#Split Ethnographic Museum

[jontycrane]

Split

The second largest city in Croatia, Split offers a wonderful mix of the old and the new, and is a good base for exploring the region. The heart of the tourist part of the city is the old town, which has grown from Diocletian’s Palace, built for the Roman emperor of the same name, in the 4th century. He was well known for his persecution of Christians, who got their revenge in the fifth century…

[budapestbug]

It was founded as the #Ethnographic DepaHerortment of the Hungarian National Museum in 1872. Its first director was John Xantus de Vesey. It formally split from the National Museum in 1947 but moved to its building in Kossuth Square, opposite the Parliament building, only in 1973. The grand building in which the Museum of Ethnography is now housed was originally built by Alajos Hauszmann for the Ministry of Justice, it took some only aome reason, it did not became of our Parliament. Hauszmann actually dedided it to be. The new musuem of #City Park is practically ready, so this builing will serve a new purpuse again. Besdie being a museum it served as filming location f.g. Dan Broewn"S inferno, nad th tradditional annualy internetional Pess Photo exhibitions.

[jc-travels-the-world]

Pre-Service Training (PST)

Ten weeks. Ten weeks studying Romanian. Ten weeks full of learning how to teach English in Moldova. Ten weeks living with a Moldovan family. Ten weeks getting to know my government-issued family. Ten weeks trying to figure out: what am I doing in Moldova?!

A general week during PST for me looked like the following:

·      Every day, regardless of what time I needed to be somewhere, I was awake sometime between 445a to 530a.  I would lay in bed, wander my house a bit, talk to family and friends that were awake back home, or other volunteers who also struggled to stay asleep at such an ungodly hour. Some days I was able to fall back asleep until 645a.

·      Monday to Wednesday, and Friday:

o   I would start to get ready for school at 7a. I would have a cup of ceai (tea) with mama around 710a. At 720a I would finish packing up my school bag. 730a Diamond and I would start our trek to school. I say trek, but we had the flattest and one of the shortest walks. But, often times a dog would follow us. He wasn’t a bad dog, we just weren’t the biggest fans. We would arrive to school at about 750a. This is when I would eat breakfast that mama packed for me, usually a filled croissant.

o   I had Romanian from 8a to 12p. We were split into two classes. Five in one and five in another. Halfway through PST one of our teachers had to leave and they sent a teacher from one of the HE villages. HE got three teachers for more intensive training, EE only got two, so it evened out.

o   From 12p to 130p I would have a lunch break. The other EE training village would take a rutiera to my village. I would eat my lunch waiting for the other village then I’d share my left overs with whoever didn’t get lunch that day or was still hungry. Once done with lunch, Alleyce, who came from the other village, and I would often go for a twenty minute or so walk. We knew that the next four hours were going to be long and we needed to make sure we had the energy to get through!

o   We would have technical training; training for when we go to site and teach. Tech sessions began at 130p and were supposed to end at 530p, but that did not always happen. There’s always more to learn. Topics varied greatly: from panels from current serving volunteers (M31s and M32, and one M30!), classes on multilevel classrooms, and how to teach grammar. I have many books, a notebook, and a large binder to review when needed!

·      Thursday: Hubsite Day, where all Trainees would be in the raion center for group training, usually medical and security related.

o   I would start to get ready for my day at 6a. Ceai, packing my school bag, getting money for the rutiera ready. At 630a, Diamond and I would walk to the bus stop. There were a few in town and the first half of the summer we all met at the one by the school then the second half we all took it wherever was closest to our house. Diamond and I would take it in centru since it was just past the bridge by our houses.

§  I will always remember the first day we took it alone. We got to the stop and 30 seconds later a rutiera showed up. We both got seats, there was good music playing, free wifi, and the driver was in a full out suit. So fancy, probably the first and last time I’ll see that!

o   We would arrive around 715-730a at Hubsite. We would all hang out and talk to the other volunteers that we hadn’t seen in a week. Sometimes I would hang out in the gazebo outside, I’d play uno or another card game, or hangout inside and just chat with people.

o   At 830a sessions would begin.

o   At around 5p it would be over. Once it was decided who was staying in the Raion centre and who was headed back to the village we would depart for the bus stop! Trying to catch a rutiera is a fun experience. The shortest time we waited was only maybe ten minutes, while the longest was about 90 minutes (I’m estimating because it was hot and we were all cranky, so I don’t actually know how long we waited).

·      Saturday:

o   Thankfully a short day! Morning began similar to M-W&F. Romanian class began at 8a. Then would end at 12p. After 12p we would have a weekly evaluation. First we were given a paper to self-evaluate on a scale of 1-5 with where we believe we were at on the listed topics; ranging from vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation. Then we would go to whichever teacher we had that week and have a quick discussion and see what they score us as. We discussed where we feel we are at, how our stay in village is, and any concerns or questions we may have, whether it be about Peace Corps or Moldovan culture. Most of the time I would get sternly talked to about how I need to stop speaking English at home and speak only Romanian, but knowing me…if given a crutch, I will use it!

·      Average Afternoon and Evening:

o   It all depended on the day but most days after being in school I would head straight home. Always exhausted. I would hang out with my family. We would chat, eat dinner, and just live life. I enjoyed it a lot. This bonding is what made my life in PST wonderful.

o   Some days all of us Trainees from my village would go to the magazin for chips or ice cream (or often times both).

o   In the evenings Diamond and I would take walks together, Ana-Maria would join us. When she was not around, Danu joined us. Then sometimes Jorge would join us, or walk with one of us if the other wasn’t available. It was funny, I will discuss it later, but towards the end of our stay we were too exhausted and busy to walk. Even in the mornings during Practice School we would go separately because our schedules were so different. People would stop Diamond on her walk to ask why she was alone and where I was because we were always just out walking.

o   A couple of Saturday evenings Ana-Maria and I made ourselves a movie night. For Before the second one I took out my hot chocolate packets and we made microwave brownies with everyone at the house. It was fun!

·      Sunday

o   Now, these were supposed to be our rest day but I believe I really only had one, MAYBE two, Sundays where I actually rested. As always, I was awake before the sun. But, since I did not always HAVE to wake up for a few hours, I would force myself back to sleep.

o   Some of the most fun I had was on Sundays.

§  I went to raion center with my family and I bought a beautiful, fitted lemon dress and a long, heavy black skirt (each for 100 lei! Quite the steal!).

§  We went to Chisinau and walked A LOT. Diamond joined us and we went to Ethnographic museum, walked where there was a lot of photos for weddings. We walked along the water and found where the beach was. We ate lunch at “Fancy Annie’s”, as Jorge called it. (It’s actually called Andy’s Pizza, but it’s the fanciest one in town and someone called it Fancy Andy’s, but he misheard it. Haha)

§  One Sunday was spent at my future permanent site. I got the opportunity to meet my partner and host family. I will go into more detail about that in a later post.

§  I went to Chisinau with Alleyce and her Host Granddaughter and met up with her friend while there. We started at the PC office since I wanted to raid the loot me room. I ended up getting a shirt, a sweater (from Target), a pair of worn black jeans, and a skirt (also from Target). In the pants I found 20 lei, so my ride home was paid for! After, we went to a bunch of different restaurants and an art museum. That was one of the funniest evenings. We showed up for the last rutiera out of the capital to our village and there was a crowd of people waiting to get on. Among the crowd was another volunteer and trainee. Turns out this one was full and the last one was broken down. While waiting to figure out what to do another trainee shows up also needing to get home. There was no way out. The four of us, who I had been with all day, end up sprinting through Chisinau to try and get to another rutiera that passes by both of our villages. When we arrived, it was gone. So we hopped on another rutiera that at least gets us to the raion center. While waiting for it to leave, the other trainees and volunteer arrive. There weren’t enough seats so they had to stand. We get to the raion center, and thankfully, Alleyce’s host brother had a van and he came to get us! So all of us piled into the van and got home safely!

§  Another day, Sebastian came over from another village and we hung out with my fam. We were getting ready for the Language Proficiency Interview (LPI). I was so nervous. Because it was a week after Practice School ended I was not at my best, so having someone to practice with helped a bit!

§  Another Sunday was spent celebrating Katie’s birthday by a lake. It started with me doing my Letter of Commitment. Mama made a bunch of pizza, thinking that Beatrice would be home, Danu and his friend would be over. But that didn’t happen. So, it was just me and mama. Then, Katie and Angela were going to meet at Diamond’s place, but Nana Mila brought Diamond over to eat pineapple. The pineapple wasn’t ripe enough so Diamond ate some pizza. Since the others arrived at Diamond’s while we were eating pizza they came over and ate pizza, too. The kicker is, they all had already eaten lunch and I was still in my PJs….at 3p…… From there we walked to the lake. Hung out on a swing listening to music for an hour. Walked back. It was one of the most relaxing days.

 The joke within the family was that everyone, even from the other villages had to come to see the castle that I was staying in. Because Diamond and I’s house was in centru we were often a meeting spot for people. But for some reason the meeting spot was actually my house and everyone would end up staying for a meal (Pizza above, Hram, and Team Teaching Prep).

And this is pretty much it! That was an average week during PST. I digressed quite a bit, but that’s okay. It was an exhausting ten weeks that I will never forget. These ten weeks I spent getting to know my government issued family. It’s odd how fate brings us all together, and although I have only known them for ten weeks, we have grown so close that we know more about each other than I would have ever imagined being possible.

[rioadelesphotogaphictechniques]

Documentary photography is more than a document

Documentary photography is more than a document; With the rise of television and digital technology there was less demand for published photography, and it began to go into decline. It has since found a new audience in art galleries and museums. Putting these works in a gallery setting places the work at the centre of a debate surrounding the power of photography and the photographer’s motivations. Their work raises questions of the documentary role of the photograph today and offers alternative ways of seeing, recording and understanding the events and situations that shape the world in which we live. A truly precise definition, Documentary Photography is best thought of as an umbrella term that encompasses many styles and themes including: Social Documentary; Conservation Photography; Ethnographic Photography; War Photography; the photo essay; New Documents; and Social Landscape photography. What unites these styles at basis is the principle that the camera is in essence a machine for recording reality. Though one cannot say it is objective, the intention of the documentary photographer is to bring to light some otherwise hidden reality or injustice. Stylistically, documentarians typically favour sharply focused and/or pure images that eschew darkroom manipulation or forgery. Other genres of photography, including Street Photography and Photojournalism sometimes include particular works that are considered documentary images, though both genres primarily focus on capturing a moment, or split second, whether that be an encounter on a street or a moment of breaking news.   This can also incorporate cultural anthropology. Anthropologists have discovered that, through culture, people can adapt to their environment in a non-genetic way, so that people living in different environments also have diverse cultures. Much of anthropological theory stems from an understanding of and interest in the conflict between local (particular cultures) and global (universal human existence or a network of relations between people in various places or circumstances). To understand this can be crucial for a photographer, to become one with the people, interacting and to be a part of the crowd. Documentary photography can also create narratives for the viewer, regardless of what the original meaning or message was supposed to proclaim, there is always room for interpretation.  

[dani710r]

Hotel Osam Description: A stay at Hotel Osam places you in the heart of Supetar, within a 15-minute walk of Petrinovic Mausoleum and Supetar Beach. This 4-star hotel is 5.3 mi (8.5 km) from Church of St. Roko and 10.9 mi (17.6 km) from Vidova Hora. Make yourself at home in one of the 24 air-conditioned rooms featuring minibars and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. Don't miss out on recreational opportunities including an outdoor pool and a sauna. Satisfy your appetite at Rooftop bar, a bar where you can take in the ocean view. Snacks are also available at the coffee shop/café. A complimentary buffet breakfast is included. Featured amenities include multilingual staff, luggage storage, and laundry facilities. Planning an event in Supetar? This hotel has facilities measuring 269 square feet (25 square meters), including a meeting room. Nearby Attractions: Supetar Beach, Petrinovic Mausoleum, Church of St. Roko, Vidova Hora, Port of Split, Natural History Museum, Green Market, Eastern Gate, Bacvice Beach, Papalic Palace, City Museum of Split, Strossmayer Park, Gregory of Nin Statue, Croatian Maritime Museum, Ethnographic Museum Split. #travel #vacations #luxurytrip #hotel #explore #beachesnresorts #travelforless #travelAwesome #luxuryhotels #letstravel #travelanddestinations #vacations #beachlife #paradise #nature #wonderful_places #bestplacetogo #voyaged #adventure #travelgram #bestvacations #worldplaces #earth #goodlife #wealthylife #spa #resort #bestholidayresort #croatia #europe #eurotrip (en Supetar, Brac, Croatia) https://www.instagram.com/p/B8aWsqaBMdE/?igshid=1iawzv9ly1aos

[bigtinyworldtravel]

Croatia is a beautiful country with its turquoise blue waters, a Mediterranean climate, and medieval architecture. In autumn, we could see the most popular historic sites outside of the massive tourist season of summer. The water is still warm for swimming, and the fall colors are amazing. There are various festivals and holidays to appreciate making this the perfect time to visit. This was a wonderful introduction to Croatia and it is now our favorite country in Europe. If you like autumn like we do, find out why this is the best time to visit Croatia.

Why Autumn?

Brianna is borderline obsessed with autumn, and Croatia has an excellent blend of fall activities and places to visit. We love fall colors and the temperatures are moderate and comfortable. Most of the things you can enjoy in the summer are also available in autumn. Each city we visited had different activities and festivities that were wonderful this time of year. Best of all, no selfie-sticks!

Zagreb

The capital city of Croatia was the first place we visited. After being in Rome, it was a relief to get away from all the people and enjoy a new culture. It was cloudy most of the time, but that did not stop us. We loved the charm of the city with a cathedral, many old churches, and the main square. It was peaceful walking around the city at our own pace and sometimes purely on our own. The cooler weather made the hot wine more welcoming.

Museums and Art Exhibitions

On a rainy day, we visited the Museum of Broken Relationships and the Illusion Museum. Both were much more entertaining than we expected and a perfect way to stay indoors. We also visited the Museum of Contemporary Art that had some unique pencil artworks by Davor Vrankić. We visited so many museums at a discounted rate with a Zagreb Card.

Architecture

The Zagreb Cathedral dominates the skyline of the city and is the tallest building in Croatia. It is a gothic style building built in 1906, which is relatively new compared to many similar style cathedrals in Europe.

The St. Mark’s Church is much smaller and older, being built in the 13th century.  What we liked about this church is the coat of arms of Zagreb on the roof. That is not something we had seen before in our travels.

Other Things to See and Do

The Gric Tunnel is a former World War II bomb shelter built in 1943 that is free to enter. It is 1,150 feet long and has six exits. We missed this while in Zagreb, but it is on the list for next time. This is a great place to visit on a rainy autumn day.

We walked down Tkalciceva Street to check out the cultural scene. It has many colorful buildings, and it is full of restaurants with outdoor seating. There are plenty of streets to wander and check out the street art without many people around.

Zagreb 360 is the second tallest building in the city and it has a viewing platform where we had a spectacular view of the city below. We enjoyed coffee there and this is also included with the Zagreb Card.

The Lotrščak Tower and Grič Cannon have an interesting history and the cannon fires off at noon each day. We thought a bomb was going off when we heard it the first time and then we looked into it and found where to go see it live. The shortest cable car in the world, the Zagreb funicular, leads right up to it if you don’t want to walk up the hill.

Zadar

Zadar will always have a special place in our hearts. It is the smallest of the cities we visited in Croatia, but this made it remarkable. The old town was nearly empty this time of year, so we could walk around and see the beautiful waterfront with no one else. It became more lively in the evening with its many restaurants and holiday festivities. The city is full of old historical monuments and the sunsets here are awesome with the turbulent autumn skies. Zadar is known as the city of romance and love.

Museums and Art Exhibitions

Zadar has a few Art Galleries and Museums for rainy days. One we went to is the Museum of Ancient Glass, which contains collections of Roman glassware with goblets, jars, and vials from archaeological sites across Dalmatia.

Architecture

The Church of St. Donatus was built in the 8th and 9th centuries. It is in the center of the old town and you can climb the nearby tower up until the end of October when it closes for the season. While we missed the tower, it was beautiful to see without the tourists.

Across the sea from Italy, Croatia was heavily influenced by the Roman Empire. These Roman Forum ruins date back to the 1st-century B.C.E. It is easy to spot where giant columns once stood next to this church.

Other Things to See and Do

A couple of our favorite places to visit in Zadar were the Sea Organ and the Sun Salutation. These are on the waterfront in Old Town and a beautiful place to enjoy the sunset while snacking on some roasted chestnuts.

The Sun Salutation lights up at night with various color patterns, and it is entirely solar-powered. Near the sun are the 9 planets spaced out proportionally across the waterfront. It is best to visit this place at night, and without the summer crowds, we had a clear view of the show.

The Sea Organ is an amazing creation powered by nature, where the waves push air up through pipes and create music. If the sea is rough, the intensity of the sounds increase. It is one of the most amazing things we experienced in Zadar.

Speaking of rough seas, we watched a storm come in. The water came right over the sea wall and we had to be careful or else we would have gotten wet. In autumn, there is a greater chance to catch a storm and see such dramatic waves.

The narrow streets of Zadar are also fun to explore and we walked almost all the streets in the old part of town. Look at how this van barely fits in between the walls.

We also walked around Queen Jelena Madijevka Park that has some nightclubs that weren’t yet open, but serve drinks until 4am most nights. This didn’t stop them from playing tunes during the day to entice people to come. This nightclub is called Ledana Lounge Bar, and we will have to check it out when it is open. 

Split

Split is the second-largest city in Croatia, and it also has an old town that became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We were looking forward to seeing Split after hearing so many good things about it. We loved the dramatic mountains and stellar coastline surrounding Split and the old architecture. We did not spend enough time here and hope to go back again sometime.

Museums and Art Exhibitions

The Split Gallery of Fine Arts has a collection of modern and contemporary art with nearly 3500 pieces. There is also a Game of Thrones Museum since so much filming took place in Split and throughout the country. We didn’t go to the museum but we did go to a nearby shop to sit on an Iron Throne replica. We felt powerful!

Architecture

Diocletian’s Palace and the surrounding old town have some incredible architecture. The white walls and paths are extraordinary.  While we were here, we heard a Dalmatian ensemble singing. The acoustics in this place were amazing. Underground, there are tunnels where you can tour the dragon cave from Game of Thrones.

We climbed to the top of the Cathedral of Saint Domnius for some expansive views of the city in almost all directions. The views were incredible, and we even saw a rainbow. The cathedral was built in the 7th century and is the oldest Catholic Cathedral in the world that remains in use in its original structure.

Klis Fortress is a medieval fortress above a village by the same name near Split. It is over 2000 years old and the remains are an incredible location for sunset with views of the entire city of Split below. We love ruins, so this was a real treat to visit. It is another Game of Thrones filming location and we even saw DRAGONS there. We had it all to ourselves as there weren’t many people there.

Other Things to See and Do

Marjan Park is on the west end of the city, and the trees turn copper color in autumn. It has various fantastic viewpoints and is on a large hill. We spotted a cat colony at the top and they appeared to be well taken care of.

We also did a day trip to Omiš, a small town with a fabulous nearby coastline. It was a place we felt at home and could easily stay for a while. There are some spectacular swimming spots along the coast and a couple of fortresses to explore. The water was still warm enough to swim in November.

Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is by far our favorite city in Croatia, even though every other place in Croatia feels like a close second. The history here is fascinating, and we loved seeing a walled city for the first time. It is one of the most well-preserved medieval cities which was enchanting. We are also Game of Thrones fans, and so many scenes were filmed here as well. These St. Jesuit Stairs were used in the walk of shame scene. Shame! Shame! Shame!

Because of the hit tv series, it has been an increasingly popular city, so we were grateful to see it in autumn. While there were still plenty of people, we managed to be in many empty spaces throughout the city. There are also lots of street cats everywhere to keep Brianna happy.

Museums and Art Exhibitions

There are many museums in Dubrovnik for rainy days, all within easy walking distance. We visited the Ethnographic Museum which displays historical farming, lifestyle & cultural traditions. The museum was built in an old granary where we saw how grain was processed and stored. Others we did not see include the Maritime Museum, and the Homeland War Museum. We learned about the Croatian War from a local but would like to learn more on our next visit to Croatia.

Architecture

The old walled city makes up most of the unique architecture and is a UNESCO Heritage site itself. We walked along the city walls nearly empty this time of year, and it was amazing. Surrounding the walled city are three different fortresses. Fort Lovrijenac is just outside the city walls and has beautiful panoramic views from above.

Bokar Fortress is on the opposite side of Dubrovnik West Harbour from Fort Lovrijenac. It is an iconic 15th-century fortress and is uniquely cylindrical.

The Minceta Fortress acted as the highest point of the defense system protecting Dubrovnik. It sits at the northernmost point of the city walls with incredible views in all directions.

The Pile City Gate is the entryway into the city walls. Upon walking through the gate we entered a different world from long ago. We had even more street cats greeting us when we arrived.

Other Things to See and Do

Rector’s Palace is a gothic-style building that also combines renaissance and baroque elements. It is a cultural history museum with prison cells, a courtroom, arsenal, and the quarters of the rector. In autumn, we could see these stairs completely empty with a little patience.

One of the most interesting places we went to was the Belvedere Hotel. A local took us to this hotel that was destroyed in an attack by Serbian forces during the Croatian War of Independence. The hotel structure still remains, and it was recently purchased by a Russian investor. She explained some history of the place and her time living through the war. We do not recommend you go inside as it can be dangerous. We did enter with the help of a local familiar with the building and its weak spots.

Walking the narrow streets of the city needs mentioning because that is a lot of fun in itself. Getting lost in the narrow streets and petting some cats is a relaxing way to spend a morning any time of year.

Plitvice Lakes

Plitvice Lakes National Park is very popular in the summer, but the fall colors here are incredible. With a bit of added snow, we were in eye-candy land. Best of all, there is hardly anyone there this time of year. We had so many trails all to ourselves. This natural landscape makes for an easy day-trip from Zagreb or Zadar.

Festivals, Events, and Holidays

We arrived in Zagreb in November and just barely missed All Saints’ Day. On November 1st people all across Croatia head to graveyards to lay flowers and candles for the deceased. We did visit the largest graveyard in Croatia, Mirogoj Cemetery, which is the best place to enjoy this holiday. The fall colors there were gorgeous.

The Zagreb Film Festival is the largest film festival in the country and lasts 9 days in November. If we had a longer stay in Zagreb, it would have been fun to see this festival.

Just like other Croatian cities, Zadar was well decorated for Christmas in its old town. This time of year there are many sailing events, runs, and boat shows. There is also a traditional mass on St. Nicholas Day on November 6th.

In late October in Dubrovnik, there is an Autumn Music Festival with a variety of music events. There is also a Food Festival with local culinary specialties. Since we arrived in late November, we enjoyed the Advent in the City Winter Festival. The festival starts in December and goes into January. Dubrovnik is very festive with Christmas trees, decorations, and lights everywhere.

Food

Fall is the season of food. We had to try some local Croatian dishes, hot wine, and even some dessert dough balls. The Christmas season starts early, and it was already in full force so we enjoyed the festivities.

Just about every bakery we stumbled upon had burek, which is a regionally traditional dish and good for a quick bite. These are very inexpensive and filling, which is perfect for travelers like us. Every coastal Croatian town will specialize in many seafood dishes as well. Fritule was a dessert we had frequently which are little dough balls covered in chocolate or other sweet sauces. Aaron also loved trying different craft beers throughout the country.

Final Thoughts

Croatia is an amazing country and we want to spend more time there on our next visit. After seeing so many places in Europe, we keep thinking about our time in Croatia the most. We loved the people, the food, and the architecture. There is still so much more for us to see and we keep adding more places to visit. It is a beautiful country to visit any time of the year ,but we particularly liked it in the fall.

What country would you want to travel to in autumn?

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#Croatia is a beautiful country with its turquoise blue waters, a #Mediterranean climate, and #medieval #architecture. In #autumn, we could see the most popular historic sites in a shoulder season. #bigtinyworld @Visit_Croatia Croatia is a beautiful country with its turquoise blue waters, a Mediterranean climate, and medieval architecture. In autumn, we could see the most popular historic sites outside of the massive tourist season of summer.

[dianashealthyliving]

*By: Sarah Harris*

Dubrovnik is affectionately known as the Pearl of the Adriatic is an enchanting city on the southern region of Croatia boasting glistening views of the Dalmatian coast. Regarded for its walled-in Old Town dating back to the 16th century, as well as remarkably preserved buildings, this bewitching city is as spellbinding as they come. Take a step back in time as you stroll down the cold limestone streets, or walk into a realm that is entirely fictional – of course, the choice is yours.  If you are a Game of Thrones fan then you will be excited to learn all the filming locations on one of the Game of Thrones Tour Dubrovnik. 

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Game of Thrones Dubrovnik

Many fans of George R. R. Martin’s series, Game of Thrones know that much of the HBO series is filmed throughout various Mediterranean corners, medieval castles and craggy mountainsides. While it might be hard to wrap your head around visiting a city to marvel at fictitious history through a guided walking tour, you can take in actual history as you stroll through these historical relics including the Dubrovnik Castle to name a few.

Game of Thrones Tour Dubrovnik

  It’s, of course, recommended to sign up for a traditional Dubrovnik walking tour before exploring the various King’s Landing filming locations. What you will come to discover while learning about Croatia’s past, and Dubrovnik in particular, is that it’s incredibly storied. With Venetian influences that can be found in architecture to pasta, to Balkan touches throughout, this city’s historic sites are becoming increasingly appreciated and visited thanks to Game of Thrones. Once you turn on your social media and start geotagging your photos, you will quickly learn that Dubrovnik is now lovingly – and more often than not – referred to as King’s Landing.

When you’re ready to unearth the betrayals looming within the world of Westeros, you can sign up for a guided Game of Thrones tour around Dubrovnik or follow this counsel and navigate King’s Landing solo. We will say that the tours are usually hosted by extras on the show, and they carry with them pictures from the set. With that, they also have some salacious gossip and even teasers in their back pocket if you ask the right questions.

  Lovrijenac Fortress

Photo c/o Nautika Restaurant

Your guided or self-navigated tour of the Game of Thrones locations around Dubrovnik can begin at a handful of sites, but the Pile Gate Entrance to Old Town is a great place to start. This important filming location has been used to shoot a number of scenes, most notably in Seasons two and three. From there, you’re within walking distance to most sites including Lovrijenac Fortress also known as the Red Keep. For views of this rugged location, be sure to make dinner reservations at Nautika, a fine dining establishment dishing out glistening views of both the Red Keep and another shooting location, Dubrovnik West Harbour or Blackwater Bay. If you’re feeling adventurous after your meal, you can climb to the top and take in the twinkling sites.

Dubrovnik City Walls

Next, spend time exploring Fort Bokar, which also forms part of the Dubrovnik City Wall. This location was used to shoot sea wall shots of King’s Landing – Dubrovnik. You can also catch stellar views from Fort Lovrijenac from within the City Walls, as you’re able to walk along those as well. Your Game of Thrones tour may only be able to walk you through a portion of the walls, but if you explore them on your own, you’ve successfully uncovered another filming location. This UNESCO World Heritage site since 1979 attracts tourists from around the world in their own right but is also one of the more popular shooting locations from the show. As you tour along, you will have a beautiful vantage point of the famous red rooftops of Dubrovnik.  

Ploče Gate

Ploce Gate – Red Keep Gate

The east entrance to the Old Town Dubrovnik, Ploče Gate was built in Romanesque style at the end of 14th century and is the east entrance to the Old Town Dubrovnik. Cersei Lannister passing over this bridge and enters to the Red Keep after her walk of shame at the end of season five.

Minceta Tower

c/o Dubrovnik Times

For uninterrupted views of the Adriatic Sea, be sure to visit the commanding Minčeta Tower, also shown as the House of the Undying in Qarth. To get to the top of this real-life 14th-century fortress, you will need to climb 750 steps, but navigating that winding staircase will be worth the sweat once you get to the top, as proves true with most things in life. Next, take a walk to the Ethnographic Museum. Once a granary, this 16th-century building now houses cultural exhibits and was also used as a filming location in Season four.

  Jesuit Stairs

Jesuit Stairs

Of course, a Game of Thrones tour around Dubrovnik would not be complete without a trip to the Jesuit Stairs, just off the Gundulićeva Poljana. These beautiful Baroque wonders that descend from St. Ignatius Church also doubled as the filming location of one of the most notorious and apparently expensive scenes in the show’s history. These now infamous steps of the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing, played host to Cersei’s walk of shame in Season five. Her walk of atonement – in the buff – stretched throughout Old Town, but it’s at the top of the steps that the scene started. Once you’re through with yelling “Shame” as your significant other walks down, you can take a leisurely stroll through pristine gardens at Gradac Park, located next to Old Town. This location was the site of King Joffrey’s wedding and ultimate demise, in typical Westeros fashion.

St. Dominic Street Game of Thrones Dubrovnik

St. Dominic Street is a significant street as several scenes from The Game of Thrones were filmed here.  It is the connection between Ploče gate and Stradun and goes past the Dominican monastery.

One of the most famous Game of Thrones scenes filmed here is where the Gold Cloaks kill one of King Robert’s illegitimate sons. Tyrion and Bronn, in Season 2, here witness a protest speech, and Cersei Lannister as a sign of penance walks naked here in the scene that begins on the Jesuit staircase.

  Lokrum Island

  For time spent outside of Dubrovnik, take the local ferry to a curious little island called Lokrum just 15-minute away. Inhabited solely by peacocks and rabbits, and home to the Franciscan monastery, lush botanical gardens and ample rocks for sunbathing, locals have been flocking to this island for years for a quiet reprieve. Thanks to a replica Iron Throne located in a tiny museum, fans from around the world can take the hot seat in the fictional city of Qarth. From there, you can hike about 40-minutes or so to Pigeon’s cave for uninterrupted views of the Adriatic, which truly does glimmer at all hours of the day.  

Game of Thrones Split, Croatia

There are a few other noteworthy Game of Thrones locations around Croatia, including in Split, just 230 km north of Old Town. The second largest city in Croatia is also home to Diocletian’s Palace, a stately building that was erected in the 4th century AD. This UNESCO World Heritage site doubled as the basement where Daenerys Targaryen kept her dragons. And just a short 20-minutes from there is the Fortress of Klis, former home of Croatian kings and dukes during the Ottoman Empire. For fans, this 3rd century BC build is better known as Meereen, a city in the Bay of Dragons.

  Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik

Photo c/o Hotel Excelsior

When in Dubrovnik, you will have the chance to sleep in the hotel where many actors of Game of Thrones slept in the final season.  The Hotel Excelsior, a 104-year-old UNESCO-protected property boasts some of the best views of the sea and Old Town. While this stay might put some stress on your wallet, your experience will feel all the more authentic. A member of the Adriatic Luxury Hotel collection, this property offers 19 luxury suites inside the original structure, a former royal villa. The more modern building which slept the likes of Emilia Clarke and Kit Harrington between filming features all of the modern amenities any discerning traveller could hope for. 

Click here For Current Rates and Availability.

If you’re looking to explore these locations while in Dubrovnik, you can purchase your tickets in advance via tour sites including Get Your Guide or simply sign up for a tour as you walk through Old Town.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All this means is that we will make a small commission at absolutely no cost to you! This helps us be able to continue to run Diana’s Healthy Living and we thank you for your help! 

A Guide To The Must-See Game Of Thrones Tour Dubrovnik, Croatia *By: Sarah Harris* Dubrovnik is affectionately known as the Pearl of the Adriatic is an enchanting city on the southern region of Croatia boasting glistening views of the Dalmatian coast.

[onewheelneil]

Denmark day 1

Today I got up at 10 am to a cloudy sky and forced myself out of bed. Their dog had woken me up at around 6 am when he started barking at something but I fell back asleep soon afterwards. I did my morning routine and got some breakfast of oatmeal cereal. It was pretty good because it had some little chocolates in it that kinda looked like deer poop. I finished that up and headed out to catch the bus towards the the train that would take me into Copenhagen. The bus was a little late so I had to wait a little bit in the cold but I was sufficiently dressed so I was warm. The bus came and I tapped my travel card that my au pair had given me to use the public transportation. Made me feel like a local. I popped a squat and soon enough was at the train station that would take me to Copenhagen. Again at the the station I tapped my card and soon got on a train to Copenhagen central. I arrived in Copenhagen and started my exploring at a nearby museum. It was the Ny Carlsberg Glyptotek. This is a famous sculpture and art museum. There was even a temporary exhibit on ancient Egypt. I paid for a ticket (they even had an under 27 ticket price) and started at the marble sculptures. They were so smooth and so delicately made. I was in awe the detail they had on these statues. Then I moved on to an ancient Mediterranean coast exhibit where they featured vases and weapons all the way back from 4000 BC. They also had stone statues and busts of the people of the time period. It was so fascinating which lead to the ancient Egypt temporary exhibit. They had found statues and tombs of prior Pharaohs and it was all very interesting to look at. I studied everything in front of me. Then when done I saw a French painters exhibit that featured paintings from 1860-1950 of many different famous painters. There was contemporary and portraits and landscapes all from the time period. They even split between 3 floors there were so many paintings. I looked through them all stopping at the ones that interested me the most. Afterwards I made my way the the next floor to see the permanent exhibits on Ancient Greece and roman art. There were busts and statues everywhere most of them missing their noses. There was an actual framed platform of all the noses that were separated from the busts and statues during excavation. At one point it was common to redo them in plaster to show what it did look like but then people didn't like that and wanted the unfixed look of them. It was pretty funny. Most of the busts looked like Voldemort that way. On the third floor was more art and little bronze statuettes of people in different configurations that a famous painter used to sculpt. After all that I had seen everything in the museum and it was close to 1 pm. I made my way to the next museum across the street. This one is called the danish national museum. They had all sorts of awesome exhibits on Denmark from before men, on indigenous people, on ethnological treasures from multiple continents, and Denmark in 1660-2000 I looked at each exhibit starting on the top floor that featured more ancient Mediterranean coastal treasures but I didn't stay long since I'd seen so much in the last museum. Then Denmark from 1660-2000 was not too interesting except for the older times that went into how people dressed and how social classes clashed. I sped through that part stopping when they featured old weapons. Then on the next floor was an exhibit on ethnographical treasures. They started with indigenous Denmark tribes with all these awesome fur outfits and old weapons for hunting and fishing. Then it moved onto Navajo rugs and then Korean artifacts like ceremonial masks and fans and clothing from ancient times. It was really fascinating that they had so much from everywhere in the world. Makes you wonder how they acquired it. They even had an exhibit on Japanese cosplaying (this stands for costume playing where people dress up as their favorite characters in any media and display at conventions).

[worldart-brightonmuseums]

Textile Study Day @ Brighton Museum & Art Gallery – Friday 29 September 2017

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery’s African textiles study day held on 29 September 2017 drew a good number of people from museums and other institutions, some with little or no direct experience of textiles and, somewhat to the hosts’ surprise and evident delight, quite a few with specialist knowledge.  

 Sarah Posey of Brighton Museum opened proceedings with a welcome address. Rachel Heminway Hurst, Curator of World Art at the Museum followed with an introduction to the day and an outline of the Museum’s ongoing Fashioning Africa project (2015—2018). The project, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), has enabled the Museum to bring together a number of external specialists and people from the community. This panel has met regularly over the past few years and has worked alongside the Museum’s project staff to devise a collecting policy for the project, the main aim of which is to acquire African textiles and clothing dating from the 1960s up until 2007 to complement the Museum’s existing historical collection. Several panellists have been directly involved in sourcing and collecting items for the museum and continue to work alongside the museum’s project staff.

 The study day was split between four illustrated presentations in the morning followed by a textiles and garments object handling session in the afternoon. The morning presentations were given by three members of the project panel, namely Dr Nicola Stylianou, a specialist in African textiles, Dr Malika Kraamer, a curator specialising in Ghanian textiles and Ms Edith Ojo, a Brighton-based museum consultant with first hand experience of Nigerian fashion. Dr Gillian Vogelsang-Eastwood, textiles specialist and director of the Textile Research Centre (TRC), Leiden gave the fourth presentation and was the only non-panel member to help facilitate the day.

Together, the talks provided an introduction and overview of African textiles as well as further information about several aspects of Fashioning Africa. Nicola gave ‘a (very) brief introduction’ to African textiles, helpfully identifying and discussing several types of historical textiles she has found most commonly represented within UK museums during the course of her researches. These include the baban riga (man’s gown from Nigeria), adire cloth (indigo resist dyed or hand painted cloth made by women in Nigeria) and the Sudanese jibba (man’s cotton tunic). Kraamer’s ‘A Kente Jouney in Ghana: Collecting for Brighton Museum’ gave an account of the five day trip she, Rachel and Nicola recently conducted in order to acquire strip woven cloth for the Museum. Her presentation provided not only a lively description of the journey, but also insight into some of the technical aspects of this cloth and its variety, as well as practical (and other) considerations when field collecting. During her talk, Edith spoke candidly about her initial reservations and how, after cautiously agreeing to become a Fashioning Africa panel member, she found herself an enthusiastic champion of the project, and especially of Aso-Oke attire. She shared how her Nigerian heritage and networks helped her field collect several garments in the UK for the museum’s collection. She stressed how these items were all highly treasured by their former owners and, in a theme that chimed with Malika’s talk, have been ethically sourced and gathered with detailed information before being entrusted to the museum.  Gillian from the TRC rounded off the presentations, sharing some of her extensive knowledge and experience of textiles, of various epochs, from around the world. Her enthusiasm for the subject was evident, from technical aspects to the importance of digitising collections, documentation and research (‘the stories’). She also spoke about the TRC’s own collection, stressing its importance as a teaching collection, which she hopes will take on more African textiles.

 The presentations were following by a Q&A session chaired by Helen Mears, Keeper of World Art at Brighton, where delegates and panellists raised several pertinent points, including how Fashioning Africa might be considered a step towards decolonising the museum collection. After a networking lunch, delegates returned to the MuseumLab for the much-anticipated handling, discussion and skills-sharing session, facilitated by the morning session’s presenters. Each presenter was stationed at a themed table –Nicola/printed and dyed cloth, Malika/Ghanaian cloth, Edith/Nigerian textiles and Gillian/textile embellishments – laid out with examples from the museum collection, some historical and others recent Fashioning Africa acquisitions.  

 This most enjoyable and informative day was supported by the HLF as well as the Museum Ethnographers Group (MEG) and, of course, Brighton Museum & Art Gallery.

 Catherine Elliott, attendee and student

[fourseasontravel-blog]

Top Places to Explore on a Guided Tour and Excursion in Croatia

Croatia is an exquisite and naturally scenic country that is extremely rich in interesting old towns, incredible mountains, beaches, coastline and numerous islands with distinctive landscapes. Every corner of Croatia has something to offer to the tourists and travelers. If you want to spend a wonderful getaway in one of the best places in Europe, then make sure to visit an impressive holiday destination- Croatia. There are many interesting places, which you can explore by booking a guided and personalized tour and excursion package in Croatia.

Here are some top-rated tourist places in Croatia that you can explore on a guided tour and excursion, please have a look!

1. National Park Plitvice Lakes:

The oldest and largest national park in Croatia, the National Park Plitvice Lakes is located in the north of the country. This park is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage since 1979, and is famous for its lakes that were formed from numerous rivers floating together. The National Park Plitvice Lakes boasts of a diverse flora and fauna. Enjoy thousands of sparkling falls, clean pure air, the great Splasher, idyllical boat ride on Lake Kozjak, A day trip to this beautiful park will prove to be adventurous and exciting. The Plitvice Lakes National Park are the nature paradise. Among all other nature beauties, you will see sixteen bigger and few smaller lakes, gradually lined up and linked together by innumerable cascades and waterfalls.

2. Krka National Park:

This national park in Croatia is famous for the river Krka and it’s breathtakingly beautiful numerous waterfalls. The Krka National Park’s awesome cliff waterfalls in Europe give photographic opportunities that can decorate many holiday pictures. This national park covers an area of just over 142 square km and includes two-thirds of the river itself. As one of the top-rated tourist attractions, the park boasts of a wide variety of flora and fauna, a monastery (contains a number of well-preserved artifacts and library), and old mills (transformed into small ethnographic museums). Your visit to the Krka National Park will leave you enthralled. National Park Krka is the only National Park in Croatia where swimming is allowed!

3. Cetina River adventures:

Cetina River is the longest river in Dalmatia. This river with lots of rapids, canyons and small waterfalls represents the real untouched nature.If you are looking for a true adrenaline rush, imagine zipping your way across the magnificent Cetina River 150 meters above the canyon suspended by a wire! The views from up here are incredible – a bird’s eye experience of some of the most magnificent nature in Croatia.

Rafting is one of the most exciting ways to experience the Cetina River and its picturesque surroundings. By taking the rafting You will be able to enjoy at the same time in the beauty of the nature as well as in a real adventure. Let the river Cetina and Four season team take you away on the adrenaline filled ride.

4. Dubrovnik:

Also known as the Croatian Athens, the UNESCO World Heritage–listed city of Dubrovnik certainly lives up to the accolade. The ancient city walls, with its myriad towers and turrets, date back to the 10th century and protect the many impressive monuments of the Old Town. Walking tours check off all the main sights including Onofrio’s Fountain, the Franciscan Monastery and Museum, Dubrovnik Cathedral, Rector’s Palace, Renaissance-era Sponza Palace, the Church of St. Blaise, and of course, Dubrovnik’s Ancient City Walls.

Discover ‘Game of Thrones’ film sites of Dubrovnik that takes in the real-life attractions used for some of the television show’s fictional locations . Visit the famous Game of Thrones sights of King’s Landing, the capital of the Seven Kingdoms.

5. Zadar:

If Alfred Hitchcock raved about the sunsets in Zadar in 1964, it must be true! Here you will find “the most beautiful sunset in the world”. Let’s say those colors aren’t enough for you- go ahead and check out Zadar’s entertaining “Sun Salutations” installation. The grand setup features LEDs that light up once the sun sets and are run by solar power. Feed all your senses by listening to Zadar’s “Sea Organ” at the same time. Tubes carefully installed under large marble steps interact with the sea waves to create a calming sea-side melody. Walk past all of this and step into Zadar’s massive café culture- cafes taking up long narrow side streets, built alongside tall ancient walls and even visit “Garden” a bar where drinks are served lying down on spacious beds.

6. Split:

Split is the most important cultural and economic center of Dalmatia. Home to Diocletian’s Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Split offers a wealth of museums and Roman ruins. Some of the most famous cultural and historical monuments are the cathedral of Split, the bell tower of St. Duje, the city’s square, Prokurative, Mestrovic gallery, the museum of Croatian archaeological monuments and monument to Grgur Of Nin. Located on the shores of the Meditarranean, Split is the center and the true heart of Dalmatia, where majority of its inhabitants live, where the main Dalmatian islands are located, where the beaches are the most beautiful. Both culture and history were generous to these parts in providing inspiration to artists who created there art in the stone, walls and palaces of its town and urban centers, in buildings made of stone that are one of the most memorable characteristics of central Dalmatia. If Dalmatia is indeed, as many say, the true, primeval Meditaerranean, than its central part around Split is, in itself, the heart of the entire Mediterranean.

Whether you want to book an exciting or adventurous tour and excursion package in Croatia, rely on Four Seasons to get the best deals and have the utmost fun. As a reputable and experienced tour operator in Croatia, we provide the highest quality service in providing you the best deals on our tour and excursion packages and make sure to arrange a comfortable trip. With us, you will enjoy a personalized and memorable Croatia holiday!

Contact us today at +385 99 42 444 90 to book an affordable Croatia tour and excursion package! You can also email us at info@fourseasons.hr

[ingilizce-turkce]

Balıkesir’in İngilizce Tanıtımı

Balıkesir’in İngilizce Tanıtımı Area: 14.292 km² Population: 973.314 (1990) Traffic Code: 10 Balıkesir has shores that clean sea water reach’s the sanded beaches, and those shores surrounded by green olive trees. Ayvalık, Burhaniye, Ören, Edremit, Akçay and Altınoluk are attractive holiday place for whom want to rest in enjoyable environment or whom interested by archeological places. Districts: Balıkesir (center), Ayvalık, Balya, Bandırma, Bigadiç, Burhaniye, Dursunbey, Edremit, Erdek, Gömeç, Gönen, Havran, İvrindi, Kepsut, Manyas, Marmara, Savaştepe, Sındırgı, Susurluk. How to Get Roadway: Arrival by roadway opportunity is possible every places of Türkiye. Coach station Tel : (+90-266) 241 11 99 Railway: Railway arrival is possible between the Ankara – Balıkesir, İzmir – Balıkesir and Balıkesir – Bandırma. Train Station Tel : (+90-266) 713 60 89 – 715 30 50 Seaway: There are voyages between İstanbul and Bandırma by ferryboat and boat. Airway: By the opening to service of Körfez Airport, arrival from İstanbul to Ayvalık, Burhaniye and Edremit counties is possible. Airport Tel : (+90-266) 312 11 30 Where to Visit MUSEUMS KuvayıMilliyeMuseum: is at the old town hole. Balıkesir is a frontier province for development of Kuvayı Milliye, written decisions of 41 vanguard representatives, 5 main decision of congress, private items of these heroes, their photographs, and some photographs of Atatürk which taken when he arrive Baklıkesir province. At the second floor archeological findings and ethnographic creations are exhibits. Museum Tel : (+90-266) 243 31 81 Open days to visit : Everyday except Monday Moreover there are Erdemit city museum and Erdek open air museum present at the Balıkesir province. RELIGIOUS MONUMENTS Zağnos Paşa Mosque: it is built as külliye by Zağnos Pasha whom the vizier and commander of Fatih Sultan Mehmet period at the year of 1461. Today only mosque and public bath survived. It is at the city center towards Hasanbaba Bazaar. Yıldırım Mosque: bit is built by Yıldırım Beyazıt in the second half of 14th century. Karesi Bey Tomb: it is at behind side of Pasha Mosque. Inside the tomb there are graves of Karesi Bey whom the founder of Karesi Governmental and his 5 son’s. PRESERVED AREAS Balikesir – KuscennetiNational Park Location: Kuscenneti (Bird Paradise) is 20km southwest of Bandirma, and around 50km north of Balikesir, adjacent to Kus lake. Transportation: The park can be reached via the Balikesir – Bandirma highway. Highlights: At the end of winter the waters of Kus Lake rise, which cover the small willow grove and reed beds at the northwest of the lake. By spring, migrating birds fly from the southern regions to the national park and nest, so their young are hatching and growing in the area. At the end of summer, they return to the warmer south. This tiny area (64 hectares) is a popular migrating spot for birds from Europe and Asia, who fly here for the nourishment of the lake water, willow tree groves and reeds, making it a world-famous bird-watching location. There are 239 different species inhabiting the area during these months, with a total of three million birds. A unique characteristic of the Kuscenneti National Park is its award of the Class A European Diploma from the European Council four times since 1976, because of its effective and successful protection for bird life. The best months for bird watching are between March and July, and September and October. There is a watchtower that gives a wide area of viewing. Facilities: Detailed information about the birds, and the park in general, is provided in the museum and the administrative building inside the park. Scientific research here requires permission from the park directorate. There are no facilities for food or accommodation, but the nearest place is in the village of Sigirciatik, or else further in Bandirma. Balikesir – Kazdagi (Ida) National Park Location: The park is in the district of Edremit, in Balikesir province. Transportation: The park can be reached via the 230 highway from Balikesir (92km), and the 24 highway from Bursa. Highlights: Kaz Dagi, originally called Ida in ancient times, separates the Aegean and Marmara regions and is the highest in the Biga peninsula at 1774m. Places to visit include the valleys with their rich variety of flora and fauna; the mythological Ida Mountain which was said to be the venue of the first beauty contest; and the area of Sarikiz, in which the Sarikiz myth took place. Facilities: In specially designated areas, is it possible to stay in tents or caravans. Balıkesir – Ayvalik Islands Natural Park Location: The Ayvalık Islands Natural Park is within the borders of Balıkesir Province in Marmara Region. Transportation: It is possible to reach to the Ayvalık Islands Ayvalık both by highway and maritime lines. It is possible to reach to the greatest of these islands named Alibey Island by overland route, after coming to the Ayvalık District of Balıkesir Province. Highlights: Ayvalık Islands are geomorphologic structures which had been formed by the fall in of the peaks in the Aegean earthenware pot, as a result of the tectonic movements in the Pleistocene. After that event, the peaks were left over the sea and the islands formed. The extension of the old mountains played an important role in the distribution of the islands. This distribution and forming style had also effected the under – sea topography, and as a result of that rare landscape characteristics had been formed under the sea. Because of the lythological structure of the islands, some islands have a very thin plant cover, and some have no. The area have a recreational characteristic. In the year 1995, 17950 hectares of the area have been accepted as Natural Park, in order to make use of its potentiality, and to balance the usage – protection amount by taking the usage of the area under control. Facililities: In the Natural Park, camping areas and areas for daily usage will be arranged. In the Şeytan Sofrası Locality, an orientation centre will be activated, and in Güneş Island a centre for water sports like scuba – diving, and under sea fishing will be established. Balikesir – Gürgen Dagi Nature Reserve Location: The park is between Zeytinli and Ortaoba, 124km from Balikesir and 35km from Edremit. Transportation: Edremit is a good transport hub and is well connected to the rest of the country. The nearest airport is at Balikesir. Highlights: The area is especially noted for the rare and endangered Ida Mountain fir tree, and the rich wildlife in the unique forest ecosystem. In addition to the fir, the 240 hectares also has larch and eastern beech trees, and the animals living here include deer, roe deer, pigs, bears, wolves and jackals. ORNITHOLOGY AREAS BirdLake City: Balıkesir Provinces: Gönen, Manyas, Bandırma Surface Area : 16000 Altitude: 18 m Protection: Yes Bird Species: Here küçük karabatak (150 pairs), tepeli pelikan (35 pairs), gece balıkçılı (150 pairs), alaca balıkçıl (100 pairs) and kaşıkçı (200 pairs) reproduce. While there are huge numbers of karabatak (max. 2650) during all year, tepeli pelikan (max. 117) and dil kuyruk (max. 34) can also be seen regularly during winter. Main Characteristics: sweet water lake, alluvial forest CASTLES AND TOWERS Watch Tower: it is at the city center, on the Anafartalar avenue adjacent to old Town hall. It was built by Governer of Silistre, Giridizade Mehmet Pasha, resembling to Galata Tower at the year of 1827. Destroyed at 1897 earthquake and restored by Mutasarrıf Ömer Ali bey, and take today’s formation . SPORTING ACTIVITIES Nature Tracking Alaçam Mountains: is at the east of province. Lie towards east to west. Highest hill is Tilki Hill with 1625 meter top. Madra Mountains: split Aegean and Marmara seas from each other. This mountain is at the south west of province and lie towards north east. Highest hill is 1338 meter height. Kaz Mountains: it is at the west of provinces borders and north of the Edremit Bay. Mountains name mentioned as İda in mythology and lie towards to west, height reach’s to 1767 meter. Çatal Mountain: Susurluk İlçesinin biraz doğusunda yükselen, iki büyük çıkıntısı olan bu dağ ilin doğusunda uzanmaktadır. Orhaneli dağ grubuna dahil olup, en yüksek tepesi 1336 metredir. Kapıdağ: Bandırma ve Erdek Körfezi arasında teşekkül etmiş bir yarımadadır. 200 metreye kadar yükselmektedir. Çok sert ve denize kadar inen dimdik meyilli makilerle örtülü yamaçlardan oluşmuştur. Diving sport : especially small bays at Ayvalık shore are suitable for diving in Balıkesir province. Diving BALIKESIR & PROVINCE According to rumour, the area around Ayvalik is the location of the lost city of Atlantis – but what is known is the unique diving options especially off Gunes Island, Yuvarlak Island and Kerbela Rocks. The most popular area is the waters off Kiz Island with fascinating underwater fauna from a depth of 19m. THERMAL RESORTS Gönen Thermal Spring : those springs at Gönen county are very historic. Thermal spring operated at the times of Egyptians, Romans and Byzantine. Items about ancient thermal institutions that founded during the excavation processes in region are exhibits at Gönen open air museum. Gönen Thermal Spring Location: Next to Gonen Creek, near the town of Gonen, around 80km north west of Balikesir. Water temperature: 52°C pH value: 7.36 Physical and chemical properties: Hyperthermal, hypertonic, sulphur, chlorine, bicarbonate, sodium. Recommended Applications: Drinking and bathing Helps to heal: Drinking – liver, gall bladder and kidney ailments. Bathing – rheumatism, infections of the large intestine, hardening of the arteries and neurological and vascular complications. Accommodation: Yildiz Hotel – 381 beds. Dermal Hotel – 44 rooms. Park Hotel – 111 beds). province is rich by the means of thermal springs. Gönen Thermal Spring is the most important thermal spring of Balıkesir. Pamukçu Thermal Spring, Gönen – Dağ Ilıcası (Ekşidere Gençlik Mineral water), Edremit – Güre Thermal Spring, Edremit – Derman Thermal Spring, Balya-Ilıca Thermal Spring, Bigadiç – Hisarköy Thermal Spring, Sındırgı – Hisaralan Thermal Spring, Sındırgı – Emendere Thermal Spring, Susurluk – Kepekler Thermal Spring, Susurluk – Acıca Mineral water, Manyas – Kızıkköy Thermal Spring and Gömeç-Karaağaç Thermal Spring other springs of province. Geography At province generally the Mediterranean climate is dominant, however characteristic properties of this climate seems only at shore of the Aegean sea. Insider territories are under the effect of terrestrial climate. History It is estimated that Balıkesir and surroundings are settlement place since Prehistoric Age BC. 3200. Pelasg’s nation that coming from the Balkans are formed colonies at the years of BC. 2000. Balıkesir lived at the periods of Frig, Lydia, Persian, Macedonian, Bergama Kingdom, Rome and Byzantine. After the Malazgirt battle (1071) Karesi Bey whom son of a Seljuklian governor Kalem Şah Bey, conquered and formed Karesi Governmental and make Balıkesir capitol but he accepted Ottoman Dominance. Balıkesir proclaimed to province at 1923. Province old name Karesi changed to Balıkesir at the year of 1926 . Where to Eat Höşmerim cookies and Susurluk ayran (a drink with yogurt) are famous at province. What to Buy Höşmerim cookie, cologne, Yağcı Bedir rugs are suggested original works to buy at shopping. Don’t Leave Without – Watching sinking sun at Şeytan Sofrasında günbatımı izlemeden, – Swimming at beach of counties, – Using Thermal springs – Eating Höşmerim cookies, drinking Susurluk ayran – Buying cologne and buying Yağcı Bedir rugs at Sındırgı

[punksandturksone-blog]

PUNKS & TURKS

“[...] Efforts are made to identify a ground other than ethnicised culture to position oneself in society at large. In this search for other identity bases, one alternative has become to define belongingness in relation to one’s city [place] of residence rather than to Germanness, Turkishness, or a mixture of the two”[1]

“Punks and Turks” is a research project that reflects on the presence of diverse identities and communities in the complex, mobile and multicultural Kreuzberg district. This brief reflection presents a few thoughts on those concepts, exploring the dynamics of difference between communities with each other and their manifestation in the neighbourhood, mainly to understand how those dynamics shaped the identity of Kreuzberg. The observations here made are personal reflections on the exercise of thinking about identity from a Brazilian perspective, which is somehow reflecting upon the power and agency of social and cultural aspects in shaping a multicultural character of the neighbourhood and establishing the existence of the “other“.

The walking exercise in practice represents a first investigation into an auto-ethnography research, perceived by Stage and Knudsen (2015) as a methodology that “looks at the researchers' personal and bodily engagement in the concrete study context in order to produce knowledge”[2]. While a lot of research was done upon arriving in Berlin, the physical encounters and personal experiences within the neighbourhood re-shaped the character of the walk from something strategically planned into an investigation of my own embodied experience – featuring the Kreuzberg local museum and the Wrangelstrasse as site-destinations.

As a personal research, whose interest comes from comparing identity and diversity agencies with personal experiences, before this walking investigation a closer look needs to be taken into the different concepts of identity construction and the presence of those individuals in a “multicultural” neighbourhood.

Punks and Turks: identity construction in Kreuzberg district

This initial reflection starts with my first contact with Kreuzberg - on a superficial first-hand research where terms such as multiculturalism, cultural diversity and transitional identities were most often present - that was, in many ways, confirmed on my first physical encounter with the neighbourhood. The writer and journalist Stuart Braun refers to Kreuzberg as “an amalgam of Turks, punks, old war survivors and bedraggled bohemians.” (2015,35). Such categories for defining ones identity express the co-existence of transnational identities in the neighbourhood, whose agency shifts from personal to social aspects.

For reflecting the ‘Turks’ I start referring to the sociologist Stuart Hall – or the godfather of multiculturalism, and his concept of cultural identity as a production, “which is never complete, always in process, and always constituted within, and not outside, representation” (1990, 222). According to Hall, individuals can respond to two different identities: while one is defined by a collective shared culture; shared history and common ancestry related to the past the other “is a matter of 'becoming' as well as 'being'. It belongs to the future as much as to the past. It is not something which already exists, transcending place, time, history and culture […] are the names we give to the different ways we are positioned by, and position ourselves within, the narratives of the past.” (1990, 225).

In that sense, while Braun’s categories for identifying the individuals living in Kreuzberg are authentic, I reflect on the distinction between what it means to be a punk and a Turk – that according to Stuart Hall, do not need to be separate identities. “Identity is a process, identity is split. Identity is not a fixed point but an ambivalent point. Identity is also the relationship of the Other to oneself” (Hall 1989). In other words, one does not exclude the other; a Turk can be also a punk, a war survivor and a bohemian.    

Still, however ‘being a Turk’ responds to the first definition of cultural identity, other contemporary aspects of representation can constitute different identities for those individuals.  Stuart Hall exemplifies that by discussing cultural identity as in relation to a migrant experience – one of displacement and hybridity. Hence, the cultural identity a Turk living in Istanbul identifies himself with is not as the one from a Turk living in Berlin.

This first reflection was the starting point for developing the walk residency. I went to Berlin to find trace elements and manifestations of those different identities and their relations in and with space – and reflect on how contextualized locations can affect the construction of an individual’s or community identity and vice-versa. Therefore, the Kreuzberg local museum is the first site for reflecting the cultural identity of Kreuzberg district and the construction of communities.

Kreuzberg Museum: Constructing collective identity

“It is not just a case of museums representing or symbolizing a community; now it is museums forging community identity, altering community experiences, and improving community life” [3]

The walk starts at the Kreuzberg local museum - there we meet with the past history of the neighbourhood. Wandering in the museum space, we are invited to reflect on the diversity of cultural identities concentrated in Kreuzberg district and the relevance of this local museum in the construction of a collective community identity. Within the historical context we reflect on the neighbourhood’s formation and the introduction of those diverse individuals in that area. Bringing back Stuart Hall, the construction and presentation of a ’shared history’ contributes to the development of the collective identity of a specific group that recognize themselves within those historical events.

Museums have always been institutions responsible for the construction of community identities (from local to global), the processes of recording, documenting, displaying, and presenting data on specific groups were instrumental in providing a "mirror" image in which groups of individuals are recognized as constituting a unit, sometimes even building a symbolic foundation for separatists/nationalist movements (Anderson, 2006).

In that sense, the Kreuzberg museum, with its historical exhibition and the Ortsgespräche (“Local Calls”), it’s a place to reflect the museum not only as an institution that represent and engages its community but also develops the collective identity of Kreuzberg. The presence of cultural diversity tight by a shared history creates a sense of belonging where Punks and Turks respond to the same community, a kind of Kreuzgergers.

Bizim Kiez: dynamics in community activism

The encounter with the Bizim Kiez movement and its story represented for me the encounter with one ‘reality’ of how social dynamics are currently engaging within Kreuzberg. The Wrangelstrasse is a street that serves as an example for all prior theoretical reflections, however in a form of physical embodied experience. This walk becomes a reconstruction of my own steps searching for this idealized place that represented a form of community dynamics – in this case focusing on resistance and activism against gentrification.

By reflecting firstly on the construction of the message “Bizim Kiez” we discuss how the use of language diversity in a multicultural area can de a powerful strategy to community engagement, not to mention the impact of making a statement that uses both German and Turkish languages. The feeling of curiosity comes to me when I realize that, although considered a multicultural country, Brazil has no presence of different languages in such community engagement dynamics.

Secondly we perceived the presence of the green-yellow stickers across the street as a strong sense of contemporary community activism and resistance, where private and public buildings, with personal and social identities are set aside for the benefit of a collective one.

The objective was to recreate the narrative of my own auto-ethnography research and take the group into a memory museum experience, like my own “local call” of Kreuzberg – using personal stories and embodied narratives (my excitement and frustration) as forms of engagement. Likewise the objectives of memory institutions, I aimed to “achieve an emotional impact, [and] provide people with an experience and confront them with a moral imperative - which more often than not places them at odds with their self-proclaimed objective of self-reflexivity”[4].

Finally, for the final encounter, the Bizim Bakkal ruins forces us to reflect upon the future, and many other possibilities of community formation or dissolution at this point of current urban development. It feels to me that the end of this walk is at the exact point where the Kreuzberg museum finished its narrative, looking into the future of Kreuzberg when facing gentrification and urban development processes and commodification of culture. The blanks of that story we are the ones that fill it in – both as tourists and as heritage professionals.

Field notes: A Brazilian touristic/ethnographic experience in Berlin

The confrontation with ethnic diversity in Berlin is so present that it is probably considered common for those Kreuzberg residents. The agency of ethnicity in shaping identities might also seem obvious, however that has always been for me an urgent point of reflection. The Brazilian miscegenation ideology, that I grew up with, as that Brazil is a giant melting pot, leads us to believe that we are culturally diverse within ourselves, Brazilians, differing from region, class, religion but hardly ever ethnicity. Given the above, a reflection upon identity construction was necessary.

My experience in Berlin was, in many ways, a continuity of my every-day experience living in Amsterdam, except that in Berlin I was conditioned to reflect upon my presence and the presence of the “other”. Many times feeling myself as being the “other”.

The reflection on Stuart Hall’s identity possibilities allowed me to understand my position in not belonging as similarly to others in Berlin. While I do not intend to make distinctions upon being an expat or a migrant – and I do know that there are many, my point here is to express how, by encountering with German-Turks I realized how my own identity in Europe was transformed into how I see myself inserted into this new country, an international student. This feeling of longing made me recognize the recurrent presence of small national symbols in Turkish shops and restaurants my own practices of remembering my home country.

At the same time I caught myself experiencing this multicultural area as a first-time tourist in Berlin. I was standing in line for one hour to eat “the best authentic Turkish kebab in Berlin”, visiting squats and taking pictures, staying in hostels in an area that is constantly fighting against gentrification (and tourism). My actions in this multicultural big city, which has a complex history of resistance and is being used in many ways for tourism, where, nevertheless, fortifying the commodification of culture.

This experience of feeling both recognition and identification was constantly shifting to a feeling of distance, where I felt in the position of the “other”. This interesting dynamic was present during all my stay in Berlin, and it is based on this encounters, personal reflections and comparisons that I decided to produce a field diary, following up the conclusion that “the personal field diary, [...] could be a valuable source of knowledge when considering the emotional dimensions of anthropological fieldwork. By simply paying attention to such empirical sources, emotion and affect become more approachable as analytical objects”[5].

End notes:

[1] CAGLAR, Ayse S. Constraining metaphors and the transnationalisation of spaces in Berlin. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, v. 27, n. 4, p. 601-613, 2001. P. 608

[2] Knudsen, Britta Timm, and Carsten Stage. "Introduction: Affective methodologies." Affective Methodologies. Palgrave Macmillan UK, 2015. P. 17.

[3] Crooke, Elizabeth. The “Active Museum”: How Concern with Community Transformed the Museum. The International Handbooks of Museum Studies, 2015. P. 486.

[4] Arnold-de Simine, Silke. "Memory Museum and Museum Text Intermediality in Daniel Libeskind's Jewish Museum and WG Sebald's Austerlitz." Theory, Culture & Society 29.1. 2012. P. 18

[5] Samantha Punch (2012) apud Knudsen, Britta Timm, and Carsten Stage. "Introduction: Affective methodologies." Affective Methodologies. Palgrave Macmillan UK, 2015. 1-22.

References:

Anderson, Benedict. Imagined communities: Reflections on the origin and spread of nationalism. Verso Books, 2006

Arnold-de Simine, Silke. "Memory Museum and Museum Text Intermediality in Daniel Libeskind's Jewish Museum and WG Sebald's Austerlitz." Theory, Culture & Society 29.1 (2012): 14-35.

Braun, Stuart. City of Exiles: Berlin from the outside in. Berlin: Noctua Press, 2015.

Caglar, Ayse S. Constraining metaphors and the transnationalisation of spaces in Berlin. Journal of Ethnic and Migration Studies, v. 27, n. 4, p. 601-613, 2001. P. 608

Crooke, Elizabeth. The “Active Museum”: How Concern with Community Transformed the Museum. The International Handbooks of Museum Studies, 2015

Hall, Stuart et al. Cultural identity and diaspora. 1990

Hall, Stuart. 1989. “Ethnicity: Identity and Difference.” Radical America 23:9–20

Knudsen, Britta Timm, and Carsten Stage. "Introduction: Affective methodologies." Affective Methodologies. Palgrave Macmillan UK, 2015. 1-22.

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Exploring Split

Split is Croatia's second biggest city and it provides plenty of activities and attractions for tourists to enjoy. Its proximity to nearby cities serves as a convenient starting point to be able to explore the rest of the country. For thousands of years, Split has been inhabited by various conquerors such as the Venetians, Romans, Croats, Byzantines and the Austrians. The most famous attraction in Split is Diocletian's Palace which is located in Old Town. The city also has a beautiful waterfront promenade which provides the best entertainment and dining experiences for both locals and tourists. The best mode of transportation to use is hailing a Split taxi which is widely available around the city. It is the most convenient way to explore the city's most revered attractions. DIOCLETIAN'S PALACE The picturesque structure of Diocletian's Palace was inspired by the style of Roman military camps. Even though the emperor only lived eight years after the palace has been constructed, it remained to be the most important administrative center in the city. The original palace was 180 meters wide and 215 meters long and it had thick walls which were 28 meters in height. Here you can visit the various attractions which were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This includes The Cathedral of St. Domnius, Temple of Jupiter, Milesi Palace and Brace Radica Square. IVAN MESTROVIC GALLERY Although there are several other works of Ivan Mestrovic scattered around the city, the best one to visit is the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery. It features some of the artist's most beloved pieces. He was a very good friend of Rodin and was one of the most coveted sculptors during the 20th century. He personally designed the gallery himself. During the 1930s, it was originally his home until he decided to transform it into his own personal gallery in 1952. During your visit to the Ivan Mestrovic Gallery, you will be able to see a magnificent collection of 86 statues made out of bronze, gypsum, wood, marble and stone. THE PEOPLE'S SQUARE People's Square is one of the most visited places in Split because of the wide variety of architectural designs featured throughout its vicinity. It was originally built in the 15th century and is most well known for having an array of beautiful Gothic, Venetian and Renaissance buildings. You shouldn't miss visiting the Venetian Gothic Cambi Palace and the Town Hall building which is inspired by Renaissance design. It is where you will find the Ethnographic Museum of Split. In People's Square, you will also be able to find the Gregory of Nin statue which was created by the famous sculptor, Ivan Mestrovic. CROATIAN NATIONAL THEATRE Originally built in 1893, the Croatian National Theatre remains to be one of Split's oldest structures. Until today, it is considered to be an important place for embracing the city's art and culture. Each year, the theatre holds various types of programs which include theatrical events and ballet performances. There are more than 300 performances held in the Croatian National Theatre annually. Tourists would also be able to enjoy classical musical performances from Split's local symphony orchestra. The most important events held in the theatre include the Days of Marulic and the Split Summer Festival.