Destination: Athens

Here are few favorite photographs taken while in Athens.

Nike Bastion/ Temple of Athena Nike is the smallest temple on the Acropolis, its placement is on the southwest corner on the edge of the cliffs, and I snapped this photo while walking back down the Acropolis towards the Museum. {High Classical Period}
View while hiking to the top of the Acropolis. It was extremely cold and windy that day, and the scene was breathtakingly beautiful.
Gorgeous sunset from the rooftop of our hotel. The sun would set quickly each evening so, we had to time our visit carefully to take in the wondrous sky each evening!
Dromeas {“Runner” in English} is a glass and iron sculpture created by Athens artist Costas Varotsos. The Hilton located on Vasilissis Sofias Avenue showcases the Runner across the street, and I found the best photographs of the sculpture are at sunset.
Walking the Plaka at night is exciting. Known as the “neighborhood of the gods”, this historic area is clustered around the northern and eastern slopes of the Acropolis. This photo of the Parthenon was taken after dinner.

Travel stylishly,
K

Kathleen5 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.

Me 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