Charles III of Navarre (1361 – 1425) and Eleanor of Castile (1363 – 1415), a powerful royal duo, are eternally united in the grand tomb within Pamplona Cathedral. Their shared final resting place symbolizes the intertwining of their lives and the significant roles they played in shaping the history of Navarre and Castile. Charles, known as "the Noble," focused on diplomacy and internal stability, while Eleanor, a Castilian princess, brought strategic alliances and cultural influence to Navarre. Together, they fostered a period of prosperity and left an enduring legacy, commemorated in the majestic tomb that stands as a testament to their historical importance.
Alsace's Culinary Delights
A shopwindow with Alsatian specialties in Ribeauville (France).
The Alsace region in northeastern France is renowned for its rich culinary heritage, blending French and German influences to create a unique and flavorful cuisine. Known for hearty dishes and exquisite wines, Alsace offers a wide array of delicacies that reflect its diverse history and deep-rooted gastronomic traditions.
One of the most famous Alsatian specialties is choucroute garnie, a dish of fermented cabbage (sauerkraut) typically served with a variety of meats such as sausages, pork knuckles, and bacon. Another iconic dish is flammekueche (or tarte flambée), a thin, crispy flatbread topped with crème fraîche, onions, and lardons, resembling a pizza.
Alsace is also celebrated for its foie gras, a delicacy made from the liver of a fattened duck or goose, which is often served as a luxurious appetizer. Baeckeoffe, a hearty casserole of marinated meats (pork, beef, and lamb) slow-cooked with potatoes, onions, and white wine, is another traditional dish that showcases the region's love for comforting, slow-cooked meals.
Alsace’s wines, particularly Riesling and Gewürztraminer, pair perfectly with these regional dishes, adding a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of the cuisine. From savory meats to delicate pastries like the spiced pain d’épices (gingerbread), Alsace’s delicacies offer a taste of the region’s history and traditions, making it a gastronomic treasure of France.
Ommelebommelstién (Urk, The Netherlands)
De Vroemoêr (The Midwife), by Piet Brouwer.
About 70 meters from the shore of Urk lies a massive boulder in the IJsselmeer. This boulder was transported from Scandinavia to Urk during the Ice Age. The stone holds significant importance for the people of Urk. According to legend, Urk children do not arrive by stork; instead, they come from this 'Ommelebommelstién'.
When a child is about to be born, an expectant father must row out to the stone and, upon payment, receive his child there. The legend adds a whimsical detail: boys are twice as expensive as girls. This charming tale is deeply ingrained in local folklore and highlights the unique cultural heritage of Urk. The ‘Ommelebommelstién’ serves as a symbol of the town's connection to its past and the enduring nature of its traditions.
Heiliger Sand (Worms, Germany)
Heiliger Sand (Worms).
The Jewish Cemetery in Worms, known as Heiliger Sand, is one of the oldest in Europe, dating back to the 11th century. It stands as a testament to the long and rich history of the Jewish community in Worms, which flourished from medieval times until its tragic destruction during the Holocaust. Worms was an important center of Jewish scholarship, particularly during the Middle Ages, attracting prominent rabbis and scholars, such as Rabbi Shlomo Yitzhaki (Rashi), who studied there. The cemetery contains graves from the 11th to the 20th centuries, including those of notable Jewish figures, and remains a symbol of Jewish cultural and religious resilience in Germany.
The Jewish community in Worms played a significant role in European Jewish life, with contributions to religious scholarship and trade. Despite facing repeated violence, e.g. during the Rhineland massacres (11th century), the community persisted for centuries, leaving behind a profound cultural legacy, now commemorated through sites like the cemetery and the Worms Synagogue.
The Legend of Maria Magdalena's journey to France
A triptych depicting the legend of Maria Magdalena. (15th century, Saint Leonard Church, Zoutleeuw)
The legend of Maria Magdalena's journey to France is a tale deeply entrenched in Christian tradition and folklore. According to this legend, after the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ, Maria Magdalena, along with her brother Lazarus, sister Martha, and other followers of Jesus, faced persecution in Judea.
Fleeing from the hostility of their adversaries, Maria Magdalena, Lazarus, Martha, and a group of companions, including Maximinus and Cedonius, were placed aboard a ship without a pilot. The intention was to cast them adrift at sea, with the expectation that they would perish. However, through what was believed to be the intervention of God, the ship miraculously arrived on the shores of Marseille, France.
Upon their arrival in Marseille, they found no welcome from the locals, so they took refuge in a portico near a pagan temple. Despite the inhospitable reception, Maria Magdalena boldly began preaching the Gospel, urging the people to turn away from idolatry and embrace Christianity. Her eloquence, beauty, and devotion to Christ captivated the crowds, drawing many to the Christian faith.
One notable encounter occurred when the governor and his wife sought to make offerings to pagan gods in hopes of conceiving a child. Maria Magdalena dissuaded them from their intentions, preaching to them about the one true God. Her prayers for the governor's wife to conceive were answered, further cementing her reputation as a holy figure.
However, the governor's reluctance to heed her warnings and aid the needy provoked a divine warning. Maria Magdalena appeared to the governor and his wife in a series of vivid dreams, chastising them for their indifference to the suffering of others. Fearing the wrath of God, they relented and provided assistance to Maria Magdalena and her companions.
The legend continues as Maria Magdalena and her followers embarked on a mission to spread Christianity throughout France. They traveled to various regions, performing miracles and converting multitudes to the Christian faith. Eventually, they settled in Aix, where Lazarus became the bishop of the city and Maximinus a bishop as well.
In her final years, Maria Magdalena withdrew to a remote location, where she spent thirty years in solitude, yearning for spiritual communion with God. Her legacy as a devoted follower of Christ and a powerful evangelist endured, shaping the early Christian community in France and inspiring countless believers throughout the centuries.
Les Compagnons du Devoir et du Tour de France
Students from Les Compagnons du Devoir et du Tour de France (Metz, 2024)
Les Compagnons du Devoir et du Tour de France is a renowned French organization focused on training craftsmen through a tradition of apprenticeship and mobility. The association allows young men and women to learn trades such as carpentry, masonry, leatherwork, and baking while traveling across France and internationally. It promotes values like solidarity and skill-sharing, vital to French cultural heritage. Since 2010, the guild has been included in the UNESCO register of intangible cultural heritage.
During our visit to Metz, we met students from this institute who were mastering diverse crafts, representing the living legacy of France's artisanal history.
For more, visit their website (Les Compagnons du Devoir).
Pret a Manger
Pret a Manger, South Kensington, London.
Pret a Manger, translated as "ready to eat" in French, is a sandwich shop franchise headquartered in London, United Kingdom, founded in 1983. Widely known as Pret, the chain has gained popularity both domestically and internationally. Pret has 697 locations worldwide, with a significant presence of 498 stores in the UK and 62 in the US. It also has establishments in France, Hong Kong, India, Switzerland, and eleven other countries.
Basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo (Spain)
The Basilica of San Martiño de Mondoñedo, located in Galicia in Spain, holds a significant place in Spanish history as one of the oldest cathedrals in the country. Its origins date back to the 9th century when it served as the seat of two bishops from the Kingdom of Galicia, one transferred from Dumio in the district of Braga, Portugal, and the other from Bretoña in the province of Lugo.
Constructed in the late 11th century in the Romanesque style, with robust buttresses added in the 18th century, the basilica has been recognized as a Cultural Heritage site since 1931 and attained the status of a minor basilica in 2007. The basilica is also home to the A Zapata fountain, where legend has it that Bishop San Gonzalo miraculously caused water to spring forth by throwing his shoe.
The history of the church traces back to the 6th century when a group of Christians fleeing Anglo-Saxon invaders settled in Galicia and established a bishopric in Bretoña. Later, in 866, the bishopric of Dumio relocated to the site of the basilica due to Moorish conquests, eventually evolving into San Martín de Mondoñedo. However, Viking raids in the mid-9th century led to the destruction of Bretoña, prompting the bishopric to move once again, this time permanently to Mondoñedo.
The basilica was home to several notable bishops, including Saint Rosendo and Bishop Gonzalo, revered for his purported miraculous interventions. In 1112, Queen Urraca ordered the transfer of the episcopal see to Vilamaior do Val de Brea, later renamed Mondoñedo, leading to the basilica's transformation into a priory affiliated with the Mondoñedo Cathedral. This measure, enacted by Pope Clement VII in 1534, aimed to curb abuses by prior commendators and ensure proper governance of the monastery. Today, the basilica stands as a testament to the enduring faith and architectural heritage of the region, inviting visitors to explore its rich history and cultural significance.
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam (The Netherlands)
The Rijksmuseum stands as an iconic monument to the rich cultural heritage of the Netherlands, a treasure trove of art and history nestled in the heart of Amsterdam. With its imposing facade and sprawling galleries, it serves as a beacon for art enthusiasts, historians, and curious visitors alike, inviting them to embark on a journey through centuries of Dutch artistic expression and cultural evolution.
Established in 1800 in The Hague, the Rijksmuseum moved to its current location in Amsterdam in 1885, where it continues to captivate and inspire millions of visitors each year. Its vast collection spans over 8,000 objects, showcasing masterpieces by renowned Dutch artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh, alongside a diverse array of artifacts, including historical costumes, Delftware, and intricate models of Dutch ships.
El Cid
El Cid’s statue in Burgos (Spain).
El Cid, born Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar around 1043 in Vivar, near Burgos, Spain, is one of the most celebrated figures in Spanish history. Known as both a revered hero and a skilled military leader, El Cid's life and legacy have been immortalized in legend and literature, most notably in the epic poem "El Cantar de Mio Cid."
Rodrigo Díaz was born into a noble Castilian family and rose to prominence as a knight under King Ferdinand I of León and Castile. His nickname, "El Cid," is derived from the Arabic title "Al-Sayyid," meaning "The Lord," reflecting the respect he commanded from both Christian and Muslim soldiers. His military prowess became evident as he fought in various campaigns, earning the trust of King Sancho II of Castile, under whom he served as a chief general.
El Cid's career, however, was marked by both triumphs and conflicts. After King Sancho's assassination, Rodrigo found himself at odds with King Alfonso VI, Sancho's brother and successor. This led to his temporary exile, during which El Cid offered his military services as a mercenary to various Muslim and Christian rulers, further enhancing his reputation as a formidable and independent warrior.
His most famous achievements came during his later years, when he captured the city of Valencia in 1094, ruling it as an independent lord until his death in 1099. El Cid's governance of Valencia was marked by a degree of tolerance and cooperation between Christians and Muslims, a reflection of the complex and multicultural society of medieval Spain.
El Cid's legacy endures as a symbol of Spanish chivalry, honor, and military skill. His life has inspired countless works of art, literature, and folklore, making him a national icon whose influence resonates even centuries after his death.
Amsterdam Gay Pride 2013
The Amsterdam Gay Pride, an annual celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and rights, has become one of the world's largest Pride events, drawing thousands of visitors to Amsterdam each summer. Originating in the 1970s with grassroots demonstrations, it has evolved into a showcase of diversity and inclusion. Featuring parades, parties, and educational initiatives, the Pride celebration highlights LGBTQ+ identity and promotes unity. At its core is the Canal Parade, symbolizing acceptance and empowerment. Serving as a platform for activism, the event addresses issues of rights and discrimination.
Mérida: A Pillar of Roman Hispania
The ‘Teatro Romano’ of Mérida.
Mérida, known as Emerita Augusta during Roman times, stands as a remarkable testament to the grandeur and sophistication of Roman civilization in Hispania. Founded in 25 BC by Emperor Augustus, Mérida quickly became one of the most important cities in the Roman Empire, serving as the capital of the province of Lusitania. Its strategic location and the wealth of monumental architecture left behind highlight the city's historical significance and its role as a cultural and administrative hub.
Importance of Mérida in Roman Times: Mérida was established as a retirement settlement for veteran soldiers of the legions that had fought in the Cantabrian Wars, symbolizing peace and stability. Its design followed the classic Roman city layout, featuring a forum, temples, aqueducts, and an extensive road network that connected it to other major cities. Mérida's prosperity was further augmented by its fertile surrounding lands and its position as a key trading and administrative center. The city boasted numerous public buildings and structures that underscored its prominence, including the magnificent Teatro Romano.
The Roman Theatre of Mérida is one of the most splendid and well-preserved examples of Roman architecture in Spain. Built between 16 and 15 BC under the patronage of Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, a close friend and son-in-law of Emperor Augustus, the theatre could accommodate up to 6,000 spectators. It served as a central venue for the performance of classical plays, showcasing the rich cultural life of the city.
The theatre's design exemplifies Roman engineering prowess, featuring a semicircular seating arrangement (cavea) that ensured excellent acoustics, a richly decorated stage front (scaenae frons) with elaborate columns, statues, and friezes, and a large, ornate stage building that provided a stunning backdrop for performances. The theatre's enduring legacy is evident in its continued use today for the annual Mérida Classical Theatre Festival, which brings ancient dramas to life in a setting that has captivated audiences for over two millennia.
The prominence of Mérida during Roman times and the enduring legacy of the Teatro Romano highlight the city's pivotal role in the cultural and political life of the Roman Empire. These historical treasures continue to draw visitors from around the world, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Rome and the enduring power of its architectural and cultural achievements.
Lotería Nacional, Spain
In Spain, lotteries are deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric, with a rich history dating back to the early 19th century. The most iconic lottery in Spain is the "Lotería Nacional" (National Lottery), established in 1812. It's renowned for its annual Christmas draw, "El Gordo" (The Fat One), which is one of the world's largest and most anticipated lottery events.
Participating in lotteries is a widely accepted social activity in Spain, transcending socioeconomic boundaries. Families, friends, and coworkers often pool money to purchase tickets together, fostering a sense of communal excitement and camaraderie. It's common for Spaniards to gift lottery tickets during holidays and special occasions, as they are seen as symbols of luck and prosperity.
Beyond the National Lottery, Spain also hosts numerous regional and charity lotteries, each with its own unique traditions and draws. These lotteries not only provide entertainment and the chance to win substantial prizes but also contribute significantly to social causes and public infrastructure through their revenue.
Overall, lotteries in Spain serve as more than just gambling opportunities; they serve as cultural touchstones, fostering connections within communities and embodying the hope for a brighter future.
Red-Face Manech
In Pyrenees' cradle, where the rivers sing, Roams the Red-Face Manech, in untamed spring. His coat, a blaze against the mountain's breast, In the rugged wilds, he finds his rest. With each hoof's beat, the earth it sighs, Echoes of ancient tales, 'neath azure skies. Amidst the heather and the whispering pines, His spirit roams where freedom twines. In valleys deep, where shadows dance, He strides with grace, in nature's trance. In the heart of Pyrenees, where dreams ascend, The Red-Face Manech, eternal friend.
Seven Rooms of Hospitality: Room for Asylum Seekers
Siah Armajani, Seven Rooms of Hospitality: Room for Asylum Seekers, 2017 — Seen at Tate Modern, Londen 2024.
On August 27, 2015, a tragic discovery shook the world as seventy-one refugees and migrants from Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan were found suffocated in the back of a truck abandoned on an Austrian motorway. Sealed within the airtight, refrigerated vehicle, they had perished during their 530-mile journey from Röszke, Hungary, to Munich. The truck, adorned with the logo of the Hyza meat company and images of neatly arranged sliced meat, presented a deceptive exterior of invitation, sharply contrasting with the horror concealed within: 60 men, eight women, and three children, all deceased.
This grim event finds a haunting echo in the art of Siah Armajani (1939), an Iranian-born American artist, whose recent series "Seven Rooms of Hospitality" includes a replica of the truck. Entitled "Room for Asylum Seekers" (2017), the miniature 3D-printed plastic model, measuring just over a foot long and about five inches tall, initially appears innocuous, even playful. However, upon reading the accompanying text—extracted from a newspaper headline—the reference to the harrowing episode becomes starkly apparent.
What a statement. What does this tell about us?
The Lapiths and the Centaurs
A Centaur fighting a Lapith, British Museum, London.
The story of the Lapiths and the Centaurs is a mythological tale from ancient Greek lore that serves as a metaphor for the struggle between civilization and barbarism, order and chaos.
According to legend, the Lapiths were a tribe of ancient Thessaly, ruled by King Pirithous. They were known for their noble and civilized ways. The Centaurs, on the other hand, were half-human, half-horse creatures, notoriously wild and unruly, often associated with drunkenness and violence.
The story begins with Pirithous's wedding to Hippodamia. During the wedding feast, the Centaurs, led by their king, Eurytion, become intoxicated and attempt to abduct the bride and other women present. Chaos erupts as the Centaurs wreak havoc, attacking guests and causing destruction.
In response, the Lapiths rise to defend their honor and guests. A fierce battle ensues between the Lapiths and the Centaurs, depicted as a struggle between civilization and savagery. The Lapiths ultimately emerge victorious, driving the Centaurs from their lands and restoring order to the wedding celebration.
The myth of the Lapiths and the Centaurs serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked passions and the importance of maintaining civility and order in society. It illustrates the Greek belief in the virtues of self-control, moderation, and the triumph of reason over primal instincts.
The Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco and the Church of San Miguel de Lillo: Architectural Marvels of the Asturian Kingdom
The church of San Miguel de Lillo.
Perched on the lush slopes of Monte Naranco, overlooking the city of Oviedo, stand two extraordinary monuments of early medieval architecture: the Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco and the Church of San Miguel de Lillo. Constructed during the reign of King Ramiro I in the mid-9th century, these structures offer profound insights into the cultural and political landscape of the Asturian Kingdom, a bastion of Christian resistance during the Reconquista.
Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco: Originally built in 848 AD as a royal palace for King Ramiro I, this building was later consecrated as a church. It reflects the Asturian Kingdom's response to the turmoil and cultural exchanges of the time. The structure's sophisticated design, featuring ribbed barrel vaults, grand arcades, and intricate relief sculptures, illustrates a period of relative stability and artistic flourishing. The architectural style combines elements of late Roman and Visigothic traditions with innovative Asturian features, highlighting a unique blend of influences during a time when the kingdom was consolidating its identity amidst external threats.
The church of San Miguel de Lillo: Situated nearby, this church also commissioned by King Ramiro I, served as a royal chapel. Despite being partially in ruins, San Miguel de Lillo retains its historical significance and showcases the architectural ingenuity of the era. The church's three-aisled basilica layout, adorned with horseshoe arches and intricate carvings, demonstrates the continuation and evolution of pre-Romanesque art forms. The detailed frescoes and sculptural work reveal a sophisticated understanding of religious iconography and artistic expression, reflecting the spiritual and cultural aspirations of the Asturian people.
Built during a period marked by both conflict and cultural synthesis, the Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco and the Church of San Miguel de Lillo stand as enduring symbols of the Asturian Kingdom's resilience and artistic achievements. These architectural marvels not only encapsulate the spirit of their time but also offer a timeless legacy of Spain's medieval heritage.
Iglesia de Santa María del Naranco.
Baeza (Spain)
The Santa María Fountain and the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin in Baeza.
In the heart of Andalusia, Spain, the historic town of Baeza exudes charm and elegance, offering visitors a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage and architectural splendor. Steeped in history dating back to Roman times, Baeza flourished during the Islamic era before becoming a prominent Christian stronghold in the Middle Ages.
At the heart of Baeza's cultural landscape stands the majestic Baeza Cathedral (Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin), a stunning example of Renaissance architecture that dominates the town's skyline. Built atop the site of a former mosque, the cathedral showcases intricate facades, soaring arches, and ornate chapels, embodying the town's religious and artistic legacy.
Adjacent to the cathedral lies the picturesque Santa María Fountain, a symbol of Baeza's enduring vitality and prosperity. Dating back to the 16th century, this beautifully crafted fountain features sculpted figures and intricate detailing, serving as a gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Together, the cathedral and the Santa María Fountain stand as iconic landmarks in Baeza, inviting travelers to explore their storied past and immerse themselves in the town's timeless beauty. Whether wandering through its winding streets, marveling at its architectural wonders, or savoring its rich culinary delights, Baeza offers a truly unforgettable experience steeped in history, culture, and tradition.
Laon (France)
Laon, situated in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France, has a rich and storied history dating back to ancient times. Founded by the Gauls, it later became an important Roman settlement known as Augusta Viromanduorum. However, Laon truly rose to prominence during the medieval period as a key political and religious center.
In the early Middle Ages, Laon became the capital of the powerful Carolingian dynasty under Charlemagne's rule. The city prospered as an important administrative, cultural, and economic hub. It was during this time that Laon Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, was constructed atop the city's imposing hill, dominating the skyline and symbolizing the city's importance.
Throughout the medieval period, Laon remained a significant player in the political landscape of France. It served as a royal residence and hosted several important ecclesiastical councils. The city was also a center of learning and scholarship, with its renowned cathedral school attracting students and scholars from far and wide.
In the 12th century, Laon became embroiled in the power struggles between the French monarchy and various noble families. The city witnessed numerous sieges and battles, including the famous Battle of Laon in 1112, which saw King Louis VI of France defeat an alliance of rebellious barons.
Despite its tumultuous history, Laon continued to thrive as a center of commerce and craftsmanship. Its textile industry, in particular, flourished, contributing to the city's prosperity.
During the Renaissance, Laon experienced a period of cultural and artistic renewal, with the cathedral and other historic buildings undergoing restoration and embellishment.
In the centuries that followed, Laon endured periods of decline and resurgence, but it remained an important regional center. Today, Laon retains much of its medieval charm, with its well-preserved old town, imposing ramparts, and stunning cathedral drawing visitors from around the world. The city's rich history and architectural heritage continue to captivate and inspire all who visit.
Introduction to Repair Cafés: Fostering Community and Sustainability through Collaborative Repair
Volunteers at the Repair Café Roermond.
Repair Cafés represent a global grassroots movement that marries sustainability with community engagement. These events, like the one held in Roermond, are free and open to everyone, offering a space where individuals can come together to repair broken items. The philosophy behind Repair Cafés is simple yet profound: rather than discarding and replacing, people are encouraged to repair and reuse, thereby reducing waste and promoting environmental stewardship.
At a Repair Café, participants bring in broken items from home—whether it's clothing, furniture, electrical appliances, bicycles, or toys—and work alongside skilled volunteers to fix them. These volunteers, who possess a wide range of repair knowledge and skills, provide guidance and support, transforming what might otherwise be a frustrating experience into an educational and rewarding one. The act of repair becomes a shared endeavor, with visitors learning new skills, gaining confidence in their ability to fix things, and contributing to the collective knowledge of the community.
Even those who arrive with nothing to repair find value in the experience. They can enjoy a cup of coffee or tea while observing the repair process, offer help to others, or simply gain inspiration from the books on DIY repair and crafting available at the reading table. The atmosphere at a Repair Café is one of collaboration and creativity, where the focus is not only on fixing items but also on building relationships and fostering a sense of community.
Repair Cafés are more than just places to mend broken objects; they are vibrant hubs of learning, sharing, and sustainability. They challenge the throwaway culture and emphasize the importance of resourcefulness, all while bringing people together in a spirit of cooperation and mutual support. Through these gatherings, Repair Cafés empower individuals to take an active role in reducing waste and preserving the environment, one repair at a time.
Some more volunteers at the Repair Café Roermond.
