of Italy, it's a must for any tourist seeking a wealth of gastronomical delights. Food isn't the only attraction in Bologna, however. Let's take a look at what you can expect when visiting this gorgeous Italian city.


While enjoying the various attractions in Italy, it's best to use a car hire service. By using a car hire service, you'll get around better and enjoy your Italian vacation more. We've located an online service that will help you locate the cheapest Italy car hire service. They have a nice interface too. Simply enter your information and their system will find the lowest cost service for you—guaranteed.


Roman Coliseum ItalyIf you're going to Italy, you simply must visit the Roman Coliseum. This magnificent structure (also known as the Flavius ampitheatre) was first constructed around 80 AD by Emperor Vespasian of the Flavia family and his son Titus.


Rome ItalyRome—it's known as the Eternal City, and for good reason. Throughout the ages, Rome has been a place of beauty, magic and culture. Modern Rome is a bustling city filled with excitement and energy, as you'll see from the first day you visit.

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace
The Royal Collection © 2006, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Buckingham Palace has served as the official London residence of Britain's sovereigns since 1837.

It evolved from a town house that was owned from the beginning of the eighteenth century by the Dukes of Buckingham. Today it is The Queen's official residence, with 775 rooms.

Although in use for the many official events and receptions held by The Queen, areas of Buckingham Palace are opened to visitors on a regular basis.

The State Rooms of the Palace are open to visitors during the Annual Summer Opening in August and September. They are lavishly furnished with some of the greatest treasures from the Royal Collection - paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, Vermeer, Poussin, Canaletto and Claude; sculpture by Canova and Chantrey; exquisite examples of Sèvres porcelain; and some of the finest English and French furniture in the world.

Buckingham Palace is one of the top tourist attractions in London and the official home of the Queen of England. Here you can see the Changing of the Guard, gorgeous royal gardens, and many spectacular rooms inside the Palace. Palace tours cost 13.50 Pounds for adults, 11.50 Pounds for senior citizens, 7 Pounds for children and 34 Pounds for a family ticket.

England Travel Guide

England is a land of natural beauty and so much more. If you're planning to go to England, there are some things you must see. In the Southwest area, there are graceful cathedrals, beautiful beaches, rustic cottages and old-fashioned pubs. In the Eastern region on England, there's the world famous South Creake maze. For a look back in time, visit the Castle Acre Priory.

England is also host to a variety of festivals and events that bring travelers in each and every year. Art festivals, beer festivals, and even a quirky snail racing competition are just some of these functions that tourists can enjoy. And that's not all! London, England is one of the premier cities in the world and offers every advancement and luxury known to man. Shopping, dining, nightlife, boating, fishing, and so much more await visitors heading to England. Regardless of what part of the country you visit, you're in for a treat!


Gorilla Kingdom London ZooOpened in 1828, the London Zoo was originally built to be a place of research and study. In 1847, its doors were opened to the general public, and the rest is history. It's newest attraction, Gorilla Kingdom, is amazing.

Czech Republic Travel Guide

Prague is one of the most widely visited places in Europe today. This amazing city features beautiful cobblestone streets, cathedrals full of history and culture, a spectacular castle and some of the finest architecture in all of Europe. Prague has a lot to offer tourists, such as fine hotels, amazing food and lots of hot nightlife. Whether you want to experience timeless heritage or enjoy the latest in modern advances, Prague is the perfect place.

Summers in Prague are hot and rainy, while winters are snowy and icy. No matter what time of year you decide to visit Prague, there's plenty there to keep you occupied. Enjoy authentic Czech dumplings, or head to a fine restaurant that offers international cuisine. Stroll the streets and marvel at the natural beauty and fine architecture, or go shopping at one of Prague's many boutiques. This amazing city has everything you want in a destination and a lot more!


Charles Bridge PragueWorld famous landmarks such as Paris’ Eiffel tower or Sydney’s Opera House has become as much a symbol of their country as their flags. Bridges, which serve as a physical link of one town to another has become national symbols, like the Brooklyn bridge in New York, the Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco and the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.


Old Town Square PragueIn the city of Prague in the Czech Republic, the Old Town Square is the oldest and one of the most beautiful places in Europe. It may not be as large as the other metropolitan cities on other parts of the world, but the Old Town Square has played a big role in the country’s remarkable history.


prague europeWith its tapered roofs, ancient castles and cathedrals, sprawling gardens, quaint towns and picturesque bridges, the city of Prague has become known as a "golden city."


St. Vitus Cathedral in PragueLocated inside the Hradcany square, a charming 100-year old complex in the 'golden city' of Prague in the Czech Republic - the Saint Vitus’s cathedral is one of the main attractions which will take your breath away.


prague europe zooWhen you are in Prague for a visit and you want to complete your stay with a full experience of everything that the quaint old city has to offer, then go to Prague Zoo.

Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral), Vienna

Stephansdom, Vienna
Photo by natsu.

Modern meets Gothic. Photo by bundu.


Photo by Clemens Koppensteiner.


Photo by Wayne McLean.


Interior of the Stephansdom. Photo © Mike Reed.


Stephansdom (St. Stephen's Cathedral) in Vienna, Austria, has survived through many wars and has become a symbol of Vienna's freedom. The Gothic cathedral was first built in 1147 AD and its most recognizable characteristic, the diamond-patterned tile roof, was added in 1952.

History

The first church to occupy the site of St. Stephan's Cathedral was a Romanesque sanctuary, which was replaced by a basilica in 1147 AD. A major fire in 1258 destroyed the basilica and construction on the present cathedral began in the early 14th century.

The cathedral suffered damage during the Turkish seige of 1683 and again in the closing days of World War II, when fire from streetfighting leapt to the rooftop. The cathedral was reopened in 1948; the roof was repaired and decorated with ceramic tiles donated by Viennese citizens in 1950.

Among the important events that have occurred at St. Stephen's are Mozart's wedding in 1782 and his funeral in December 1791.

What to See

The cathedral's interior is packed with many interesting things to see.

The pulpit, in the middle of the nave, bears the images of four Latin church fathers: Ambrose, Jerome, Gregory and Augustine, all full of personality.

The railing is covered in interesting symbols: the lizards are animals of light, the battle toads are animals of darkness, and the "Dog of the Lord" at the top protects the sermon from their influence. Wheels with three parts (the Trinity) roll up, while wheels with four parts (the four seasons, representing mortal or worldly life) roll down.

A rare self-portrait of the artist (Anton Pilgram) is under the stairs, looking out a window with his sculptor's compass. This marks the transition point into the Renaissance, when artists began to be famous instead of anonymous.

The Pummerin bell is one of the largest bells in the world, and was cast from a cannon captured from the Turks in 1683. It rings out over the city on New Year's Eve. Take the elevator up the north tower to see the bell and get a view of the Vienna Woods (Wienerwald).

The south tower is named Alter Steffl, "Old Steve," and was built between 1359 and 1433. The sweeping view of the city from the 450-foot-high tower is worth the 343 steps or elevator ride.

The "O5" carved into the stone outside the cathedral's massive front door has important historical significance. The "5" stands for the fifth letter of the alphabet, which added to the "O" makes OE, the abbreviation for Österreich (Austria). It was a covert sign of resistance to the Nazi annexation of Austria.

Map

Location map and satellite view of . Using the buttons on the left, zoom in for a closer look or zoom out to get your bearings. Click and drag the map to move around. or a larger view, see our Vienna Map or Google Earth download.

Imagery ©2008 DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, Map data ©2008 Tele Atlas - Terms of Use
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Getting There

Reach Stephansdom by bus 1A, 2A, or 3A, or get off the U-Bahn at the Stephansplatz stop.

Quick Facts

The cathedral is open daily from 6am to 10pm. Visitors are welcome to worship services; if you're not attending, you cannot enter the nave but you can go to the elevator to the north tower. High Mass is held on Sundays and public holidays at 10:15am (9:30am in July and August).

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