Bocairent, Spain

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Valencian countryside, the picturesque town of Bocairent beckons visitors with its rich history, charming cobblestone streets, and stunning natural landscapes. But it is during the annual Moors and Christians festival that Bocairent truly comes alive. It is during this festival, that is held in early February, that residents and visitors alike are immersed in a vibrant celebration of heritage and tradition.

Dating back centuries, the Moors and Christians festival in Bocairent pays homage to the region's complex history, marked by the interplay of Islamic and Christian influences. Against the backdrop of Bocairent's medieval architecture, this event serves as a captivating reenactment of historic conflicts, alliances, and cultural exchange.

During the festival, the streets of Bocairent are transformed into a colorful spectacle, as locals put on elaborate costumes representing both Moors and Christians. Parades featuring majestic floats, marching bands, and intricately adorned horses wind their way through the town, accompanied by the rhythmic beat of drums and the lively tunes of traditional music.

Central to the festivities are dramatic reenactments of key historical events, including battles for control of the town and the eventual triumph of Christian forces. These performances are staged with meticulous attention to detail, transporting spectators back in time to an era of valor, honor, and conquest.

But beyond its theatrical splendor, the Moors and Christians festival in Bocairent is a celebration of community spirit and cultural pride. It brings together residents of all ages and backgrounds, fostering a sense of unity and belonging that transcends differences and strengthens bonds.

As the sun sets over the rugged landscape of Bocairent, and the echoes of centuries-old traditions fill the air, the Moors and Christians festival serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of the past and the vibrant spirit of the present. It is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of culture to inspire, unite, and transform lives.

Some images from the Moros and Christians festival in Bocairent.

Saint Willibrord

Saint Willibrord's Travel Altar (8th century), Trier (Germany).

Saint Willibrord, also known as Willibrord of Utrecht, was a missionary and the first bishop of Utrecht in the Netherlands. Born in Northumbria (present-day England) around the year 658, he dedicated his life to spreading Christianity throughout the Frankish territories of present-day Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany.

In his early years, Willibrord received his education at the Abbey of Ripon in Northumbria. Inspired by the missionary zeal of Saint Egbert, he embarked on a journey to Frisia (present-day Netherlands) in 690 with a group of companions to evangelize the pagan tribes of the region. Willibrord and his fellow missionaries faced numerous challenges and opposition, but through their perseverance and dedication, they succeeded in establishing churches and converting many to Christianity.

One of the key places Willibrord visited was the city of Utrecht, where he founded a church and was eventually consecrated as its bishop in 695. From Utrecht, Willibrord continued his missionary work, traveling extensively throughout the Low Countries and along the Rhine River into what is now Germany. He founded monasteries, established dioceses, and baptized thousands of converts, earning him the title "Apostle to the Frisians."

Willibrord's travels took him to various regions, from Frisia to Bavaria, where he encountered diverse cultures and languages. His mission to spread the Christian faith required him to be constantly on the move, preaching and ministering to communities far and wide.

Given the nature of his missionary work and the need for mobility, it is expected that Saint Willibrord would have had a travel altar. A travel altar would have allowed him to celebrate Mass and perform religious rites while on his journeys, ensuring that he could fulfill his duties as a bishop and spread the Gospel effectively, regardless of where his travels took him

Bishop Lindanus

Wilhelmus Damasi Lindanus, born as Willem Damaszoon van der Lindt in Dordrecht in 1525 and passing away in Ghent in 1588, led a remarkable life as a bishop and inquisitor during a tumultuous period in European history. His life was deeply intertwined with significant events.

Lindanus began his ecclesiastical career as the first bishop of Roermond, appointed by Philip II of Spain, in 1561. However, his tenure faced challenges, including resistance from the city of Roermond and opposition from the States of Gelderland. Despite these obstacles, Lindanus persisted in his efforts to enforce Catholic orthodoxy and combat the spread of Protestantism, which was gaining ground in the region.

During the early years of the Dutch Revolt, Roermond witnessed violent hostilities, such as the murder of 13 Catholic clergy, known as the Martyrs of Roermond, by the troops of William of Orange in 1572. Lindanus navigated through these turbulent times, continuing his Counter-Reformation activities while facing the threats posed by the political and military upheavals of the period.

Lindanus's role as an inquisitor was particularly significant, as he was tasked with combating heresy and enforcing religious conformity. His actions as a "heretic master" in Friesland showcased his commitment to defending Catholic doctrine against the rising tide of Protestantism. Lindanus's strict enforcement of church discipline and his defense of Catholic orthodoxy contributed to the deepening divide between Catholics and Protestants in the Netherlands.

Despite the challenges he faced in Roermond, Lindanus's influence extended beyond the confines of his diocese. His appointment as bishop of Ghent in 1587 marked a new chapter in his career, where he continued his efforts to uphold Catholicism in the face of religious dissent.

Throughout his life, Lindanus remained dedicated to his episcopal duties and his role as an inquisitor, steadfastly defending the Catholic faith against its adversaries. His legacy is one of unwavering commitment to his beliefs and his unwavering defense of the Catholic Church during a time of profound religious and political turmoil in the Netherlands.

Members of the van der Lindt family, with Bishop Lindanus kneeling at the right of the painting. (ca. 1570)

Sef, my walking pal

Sef

Sacra Capilla del Salvador, Úbeda (Spain)

Sacra Capilla del Salvador, Úbeda (Spain)

In the heart of Úbeda, Spain, the Sacra Capilla del Salvador stands as a Renaissance masterpiece. Built in the 16th century, this chapel commissioned by Francisco de los Cobos boasts an elegant facade blending Gothic and Renaissance styles. Inside, visitors are awed by exquisite altarpieces and frescoes, including El Greco's renowned Transfiguration of Christ. A testament to both religious devotion and architectural brilliance, this chapel invites reflection on Úbeda's cultural heritage and the enduring legacy of Renaissance art in Spain.

The interior of the Sacra Capilla del Salvador in Úbeda (Spain)

The Saint Servatius procession (Maastricht, The Netherlands)

Saint Servatius’ reliquary in the streets of Maastricht.

Saint Servatius, also known as Sint Servaas in Dutch, holds a revered place in the history and religious tradition of the Netherlands, particularly in the city of Maastricht. As the earliest bishops of Maastricht in the 4th century, Saint Servatius played a pivotal role in spreading Christianity throughout the region and establishing Maastricht as a center of religious significance.

Born in the 4th century in present-day Armenia, Saint Servatius embarked on a missionary journey that ultimately led him to the Roman settlement of Maastricht. Here, he served as the city's first bishop and became renowned for his piety, wisdom, and miraculous deeds.

The Saint Servaas procession, a centuries-old tradition, pays homage to the life and legacy of Saint Servatius. Held annually in Maastricht in May, this solemn procession draws pilgrims and spectators from far and wide to witness the elaborate pageantry and religious fervor that characterize the event.

During the procession, the relics of Saint Servatius, housed in the magnificent Basilica of Saint Servatius, are carried through the streets of Maastricht in a ceremonial procession. Accompanied by clergy, worshippers, and musicians, the relics are venerated by the faithful as they pass by, invoking the intercession of Saint Servatius for blessings and protection.

Above: A glimpse into the 2024 Saint Servatius procession in Maastricht (May 19, 2024).

Jeanne d'Arc - Joan of Arc

Jeanne d’Arc on horseback, Vaucouleurs.

Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc; 1412 - 1431) was born in Domrémy, France, in 1412. She emerged as a pivotal figure during the Hundred Years' War between France and England. Jeanne was raised in a devout Catholic family and from a young age, she claimed to experience divine visions and heard voices urging her to support the French crown and expel the English from France.

In 1429, at the age of just 17, Jeanne convinced Charles VII, the uncrowned Dauphin of France, to allow her to lead a French army to break the Siege of Orléans. She wielded considerable influence over military strategies and inspired the troops with her fervor and faith. Under her guidance, the French forces achieved a series of crucial victories, including the liberation of Orléans, which marked a turning point in the war.

Jeanne's military successes continued, and she played a key role in securing Charles VII's coronation at Reims in 1429, cementing his legitimacy as the rightful king of France. However, her fortunes changed when she was captured by the Burgundians, allies of the English, in 1430. She was subsequently handed over to the English and subjected to a politically motivated trial led by ecclesiastical authorities. In 1431, at the age of 19, Jeanne was unjustly convicted of heresy and burned at the stake in Rouen.

Despite her tragic end, Jeanne d'Arc's legacy endured. In 1456, she was posthumously declared innocent by an inquisitorial court, and in 1920, she was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church. Jeanne's bravery, conviction, and unwavering commitment to her visions made her a symbol of French unity and resistance against foreign oppression. She remains an enduring icon in French history, revered for her courage and determination in the face of adversity, and her importance to France as a national heroine cannot be overstated.

A postcard representing Jeanne d’Arc’s birth house and the church where she was baptized in Domrémy-la-Pucelle.

Remembering Roermond's city fire from 1665

The 2024 City Procession arriving at the ‘Kapel in 't Zand’.

The city fire of Roermond on May 31, 1665, started when a marksman participating in a procession fired into the air. The glowing bullet landed on a thatched roof, and the wind spread the fire. Three-quarters of the houses in the city went up in flames.

The population of the city, led by the bishop, went to the ‘Kapel in 't Zand’, just outside the city, to pray to Saint Mary. Joanna van Randenraedt, a devout unmarried woman, chose to stay in the city. She was known as a semi-saint, who had visions and predicted the future. Joanna threw a small statue of Mary from the Franciscan church into the fire. After that, the fire went out - no, it was thought that it was extinguished because of that.

Since then, every year in May, the City Procession travels from the Munsterplein to the ‘Kapel in 't Zand’. The city procession is also called the Candle Procession, because candles of the patron saints of all the water wells are carried and donated to the parish of ‘Kapel in 't Zand’. All this to thank Mary and the parish for all the help provided.

Story based on Verwoestende branden by the City Archives of Roermond.

Louis Mendes

Louis Mendes, 2012, New York (USA).

A portrait of the photographer Louis Mendes (1940) I made in 2012. Louis Mendes is probably the last photographer in the world that earns a living shooting portraits with the legendary 4x5 inch Crown Graphic. He takes portraits of all kinds of people on the streets in New York and New Orleans. His vintage camera makes that he stands out from the crowd. People with digital cameras are humbled by the sheer size of the Crown Graphic. When I asked him if I could take his portrait, he reminded me of the constraint he regards: “You’ve got one shot.” In the analogue world, working with a Crown Graphic loaded with instant film, that is the only thing that makes economic sense. You have to do it with one shot. So I took one picture of him and likewise he made one picture of me and my wife.

My wife and I in 2012, by Louis Mendes.

The London Tube

The London Underground, affectionately known as the Tube, stands as a pioneering icon of urban transportation, with a rich history dating back over 150 years. Born from the pressing need to alleviate the congestion of London's bustling streets during the 19th century, the Underground represents a triumph of engineering and innovation.

In 1863, the Metropolitan Railway, the world's first underground railway, opened its doors, ushering in a new era of subterranean travel. Its steam-powered trains ferried passengers along a stretch of track between Paddington and Farringdon, providing a swift and efficient alternative to horse-drawn carriages above ground.

Over the decades that followed, the Underground network expanded rapidly, with new lines and stations sprouting across the city like arteries in a living organism. Electric traction replaced steam, allowing for faster, cleaner, and more reliable service, while visionary architects and designers left their mark on the system's iconic stations, blending function with elegance in their distinctive architectural styles.

The Underground played a crucial role in shaping London's growth and development, facilitating the movement of people and goods and fostering the city's expansion into the sprawling metropolis it is today. It also bore witness to the trials and tribulations of wartime, serving as a vital lifeline during both World Wars and enduring the challenges of bombings and blackout periods with resilience and fortitude.

In the modern era, the London Underground continues to evolve, embracing technological advancements and innovations to meet the changing needs of its millions of passengers. From the iconic roundel symbol to the distinctive map designed by Harry Beck, the Tube remains an enduring symbol of London's identity and a testament to the ingenuity of human engineering.

Porta Nigra, Trier (Germany)

Porta Nigra, Trier.

The Porta Nigra, located in Trier, Germany, stands as a testament to the city's rich history and Roman legacy. Built between 186 and 200 AD during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius, it served as one of the four city gates of ancient Augusta Treverorum, the Roman name for Trier.

Originally named Porta Martis, meaning "Gate of Mars," the Porta Nigra was constructed using large sandstone blocks without mortar, a technique characteristic of Roman architecture. Its name was changed to Porta Nigra, or "Black Gate," in the Middle Ages due to the darkened color of its stone over time.

Throughout its existence, the Porta Nigra has witnessed significant events. In the 5th century, Trier fell under Frankish rule, and the gate was converted into a church dedicated to Saint Simeon. During this time, its distinctive upper stories were added, transforming it into a basilica.

In subsequent centuries, the Porta Nigra underwent further transformations. It served as a fortress, a monastery, and a barracks. However, by the 11th century, it had fallen into disuse and was gradually buried by layers of soil and debris.

In the 19th century, the Prussian government undertook efforts to restore the Porta Nigra to its former glory. The surrounding structures were demolished, and the gate was uncovered and meticulously restored to its original Roman appearance.

Today, the Porta Nigra stands as an iconic symbol of Trier's Roman past and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors from around the world marvel at its imposing presence and architectural significance, making it one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region.

The British Museum, London

The British Museum stands as a monumental repository of human heritage, boasting a comprehensive and diverse array of artifacts from across the globe. This vast collection, spanning continents, epochs, and cultures, serves as a testament to centuries of exploration, scholarship, and cultural interchange.

You can find in the museum objects from ancient Egypt, Sudan, Greece, Rome, the Middle-East, Asia, Africa, etc.. The objects were acquired with multifaceted intentions, reflecting the intellectual, imperial, and philanthropic motivations of their collectors. Rooted in the Enlightenment ideals of understanding and cataloging the world's diversity, acquisitions were driven by a deep-seated curiosity about humanity's past.

Central to the museum's formation is the Age of Enlightenment, characterized by an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a quest to unravel the complexities of human civilization. Scholars and explorers embarked on expeditions to unearth the material remnants of ancient cultures, viewing artifacts as gateways to understanding the origins and development of humanity.

The global expanse of the British Empire played a pivotal role in shaping the museum's collections, as encounters with diverse cultures during colonial expansion led to the acquisition of artifacts from distant corners of the world. These acquisitions not only served as symbols of imperial power but also fueled the emergence of anthropology and archaeology as scholarly disciplines.

Private collectors, including wealthy individuals, scholars, and adventurers, contributed significantly to the museum's holdings. Their amassed treasures, gathered during travels and often motivated by a desire for preservation or scholarly advancement, enriched the museum's collection and broadened its scope.

Ultimately, the objects within the British Museum were amassed with the overarching goal of preserving the material culture of humanity, fostering scholarly inquiry, and promoting cross-cultural understanding. Today, the museum stands as a global beacon of enlightenment, offering insight into the rich tapestry of world civilizations and their enduring legacies.

Saint Hyppolytus church in Middelstum (The Netherlands)

Interior of the Saint Hyppolytus church in Middelstum (15th century).

The Sint-Hippolytuskerk, located in Middelstum, Groningen, Netherlands, is a historic church with origins dating back to the 12th century. Originally constructed in Romanesque style, the church underwent significant renovations and expansions over the centuries, evolving into the Gothic-style structure seen today.

The church is dedicated to Saint Hippolytus, a third-century martyr and one of the earliest antipopes in Christian history. It served as a focal point for religious and community life in Middelstum, hosting worship services, weddings, and other ceremonies for centuries.

Op it Wad (in Frisian)

View on Ameland and Schiermonnikoog from Holwerd.

Op it Wad, dêr't it ljocht en 'e skyming spylje,
Dêr't de wolkens dûnsje, de sinne har wylje.
It brûzen fan 'e see, it rûzjen fan 'e wyn,
Op it Wad, dêr't de natuer yn harmonije fyn.

De fûgels, swalkjend oer it wetter sa wiet,
Se fljochtmeitsje en sjonge, harren liet ferriedt.
Op it Wad, dêr't se frij binne yn 'e loft,
Har skiednis en takomst, yn 'e wyn ferknoft.

O Wad, dyn skientme is in eare wurdich,
Dyn libben, dyn ljocht, dyn see, sa ryk en suver.
Fryslân syn skat, syn Waad, sa wûnderlik en wreed,
Op it Wad, dêr't it libben syn hert en siel fermeitsje mei.

Wierum (The Netherlands)

Tsjerkestrjitte with view on the Maria church, Wierum,13th century.

Nestled on the eastern edge of the Wadden Sea in Friesland, The Netherlands, Wierum is a charming Dutch village steeped in centuries of history. Its quaint streets, adorned with traditional architecture and colorful cottages, offer a glimpse into rural life. Fishing has long been integral to Wierum's culture, while its proximity to the Wadden Sea National Park invites exploration of tidal flats and diverse wildlife. Whether enjoying serene walks or indulging in fresh seafood, Wierum promises an authentic Dutch experience amidst its idyllic surroundings.

Church of San Martín (Frómista, Spain)

In Frómista's heart, a timeless tale unfolds,
Where French Way's pilgrims wander, young and old.
Since twelfth century's dawn, it stands in pride,
In Calixtino Codex, its name doth abide.

From humble monastery, Frómista's soul arose,
Born of Sancho's widow, in tranquil repose.
A beacon of faith, in Castilla's embrace,
San Martín's legacy, a sacred grace.

For decades, craftsmen toiled with care,
Building Romanesque beauty, beyond compare.
In nineteen hundred's dawn, a restoration divine,
Preserved its splendor, for all time.

San Martín de Frómista, a jewel of old,
With walls that whisper tales, untold.
In its hallowed halls, echoes of the past,
Speak of pilgrims' journeys, that forever last.

Oh, San Martín, your beauty transcends,
A testament to faith, that never ends.
From humble beginnings, to grandeur untold,
In Fromista's heart, your story unfolds.

So let us raise our voices high,
In praise of San Martín, reaching the sky.
For in its walls, history's echo rings,
A timeless tribute, to sacred things.

King Dagobert's Tomb in the Basilica of Saint-Denis (France)

King Dagobert I’s tomb at the Basilica of Saint Denis.

Dagobert I (c. 603/605 – 19 January 639) reigned as King of the Franks and is recognized as the final ruler of the Merovingian dynasty to exercise genuine royal authority. Notably, Dagobert became the inaugural Frankish monarch interred within the regal sepulchers at the Basilica of Saint-Denis.

His tomb exhibits a depiction of the king reclining on his side at the monument's base, accompanied by his wife Mathilde positioned to the left and his son Clovis II to the right. Intricately carved narratives on the tomb recount the vision of the hermit John. Following Dagobert's passing, his soul encounters a harrowing journey to Hell, depicted with demons ferrying it away, attributed to his contentious practice of appropriating church properties. However, in an upper panel, the benevolent intervention of Saint Denis, Saint Martin, and Saint Maurice intervenes, wresting Dagobert's soul from the clutches of demons and ushering it to Heavenly bliss, where it gains admission to Paradise.

Beguinages in the Low Countries

Beguinage St Elisabeth of Courtrai/Kortrijk

Beguinages were enclosed communities primarily found in the Low Countries, particularly in Belgium and the Netherlands, where devout laywomen known as Beguines lived together in a quasi-monastic environment. Established in the 13th century, these communities provided women with a religious and communal lifestyle akin to convents but without the formal vows. The Beguines devoted themselves to prayer, simple living, and charitable work.

Despite their religious devotion, Beguines often faced persecution, largely due to their independence and refusal to submit to male authority. This independence threatened the established religious and social norms of the time. Additionally, their rejection of traditional gender roles and their communal living arrangements raised suspicions among ecclesiastical and secular authorities.

Over time, the Beguine movement declined, partly due to this persecution and changing societal attitudes. However, some beguinages still exist today as historical sites or residences for elderly women, serving as a reminder of the rich history and challenges faced by these unique communities.

Clemence Louise Hiers, (August 28, 1819 - December 22, 1899) was a Belgian Beguine from the Beguinage of Courtrai/Kortrijk.

Charolais

In pastures wide, where sunsets glow,
Charolais grazes, a majestic show.
Coat of ivory, a canvas divine,
Strength and grace in every line.

Horns that reach for skies so blue,
Guardian of fields, oh noble Charolais, we honor you.

Museumnacht Maastricht (The Netherlands) #1

"Museumnacht Maastricht" is an annual event held in the city of Maastricht, Netherlands, where museums and cultural institutions open their doors to the public for a night of exploration, entertainment, and celebration. The event typically takes place in the evening and extends into the early hours of the morning, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience the city's vibrant cultural scene in a dynamic and immersive way.

Museumnacht Maastricht attracts a diverse audience, including local residents, tourists, students, families, and art enthusiasts of all ages. The event fosters a sense of community and appreciation for the arts, while also showcasing the rich cultural diversity and creativity of Maastricht.

https://museumnachtmaastricht.nl/