#castle of riga

[awesome-casuallyfamouscollector]

Thousands of candle lights and people paying tribute to Latvian heroes as we celebrate Lāčplēsis Day and remember our freedom fighters and soldiers, Riga, Latvia, November 11, 2022. Photo by D.P.

P.S. Today is a good day: Kherson has been liberated from the Russian invaders, and Latvia celebrates Lāčplēsis Day,  when a crucial victory against joint German and White Russian imperialist forces under Count Pavel Bermondt-Avalov was won by the fledgling republic of Latvia on November 11, 1919.  

[jontycrane]

Sigulda

At the edge of Gauja National Park, Latvia’s largest, Sigulda made for a undemanding day trip from Riga, about an hour away by bus or train. A 1km long cable car provides good views of the heavily forested Gauja National Park, though to be honest the flowery ceiling of the cable car was probably more exciting than the scenery. Through the trees could be seen the ruins of the 13th century…

[ninsbaa]

5 Wochen schon..

Liebe alle,

es wird mal wieder Zeit für ein schriftliches Update! Leider war ich ein paar Tage heftiger erkältet und musste mich ein wenig ausruhen, zum Glück bin ich inzwischen fit und kann wieder viel unterwegs sein. Seht selbst! :)

Letztes Wochenende waren wir im Nationalpark unterwegs – zu Fuß und mit dem Fahrrad immer entlang der Gauja! Dabei haben wir mit dem Mountainbike 45 Kilometer im Wald eine ordentliche Strecke von Cesis nach Valmiera zurückgelegt. Die Wälder sind einfach super schön hier in der Gegend!

Auch dieses Wochenende waren wir wieder unterwegs. Dieses Mal in Sigulda – eine Ortschaft mit vielen Burgen und Treppen, die wir gefühlt heute alle rauf- und auch wieder runtergestiegen sind. So langsam kommt auch der Herbst nach Lettland und färbt die Blätter der Bäume. Daher wurde gestern in Lettland auch das „Erntedank“-Fest gefeiert mit traditionellem Handwerk, Musik und Tanz.

Neben den ganzen Erlebnissen und Abenteuern steht zurzeit auch viel Uni-Kram an, sodass ich unter der Woche sehr beschäftigt bin, damit die Wochenenden frei bleiben. Vor allem wenn sich der erste Besuch aus Deutschland ankündigt!

Habt alle einen schönen Start in die Woche morgen, liebe Grüße aus Riga!

[art-that-fucks-you-up-tournament]

SET SIX - ROUND ONE - MATCH EIGHT

"Nāve (Death)" (1897 - Janis Rozentāls) / "Abstraction" (1959-1960 - Roberto Matta)

NĀVE (DEATH): The idea that death, even if a tragedy like a kids death, can be gentle makes me insane. The woman doesn’t seem scared to me and death is leaning down gently to place a kiss onto the kids temple and it makes me want to cry. The woman wearing color while the child and death wear only white to signal the end is near? FUCKING ART MAN!!! Makes me want to claw at the walls and howl in agony. (thederpclub)

ABSTRACTION: I got to see this piece in person when I visited the Kemper Art Museum. It confused me when I first saw it but I took a few steps back and looked at it from a distance and it started making sense. A vague figure moves through clouds, surrounded by flying combat machines. I usually find abstract art very odd but this piece feels different. I love the use of bright colors against the gray background and the use of negative space to convey the image. It reminds me of the robots and airships in the Miyazaki movie Castle in the Sky. And for the meaning: the use of gray and indistinct shapes make it feel like the figure is at a remove, not really a part of the dogfight around it. I think it’s a stronger visual effect when seen in person at scale but I hope people still enjoy seeing art that I got very excited about! ( lathgaertha )

("Nāve (Death)" is an oil on canvas painting done by Latvian artist Janis Rozentāls in 1897. It measures 69 cm (27.1 in) x 98 cm (38.5 in) and is currently located Latvian National Museum of Art in Riga.

"Abstraction" is a 1950-60 oil on canvas painting done by Chilean artist Roberto Matta. It measures 58 x 80 inches (147 x 203 cm) and is currently located at the Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum in St. Louis.)

[paulzizkaphoto]

Some more images from our family trip to the Baltics (and trip home through Helsinki)! On these trips, family is of course the priority. So, over the years, Meg and I have developed a system to ensure I get time to capture images while we're visiting these incredible places. I often do my scouting while we're out touring as a family and then find pockets of time - usually at night or the "blue hour" - to go take some images. Here are a few from Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia and Finland! 1. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Tallinn, Estonia 2. Dobele Castle Ruins, Latvia 3. Moody morning, Gulf of Riga, Latvia 4. Tea-coloured water of the Amata River, Latvia 5. Palanga Beach, Lithuania 6. The Senate Square, Helsinki — view on Instagram https://ift.tt/jVGFtiR

[brookstonalmanac]

Holidays 7.13

Holidays

Ann Hutchinson Memorial Day

Atomic Bomb Test Day

Barbershop Music Appreciation Day

Bastille Eve (France)

Be A Geek For A Day

Blame Someone Else Day

Bottled Beer Day

Childhood Memories Day

Embrace Your Geekness Day

Festival of Inner Worlds

Festival of the Three Cows (Border of France & Basque Spain)

Fool's Paradise Day

GIST Awareness Day

Go Wakeboarding Day

Go West Day

Gruntled Workers Day

Guinea Fowl Day (French Republic)

International Day of ADHD Awareness

International Day of Sarcoma

International Day of the Conductor

International Growth Hacking Day

International Puzzle Day

International Rock Day

International Rock ’N’ Roll Day

Job Satisfaction Day

Kashmir Martyrs’ Day (Pakistan)

La Retraite Aux Flambeaux (Night Watch; France)

Martyrs’’ Day (Kashmir)

Montenegrin Peoples Uprising Day (Yugoslavia)

Naadam, Day 3 (Mongolia)

Nathan Bedford Forrest Day (Tennessee)

National Day (French West Indies; Tahiti)

National Delaware Day

National Geekness Day

National Paul Day

National Sam Day

National Security Committee Day (Kazakhstan)

Puzzle Day

Sandra Bland Day (Texas)

713 Day

Swiftie Day

Uniwaine Day (Elderly Men Day; Kiribati)

World Aquatics Day

World Cup Day

World Naked Photography Day

World Rock Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Beans 'n' Franks Day

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Day

National Beef Tallow Day

National French Fries Day (a.k.a. National French Fry Day)

National Nitrogen Ice Cream Day

Independence & Related Days

Alabama (Readmitted to the Union; 1868)

Statehood Day (Montenegro)

Usi (Declared; 2014) [unrecognized]

Wilkland (Declared; 2009) [unrecognized]

2nd Saturday in July

Bald In / Bald Out Day [2nd Saturday]

Blissfest begins (Michigan) [2nd Saturday]

Bon Odori (Festival of the Lanterns; Japan) [2nd Saturday]

Carver Day (Missouri) [2nd Saturday]

Grange Day [2nd Saturday]

International Brick & Rolling Pin Throwing Contest (Stroud; Australia, Canada, UK, US) [2nd Saturday]

International Skinny Dip Day [2nd Saturday]

Lindenfest begins (Rhineland, Germany) [2nd Saturday]

The Mooning of the Amtrak (Laguna Niguel, California) [2nd Saturday]

Stone House Day (New York) [2nd Saturday]

World Rum Day [2nd Saturday]

World Skydiving Day [2nd Saturday]

Weekly Holidays beginning July 13 (2nd Week of July)

Bohemian Club Rites (California) [2nd Saturday]

Jūras Svētki Sākas (Sea Festival; Riga, Latvia) [Every 5 Years]

Festivals Beginning July 13, 2024

Aarhus Jazz Festival (Aarhus, Denmark) [thru 7.20]

Arts & Wine Festival (Los Altos, California) [thru 7.14]

Bierbörse Festival (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Blueberry Festival (Media, Pennsylvania)

Blueberry Festival & Market To Go (Bethlehem, Pennsylvania) [thru 7.14]

Blues & Brews (Mount Hope Estate & Winery, Pennsylvania)

Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival (Breckenridge, Colorado)

Castle Rock WineFest (Castle Rock, Colorado)

Food Truck Festival (St. Paul, Minnesota) [thru 7.14]

Frankfort Bluegrass Festival (Frankfort, Illinois) [thru 7.14]

Horse & Hound Wine Festival (Bedford, Virginia)

Keep NH Brewing Festival (Concord, New Hampshire)

Keystone Wine & Jazz Festival (Keystone, Colorado) [thru 7.14]

Laramie Brewfest (Laramie, Wyoming)

Maine Potato Blossom Festival (Fort Fairfield, Maine) [thru 7.21]

Mango Festival (Coral Gables, Florida) [thru 7.14]

MangoMania (Bokeelia, Florida)

McDade Watermelon Festival (McDade, Texas)

Middle Eastern Festival (West St. Paul, Minnesota) [thru 7.14]

North Atlantic Blues Festival (Rockland, Maine) [thru 7.14]

Parker County Peach Festival (Weatherford, Texas)

Pendleton Whisky Music Fest (Pendleton, Oregon)

Raspberries & Wine Festival (Chisago City, Minnesota) [thru 7.14]

Ridgeway Cantalope Festival (Ridgeway, North Carolina)

Saint Benedict Festival (St. Benedict, Oregon)

Slice of Chico (Chico, California)

Solo Batik Carnival (Surakarta, Indonesia)

Strawberry Festival (Billings, Montana)

St. Vladimir Ukrainian Festival (Parma, Ohio)

Sweet Corn Extravaganza (Willcox, Arizona) [thru 8.11]

Taste of Buffalo (Buffalo, New York) [thru 7.14]

Tequila & Taco Festival (Ventura, California) [thru 7.14]

Feast Days

Abd-al-Masih (Christian; Saint & Martyr)

Abel of Tacla Haimonot (Coptic Church)

Anacletus (Christian; Martyr)

Asarnha Bucha Day (Theravada Buddhism)

Bhanu Jayanti (Sikkim, India)

Blanche of Castile (Positivist; Saint)

Boun Khao Phansa begins (Buddhist Lent)

Clelia Barbieri (Christian; Saint)

Conrad Weiser (Episcopal Church (USA))

Day of Osiris (Everyday Wicca)

Eugenius of Carthage (Christian; Saint)

Feast of Kalimát (Words; Baha’i)

Francis Solano (Christian; Saint)

Geek Appreciation Day (Pastafarian)

Henry II, Holy Roman Emperor (a.k.a. Henry the Emperor; Christian; Saint)

Jane Hamilton (Writerism)

Joel the Prophet (Christian; Saint)

Macarena Day (Church of the SubGenius)

Marcia Brown (Artology)

Maura and Brigid (Christian; Saints)

Millennial Fairy Olympics, Day 8 (Shamanism)

Mordecai Ardon (Artology)

Mildred (Christian; Saint & Virgin)

Mildrith of Thanet (Christian; Saint)

Mr. Screech (Muppetism)

Obon (a.k.a. Ulanbana, Festival of the Lanterns; Buddhist, Shinto)

Ronald Bladen (Artology)

Rosa Mystica (Christian; Saint)

Silas (Catholic Church; Saint)

Solstitium IX (Pagan)

Spot the Loony Day (Pastafarian)

Svein Ellingsen (Artology)

Teresa of the Andes (Christian; Saint)

Thomas Rowlandson (Artology)

Turiaf (a.k.a. Turiave or Thivisiau; Christian; Saint)

Wenceslaus Hollar (Artology)

Wole Soyinka (Writerism)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Dismal Day (Unlucky or Evil Day; Medieval Europe; 13 of 24)

Egyptian Day (Unlucky Day; Middle Ages Europe) [13 of 24]

Fatal Day (Pagan) [14 of 24]

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Premieres

Breaking Away (Film; 1979)

Bully Beef (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1930)

Californy’er Bust (Disney Cartoon; 1945)

Country Mouse (WB MM Cartoon; 1935)

Dedicated To the One I Love, by The Shirelles (Song; 1959)

Don’t Be Cruel/Hound Dog, by Elvis Presley (Song; 1956)

Eight Men Out: The Black Sox and the 1919 World Series, by Eliot Asinof (Sports Book; 1963)

Eighth Grade (Film; 2018)

The Frisco Kid (Film; 1979)

Generation Kill (TV Series; 2008)

Ghost (Film; 1990)

A Hard Day’s Night, by The Beatles (US Album; 1964)

Hollywoodland sign (Dedicated; 1923)

Ice Age: Continental Drift (Animated Film; 2012)

Inception (Film; 2010)

In My Gondola (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1936)

The Last Starfighter (Film; 1984)

Legally Blonde (Film; 2001)

Live Aid (Live Charity Concert, Wembley Stadium, London, UK; 1985)

Microbe Hunters, by Paul de Kruif (Science Book; 1926)

Midaq Alley, by Naguib Mahfouz (Novel; 1947)

The Muppets Take Manhattan (Film; 1984)

My Lady’s Garden (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1934)

An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge, by Ambrose Bierce (Short Story; 1890)

Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid, by Bob Dylan (Soundtrack Album; 1973)

Pedro and Lorenzo (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1956)

Pilgrim Popeye (Fleischer/Famous Popeye Cartoon; 1951)

Queen, by Queen (Album; 1973)

Rock Odyssey (Hanna-Barbera Animated TV Film; 1987)

Skyscraper (Film; 2018)

The Spy Who Loved Me (James Bond Film; 1977) [#10]

The Stone Age (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1931)

Tehanu, by Ursula Le Guin (Novel; 1990) [Earthsea #4]

Where the Money Goes (Money Rock Cartoon; Schoolhouse Rocks; 1995)

Yukon Have It (Chilly Willy Cartoon; 1959)

Today’s Name Days

Anno, Heinrich, Kunigunde (Austria)

Emanuel, Ferdinand, Henrik (Croatia)

Markéta (Czech Republic)

Margrethe (Denmark)

Greta, Grete, Kreet, Kreeta, Mare, Maret, Mareta, Margareeta, Marge, Margit, Marit, Marita, Meeta, Reeda, Reet (Estonia)

Ilari, Joel, Lari (Finland)

Enzo, Eugène, Henri, Joël (France)

Heinrich, Kunigunde (Germany)

Iliofotos, Sarah (Greece)

Jenő (Hungary)

Enrico (Italy)

Alda, Margarita, Margrieta, Mariska, Pērle (Latvia)

Anakletas, Arvilas, Arvilė, Henrikas (Lithuania)

Melissa, Mia, Mildrid (Norway)

Ernest, Ernestyn, Eugeniusz, Irwin, Jakub, Justyna, Małgorzata, Radomiła (Poland)

Margita (Slovakia)

Enrique, Joel (Spain)

Joel, Judit (Sweden)

Ezra, Joel, Joelle, Mildred, Natalia, Natalie, Natasha, Nathalie, Nathan, Nathanael, Nathania, Nathaniel, Tasha (USA)

Henri, Nathalie, Nathaly (Universal)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 195 of 2024; 171 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 6 of Week 28 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Tinne (Holly) [Day 7 of 28]

Chinese: Month 6 (Xin-Wei), Day 8 (Wu-Yin)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 7 Tammuz 5784

Islamic: 6 Muharram 1446

J Cal: 15 Red; Oneday [15 of 30]

Julian: 30 June 2024

Moon: 50%: 1st Quarter

Positivist: 26 Charlemagne (7th Month) [Blanche of Castile]

Runic Half Month: Ur (Primal Strength) [Day 5 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 24 of 94)

Week: 3rd Week of July

Zodiac: Cancer (Day 23 of 31)

[johnsgrandtour]

Villinus, Lithuania

Here we are in Villinus and it feels like a city that wants to be a tourist destination, but it still has about 10 years of reconstruction efforts to effectively compete will Tallinn or Riga.

That said, it's still a really cool city to see that transformation happen block by block.

Here's Gediminas Castle Tower because no European city is complete without a centuries old pile of bricks looming over the city.

Anyway, no Russian embassy pictures this time. It was a long walk to it and I never got close by.

I got an afternoon bus to Warsaw tomorrow! I plan on a couple days in Warsaw then Krakow, then overnighting in Oswiecim to tour Auschwitz on the 1st.

[astronautdinosaur]

Here's a story about a wolf.

It begins a long time ago when a much younger version of me went off to Europe for the first time. I studied in Italy. I walked cobblestone streets. So many cobblestone streets. I rode trains and saw places I might never see again. I came home and those journeys eventually inspired me to paint astronauts.

Last fall I traveled to Europe again. I began in Copenhagen, and spent the next 10 days heading north, first to Malmo and Gothenburg, in Sweden, and then on to Oslo, Norway for a gallery show I was supposed to be having . A show which, I found out just a few days before I was supposed to leave, had been canceled. Well, delayed. To a time and place that wasn't Oslo. This all happened for a very sad and extremely valid reason but it left me traveling Europe, alone, on a trip that suddenly had no real purpose. But it was about to find one.

From Oslo I flew to Riga, Latvia and met up with my brother at the airport, who had arrived just before me from Boston. We spent the next week traveling through Latvia and Lithuania to the places where our ancestors once lived. I didn't really have any preconceived notions as to how this part of the trip would go. There would probably be no long lost Listfield cousins to find. No one in my family is left in this part of the world. I guess I wanted to see where I come from. I wanted to walk the same cobblestone streets my ancestors once did. I didn't expect anything profound to happen. It did though.

Our trip ended in Vilnius, Lithuania's very charming capital city. Arriving late, and tired from the road, we wound up by chance walking along the river that winds its way through the center of town. The sun was setting, and it was a mild September night. People were about. Lots of people. So very many people. My brother noticed it first: something was happening. That's when we saw the wolf.

On the riverbank just ahead of us was a large statue of a wolf. Looming over it was an ancient castle tower, lit dramatically from below and perched precariously on a hill. As the last bit of sunlight faded, the wolf spoke.

I don’t speak Lithuanian, but some quick googling revealed that the wolf was sharing the story of the founding of Vilnius. It spoke in a booming voice, with occasional pauses as music swelled. Fire from an unknown source danced around the bottom of the wolf and eventually, as the night wore on, it was engulfed in flames. Smoke and hot ash fell on our faces. I wondered if we were a safe enough distance away.

As the fire subsumed, we wandered off, dazed, along the river bank with hundreds of Vilnius residents. We had just celebrated the fall equinox and the 700th anniversary of the founding of Vilnius. It felt like we had just been part of something very primeval. I felt Lithuanian. I felt pagan. I felt wolf. I returned to my hotel room, ash still on my face.

My next show THE EQUINOX opens March 21, 2024 at StolenSpace Gallery in London, and features 9 new paintings of an astronaut traveling to some of the places I visited on this trip, accompanied by a wolf who appears in one form or another in each of them. Sometimes as a companion, sometimes as a statue, a relic, a mural, a ghost, or a metaphor.

Epilogue: My third great grandfather was born in the small town of Šėta, Lithuania, sometime around the year 1837. His name was Wolfe.

[unhonestlymirror]

FLAG OF THE REPUBLIC OF LATVIA

"The first evidence of the red and white flag of Latvia dates back to the second half of the 13th century, when the ancient Latvian tribes went to battle against the Estonians under this flag. The Latvian flag can be considered one of the oldest national symbols in the world."

.

New lore???

.

In the Middle Ages, this flag was forgotten, but in 1870, Latvian students resumed using it in their meetings. In 1917, the dark red flag with a white stripe in the middle created by the artist Ansis Cīruļis was adopted as the Latvian national flag, which was approved as the national flag of Latvia in 1921. In order not to confuse it with the Austrian flag, it was decided that the width ratio of the stripes of the Latvian flag would be 2:1:2. This shade of red colour is not used in any other flag, so it is sometimes even called "Latvijas sarkano" (Latvian red).

During the Soviet occupation (from 1940 to 1988), the red and white flag was prohibited.

.

I WONDER WHAT THAT REMINDS ME OF ⚪️🔴⚪️

.

On November 11, 1988, it once again hung on the Riga Castle's Holy Spirit tower, but in 1990 it again became the national flag of the Republic of Latvia.

[awesome-casuallyfamouscollector]

Spanish Leopard 2 and Polish PT-91 Twardy tanks participated in the Latvian Independence Day Parade, Riga, Latvia, November 18, 2022. Source:  Estado Mayor Defensa

[balticapocalypse]

🍁LIELVĀRDE • The epic totems of LIELVĀRDE shine in the gold gifted by nature. Lielvārde is a town in Ogre Municipality in the Vidzeme region of Latvia, on the right bank of the Daugava river, 52 km southeast of Riga. The area was a contact zone between the Finnic Livonians and the Balts, and many prehistoric artifacts have been uncovered there. A Baltic hill-fort named Lennewarden being taken in fief by Albert of Buxhoeveden in 1201 is mentioned in the Chronicle of Henry of Livonia. This site is called Dievukalns (Hill of the Gods) in Latvian. A stone castle was constructed by the Riga diocese in 1229; its ruins are still accessible today. #latvia #latvija #lielvārde #hillforts #totem #sacredgrove #balticpaganism (at Lielvārdes Pilsdrupas) https://www.instagram.com/p/CjgfDSqvPEh/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[guyclement]

URBEX Guy Clément LATVIA | RIGA | DAUGAVGRIVA | L'ETRANGE MAISON DE RIGA... - N'hésites pas à t'abonner à ma chaîne et activer les notifications 🔔pour être informé de mes prochaines explorations et découvertes! Feel free to subscribe my channel and activate notifications 🔔to be aware about my next explorations and discoveries! Le château est situé à quelques pas de la Forteresse de Daugavgrīvas au nord de Riga, la capitale de la Lettonie. Ce Château à une histoire tumultueuse que vous pouvez découvrir lors de la visite. En plus des deux bunkers dans le château vous trouvez encore des traces sur les écuissons du passage du système communiste dans ces lieux. The castle is located a few steps from the Daugavgrīvas Fortress in the north of Riga, the capital of Lettonia. This Castle has a tumultuous history that you can discover during the visit. In addition to the two bunkers in the castle you still find traces on the escutcheons of the passage of the communist system in these places. Das Schloss liegt nur wenige Schritte von der Festung Daugavgrīvas entfernt im Norden von Riga, der Hauptstadt Lettonia. Dieses Schloss hat eine turbulente Geschichte, die Sie bei einem Besuch entdecken können. Zusätzlich zu den beiden Bunkern im Schloss findet man an diesen Orten noch Spuren auf den Wappenschildern des Übergangs des kommunistischen Systems. El castillo se encuentra a pocos pasos de la Fortaleza Daugavgrīvas en el norte de Riga, la capital de Lettonia. Este Castillo tiene una tumultuosa historia que podrás descubrir durante la visita. Además de los dos búnkeres del castillo, todavía se encuentran rastros en los escudos del paso del sistema comunista en estos lugares. Il castello si trova a pochi passi dalla Fortezza Daugavgrīvas a nord di Riga, la capitale della Lettonia. Questo castello ha una storia tumultuosa che puoi scoprire durante la visita. Oltre ai due bunker del castello si trovano ancora tracce sugli stemmi del passaggio del sistema comunista in questi luoghi. Zamek znajduje się kilka kroków od twierdzy Daugavgrīvas na północy Rygi. Ten zamek ma burzliwą historię, którą możesz odkryć podczas wizyty. Oprócz dwóch schronów w zamku można jeszcze znaleźć ślady na herbach przejazdu systemu komunistycznego w tych miejscach. Замок расположен в нескольких шагах от Даугавгривской крепости на севере Риги, . У этого замка бурная история, с которой вы можете познакомиться во время посещения. Кроме двух бункеров в замке еще находят следы на щитах прохождения коммунистического строя в этих местах. Retrouvez-moi sur les réseaux / Follow me for daily content: 👍 Facebook:  Urbex Guy Clement  https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... 👉 Youtube  URBEX Guy Clément  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNhQ... 📸 Instagram:  @abandoned.urbex.world  https://www.instagram.com/abandoned.u...     🎵TikTok: @urbexguyclement https://www.tiktok.com/@urbexguycleme...     🐦Twitter: @GuyPellegrin https://twitter.com/GuyPellegrin   #castle #chateau #urbex

[malaysiatravelagency]

Explore Latvia: A Journey Through Timeless Beauty and Hidden Gems

Experience the enchanting allure of Latvia, a Baltic gem where picturesque landscapes, historic charm, and vibrant culture come together. Our Latvia Travel Agency offers meticulously curated travel experiences that showcase the country’s unique blend of natural beauty and historical richness, ensuring an unforgettable journey through this captivating destination.

Begin your exploration in Riga, Latvia’s capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its well-preserved Art Nouveau architecture. Wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, where medieval buildings and cobblestone paths create a storybook atmosphere. Visit the Riga Central Market, one of Europe’s largest and most diverse food markets, to sample local delicacies and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.

Venture beyond the capital to discover Latvia’s stunning natural landscapes. Explore Gauja National Park, often referred to as the “Switzerland of Latvia,” where rolling hills, dense forests, and picturesque rivers offer a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike the scenic trails, visit ancient castles like Turaida, and take in the breathtaking views from the park’s observation towers.

The seaside town of Jurmala, known for its long sandy beaches and charming wooden architecture, provides a perfect retreat for relaxation. Stroll along the promenade, enjoy the soothing sounds of the waves, and unwind in the town’s renowned spa facilities.

In the picturesque town of Cesis, step back in time as you explore medieval fortifications and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the surrounding countryside. Cesis is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, including local festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional folk performances.

For a taste of Latvia’s unique cultural heritage, visit the ethnographic village of Riga Open-Air Museum, where you can experience traditional Latvian rural life through preserved historic buildings and interactive exhibits.

Our travel packages are designed to offer a blend of city exploration, natural adventure, and cultural immersion. With personalized itineraries and expert guidance, we ensure that your journey through Latvia is both enriching and memorable.

Conclusion:

Discover the charm and beauty of Latvia with our specially crafted tours. From the architectural splendor of Riga to the natural wonders of Gauja National Park and the serene beaches of Jurmala, Latvia promises a travel experience filled with wonder and delight. Let us guide you through this hidden gem of Europe and create memories that will last a lifetime.

[brookston]

Holidays 7.13

Holidays

Ann Hutchinson Memorial Day

Atomic Bomb Test Day

Barbershop Music Appreciation Day

Bastille Eve (France)

Be A Geek For A Day

Blame Someone Else Day

Bottled Beer Day

Childhood Memories Day

Embrace Your Geekness Day

Festival of Inner Worlds

Festival of the Three Cows (Border of France & Basque Spain)

Fool's Paradise Day

GIST Awareness Day

Go Wakeboarding Day

Go West Day

Gruntled Workers Day

Guinea Fowl Day (French Republic)

International Day of ADHD Awareness

International Day of Sarcoma

International Day of the Conductor

International Growth Hacking Day

International Puzzle Day

International Rock Day

International Rock ’N’ Roll Day

Job Satisfaction Day

Kashmir Martyrs’ Day (Pakistan)

La Retraite Aux Flambeaux (Night Watch; France)

Martyrs’’ Day (Kashmir)

Montenegrin Peoples Uprising Day (Yugoslavia)

Naadam, Day 3 (Mongolia)

Nathan Bedford Forrest Day (Tennessee)

National Day (French West Indies; Tahiti)

National Delaware Day

National Geekness Day

National Paul Day

National Sam Day

National Security Committee Day (Kazakhstan)

Puzzle Day

Sandra Bland Day (Texas)

713 Day

Swiftie Day

Uniwaine Day (Elderly Men Day; Kiribati)

World Aquatics Day

World Cup Day

World Naked Photography Day

World Rock Day

Food & Drink Celebrations

Beans 'n' Franks Day

Krispy Kreme Doughnut Day

National Beef Tallow Day

National French Fries Day (a.k.a. National French Fry Day)

National Nitrogen Ice Cream Day

Independence & Related Days

Alabama (Readmitted to the Union; 1868)

Statehood Day (Montenegro)

Usi (Declared; 2014) [unrecognized]

Wilkland (Declared; 2009) [unrecognized]

2nd Saturday in July

Bald In / Bald Out Day [2nd Saturday]

Blissfest begins (Michigan) [2nd Saturday]

Bon Odori (Festival of the Lanterns; Japan) [2nd Saturday]

Carver Day (Missouri) [2nd Saturday]

Grange Day [2nd Saturday]

International Brick & Rolling Pin Throwing Contest (Stroud; Australia, Canada, UK, US) [2nd Saturday]

International Skinny Dip Day [2nd Saturday]

Lindenfest begins (Rhineland, Germany) [2nd Saturday]

The Mooning of the Amtrak (Laguna Niguel, California) [2nd Saturday]

Stone House Day (New York) [2nd Saturday]

World Rum Day [2nd Saturday]

World Skydiving Day [2nd Saturday]

Weekly Holidays beginning July 13 (2nd Week of July)

Bohemian Club Rites (California) [2nd Saturday]

Jūras Svētki Sākas (Sea Festival; Riga, Latvia) [Every 5 Years]

Festivals Beginning July 13, 2024

Aarhus Jazz Festival (Aarhus, Denmark) [thru 7.20]

Arts & Wine Festival (Los Altos, California) [thru 7.14]

Bierbörse Festival (Rapid City, South Dakota)

Blueberry Festival (Media, Pennsylvania)

Blueberry Festival & Market To Go (Bethlehem, Pennsylvania) [thru 7.14]

Blues & Brews (Mount Hope Estate & Winery, Pennsylvania)

Breckenridge Summer Beer Festival (Breckenridge, Colorado)

Castle Rock WineFest (Castle Rock, Colorado)

Food Truck Festival (St. Paul, Minnesota) [thru 7.14]

Frankfort Bluegrass Festival (Frankfort, Illinois) [thru 7.14]

Horse & Hound Wine Festival (Bedford, Virginia)

Keep NH Brewing Festival (Concord, New Hampshire)

Keystone Wine & Jazz Festival (Keystone, Colorado) [thru 7.14]

Laramie Brewfest (Laramie, Wyoming)

Maine Potato Blossom Festival (Fort Fairfield, Maine) [thru 7.21]

Mango Festival (Coral Gables, Florida) [thru 7.14]

MangoMania (Bokeelia, Florida)

McDade Watermelon Festival (McDade, Texas)

Middle Eastern Festival (West St. Paul, Minnesota) [thru 7.14]

North Atlantic Blues Festival (Rockland, Maine) [thru 7.14]

Parker County Peach Festival (Weatherford, Texas)

Pendleton Whisky Music Fest (Pendleton, Oregon)

Raspberries & Wine Festival (Chisago City, Minnesota) [thru 7.14]

Ridgeway Cantalope Festival (Ridgeway, North Carolina)

Saint Benedict Festival (St. Benedict, Oregon)

Slice of Chico (Chico, California)

Solo Batik Carnival (Surakarta, Indonesia)

Strawberry Festival (Billings, Montana)

St. Vladimir Ukrainian Festival (Parma, Ohio)

Sweet Corn Extravaganza (Willcox, Arizona) [thru 8.11]

Taste of Buffalo (Buffalo, New York) [thru 7.14]

Tequila & Taco Festival (Ventura, California) [thru 7.14]

Feast Days

Abd-al-Masih (Christian; Saint & Martyr)

Abel of Tacla Haimonot (Coptic Church)

Anacletus (Christian; Martyr)

Asarnha Bucha Day (Theravada Buddhism)

Bhanu Jayanti (Sikkim, India)

Blanche of Castile (Positivist; Saint)

Boun Khao Phansa begins (Buddhist Lent)

Clelia Barbieri (Christian; Saint)

Conrad Weiser (Episcopal Church (USA))

Day of Osiris (Everyday Wicca)

Eugenius of Carthage (Christian; Saint)

Feast of Kalimát (Words; Baha’i)

Francis Solano (Christian; Saint)

Geek Appreciation Day (Pastafarian)

Henry II, Holy Roman Emperor (a.k.a. Henry the Emperor; Christian; Saint)

Jane Hamilton (Writerism)

Joel the Prophet (Christian; Saint)

Macarena Day (Church of the SubGenius)

Marcia Brown (Artology)

Maura and Brigid (Christian; Saints)

Millennial Fairy Olympics, Day 8 (Shamanism)

Mordecai Ardon (Artology)

Mildred (Christian; Saint & Virgin)

Mildrith of Thanet (Christian; Saint)

Mr. Screech (Muppetism)

Obon (a.k.a. Ulanbana, Festival of the Lanterns; Buddhist, Shinto)

Ronald Bladen (Artology)

Rosa Mystica (Christian; Saint)

Silas (Catholic Church; Saint)

Solstitium IX (Pagan)

Spot the Loony Day (Pastafarian)

Svein Ellingsen (Artology)

Teresa of the Andes (Christian; Saint)

Thomas Rowlandson (Artology)

Turiaf (a.k.a. Turiave or Thivisiau; Christian; Saint)

Wenceslaus Hollar (Artology)

Wole Soyinka (Writerism)

Lucky & Unlucky Days

Dismal Day (Unlucky or Evil Day; Medieval Europe; 13 of 24)

Egyptian Day (Unlucky Day; Middle Ages Europe) [13 of 24]

Fatal Day (Pagan) [14 of 24]

Sensho (先勝 Japan) [Good luck in the morning, bad luck in the afternoon.]

Premieres

Breaking Away (Film; 1979)

Bully Beef (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1930)

Californy’er Bust (Disney Cartoon; 1945)

Country Mouse (WB MM Cartoon; 1935)

Dedicated To the One I Love, by The Shirelles (Song; 1959)

Don’t Be Cruel/Hound Dog, by Elvis Presley (Song; 1956)

Eight Men Out: The Black Sox and the 1919 World Series, by Eliot Asinof (Sports Book; 1963)

Eighth Grade (Film; 2018)

The Frisco Kid (Film; 1979)

Generation Kill (TV Series; 2008)

Ghost (Film; 1990)

A Hard Day’s Night, by The Beatles (US Album; 1964)

Hollywoodland sign (Dedicated; 1923)

Ice Age: Continental Drift (Animated Film; 2012)

Inception (Film; 2010)

In My Gondola (Color Rhapsody Cartoon; 1936)

The Last Starfighter (Film; 1984)

Legally Blonde (Film; 2001)

Live Aid (Live Charity Concert, Wembley Stadium, London, UK; 1985)

Microbe Hunters, by Paul de Kruif (Science Book; 1926)

Midaq Alley, by Naguib Mahfouz (Novel; 1947)

The Muppets Take Manhattan (Film; 1984)

My Lady’s Garden (Terrytoons Cartoon; 1934)

An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge, by Ambrose Bierce (Short Story; 1890)

Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid, by Bob Dylan (Soundtrack Album; 1973)

Pedro and Lorenzo (Noveltoons Cartoon; 1956)

Pilgrim Popeye (Fleischer/Famous Popeye Cartoon; 1951)

Queen, by Queen (Album; 1973)

Rock Odyssey (Hanna-Barbera Animated TV Film; 1987)

Skyscraper (Film; 2018)

The Spy Who Loved Me (James Bond Film; 1977) [#10]

The Stone Age (Oswald the Lucky Rabbit Cartoon; 1931)

Tehanu, by Ursula Le Guin (Novel; 1990) [Earthsea #4]

Where the Money Goes (Money Rock Cartoon; Schoolhouse Rocks; 1995)

Yukon Have It (Chilly Willy Cartoon; 1959)

Today’s Name Days

Anno, Heinrich, Kunigunde (Austria)

Emanuel, Ferdinand, Henrik (Croatia)

Markéta (Czech Republic)

Margrethe (Denmark)

Greta, Grete, Kreet, Kreeta, Mare, Maret, Mareta, Margareeta, Marge, Margit, Marit, Marita, Meeta, Reeda, Reet (Estonia)

Ilari, Joel, Lari (Finland)

Enzo, Eugène, Henri, Joël (France)

Heinrich, Kunigunde (Germany)

Iliofotos, Sarah (Greece)

Jenő (Hungary)

Enrico (Italy)

Alda, Margarita, Margrieta, Mariska, Pērle (Latvia)

Anakletas, Arvilas, Arvilė, Henrikas (Lithuania)

Melissa, Mia, Mildrid (Norway)

Ernest, Ernestyn, Eugeniusz, Irwin, Jakub, Justyna, Małgorzata, Radomiła (Poland)

Margita (Slovakia)

Enrique, Joel (Spain)

Joel, Judit (Sweden)

Ezra, Joel, Joelle, Mildred, Natalia, Natalie, Natasha, Nathalie, Nathan, Nathanael, Nathania, Nathaniel, Tasha (USA)

Henri, Nathalie, Nathaly (Universal)

Today is Also…

Day of Year: Day 195 of 2024; 171 days remaining in the year

ISO: Day 6 of Week 28 of 2024

Celtic Tree Calendar: Tinne (Holly) [Day 7 of 28]

Chinese: Month 6 (Xin-Wei), Day 8 (Wu-Yin)

Chinese Year of the: Dragon 4722 (until January 29, 2025) [Wu-Chen]

Hebrew: 7 Tammuz 5784

Islamic: 6 Muharram 1446

J Cal: 15 Red; Oneday [15 of 30]

Julian: 30 June 2024

Moon: 50%: 1st Quarter

Positivist: 26 Charlemagne (7th Month) [Blanche of Castile]

Runic Half Month: Ur (Primal Strength) [Day 5 of 15]

Season: Summer (Day 24 of 94)

Week: 3rd Week of July

Zodiac: Cancer (Day 23 of 31)

[lokeshsharma1]

Hidden Gems in Europe: Underrated Travel Destinations

Europe is renowned for its iconic cities and landmarks, but beyond the well-trodden paths lie hidden gems in europe that offer unique experiences without the crowds. Here are some underrated travel destinations in Europe worth exploring:

Hallstatt, Austria: Nestled between the Dachstein mountains and Hallstätter See, Hallstatt is a picturesque village known for its charming houses and serene lake views. Visitors can explore the ancient salt mines, stroll through the quaint streets, or enjoy a boat ride on the lake.

Plovdiv, Bulgaria: One of the oldest cities in Europe, Plovdiv is a treasure trove of history and culture. The city boasts a beautifully preserved Roman amphitheater, colorful old town, and vibrant arts scene. Wander through the cobbled streets and discover the blend of ancient and modern influences.

Riga, Latvia: Often overshadowed by its Baltic neighbors, Riga is a city rich in architecture and culture. The Art Nouveau district is a highlight, with over 800 buildings showcasing intricate designs. Don’t miss the Central Market, housed in old Zeppelin hangars, offering local delicacies and crafts.

Ghent, Belgium: While Brussels and Bruges attract most tourists, Ghent remains a relatively undiscovered gem. This medieval city is filled with stunning architecture, including the Gravensteen Castle and St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Ghent’s vibrant nightlife and culinary scene add to its allure.

Kotor, Montenegro: Set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Kotor is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. Climb the city walls for panoramic views, explore the narrow streets, and savor local seafood dishes.

Sintra, Portugal: Just a short drive from Lisbon, Sintra is a fairy-tale town with stunning palaces and gardens. The colorful Pena Palace and the mystical Quinta da Regaleira are must-see attractions. The town's romantic ambiance makes it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway.

Discover these hidden gems and experience Europe’s diverse and enchanting landscapes beyond the usual tourist routes. These underrated destinations promise unforgettable adventures and a deeper connection to the continent’s rich heritage.

[roomchailimited]

Exploring the Enchanting Baltics: From Dhaka to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

Embarking on a journey from Dhaka to the Baltic States of Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania unveils a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural splendor. These three nations, nestled along the Baltic Sea, offer an extraordinary blend of medieval charm, modern sophistication, and breathtaking landscapes.

Estonia: A Step Back in Time

Our adventure began in Estonia, a country renowned for its seamless integration of medieval heritage and contemporary innovation.

Tallinn’s Old Town: The medieval heart of Tallinn, with its cobbled streets and well-preserved Hanseatic architecture, made us feel like we had stepped into a fairy tale. Highlights included the majestic Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and the panoramic views from Toompea Hill.

Kumu Art Museum: The Kumu Art Museum provided a fascinating journey through Estonian art, from classical to contemporary works. The museum’s striking modern design was a sharp contrast to the historic surroundings of Tallinn’s Old Town.

Lahemaa National Park: A visit to Lahemaa National Park offered a serene escape into Estonia's natural beauty. We wandered through dense forests, explored rugged coastlines, and visited charming manors, soaking in the tranquility and pristine landscapes.

Latvia: Where Tradition Meets Innovation

Our next stop was Latvia, a country where historic richness and modern vibrancy coexist harmoniously.

Riga’s Old Town: Riga’s Old Town enchanted us with its colorful facades and stunning Art Nouveau architecture. The lively atmosphere of Dome Square and the views from St. Peter’s Church were particularly memorable.

Riga Central Market: Situated in repurposed Zeppelin hangars, Riga Central Market was a sensory delight. We savored local specialties such as smoked fish, fresh produce, and traditional pastries, experiencing the flavors of Latvia firsthand.

Jūrmala Beach: Just a short drive from Riga, Jūrmala offered a peaceful retreat with its sandy beaches and quaint wooden houses. Strolling along the coast and enjoying the sea breeze was a perfect way to unwind.

Lithuania: A Tapestry of History and Culture

Lithuania, our final destination, captivated us with its rich history, cultural heritage, and picturesque landscapes.

Vilnius Old Town: Vilnius, with its Baroque architecture and vibrant arts scene, was a cultural treasure. The Gediminas Castle Tower provided stunning views over the city, while the bustling Pilies Street was alive with cafes and street performers.

Trakai Island Castle: Located on an island in Lake Galvė, Trakai Island Castle was a highlight of our Lithuanian journey. The medieval fortress, surrounded by tranquil waters, offered a glimpse into Lithuania's storied past.

Hill of Crosses: Near the city of Šiauliai, the Hill of Crosses was a profoundly moving site. Thousands of crosses of varying sizes and styles created a powerful symbol of faith and resilience, making it a deeply spiritual experience.

Practical Tips for Bangladeshi Travelers

For Bangladeshi travelers, planning a trip to the Baltics is made easier with the assistance of travel agencies such as Roomchai, ShareTrip, and GoZayaan. These agencies provide comprehensive packages and support, including visa assistance, accommodation bookings, and tailored itineraries.

Visa and Documentation: Begin the Schengen visa application process well in advance, ensuring all necessary documents are meticulously prepared.

Accommodation: Secure accommodations early, opting for centrally located hotels in urban areas and charming guesthouses in rural settings.

Local Transport: Utilize efficient public transportation within cities and consider renting a car for exploring the scenic countryside.

Cuisine and Cultural Etiquette: Delight in the diverse culinary offerings of the Baltics and learn basic phrases in Estonian, Latvian, and Lithuanian to enhance your travel experience.

Conclusion

Journeying from Dhaka to Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania opens up a world of medieval wonders, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes. With the guidance of travel agencies, Bangladeshi travelers can seamlessly navigate the intricacies of travel planning and immerse themselves in the enchanting beauty of the Baltic States. This adventure promises unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation of these captivating countries.