#Petra from Egypt

[egyptonlinetours1]

Sharm El Sheikh Tour Package with Petra Tour

Sharm El Sheikh Tour Package with Petra Tour

With Sharm El Sheikh excursions, you can experience an unforgettable vacation in one of the most exciting cities in the world. Sharm El Sheikh is regarded as a beautiful and suitable site for relaxation. This city is well known for its wonderful locations at the top of the Sinai Peninsula, surrounded by deserts and mountains, making it one of the best tourist destinations in the world.

Explore the mysterious nature of the underwater world, immerse yourself in numerous amazing excursions like snorkelling and diving in the white, crystal-clear water of the Red Sea, enjoy going on safari trips through the breathtaking mountains of Sharm El Sheikh, and try our delicious Bedouin barbecue. All of these opportunities are included in the Sharm El Sheikh Tour Package with Petra Tour.

Consider taking an adventurous Petra tour from Sharm to experience the most fascinating sites in Jordan. Travel in remembrance with Petra Day Tour from Sharm. Discover Petra, one of the new seven wonders of the world, which gives you a memorable experience to experience the traditional lifestyle of people and enjoy relaxing and exciting activities in the beautiful desert. Get a magical experience to enter this hidden city through a long, narrow Siq, scout the amazing carved structures made by Human hands, get the chance to try horseback riding to the entrance of the canyon, and Camels are available for hire inside Petra.

Overview

Sharm El Sheikh Holiday Package includes Luxury Nile Cruise, Cairo Tours and Egypt to Petra Tour from Sharm El Sheikh to visit Petra Attractions.

Itinerary

Day 1) Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

Arrive at Sharm El Sheikh. Upon your arrival you will be met by our representative and then you will be transferred to your hotel for check in. free time to relax with a peaceful overnight stay in Sharm.

Day 2) Sharm El Sheikh / Giza Sightseeing Tours

Breakfast at your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh then you will be transferred to Sharm airport to fly to Cairo, where you will be met and assisted and then you will be accompanied by your English speaking guide and driver for a full day tour in Cairo to visit The Pyramids, Great Sphinx, The Alabaster status of Ramses II in Memphis, The Step Pyramid and tombs in Sakkara - with lunch and Shopping tour at Pyramids bazaars and papyrus institutes also included. Cairo overnight.

Day 3) Cairo Sightseeing Tours - Train to Aswan

After breakfast you will be escorted by your English speaking guide and driver for a full day tour in Cairo to visit the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, The Citadel of Saladin, Mohammed Ali Alabaster Mosque, The Coptic churches. Lunch meal during the tour. The tour includes a visit to Khan El Khalili famous Bazaars, from there you will be transferred to Giza train station to board your first class sleeper train to Aswan with dinner and overnight stay aboard train.

Day 4) Aswan / Nile Cruise Holiday

Breakfast aboard train before arriving Aswan and then you will be met and transferred to your Nile cruise boat in Aswan for embarkation with lunch. PM you will be accompanied by your Egyptologist guide for an amazing tour to visit the High Dam, the Granite Quarries and the Temple of Philae with Felucca sail on theNile to Kitchener Island and Elephantine Island in Aswan, afternoon tea with free time at leisure and overnight in Aswan on board the Nile Cruise.

Day 5) Kom Ombo / Edfu Tours

Sail to Kom Ombo with breakfast aboard theNile cruise boat and then you will visit the temple shared by two gods Sobek and Haeroris in Kom Ombo. Lunch on board and then sail to Edfu to visit Hours temple at Edfu. Afternoon tea while sailing to Luxor via Esna lock. Dinner and overnight stay in Luxor.

Day 6) Luxor sightseeing

Breakfast on board your Nile cruise ship. Later you will be accompanied by your guide and driver for a wonderful tour to visit East Bank of the Nile in Luxor to the Karnak temple and Luxor temple. You will be transferred back to the Nile cruise ship in Luxor for lunch, afternoon tea and dinner on board with overnight aboard the Nile cruise vessel in Luxor.

Day 7) Luxor Nile Cruise / Sharm El Sheikh beach holiday

Disembarkation after breakfast, and then you will be accompanied to visit the West Bank of the River Nile in Luxor to the Valley of the Kings, the temple of Queen Hatshipsut at El Deir EL Bahari and the Colossi of Memnon, then back to cruise for lunch break and then you will be transferred to Luxor airport for departure to Sharm, where you will be met and assisted and transferred to your hotel for check in with free time and overnight Sharm.

Day 8) Sharm - Tour Petra - Sharm

You will be met by our representative at your hotel inSharm El Sheikh and transferred by air-conditioned coach to Nuweiba Port to take the fast ferry to Aqaba Jordan, where you will be met by our representative who will assist you through immigration and then you will be accompanied by your tour guide and transferred by air-conditioned coach to Petra " Red Sea Rose" for a full day sightseeing tour of the ancient city comprises a complete urban infrastructure which includes temples, baths, private houses, high places, paved streets, public buildings, markets, theaters, reservoirs and cisterns. Its entrance, a one-kilometer long fissure through the towering cliffs, "The Siq", provides a dramatic approach and induction to the city. The narrow winding path through the canyon dramatically opens up to expose the awesome facade of the Elkhazneh, "the treasury", with lunch at specialty restaurant of international and local Jordanian cuisines then transferred back Aqaba port to to take the ferry boat to Nuweiba Port with direct transfer back to Sharm El Sheikh where you will be met and assisted and transferred to your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh.

Day 9) Sharm El Sheikh Holiday beach holiday

Breakfast at your hotel in Sharm with free time at leisure and overnight stay. Optional Safari Tour to Colored Canyon from Sharm El Sheikh one of the natural wonders of the Sinai, the Colored Canyon is awe-inspiring, take a walk in between dramatic sandstone canyon walls streaked with melting yellows, purples, reds, magentas and gold. In certain places the canyon walls reach up to 40 meters. You feel as if you are enclosed in a spectacular coloring book.

Day 10) Sharm - St. Catherine - Dahab - Sharm

Breakfast at your hotel in Sharm el sheikh and then you will be accompanied by your English speaking guide and driver for a wonderful day trip to St. Catherine monastery with shopping tour in Dahab and lunch then return to your hotel in sharm El Sheikh.

Day 11) Sharm El Sheikh Holiday beach holiday

Optional Excursions to Ras Mohammed National Park from Sharm El Sheikh. Ras Mohammed National Park is both a terrestrial and an aquatic nature reserve. The 480 square kilometre protected area lies where the Gulf of Suez meets the Gulf of Aqaba at Sinai's southern extremity. The arid desert terrain of sand dunes, gravel plains, fossilized corals and Granite Mountains is home to a number of rare mammal species: Dorcas gazelle, Nubian ibex and red fox. Easier to spot are the resident birds like terns, herons, gulls and ospreys. Thousands of white storks pass through Ras Mohammed each year, heading south during September/October and back north during April/May. About 85 flora species live in the park, including mangroves.

Day 12) Sharm El Sheikh - fly Home

Breakfast at your hotel in Sharm El Sheikh and then you will be transferred to Sharm El Sheikh airport to fly back home. ( End of Sharm holiday with Nile Cruise and Petra Tour )

For more info

info@egyptonlinetours.com

https://www.egyptonlinetours.com/

[worldtouradvicetravel]

Cairo holidays with Petra and Jordan Tour

Cairo holidays with Petra and Jordan Tour

Through Petra Tour, discover the top destinations for adventure tours. This adventure through Egypt and Jordan Packages reveals so much more than the sphinxes and tombs of Egypt. From Cairo, visit Amman and Petra, swim in the Red Sea, and take in incredible sightseeing in Cairo.

While in Egypt, walk like an emperor. Jordan World Tour Advice offers small group tours from Egypt to Jordan to see Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, and the most interesting sights in Jordan. Take a vacation through mystic sands, dangerous pyramids, and amazing Petra.

Allow yourself to be pampered with plenty of Jordan Tours that are designed to feast your eyes with the glory of Petra, Wadi Rum, as well as touch the sky while exploring Egypt and its amazing landmarks and more with Egypt Jordan Tours. With World Tour Advice, you can unleash your inner adventurer while exploring the gleaming finds of Egypt and Jordan in one package.

The numerous Jordan and Egypt tours that World Tour Advice offers include the Cairo Nile Cruise and Petra Tours, the Ancient Egypt and Petra Tours, and the Cairo and Sharm El Sheikh and Jordan Tours.

Day 1 Welcome to Cairo, Egypt -( Cairo and Petra Holiday ) 

Dear guest, welcome to Egypt, once your feet touch Cairo international airport, you will be most welcomed and appreciated by Worldtouradvice Tours Egypt team, don’t be worry at all about the procedures and your bags as our deputy will help you to pass it all smoothly, then you will be carried out to your hotel to overnight in Cairo. Overnight in Cairo.

Welcome Drink

Day 2 Giza pyramid and Saqqara complex tour in Cairo- ( Cairo and Petra Holiday )

Relish sunny shiny morning on the land of the Pharaohs, enjoy having your tasty yummy breakfast at your hotel, prepare yourself to meet your experienced Tour Guide and start  your tour to scout Giza Plateau to visit the Great Pyramids of Cheops, Chefren and Mykerinus - Stir tour to the mysterious Sphinx then to Valley Temple facing the great Sphinx. Optional tour to enter one of Giza pyramids or the Solar Boat Museum . visit Papyrus gallery, Now you will feel hungry, relish your lunch meal, then stir tour  to Saqqara complex, Kagemni mastaba, the Heb sed building and the step pyramid of king Zoser,return to hotel, at ight optional tour Sound and light show or Nile cruise including dinner and show, overnight in Cairo.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3: Cairo Tour (Egyptian Museum – Citadel – Khan El Khalili) ( Cairo and Petra Holiday )

Relish your breakfast in your hotel then meet your private tour guide to start a guided tour to visit  the Egyptian museum located in Tahrir square in Cairo downtown,  During the Egyptian museum tour you will discover the most interesting part in the Egyptian history, You will visit the gallery of the child king Tut Ankh Amon and his golden treasure including tha famous golden mask, your guide wll take you to other galleries belonging to Old, Middle and New kingdoms, history of more than 7000 years,

then enjoy lunch meal in a local restaurant either with a Nile view or a local one n the market ( It depend on you if You like early or late lunch ) ,Proceed tour to visit Saladin citadel ( El Qalaa ) and the White alabaster mosque, on your way to the citadel you will see the famous City of Dead in Cairo ( El Qarafa ), proceed trip to visit Old Cairo and the Crypt of the Holy christian family in Saint Sergius church, visit the most ancient Synagogue  of Bin Ezra, proceed tour to the old market Khan Khalili, walking tour in the old street Muizz street and back to hotel

Day 4: Fly from Cairo to Amman - Welcome in Jordan ( Cairo and Petra Holiday )

A yummy breakfast in hotel followed by meeting World tour advice representative, then you will be escorted to Cairo International Airport for your flight to Jordan to  Amman. Upon arrival at Queen Alia Airport in Amman, Worldtouradvice Representative will meet and assist you through the customs and immigration procedures. Transfer to the Hotel in Amman,Free time in Amman for overnight.

Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Madaba - Dead Sea Tour ( Cairo and Petra Holiday )

Relish a tasty breakfast drive to Mount Nebo, the place where Prophet Moses gazed at the promised land before he died, Mount Nebo is believed to be the tomb of Moses. It is a lonely, windswept hill. Protecting the ruins of a 4th and 6th Century church whose floor is still covered with marvelous mosaics, is a building constructed by the Franciscans who started excavating the site in 1933. During your tour to mount Nbo will visit the old Monastery and overlook the Jordan Valley, Stir your tours and drive to Madaba .  where you will find the famous for its curches and byzantine mosaic 6th century map of Palestine in St. George’s Church. Drive to the dead sea, famous for its useful salt and mud, free time for Dead sea, Proceed your tour and continue heading south, arrival to the rose city Petra, overnight at a hotel in Petra . The following morning we’ll begin our comprehensive tour of Petra which includes all of the highlights of the site

Overnight in Petra

Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Ancient City of Petra Tour - ( Cairo and Petra Holiday )

Yummy tasty breakfast ,meet your tour guide,  be ready to explore the Rose Red City of Petra, Jordan’s largest attraction. First started in the 6 th century B.C. by Nabataean Arabs the city boasts beautiful facades carved directly into the walls of the mountain sides. Arriving at the visitor’s center it’s a 700 meter walk to the Siq entrance which is an impressive 1200 meter long gorge of a kaleidoscope of colors the towers more than 80 meters above you. As you exit the chasm you’re instantly transfixed by the beauty of Petra, chosen as one of the New World Wonders, the place speaks for itself. After your time at Petra you make your way back through the Siq before returning to Amman.

Meals: Breakfast

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 7: Amman Day Tour

Relish your yummy breakfast, meet your tour guide to start a tour to explore Amman,Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a cutting edge city with various old vestiges. On Jabal al-Qala'a slope, the notable Citadel incorporates the mainstays of the Roman Temple of Hercules and the eighth century Umayyad Palace perplexing, known for its fantastic vault. Incorporated with an alternate downtown slope, the Roman Theater is a 6,000-limit, second century stone amphitheater offering infrequent occasions

Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 End of Cairo and Petra tours, Final departure

Relish breakfast n hotel in Amman, check out, you will be transferred to Queen Alia Airport for final departure.

Meals: Breakfast

Cairo and Petra tour Includes

Meet and welcome administration and return by our delegates at Airport(s) 

Help of our work force amid your stay, visits and trips 

Exchanges by private a/c new vehicle with English-talking colleague 

Convenience for 3 evenings in Cairo Hotel with breakfast 

Convenience for 3 evenings in Amman Jordan Hotel with breakfast 

Outing to Pyramids, Sphinx, Valley sanctuary, Sakkara and Memphis 

Outing to Egyptian Museum, Saladin Citadel and Old Cairo 

Outing in Petra significant sights as depicted above in schedule 

Short Horseback rides in Petra 

Trip to Mt. Nebo, Madaba and the Dead Sea in Jordan 

Lunch dinners amid visits in Giza/Cairo/Petra/Amman 

Filtered water on board vehicle amid Egypt visits 

Extra charges to the sights in Cairo/Giza/Petra/Amman in Jordan 

English-speaking Guide in Cairo and Giza in Egypt 

English-talking on the spot Guide in Petra around 3 hours 

English-talking aide in Madaba, Mt. Nebo and the Dead Sea 

Administration charges and assessments included all through the visits 

Free advance of cell phone charged against 30 min neighborhood calls/2 min. global calls

Cairo and Petra tour Excludes

- International flights

- Anything not mentioned

- Beverages or meals not mentioned

- Tipping kitty

Tipping ( Bakshish) is a customary attitude in Middle East for expressing ones satisfaction ones fulfillment of good administrators rendered to him by staff on obligation with him. We prompt on the off chance that you will offer it, this would be incredible and if not, you are not obliged to do it.

For more info

amanywaw@gmail.com

Website

Mobile and what’s App:

002 01090023837

[mammonscheeks]

demon brothers + dateables as destinations in the human world

✎ a/n: these are my opinions! i'm south and west asian, so i am most knowlegeable about those countries, please correct me if i've said anything incorrect!

LUCIFER

new york city, usa. he likes the cold, industrial corporate feel of nyc. it helps him avoid his feelings.

anywhere in germany. he likes their no-nonsense culture and unspoken social rules.

MAMMON

las vegas, nevada, usa. he always begs mc to take him there. the flashy lights and casinos are right up his alley.

dubai, uae. he loves the luxurious feel of it, and how its the center of celebrity gatherings, vacations, and parties.

LEVIATHAN

tokyo, japan (especially the akihabara/electronic district). he's always updated on pop culture and the newest technology/games.

seychelles island, africa. he likes swimming, but not socializing on the beach. that's why he likes isolated islands.

SATAN

london, england. he's interested in their medival history and seeing the places that inspired novels like harry potter and the sherlock holmes franchise.

cat island in japan, or any mediterranean country where cats freely roam.

ASMODEUS

paris, france. he'd love paris fashion week. he also just seems french to me, idk.

seoul, south korea. he'd adore seoul's culture, everything from the modern sappy kdramas to traditional dresses, like hanbok. he would bring an empty suitcase to stuff it with beauty products.

BEELZEBUB

mumbai, india. this metropolitan city in india offers so many different kinds of food. he would love to eat his way through the city, if not the entire country.

every city in mexico. he'd try the regional cuisine, but also hang out at the beach with his brothers and mc (so cute).

BELPHEGOR

cairo, egypt. he was once fascinated with humans, and often watched them build civilizations from heaven when he was an angel. he would enjoy the historical wonders of egypt.

reykjavic, iceland. idk why he just gives me iceland vibes. life there can be slow and cold, and it often gets less light than other countries.

DIAVOLO

transylvania, romania. he loves its breathtaking castles and culture, and is intrigued with all the pop culture references of vampires.

petra, jordan. this is a significant place in abrahamic religions, known for being haunted by demons, or jinn. diavolo would be fascinated by this history, whether its actually haunted or not. i know he'd eat up those scary ghost tours (insert fic about that here) and even probably try and scare a few tourist groups, despite barbatos advising him against it.

BARBATOS

istanbul, turkiye. istanbul has well-maintained structures from the byzantine empire, the ottoman empire, and even "newer and hip" neighborhoods. barbatos, being able to see the past and future, would appreciate the blend of it all here, like he's walking through time.

kathmandu, nepal. he'd enjoy the peace of monasteries and mountains, which are as old as the earth itself.

SIMEON

tuscany, italy. he'd enjoy the vast fields, heavenly sunsets, small towns and historic churches. he would find tuscany a peaceful place to write, but appreciates the community feel of small italian towns. would definitely be so friendly he'd get invited to eat dinner at a random family's house.

thessaloniki, greece. he would absolutely love seeing all the greek orthodox churches there, with their blue and white colors and dome roofs. he is just amused to see the religious structures humans have created. he'd also probably be interested in greek mythology, even though he's an angel.

LUKE

cape town, south africa. he would be so excited to see penguins at the beach and would enjoy the burst of color south africa offers. he'd also enjoy the modern bakeries and desserts in south africa.

lyon, france. the country is known for desserts. luke would probably take a baking class there to learn how to bake more things.

SOLOMON

salem, or just any small town in massachusetts. as a sorcerer, he's intrigued with their history of "witch hunting" and the paranormal.

lalibela, ethiopia. being old, he's intrigued with how ancient cities like lalibela have changed since biblical times. he also probably enjoys learning about different cultural practices and what they have in common with his sorcery. he also wants to learn how to cook more dishes from different countries, but fails miserably

[good-old-gossip]

The Israeli military heavily bombed Rafah early on Monday before ordering some residents to leave parts of the border town ahead of a planned ground assault.

At least 22 Palestinians, including eight children, were killed in air strikes that hit 11 homes across Rafah, according to the Palestinian news agency Wafa.

The Israeli military also dropped flyers ordering residents to leave the eastern areas of the city near the fence that separates the Gaza Strip and Israel.

It said the military was “about to operate with force against the terror organisations in the area”.

It also warned residents from approaching the fence with Israel and the border with Egypt.

The Israeli military heavily bombed Rafah early on Monday before ordering some residents to leave parts of the border town ahead of a planned ground assault.

It said the military was “about to operate with force against the terror organisations in the area”. It also warned residents from approaching the fence with Israel and the border with Egypt.

On Sunday, Hamas killed four Israeli soldiers and seriously wounded others after launching rockets at a military site in Israel east of Rafah.

The escalation comes as mediators push for a ceasefire and a prisoner swap deal.

A Hamas delegation left Cairo on Sunday for further consultations with the group’s leadership in Doha after two days of negotiations with Egyptian and Qatari mediators.

CIA director William Burns, who was also in Cairo over the weekend, flew to Qatar on Sunday night to continue pushing for a deal. He is expected to fly to Israel on Tuesday.

Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant claimed in a phone call with US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin that Israel made “many efforts” to reach an agreement, his office said on Monday. He added that Hamas’ “refusal” has left Israel with “no choice” but to operate in Rafah.

Meanwhile, Hamas accuses Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of obstructing a deal.

The Palestinian group has insisted any potential deal must include a permanent end to the war while Israel is seeking only a temporary pause. Sami Abu Zuhri, a senior member of Hamas, told Reuters the Israeli ejection orders from Rafah were a “dangerous escalation that will have consequences”.

The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, Unrwa, warned an Israeli offensive in Rafah would have “devastating” consequences and lead to more civilian suffering and deaths.

In a post on X, the agency announced it would not evacuate the city, insisting it "will maintain a presence in Rafah as long as possible" and will continue "providing lifesaving aid to people”.

Unrwa previously complied with Israeli orders to leave northern Gaza, a decision that was criticised by Palestinians who accused it of abandoning people who rely on its services.

Petra De Sutter, deputy prime minister of Belgium, said on X the ejection orders and the announced invasion "will lead to massacre".

She added that Belgium was working on further sanctions against Israel.

Israeli leaders have threatened an offensive in Rafah for months despite widespread opposition by world leaders and humanitarian organisations.

The US, a staunch ally of Israel, has repeatedly said it does not support a massive Israeli assault in Rafah that does not take into account the safety of civilians.

Rafah had become overcrowded with civilians who fled Israeli bombardment in other parts of the Gaza Strip in recent months.

There are an estimated 1.4 million people taking shelter in makeshift tents in the small town. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday said Israel has not yet presented a plan to protect civilians in Rafah, saying a major military operation there would cause damage “beyond what's acceptable”.

Jens Laerke, spokesperson for the UN humanitarian office, also on Friday said an Israeli offensive there “could be a slaughter of civilians”.

He warned the humanitarian operation in the entire coastal enclave will suffer an “incredible blow” because they are run primarily out of Rafah, which has the only Palestinian land crossing not directly controlled by Israel.

The seven-month Israeli assault on Gaza has already devastated the Palestinian enclave and caused a humanitarian crisis.

The Israeli military has killed at least 34,600 Palestinians, the majority of them children and women, while a siege on the coastal enclave has left it on the brink of famine.

[immortalmuses]

Petra & Fremen Sietches

Hi Fellow Dune Fans!

Let's talk about Inspirations for Fremeni Worldbuilding!

ㅤㅤㅤSo I believe it is reasonably well known that the Fremen People were inspired -- in part, at least -- by the Arab Bedouins. And some of the structures we see in Dune 2 bear striking resemblance to an ancient Bedouin city named Petra, which was carved out of the mountains in Jordan. This is because parts of the movie were actually filmed at the cultural center there!

ㅤㅤㅤPetra was built in the 4th Century B.C.E. by a subset of Bedouins called the Nabataeans, who were a nomadic people that gained extensive wealth by trading spices (uh huh, yeah, exactly). This wealth made them increasingly appealing targets to their enemies, so the Nabataeans decided to settle in the mountainous regions of Jordan and eventually carved a whole city of out of the sandstone cliffs. Everything from monuments and tombs to multi-room houses were hand carved from the rock, then covered with stucco and painted in bright colors. The city follows the natural curve of the Siq, a narrow and winding gorge that lead into Petra's city-center (quite similar to the natural crevice that leads to the entrance of the Fremen Sietch in the film).

ㅤㅤㅤPetra was significant for so many reason, but one of its most influential elements (and one of the things about it that inspired Herbert) was its water irrigation system! The city had specifically built rock-cut channels along the Siq to collect as much rain water as possible in the sparse times of year that it actually rained. These channels led to subterranean pipes that funneled all water into underground cisterns, which preserved the water from theft, pollution, and evaporation. Sound familiar?

ㅤㅤㅤBecause of their mastery over water resources in the region, the Nabataeans (and their city) rose to control the flow of trade along most of the Incense Road, which stretched from Southern Arabia through Petra to Gaza. Their access to water was both highly sought after as a respite by those traveling the trade route, and a deterrent for any forces thinking to attack the city. The odds of overcoming a fortified and water-rich place like Petra as an attacker in the desert was… slim.

ㅤㅤㅤIn addition to their water-wealth, Nabataens also grew flush with culture and art as a result of so many worldly traders passing through their city. Petra was designed to align with the path of the sun across the sky, so on certain pivotal times of year, important buildings within the city will have direct sunlight falling on them. The structures were all carved with an evolving combination of influences from other parts of the world, like Egypt, China, and Greece. At the height of its glory under Nabataean rule, Petra was a culture center of the ancient world.

ㅤㅤㅤAll these fascinating elements make me think of Arrakis, and the Fremen Peoples. Of who they might have been before House Harkonnen won the siridar fief of Arrakis and brought both ecological and sociological persecution to the planet. The beautiful structures they might have built, the complex cultural heritage they shared among northern and southern tribes, the innovation of a People who understood their home better than any other. A People who weren't fighting for survival, who could be so much more…

ㅤㅤㅤIn Dune, the water catchbasins are sacred spaces, representing both the sacrifices and hopes of an entire People. The elaborate nature of these holy places cannot be overstated, and the sheer ingenuity of Fremeni methods for prosperity deserves recognition beyond how it stymied the endeavors of a bloodthirsty race of slavers and thieves.

[jetblackknight]

people i'd like to get to know better !

last song i listened to: Reason Why (ft. Kim Petras) by SOPHIE ( a posthumous release, god I miss her so much it is unreal ; we lost a visionary that night ) currently watching: oh, so many things ! Mr. Mercedes, The Handmaid's Tale, Law & Order: Criminal Intent + Special Victims Unit to name a few ! spicy/savory/sweet: A bad sweet tooth ! though I enjoy sour things more, though. relationship status: Taken by a lovely partner : ) current obsession(s): Only one, forever and always: Devil May Cry. There have been others ( Fallout, Minecraft, ancient Egypt ) but it will forever and always be Devil May Cry. <3 bonus bonus bonus: My mom got me a Cameo from Dan Southworth—Vergil's voice actor—for Christmas a couple of years ago and he featured it in an Instagram post ? ? I watched it once and haven't been able to ever since because it overloads my brain ! Uhhhhhh, I can sing ? Not greatly but I can sing pretty okay. I can do a pretty good Jennifer Coolidge impression ( not that that is difficult ! ). Ummmmmm uhhhhh uhhhhhhhhhhhh yeah ! 😎👉👉

tagged by: the lovely @sunfallsprophet ( hi hello sorry for not doing this right away I was on a mini not-hiatus ! ) tagging: @captianimarum @mxldito @vctlan @hundredsmelt annnndddddddddddddddd ( hm . . . ) @musesfromthefifthdimension ! ( and of course anyone else who would like to do this, I always love getting to know my mutuals even if I'm a timid person lol ! )

[poptod]

Hi! So I don’t know if you’re doing asks for fic writing; if you’re not, ignore this entire thing and just know I loved your fic about Ahkmenrah! If you are, read on! <3

Your fic gave me an idea: what if Ahkmenrah had a lover in his past life in Ancient Egypt, and since he saw how alive Teddy and the other wax figures were, he asks for there to be made a statue of them (I’m thinking of his lover being a female, since that’s what was the norm back then [I think??] but it’s whatever). Larry agrees to try and persuades one to be made, as you had an infamous murder or something. Ahkmenrah is super excited and giddy to finally see them after so many years and wants to live the rest of his kind of afterlife with them! But then the ANGST comes in. He kind of overwhelms them in the first moments, and they’re disoriented. They don’t know where they are, how they’re alive, because they know they’re dead, or who the people around them are. It’s established that the exhibits know their past because of Octavius knowing Pompeii, but they feel like they’re two people. It’s a little bit ruined, their entire happy reunion, but eventually it gets fluffy again and Ahk is so excited to show them the new world!

I’m a new fan to Night at the Museum (if you can believe it), and Ahkmenrah is best boi! If you feel like doing it, shoot! If not, then if it’s not too much trouble, please say that so I have closure or…idk. Have a nice whatever time it is!

To be honest... I've done some stories similar to this already! One is more recent and the other is my oldest Ahkmenrah fic, Say My Name. Similar, but not the same. And... sad to say... I don't really write too much for Night at the Museum anymore, although I am still rife with love for it. I'm focused more on historical things! I'm finishing up The Night Grows Dim which will likely be my last long fic for Ahkmenrah for... maybe a long time. And to be honest again, my longer stories already haven't really been about Ahkmenrah for quite some time.

I'm still writing, of course, but my stories coming up take place in Petra around 600 AD, and another one takes place during the Islamic Golden Age. I don't know if I will share them since I doubt people will want to read them here, online. The latter was originally a fanfiction idea for Ahk but I realized it was waaaay too far removed from Ahkmenrah for it to be a fanfiction. He hasn't got the same name, totally different timeline, no familiar characters even from the list of original characters I've used in other Ahkmenrah stories time and time again. So... all my upcoming long stories are original.

I'm also sorry for taking so long to reply to this. I hesitated to say any of this stuff because it kind of feels like letting go of an era! But I still write short fics for Ahk sometimes. I think this fic is a good idea and someone should certainly write it. But my plate is sort of full with my translation works, study of Ptah-Hotep, mapmaking for Egyptian sites, Arabic studies, and other things... thank you for requesting anyway. I hope your day is wonderful. (:

[jordanandegypt]

Petra and other thoughts - part 1

September 18, 2024

Greetings from Cairo, Egypt.  We have had a busy day of travel and I’m trying to finish my write up about Petra before we have new experiences that will push it into to past.  So - here goes…

......

It is the early hours of Sept. 18 and I was just too tired to write about the amazing and massive site of Petra last night, BUT I wanted everyone to know we are just fine and safe.  We leave Jordan this AM and fly to Egypt.    Our Petra experiences follow but have taken a back seat to global issues.  We were so sad to hear the news coming out of Lebanon while we were experiencing Petra and all its glories.  From our brief trip here - we know things will not be made better for this event.  

Here is the latest from The NY Times: 

Israel carried out its operation against Hezbollah on Tuesday by hiding explosive material within a new batch of Taiwanese-made pagers imported into Lebanon, according to American and other officials briefed on the operation.

The pagers, which Hezbollah had ordered from Gold Apollo in Taiwan, had been tampered with before they reached Lebanon, according to some of the officials. Most were the company’s AP924 model, though three other Gold Apollo models were also included in the shipment.

The explosive material, as little as one to two ounces, was implanted next to the battery in each pager, two of the officials said. A switch was also embedded that could be triggered remotely to detonate the explosives.

At 3:30 p.m. in Lebanon, the pagers received a message that appeared as though it was coming from Hezbollah’s leadership, two of the officials said. Instead, the message activated the explosives. Lebanon’s health minister told state media at least nine people were killed and more than 2,800 injured.

SalamSeptember 17, 2024

Salam,

We have a huge day today but I’m up super early because Mark was right about the bed - it is like sleeping on a pile of bricks.  Now I have a tiny air mattress that can change a brick mattress into a manageable night sleep - but where is that magic little item?  In the closet in my house in Michigan.  DANG IT!!!  That takes up very little room and it will NOW be a required packing item. I am - and I’m not proud of this - like the princess and the pea.  I like my bed soft with no lumps with a top sheet, please.  (I bring a top sheet - FYI.)  I bring my own pillow too but that is because I like a down pillow and I have a tiny one that is perfect for me and rolls up to be very small.  Wah-wah!  How dare I complain about this clean bed in this clean room in this practically brand new, highly modern hotel?  I know I shouldn’t but here I am.  I’m not proud of this, either BTW.🥴

Moving on… While I expect to see remarkable things today, I want to take a few minutes to talk about things I have learned and viewpoints I have never considered.  Today, at age 72, when I think of the Middle East, I think of a conglomeration of countries that seemingly hate each other.  I think of hotheaded strongmen political leaders (Netanyahu, Bashar al-Assad, Mohammed bin Salman, Abd el-Fattah el-Sisi, Yahya Sinwar, also known as Abu Ibrahim, just to name a few) who have little or no interest in human life, human rights or in advancing the lives of their people. POWER & MONEY.  I also think of the people who live in this unjust frightening place and wonder why they can’t fix this -  but know I better understand.  

After meeting some Jordanians, I have a different perspective.  First - these damn borders.  

The borders of the Middle East were drawn during World War I by a Briton, Mark Sykes, and a Frenchman, Francois Picot.

The two diplomats' pencils divided the map of one of the most volatile regions in the world into states that cut through ethnic and religious communities.

Later dubbed the Sykes-Picot treaty, the secret agreement was signed by Paris and London on May 16, 1916, to become the basis on which the Levant region was shaped for years to come.

A century on, the Middle East continues to bear the consequences of the treaty, and many Arabs across the region continue to blame the subsequent violence in the Middle East, from the occupation of Palestine to the rise of the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL), on the Sykes-Picot treaty.

I was struck by how “global” the lives of our Home Hosted dinner appeared to be.  Grandmother was born in Saudi Arabia to a Saudi father and an Egyptian mother and they had moved to Jordan when she was a teenager. Each of her children had married people from one country or another near Jordan.  Our trip leader Nad has an uncle somewhere in Michigan that lived in Palestine but emigrated in 1949 - when getting out was easier.  

Let’s put this into context for a minute.  Below is an overview of the Middle Eastern countries atop the US.    One can see that how easily it would be to move from Kentucky to Michigan (my family) or from Iowa and Minnesota (Mark’s family) for better employment.

Moving back and forth should be easy - but suddenly it is not.  It would be as if suddenly we needed a Visa to go to Ohio.  So people in the Middle East can no longer visit friends and family.  It also shocked me that our hostesses at our Home Hosted Dinner told us they had been trying to visit a sister who had lived in Texas for 30 years.  The grandmother, mother and the great grandmother applied for US Visas and the only person that was granted a Visa was Great-grandmother - who does not speak English and cannot travel alone.  No explanation as to why the denial - just NOPE!   It is pissing me off.

I will finish this rant and talk about Petra - the jewel in the crown of Jordan.  WOWZA!!

Most everyone is familiar with the slot canyon that leads you to the “Treasury” - thanks to Indiana Jones, but I don’t think people know how that is just the “welcome center” and there is much, much more to see.   The map below gives you an idea of the size and the white area is just sand while the beige area represents the solid sandstone cliffs that surround this city.

But first whose city is this and when was it constructed?  I will let Lonely Planet fill you in…

The spectacular sandstone city of Petra was built in the 3rd century BC by the Nabataeans, who carved palaces, temples, tombs, storerooms and stables from the soft stone cliffs. Today it is a World Heritage Site that needs little introduction; suffice to say, no visit to Jordan is complete without at least two days spent exploring the remarkable Ancient City. It is approached through the adjacent town of Wadi Musa, which is the accommodation and transport hub.

It was from Petra that the Nabataeans, a community of master builders whose skills included hydraulic engineering, iron production and copper refining, commanded the trade routes from Damascus to Arabia, profiting by the taxes paid on the caravans that passed through Nabataean territory. An earthquake in AD 555 is the most likely cause of the city's demise, but thankfully many of Petra's most impressive structures remain intact, making it a treasure trove of architectural surprises, hidden along hiking trails of various lengths and difficulties.

The Ancient City is approached through the 1.2km-long, high-walled Siq – a crack in the rock, torn apart by tectonic forces. Just as you start to think there’s no end to the Siq, you catch breathtaking glimpses ahead of the most impressive of Petra’s sights, the Treasury, known locally as Al Khazneh. Carved out of iron-laden sandstone to serve as a tomb, the Treasury gets its name from the misguided local belief that an Egyptian pharaoh hid his treasure in the top urn. The Greek-style pillars, alcoves and plinths are truly masterpieces of masonry work.

From the Treasury, the way broadens into the Outer Siq, riddled by more than 40 tombs known collectively as the Street of Facades. Just before you reach the weather-worn 7000-seat Theatre, notice a set of steps on the left. These ascend to the High Place of Sacrifice, a hilltop altar, an easy but steep 45-minute climb. Descend on the other side of the mountain via the Garden Tomb, Roman Soldier’s Tomb and Garden Triclinium and follow your nose back to the Street of Facades, not far after the Theatre.

Time for some pics…. This is heading into the site…

Finally, the gorge…. 

Well protected..

Traveling buddy Phil had the music at the ready as we walked almost an hour before this revealed itself.  It was so much fun walking to this music, that I suggest you listen to the music as you view our pics.

OK - let’s go….

Parts of the gorge are the original road.

In this arid, often shaded place little plants fight to live.  Above is a caper tree.

Then finally the reveal…

TA-DA!!!

But like I said - only the welcome center.

I have a restriction on the number of photos I can send all at once - so this post is PART 1.

You will hear from me soon. If you want more info watch this:

Salam

[lookategypttrips]

The Ultimate Guide to Luxury Beach Destinations in the Middle East

The Middle East offers some of the world's most luxurious beach destinations, combining stunning natural beauty with first-class service and accommodations. From the tranquil waters of the UAE's coastline to the historic shores of Jordan's Aqaba, there's no shortage of premium options. Among these, Sharm el Sheikh in Egypt stands out as a pinnacle of luxury beach holidays.

Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt: A Sanctuary of Luxury

Nestled at the southern tip of the Sinai Peninsula, Sharm el Sheikh is a destination synonymous with luxury. Known for its sheltered sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, it offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The area is renowned for its world-class resorts, spas, and golf courses, where service and elegance meet the serenity of the Red Sea. Those seeking a truly opulent experience can find detailed recommendations and exclusive offers at Luxury holidays Sharm el Sheikh Egypt.

Dubai, UAE: Opulence on Every Shore

Dubai is well-known for its architectural wonders and extravagant lifestyle. Its beaches, such as JBR and Kite Beach, offer luxurious beach club facilities where visitors can sunbathe, swim, and even ski on artificial waves. The city’s coastal hotels are among the most lavish in the world, providing guests with unmatched views, private beaches, and sumptuous dining options.

Aqaba, Jordan: Historical Luxury

Aqaba offers a unique blend of history and luxury. This Jordanian city not only provides access to the beautiful Red Sea but also serves as a gateway to the ancient city of Petra. Luxury resorts in Aqaba cater to those who appreciate both modern comforts and the allure of ancient civilizations, offering guided tours, diving excursions, and exclusive waterfront relaxation.

Muscat, Oman: Tranquil and Traditional

Muscat, with its dramatic mountain backdrop and clear blue waters, offers a more tranquil approach to luxury. The city's resorts emphasize traditional Omani hospitality and feature architectural elements that reflect the region’s cultural heritage. Muscat is ideal for those who want to unwind in a setting that feels secluded and steeped in tradition.

Travelers seeking luxury beach holidays in the Middle East have several enticing options, but Sharm el Sheikh remains a jewel in the region’s crown. Its blend of natural beauty, high-end accommodations, and commitment to service makes it an ideal destination for those looking to indulge in a luxury beach holiday.

[jordanianroyals]

20 October 2023: Crown Prince Hussein supervised the preparation of a Jordanian plane carrying humanitarian and relief aid for the Palestinians in Gaza.

At Marka Military Airport, he bid farewell to the plane crew, headed to El Arish Airport in Egypt, from where aid will be delivered to Gaza.

Speaking at the airport, the Crown Prince highlighted that the dispatch of aid reflects Jordanians’ solidarity with the Palestinians, reaffirming that what Jordan does for Palestine comes from a deep-rooted belief in brotherhood based on unwavering morals and principles.

He added that the Palestinians must ultimately live on their land in peace and gain their right to establish their state, no matter how long injustice continues. (Source: Petra)

The Crown Prince warned against Israel’s collective punishment policy in its war on Gaza, stressing that policies that target innocent civilians and impose a siege on them violate international law.

His Royal Highness rejected the cutting of water, medicine, food and electricity supplies to pressure the Palestinians, describing it as unacceptable and inhumane.

Prince Rashid bin El Hassan, chairperson of the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation’s board of trustees, and JHCO Secretary General Hussein Shibli were also present to see off the plane.

The JHCO is the entity responsible for preparing and dispatching aid.

[script-a-world]

Submitted via Google Form:

I was wondering about how can I have primitive (like stone age? or maybe further a long if required) cultures in my story build large or tall structures. My idea is that a structure like what you see of Stonehenge would actually be remnants of 200m tall towers or something. Would love to go as high as possible, so any ideas on that? Also I suppose what sort of rock type would be needed? It's an entirely fictional place so earth stuff can be changed, but perhaps not drastically - I mean it's still an earth like planet.

Addy: The first question I have is the societal pressure that is pushing them to build up instead of out. Generally speaking, walkable cities without elevators top out at around 5 stories, since going up a lot of stairs takes time and is pretty annoying, especially if you're having to do so consistently throughout the day. Let's call it 15 meters, or around 50 ft. If that's carved into rock (ala Mesa Verde or Derinkuyu), you can get that kind of height out of stone, but anything with multiple stories is generally going to require either A) some kind of woodworking capability or B) pyramid structures. Put simply, rock is heavy, and it does not do well in long, flat sections like floors. That's why we put rebar in concrete, and why we have supporting beams underneath concrete floor systems. Woodworking lets you build a more sophisticated structure (more interior space), while a pyramid structure gets taller.

One thing that building up does is it allows for a higher population density, which is excellent for cities. Cities (and permanent buildings in general) mean agriculture, which means that we're looking at the Neolithic period (or later). That's also going to give you organized labor to pull from, as well as possible written records (not always, but usually).

We see plenty of two-story buildings in the Neolithic and Bronze Age periods, such as the Palace of Nestor (Bronze Age) and Çatalhöyük (Neolithic). Looking beyond that, ziggurats get us even taller. Chogha Zanbil is a wonderful example of a large ziggurat. It had five levels and was ~53m tall by ~105m wide. A ziggurat is made by creating an artificial platform of mud brick, and then building successively smaller platforms on top of that. They're a form of step pyramid, and got to be quite tall.

The largest (and tallest) buildings are, by far, the pyramids of Egypt. The Great Pyramid of Giza (aka Pyramid of Khufu) was originally ~146m tall and ~230m on a side.

Often, when looking up settlements, we see mentions of settlement layers or levels. Çatalhöyük has 18, I believe. These aren't multiple stories of buildings, but are instead closer to bulldozing a site and just building right on top of the old stuff. That's how you end up with, say, Roman ruins under various European cities. They just got built over. Since you're looking at height, I wanted to go ahead and clarify that for you.

Overall, 200 meters is a lot. The Burj Khalifa is five times the height of the Pyramid of Khufu, and weighs about ⅙th of it. Stone is heavy, and building with it is, frankly, a lot of work. They had the advantage of canals and boats to bring up all the stone to the site, and it still took them 20 years. Now, mind you, many ancient structures were built over the course of generations. Ziggurats, temples, offices of administration… things are and were built over a long period of time (la Sagrada Familia is a good modern example).

If you want there to be minimal remains, well, free stone is free stone! Many ancient structures have been taken down that way.

I don't have a solid answer for you, but I hope this gives you a few ideas to think about.

Feral: If you want tall and ancient, look to the mountains. Literally. Raqmu, now known as Petra, in Jordan, is partially carved into a canyon. Probably not in its known form until the 3rd century BCE, it could still serve as inspiration for your worldbuilding. The cliff-dwellings of the Pueblo peoples in North and Central America could also act as inspiration for you. Although probably not built until the 12th century CE, caves are probably some of the first humans ever inhabited given the natural shelter they provide.

[wildissylupus]

The cast really could use a character than genuinely hates Overwatch for very understandable reasons. And not just Blackwatch I mean the main public branch caused something that ruined the character's life. Apparently they did something bad in Egypt but Pharah doesn't mind so imagine a character that did. Someone who's completely, "Screw Overwatch and screw anyone who wants it back."

Which reminds me, is the UN going to actually do anything about the new Overwatch? Like will our heroes have the difficult task of defending themselves from Petras Act enforcers?

There are definitely minor civilian characters that hate Overwatch, but honestly, I agree, we need a major civilian character with those beliefs. I doubt that character would be a part of the main cast, unless they're going to do something like that with Mauga, but I would love to see an NPC character like that. I don't think we will though since a majority of the story being set up is "the world does need Overwatch but it can't be the same as before", which leads me to the UN.

I have made it no secret that I hate the UN, they have basically done nothing but found overwatch and even then it was only one member of the UN, the person who founded Numbani. She's the only UN member I respect. I do think the UN are going to be a problem, specifically for characters like Sojourn, she mentions in her journals that she's already putting herself at risk and we see someone from the UN contact Winston telling him to stop the recall.

So yeah, they are defiantly going to be a problem, either as a subplot, or in a future story campaign/novel/short story.

Honestly a plot line about the New Overwatch having to defend themselves against the Petras act is so interesting to me because it would be so interesting to see how different characters handle politics. So many different plot lines could happen, such as characters like Cassidy and Genji going on trial for their actions with Blackwatch, Sombra being able to pull more strings and get info on the UN, more of the public opinion of this New Overwatch being released. Honestly I would love it is this possible arc also explored the redemptions of some Talon characters and whether or not Overwatch should stay vigilantes or become official again.

Just so you know, I am firmly on the vigilante side of this cause Overwatch being a government organisation is what caused a lot of the problems in the first Overwatch.

[gemsofgreece]

Which greek hero (or heroine) of the Greek War of Independence you find underrated, in a sense we don't hear about them as often as some other familiar names, like Kolokotronis, Karaiskakis, Androutsos, Mavrogenou, Bouboulina and countless others I don't have the patience to list?

Ypsilantis, but I mean Demetrios, not Alexander. Demetrios is not well known or he is only known as the little brother of Alexander and for his engagement to Manto Mavrogenous, but he was far more than that. In my opinion, he is way more significant than his brother or at least more successful at what he set out to do.

Demetrios Ypsilantis (1793 - 1832) was a Greek prince, born in Constantinople, and serving as a military officer in the Imperial Russian Army. Ypsilantis was trained in the military schools of France.

After his brother Alexander became the leader of the Filiki Eteria (Society of Friends), the organisation of Greek expats who was conspiring for the Greek Revolution, and made some wrong choices and the rebellion in the Danubian Prinicipalities failed, he was held confined for several years and couldn't come to Greece to join the cause he was the leader of. Hence he sent Demetrios in his place, under full secrecy. Demetrios had to escape many witnesses, obstacles and dangers in order to arrive to Greece. He also went to Odessa first, gathering money from Greek expats there for the cause. He also mortgaged a lot of his own fortune and heirlooms for the cause.

As soon as he arrived to the Peloponnese, he assumed the role of the leader of the revolution and he befriended Kolokotronis, Papaflessas and Anagnostarás. Other war captains weren't very appreciative of him but with his peaceful and reconciling spirit, he managed to be accepted by most. Demetrios didn't have the image of a leader or military officer, he was only 27 year old, balding and of a small and fragile stature.

Demetrios was actually in charge of the Siege of Tripolitsá. However he had to leave as the Turkish army was attempting to reach the Corinthian Gulf and he had to confront them, so the massacre in Tripolitsá broke out in his absence. As soon as he learnt of the bloodshed, he quickly returned to Tripolitsá, ended the atrocities and actually provided refuge to Turkish or other Muslim civilians in danger.

He defended Nafplion against the huge forces of Dramali Mahmud Pasha (~30,000 men) with a tiny garrison of 700 men! Demetrios lasted for 12 days and then the garrison was dissolved. However, these 12 invaluable days gave Kolokotronis the opportunity to prepare his army, take hold of critical positions in the Peloponnese and of course burn the crops. This led to the Battle of Dervenakia against Kolokotronis, in which Dramali lost ~24,000 of his men.

While he was elected leader of the National Assembly, Demetrios refused to take sides in the infighting between the war captains and the intellectuals - this made him less powerful but also earned everyone's respect. He was adamant that all Greeks should fight united.

His biggest success was his second defense of Nafplion alongside General Yannis Makriyannis in the Battle of the Lerna Mills, this time against Ibrahim Pasha of Egypt. Here are the stats in wiki:

Once Greece became an independent state, Governor Ioannis Kapodistrias appointed Demetrios as the General Commader of the troops in Eastern Greece. In this position, he gave several victorious battles against the Turks in Boeotia, most notably including the Battle of Petra, on 25 September 1829, which was the official ending of the active operations of the Greek War of Independence. So, Demetrios completed the war his brother started!

Demetrios was in love and engaged with fellow heroine Mantó Mavrogenous. Ioannis Kolettis, a politician and the forefather of corruption in Greek politics already, fearing that such a marriage between two wealthy heroes could have enormous influence over the Greek populace, defamed Mantó relentlessly to Demetrios. Demetrios was swayed and broke up with her, breaking her heart.

Again, despite his bravery, Yspilantis was frail and prone to illnesses. He died young, at the age of 39, due to illness. Some speculate it might have been some form of muscular dystrophy but nothing is certain. In his funeral, Georgios Tertsetis said "He chose to sacrifice everything for his country, without ever allowing hatred to cast a shadow in his soul". Historian Konstantinos Vaskalopoulos called Ypsilantis as "the potentially purest and most selfless of the captains of the Greek War of Independence".

[degenezijde]

This book was on the new arrivals shelf at the library so I picked it up. It's actually all on hairnets from Egypt, made with the sprang technique.

Now I'd heard of sprang before, and my mental image of hairnets made with the technique look like this:

While the hairnets in the book look like this:

They're both impressive in their own way, but I didn't know you could go so fine and do that type of patterns with sprang!

Also now I need to visit the permanent textile exhibition this Phoebus Foundation has in Antwerp...

[scotianostra]

On October 24th 1796 the artist, David Roberts, was born in Edinburgh.

David Roberts was a painter best known for his prolific series of detailed lithograph prints of Egypt and the Near East produced from drawings and watercolour sketches he made during an extensive tour of the region in the mid-19th century, even those not that interested in art must admire the work he did there, the approach to Simon -  a view showing the Great Sphynx with the infamous hot cyclonic wind twisting up before the darkening sun is a very dramatic scene and the  Grand Portico of the Temple of Philae are very impressive. The first three pics are of the man himself, the fourth shows his view over Edinburgh from Calton Hill, a view many of us have no doubt admired.

Originally training as a home and decoration painter, Roberts later established himself as a renowned topographical and architectural artist. Roberts undertook journeys abroad in search of exotic or impressive subjects, touring the Near East from 1838, arriving in Jerusalem in 1839 after traveling from Egypt via Sinai and Petra.

On his return to Britain, Roberts worked with a top lithographer of the day Louis Haghe to produce the plates of the sketches in the Holy Land and Syria, 1842-1849 and Egypt & Nubia series. Roberts funded this project through advance subscriptions which he solicited directly. With Egypt and the Holy Land being extremely fashionable subjects at the time, Queen Victoria became subscriber number one. Her complete set is still in the Royal Collection.

Although published separately, the volumes present for sale in our forthcoming auction are the Egyptian and Nubian section of Roberts's great work. The other three volumes are usually referred to as Roberts's 'Holy Land'. Together, they comprise 'one of the most important and elaborate ventures of nineteenth-century publishing...the apotheosis of the tinted lithograph'.

The last years of his life were occupied with a series of views of London from the Thames. He had executed six of these, and was at work upon a picture of St Paul's Cathedral as seen from Ludgate Hill, when he died suddenly on the afternoon of 25th November 1864 and died at home that evening. The symptoms, described as apoplexy in most histories, were those of a stroke. He was buried at West Norwood Cemetery

If you want to see more of his work check out the Royal Academy’s site here.https://www.royalacademy.org.uk/art-artists/name/david-roberts-ra

[livesinthebalance]

So just a quick shout-out to one of my newest babies on here because I absolutely love him:

MIKHAIL PETRAS, son of Director Petras

He grew up quite aware of Overwatch, both their hero status and the difficulty of their existence––as they were a paramilitary group beyond the scope of governance of any one country, and thus were subject only to the United Nations. When it fell apart, he was unsurprised. [ Such an organization could hardly be expected to function in the way that it must when under the thumbs of so many. ]

Unfortunately, all that outlawing Overwatch seemed to do was allow more chaos, more violence, more destruction. Mikhail was yet another victim of this––though he would be the first to say that he was one of the lucky ones. During an attack in Egypt where he was living at the time, Mikhail was critically injured in an explosion. Hospitalized for some time, he survived the ordeal, but with permanent scarring and nerve damage due to the severity.

When Overwatch recalled, at last Mikhail had his opportunity to follow the path he had intended for himself: he offered his aid to their newly reformed organization, to supply them with his knowledge, assistance, and guidance in winning the public’s trust once more and navigating the political and legal issues that would arise. Though soft-spoken both by nature and by necessity with his injury, still he is an oddly compelling and charismatic speaker who is always very articulate and precise in his work.

Some other random facts about Mikhail:

Since the attack that left him scarred, he has been tirelessly working to gather the case for Overwatch being reactivated. He was already silently in support of the idea, but he has since gathered every bit of information, every instance of mismanagement by the UN and its members—largely through the unwitting assistance of his father.

He has a contact within Talon though he does not know who they are. Only that they dead drop information to him.

Though he often seems aloof and reserved, Mikhail is very kind-hearted and cares a great deal for others—a trait learned from his mother rather than his father. He hates the part his father played in everything that happened and intends to do whatever it takes to right it—even at great risk to himself. He knows what he is doing is dangerous, but if those heroes could risk their lives for people, then why shouldn't he?

Mikhail collects Faberge eggs. His mother died when he was young and he asked for her collection of them because she loved them so much and even then he knew they would likely simply be packed away or gotten rid of otherwise. He continues to add to the collection.

He also collects odds and ends from his travels around the world, usually items unique to the various regions around the world that he has visited.

He also collects books. He is particularly fond of old books, especially those of great literary significance. Again, he has collected some from all over the world, written and printed in many different languages. When he has time to himself, he can often be found reading from books—not holopads.

He is very old-fashioned. Though he does own technology such as holopads, he keeps notebooks and hard copies of most things. [ He has done the same for his research into the back room dealings that dictated Overwatch's goals and policies, as well as Talon and the UN and various other political figures. He keeps digital copies as well on a secured drive that he keeps with him at all times, hidden on his person. By the time Overwatch recalls, he makes a copy of everything and takes it to them so that they can make a sound and compelling argument towards their continued existence—and as a selg-governing entity independent of the UN and other parties with their agendas. ]