Art & Architecture of Greece

The Propylaea is a monumental gateway in ancient Greek architecture, and this photo was the corner entrance upon entering the Acropolis.

After Rome our team spent a few days in Athens checking out the Museum of Cycladic Art, the National Archaeological Museum along with hiking the Acropolis citadel to the Parthenon, then back down to the Acropolis Museum to view the antiquities on display and to have a most delicious lunch in their unique restaurant.

Amazon on horseback, perhaps the queen Antiope and the Caryatids from the Erechtheion porticos on the south side of the porch The six sculpted Korai {maidens} supported the roof, but after years of being exposed to pollution and thieves, one was taken by Lord Elgin to the British Museum and the remaining five are being preserved in the Acropolis Museum.

Bronze statue of Zeus or Poseidon found in the sea of Cape Artemision in northern Euboea. The god is shown in stride, extending his left arm…..absolutely gorgeous!!!!
Chapel of Saint George Lycabetus {1834}- Lykavittos is the highest hill in Athens, and is visible from the entire city. The view is spectacular.

Enjoy,
K

Kathleen4 Comments

Vacanza Romana

When approaching Trevi Fountain you see the exquisite Baroque design throughout the sculpted marble, but can’t help thinking when getting back to the hotel you may want to upload the films Roman Holiday, La Dolce Vita or Three Coins in the Fountain for evening diversions.

At the Villa Borghese off the Via Veneto in Rome, and must say the gardens are to be envied. I have come away with fabulous ideas for Heath!!!

While strolling in the historic Borghese gardens I recalled my history of Paolina Bonaparte Borghese, who reminded me so much of Alexis Colby from Dynasty. After the death of her first husband, she went about acquiring the Hôtel de Charost in Paris away from a duchess; married Camillo Borghese, the 6th Prince of Sulmona before the set mourning date her brother Napoleon felt was suitable in regards to first husband, and she continued with extra marital affairs. Does this 19th century diva have “reality tv” written all over her lifestyle? And, to see the neo-classical Canova sculpture of Venus Victrix [white marble] on the ground floor of the villa was absolutely spectacular. Can you imagine posing {nude} for Antonio Canova one of the greatest neoclassical artist of the time….sculpting you in marble?

Fun Facts about the Flavian Amphitheatre {Colosseum}

1. Latin name is Amphitheatrum Flavium. 

2. Nero’s villa {Domus Aurea} included an enormous lake, upon which emperor Vespasian attempted to remove all facets of his predecessor by building an arena for the people.

3. The shape is elliptical with a base area of six acres, and is still the largest amphitheater in the world.

4. One of the most visited sites in Italy.

So much can be accessed by staying on the Via Veneto; the American Embassy, Harry’s Bar, Villa Borghese, quaint shops and la panetteria‘s {bakeries} after a day of gallery hopping!!! A cappuccino and a treat is always the best way to recharge in the afternoon.

Remember to travel stylishly,
K

Kathleen5 Comments