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South Korea - Manbulsa (Buddhist Temple) near Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang province

Manbulsa (“Ten Thousand Buddhas Temple”), near Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang province in the Manbul Mountains, is a Buddhist Temple that has considerably more than “Ten Thousand Buddhas" represented throughout this new sprawling temple complex.

Nov 16, 2011

Photos: 90

South Korea - Saseongam (Buddhist Hermitage) near Gurye, South Jeolla province

Saseong Hermitage (사성암) is said to have been built by Priest Yeongi Chosa in 544. Initially the hermitage was called Osanam, because it sits on the face Osan Mountain, before it was renamed Saseongam, or the Hermitage of Four Saints after four high priests - Yongi Chosa, Wonhyo Taesa, Toseon Kuksa, and Chinkak Seonsa, that lived and worked here. Saseong Hermitage is Jeollanamdo Cultural Property Material #33.

Oct 30, 2011

Photos: 48

South Korea-Samseonggung - Three Sages Palace

Samseonggung is a shrine, built in 1983, established for paying homage to the three mythical creators of Korea: Hwanin - Lord of Heaven, Hwanung - Hwanin's son who descended to the peak of a sacred mountain long ago to bring civilized government and thus "benefit humanity" and Dangun - Hwanung's son, half-human and half-divine, who founded the first Korean Kingdom and ruled as Shaman-king. <http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Samseonggung>

Oct 27, 2011

Photos: 67

South Korea-Seonamsa (Buddhist Temple)-Suncheon, South Jeolla province

Seonam Temple,Seonamsa, is a Korean Buddhist temple established in 529 CE by missionary-monk Ado as a hermitage at this site named Biroam. 350 years later in 861 National Master Doseon Guksa erected a grand temple here and renamed it Seonamsa. Seungseongyo, Seungseon Bridge, at Seonamsa is a granite stone bridge constructed in semi-circular arch configuration that is very well-known. With 19 National Cultural Properties in its halls and museum, there are few Korean Buddhist temples with more treasures than Seonamsa

Oct 24, 2011

Photos: 65

South Korea - Yeongam Pottery Museum, Gurim, South Jeolla province

Yeongam Pottery Museum in Gurim Village opened in April 2008 after renovating the previous Pottery Culture Center. The Regular Exhibition Hall displays the history of pottery in Yeongam, from Gurim Pottery of the Unified Silla Period to works excavated from kilns of the Chosun Dynasty. At the entrance of the museum is Siyu Dogi (pottery) Kiln (Historic Site No. 338) that produced the first slipware pottery in Korea. The courtyard next to the kiln is decorated with ceramic chairs, tables, and pots. Exhibition Hall No. 1: Permanent Exhibition Hall - Displays Gurim Pottery of the Unified Silla Period and pottery excavated from kilns of the Chosun Dynasty. Exhibition Hall No. 2: Modern Pottery Hall - Displays works by artists and by citizens from Hiragata, Osaka twice per year. Exhibition Hall No. 3: Donggang Ha Jeong-ung Collection Hall - Displays pottery donated by Donggang Ha Jeong-ung, the publicity ambassador for Yeongam.

Oct 18, 2011

Photos: 29

South Korea - Gurim Village, South Jeolla province

Gurim Village is the center of ceramic culture in Korea. Legend has it that Wangin and Monk Doseon of the Baekje Dynasty were born in this village. Jo Jong-su's House is the main family house of Changnyeong Jo clan. Currently only the main building of the house remains. The main building maintains most of the original configuration, except for the kitchen and entrance gate, that were partially renovated. In back of the main building there is a small garden with baeryong and pine trees. The main building faces west, with the back facing this small garden. As a typical house of the southern region, it is composed of a kitchen and a living area with a wooden floor hall. This house is relatively old and retains the original configuration from the year it was built, providing a valuable resource for materials used, structure, and layout.

Oct 18, 2011

Photos: 25

South Korea - Dr. Wangin's Shrine, Yeongam County, South Jeolla Province

Dr. Wangin's Memorial Shrine is the birthplace of Wangin, a famous scholar of Baekje Kingdom (18 B.C.—A.D. 660). Dr. Wangin, a scholar, introduced the elements of Chinese culture to Japan beginning in 5 AD. The memorial grounds have an eclectic mix of shrines, memorials, pavilions, museums and exhibit halls recognizing Dr. Wangin's contributions and interests.

Oct 18, 2011

Photos: 61

South Korea - Ssangbongsa (Buddhist Temple) in Hwasun county, South Jeolla province.

Ssangbongsa, or Ssangbong Temple (Ssang means 'twin' and Bong means 'peak' ) derives its name from the pair of twin peaks on the mountain behind this Korean Buddhist temple. Ssangbongsa was built by Zen Priest Cheolgam in 868 during the Unified Silla Period. Until recently, there were only two wooden pagodas remaining, preserved in Korea as cultural heritage objects: the Palsangjeon (hall) at the Beopjusa and the Daeungjeon (hall) here at the Ssangbongsa. Daeungjeon at Ssangbongsa is used as the main worship hall. A worshiper celebrating Buddha's Birthday tripped over a candle in Ssangbongsa Daeungjeon and it burned down in 1984. Daeungjeon was subsequently rebuilt. The Stone pagoda of Buddhist Priest Cheolgamseonsa of Ssangbongsa is National Treasure #57.

Oct 13, 2011

Photos: 88

South Korea - Daeheungsa (Buddhist Temple) in Haenam county, South Jeolla province

Daeheungsa is a Korean Buddhist temple located on the slopes of Duryunsan (Mountain), Haenam County, South Jeolla Province, South Korea. Daeheungsa is believed to date to the Three Kingdoms period (4th-9th centuries CE), probably established in 514.

Oct 4, 2011

Photos: 64

South Korea - Mihwangsa (Buddhist Temple) Haenam County, South Jeolla Province, South Korea

Mihwangsa is a Buddhist temple on Dalmasan (Dharma Mountain), considered to be the southern-most temple on the mainland, was established in 749. Mihwang comes from "Mi" (beautiful), after the unusually pleasing, strangely musical bellow of a cow, and "Hwang" (yellow/gold) for golden robes of the mythical founder. Budojeon and Dosolam, are hermitages at Mihwangsa.

Oct 3, 2011

Photos: 69

South Korea - Yun Seon Do's Residence, Garden and Retreat in South Jeolla Province

Yun Seon Do was a wealthy Joseon era aristocratic government administrator/scholar/teacher/author and poet who lived from 1587 to 1671. Well know as an author and poet, he went by the pen name Gosan. The family's ancestral home is in rural Haenam County near the town of Haenam. He also has a garden, reteat and retirement home on the small island of Bogol south of Haenam.

Oct 2, 2011

Photos: 94

South Korea - Heuksando (Heuksan Island)

Heuksando is an island in the Yellow Sea located 60 miles from the southwest coast off the port of Mokpo, South Korea covering an area of 7.6 square miles. Heuksando has about 3,133 residents. The island gets its name because its mountains and coastal waters look almost black. 'Heuk' means black and 'San' means mountains. Composed mostly of mountains and hills, residents mainly make a living through fishery and tourism. Heuksando has a circular road along the coast that can be taken all the way around the island. Heuksando is only accessible by ferry from Mokpo.

Sep 26, 2011

Photos: 49

South Korea - Hongdo (Red Island)

Hongdo,meaning "Red Island", due to the red coloring found on many of the rocky outcroppings. Found in the Yellow Sea 71 miles southwest the port of Mokpo, the island covers an area of 2.5 square miles and is home to about 710 people. Hongdo is designated as a Natural Preserve Area and is part of the Dadohae Marine National Park.

Sep 25, 2011

Photos: 41

South Korea - Hoesan White Lotus Pond, Illo, South Jeolla Province

Hoesan White Lotus Pond is on almost 82 acres of land being 1.9 miles in circumference. Naturally-growing White Lotus flowers bloom between July and September with the peak coming in August. Muan`s Hoesan White Lotus Pond is the largest habitat of white lotus in Asia. The lotus pond was originally a reservoir built to provide water for farming. As a dam was built in the estuary of Yongsan River, one of the local residents planted 12 white lotus plants at the reservoir, after having a dream of 12 cranes flying over and landing there.

Sep 22, 2011

Photos: 51

South Korea - Mokpo Gatbawi

The legend related to the rock figures of Gatbawi: A long time ago, a young man lived with his sick father. Though he was poor, he was a kind man who would do anything to help his sick father. He worked as a farm hand to save money to cure his father's illness. He did his job well but didn't get payed. When he returned home after one month, he found his father’s body. He regretted that he had been foolish in not caring for his father. The least he could do was to try to make him comfortable in the afterlife. Unfortunately, as he was moving his father’s body, he slipped and dropped the coffin into the sea. He felt awful about his father’s underwater burial. To make amends, he remained in that spot, wearing a bamboo hat until his death. Some time after his death, two rocks rose up to become the rocks at Gatbawi.

Sep 19, 2011

Photos: 13

"Gangnam Style" - The Gangnam District south of the Han River, Seoul South Korea

The Gangnam (Gangnam meaning "South of the River") District south of the Han River is the most affluent area of Seoul in South Korea. Gangnam District is one of the 25 local government districts that comprises Seoul. The Apgujeong division, now one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in Seoul, is a residential, fashion, shopping, and educational district within Gangnam district. This area has upscale department stores, shops, boutiques, private educational institutes, cafes, restaurants and is also the location for headquarters of many entertainment agencies.

Sep 6, 2011

Photos: 50

South Korea - Ulsan

Ulsan Metropolitan City is South Korea's seventh largest city with a population with more 1.1 million. It is located in the south-east of the country on the East Sea (Sea of Japan) near Busan. Ulsan is the industrial powerhouse of South Korea, where the heart of the Ulsan Industrial District is found that is home to the world's largest automobile assembly plant, the world's largest shipyard, and the world's largest oil refinery. Ulsan Grand Park is a natural ecological park that was built by the Ulsan city government with a donation from the SK Company. Ulsan Grand Park was was first opened to the public in May 2000 but not complteted until April 2006. Daewangam Park is the site of Daewangam rock and Ulgi park is where the Ulgi Lighthouse is found. Both are along the East Sea in Ulsan.

Nov 19, 2007

Photos: 63

South Korea - Beomeosa (Buddhist Temple), Chungryunam & Gyemyeongam (temple hermitages) in Busan

Beomeosa (Fish from Heaven) is a Buddhist temple in Cheongnyong-dong, Geumjeong-gu, Busan, South Korea. Built on the slopes of Geumjeongsan, is one of the country's leading urban temples constructed in 678. In addition to the main temple compound, there are eleven hermitages or smaller temples (am) nearby and administratively attached to Beomeosa. Chungryunam (Blue Lotus Hermitage) and Gyemyeongam (Rooster's Crow Hermitage) are two of the eleven nearby heritages attached to Beomeosa. At its largest, during the Goryeo dynasty, Beomeosa was much larger than it is today with over 360 rooms and more than a thousand monks in residence. The temple was burned to the ground in 1592 during the Japanese Invasion, was reconstructed in 1602, but was burned again by an accidental fire. In 1613 it was again rebuilt.

Nov 17, 2007

Photos: 89

South Korea - Haedong Yonggungsa (Buddhist Temple) - Busan

Most Buddhist Temples in Korea are located in the mountains along streams but Haedong Yonggungsa (Buddhist temple) is located on the coast of the north-eastern side of Busan. The temple was built in 1376 by a Buddhist teacher known as Naong during the Goryeo Dynasty. Haesu Gwaneum Daebul (Seawater Great Goddess Buddha), Daeungjeon Main Sanctuary, Yongwangdang Shrine, Gulbeop Buddhist Sanctum (enclosed in a cave), and a three-story pagoda with four lions symbolizing joy anger, sadness, and happiness can all be seen looking out over the ocean. Other sites at the temple are the stone lanterns lining the 108 stairs leading to the rocky landscape.

Nov 16, 2007

Photos: 90

South Korea - Ssangchungsa (Shrine) and Doyang Area

Ssangchungsa is a shrine in Doyang (known also as Nokdong) on the southwestern most point of the peninsula that comprises Goheung County South Korea. The shrine commemorates and is dedicated to the memories of two Joseon Dynasty era (1392–1897) naval officer war heroes. Ssangchungsa is designated Monument #128. <<http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ssangchungsa>> Doyang is a fishing village at the tip of the Goheung peninsula.

Nov 13, 2007

Photos: 15

South Korea - Neunggasa (Buddhist Temple) and Paryeongsan (mountain)

Neunggasa is a Buddhist temple established in 419 that was rebuilt in 1644 after being destroyed during the Japanese Invasion in 1592 at the base of Palyeongsan (Mount Palyeong), also known as Eight Peak Mountain and Recreational Forest area in Goheung county. Palyeongsan (Mount Palyeong) is a provincial park raising 1995 feet above the sea and is known for its eight beautiful peaks and unusual rock and stone formations. Treasures at the temple include: -Tangible Cultural Property #1307, Neunggasadaeungjeon (Daeng Hall of Neunggasa Temple). -Tangible Cultural Property #264, Neunggasa Tomb of Chugyedang and Sayeongdang. -Tangible Cultural Property #224, The Wooden Four-Diva Statues of Neunggasa. -Tangible Cultural Property #70, Neunggasasajeokbi (Neungga Temple monument). -Tangible Cultural Property #69, Bronze Bell of Neunggasa - a 2000 pound bronze bell.

Nov 12, 2007

Photos: 57

South Korea - Geumtapsa (Buddhist Temple) and Cheondeungsan (mountain)

Geumtapsa or (Heavenly-Lantern Mountain Golden-Pagoda Temple), a Korean Buddhist Temple, located at the base of Cheondeungsan (mountain), Goheung-gun (county), Jeollanam-do (province), South Korea. Originally built in the 7th century by Buddhist Monk Wonhyo, Geumtapsa dates back to the Three Kingdoms period (57B.C.-A.D.668) when it was established as a branch of Songgwangsa (Temple). One of the more prominent features at Geumtapsa is the Forest of Japanese Nutmeg Yew that surrounds the temple. A good source of lumber, the trees have gradually disappeared and now only a few groves remain. The nutmeg forest is designated as Natural Monument #239. Geungnakjeon Hall of Geumtapsa Temple is constructed in the style of the later years of the Joseon era (1392-1910) as is designated Tangible Cultural Property #102. Cheondeungsan (mountain) is 550M/1804ft high and stands on the southern end of the Goheung Peninsula.

Nov 11, 2007

Photos: 58

South Korea - Jeonggaksa (Buddhist Temple) - Goheung, South Jeolla province

Jeonggaksa is a small Buddhist temple in the center of the city Goheung in the South Jeolla province. The bronze Buddha in one of the more unique images of Buddha to be found in the country.

Nov 8, 2007

Photos: 31

South Korea-Unjusa (Buddhist Temple) - Hwasun County, South Jeolla province

Unjusa is a Korean Buddhist temple located in South Jeolla Province, South Korea. Compared with other temples in South Korea, this temple has an unusual collection of stone Buddha statues and stone pagodas, so Unjusa is often referred to as the mysterious temple. Legend has it that according to the traditional theory of Korean geomancy, the peninsula was thought to be in danger of capsizing because there were fewer mountains in the southwestern part of the peninsula than in the southeastern part. To prevent this disaster, one night Monk Doseon called stone masons down from heaven to build a thousand Buddha statues and pagodas at Unjusa, in the southwestern part of the peninsula. A more practical explanation is that Unjusa was created as a school for stone masons. Unjusa is known for being as the only Korean Buddhist temple to ever have had over a thousand stone Buddha statues and stone pagodas. Presently only 94 stone Buddha statues and 21 stone pagodas still remain.

Oct 30, 2007

Photos: 46

South Korea - Gwangju National and Folk Museums in Gwangju City

Gwangju Metropolitan City is the sixth largest city in South Korea. The Gwangju National Museum there houses a permanent collection of historical art and cultural relics that date back to the old Joseon and Goryeo periods of Korean history. The Gwangju Folk Museum also houses a significant collection of historically significant items.

Oct 30, 2007

Photos: 64

South Korea - Geumsansa (Buddhist Temple) - Gimje, North Jeolla province

Geumsansa (literally "Golden Mountain Temple") is a head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. It stands on the slopes of Moak-san (mountain) in Gimje City, Jeollabuk-do, South Korea. Geumsansa was established in 599 CE and expanded beginning in 722. As a result of the expansion, Geumsansa became the headquarters for practicing the Maitreya faith during the Unified Silla period (668-935). During the first Japanese invasion in 1592, Geumsansa played a defensive role with over a thousand monks using Geumsansa for a training ground. During the second Japanese invasion, the Buddhist volunteer corps established their headquarters at Geumsansa. However, the entire temple complex and outlying hermitages were burned to the ground by the invading Japanese forces. The present buildings were rebuilt in 1635.

Oct 26, 2007

Photos: 49

South Korea - Tapsa (Buddhist Temple) & Stone Pagodas of Maisan - Jinan, North Jeolla province

Tapsa (Pagoda Temple) is a Buddhist Temple in Maisan (mountain) at the base of "Horse Ears Peak", so called because the two peaks that, from a distance, look like the ears of a horse located southwest of Jinan, North Jeolla Province South Korea. Tapsa is unique because of all the stones piled up without mortar to form pagodas. A layman monk by the name of Yi Gap Yong, constructed as many as 120 stone pagodas, of which 80 now remain, beginning about 1885. There is a plaque that says that windstorms fail to topple the pagodas, they only rock and smile at them.

Oct 23, 2007

Photos: 32

South Korea - Geumdangsa & Eunsu (Buddhist Temples) in Maisan - Jinan, North Jeolla province

Geumdangsa is a small Buddhist temple complex in Maisan (Hourse Ear Mountain) that are found southwest of Jinan, North Jeolla province, South Korea. The temple house two significant Buddhist artifacts, a five story stone pagoda listed as Jeollabukdo (North Jeolla province) Cultural Property #122 constructed some 1300 years ago and a painting of the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy listed as Treasure #1266 painted in 1682. Eunsunsa is a small Buddhist temple on the way to Tapsa in Maisan range located below the "Elephant Rock".

Oct 23, 2007

Photos: 29

South Korea - Cheongpung Cultural Properties Complex - Jecheon, North Chungcheong province

Cheongpung Cultural Properties Complex - located by the Chungjuho Lake near Jecheon, North Chungcheong province. This complex is a reconstruction of Cheongpung, a village that became submerged after the construction of Chungju Dam. It took three years to relocate the buildings and structures in the current site at a cost of of over 1.6 trillion won.

Oct 18, 2007

Photos: 66

South Korea - SBS Jecheon film set, Jecheon - North Chungcheong province

The SBS Jecheon film set is found next to the Cheongpung Cultural Properties Complex south of Jecheon, South Korea. Made to look like a Korean Village of old, the set has been used to film several Korean TV mini-series dramas.

Oct 18, 2007

Photos: 22

South Korea-Jecheon-Namhan River Cruise and Chungju Lake

Cruise along the Namhan River and Lake Chungju west of Jecheon in North Chungcheong province.

Oct 18, 2007

Photos: 24

South Korea - Guinsa (Buddhist Temple) near Danyang, North Chungcheong province

Guinsa, located near Danyang, South Korea, is the headquarters of the Korean Cheontae sect of Buddhism. Although the architecture of Guinsa follows that of many other Buddhist temples in Korea, it is also markedly different in that the structures are several stories tall, instead of the typical one or two story structures common to most Korean temples. The ubiquitous black slate roof tiles found commonly on Korean temples are frequently replaced by orange, blue and maroon glazed tiles at Guinsa. Up to 10,000 monks can live here at any one point while the kitchen can serve food for twice that number when needed. Unlike many of Korea's temples, Guinsa is fairly new, dating only back to 1945. The original temple was burned down during the Korean War, but the reconstruction of the first building was completed in 1966 and the complex, which now incorporates over 50 buildings, is still expanding.

Oct 16, 2007

Photos: 82

South Korea - 3 Peak Island & Gosu Cave and Danyang, North Chungcheong province,

Danyang is a small tourist town along the Namhan River in North Chungcheong province South Korea. Not far from Danyang is Dodam Sambong or Three Peak Island. Just outside Danyang is Gosu Cave. The whole area is rather rural and like so much of South Korea, absolutely beautiful.

Oct 15, 2007

Photos: 43

South Korea-Naksansa (Buddhist Temple) - on the slopes of Naksan (mountain), Gawngwon province,

Naksan Temple is a Korean Buddhist temple complex that stands on the slopes of Naksan Mountain. Naksansa is one of the few temples in Korea to overlook the East Sea (Sea of Japan). The Bodhisattva ("enlightenment-being") is said to live on a sea-bound island along with guardian dragons. Naksansa is regarded as one of the great eight scenic areas in the Eastern region of Korea. Naksansa was founded in 671, by the Buddhist monk, Uisang Daesa. Today, the octagonal Uisangdae Pavilion sits on the spot where Uisang once meditated, the current pavilion having been built in 1925. Most of Naksansa was destroyed by a fire that started in the surrounding forest on April 5, 2005. Present reconstruction is well under way and is expected to be completed, and the temple fully restored by 2010.

Oct 9, 2007

Photos: 75

South Korea-Jeondongjin; Sun Cruise Resort/Park, Time Story Museum and Warship Pavilion

Jeongdongjin is a resort town along the coast of the East Sea(Sea of Japan) in the northeast of South Korea. The beach at Jeongdongjin is very popular but the area may be best known for the Millennium Hourglass. The Sun Cruise Resort is found here along with the Sculpture/Theme Park. A small but interesting clock museum called the Time Story is also located in Jeongdongjin. A short way up the coast is Anin, the location of the Warship Pavilion, where a retired Naval Destroyer and a captured North Korean submarine are on display and open for touring.

Oct 7, 2007

Photos: 90

South Korea Woljeongsa (Buddhist Temple) - eastern slopes of Odae Mountain in Gangwon province

Woljeongsa is a head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, located on the eastern slopes of Odae Mountain in Gangwon province, South Korea. Woljeongsa was founded in 643 by the Silla monk Jajang. It is said that, on this mountain, Master Jajang chanted and on the seventh night after chanting he had a vision in which the Buddha gave him a poem with four lines in Sanskrit.Next day, a monk came and remarked that the master looked pale and troubled. Master Jajang explained that he had received a poem he could not understand. The mysterious monk explained the verses and then told Jajang to go to Odaesan in Shilla where he would find 10,000 Manjusris. After seven more days of chanting, a dragon appeared who told Jajang that the old monk had been a Manjusri and that now he must go and build a temple to the Bodhisattva that became Woljeongsa.

Oct 6, 2007

Photos: 27

South Korea - Odaesan National Park in the province of Gangwon

Odaesan National Park, located in Gangwon province South Korea, was designated as a national park in 1975 is named after the 5,128 feet high Odae mountain. The name "Odaesan" means "mountain of five plateaus," which refers to the five plateaus which stand between its five peaks.

Oct 5, 2007

Photos: 54

South Korea - Junque Art Exhibit at Seoul's Cheonggyecheon (stream)

Junque Art Exhibit at Cheonggyecheon (stream) in the heart of Seoul durring September 2007. Most of the items used to construct the artwork at this temporary art exhibit appears to be from discarded automotive parts.

Sep 28, 2007

Photos: 24

South Korea-Bongeunsa (Buddhist Temple) - Seoul

Bongeunsa is a Buddhist temple across the street from the COEX Mall in Seoul, South Korea founded in 794. Bongeunsa was reconstructed in 1498 and became the main temple of the Korean Seon (Zen) sect of Buddhism in 1551. A fire in 1939 destroyed most of the buildings, and other parts of the temple were destroyed during the Korean War. The temple rebuilt and today is a thriving complex in the center of Seoul.

Sep 9, 2007

Photos: 46

South Korea - Seoul

Seoul is the capital and largest city of South Korea. With over 11 million people, Seoul is the 5th largest city in the world, with an area of only 234 square miles, it is also one of the smallest and most densely populated major cities. Seoul's population density has allowed it to become one of the world's most digitally-connected cities. It also has more than three million registered vehicles which often cause widespread traffic jams. The larger Seoul area and commuter belt, which includes the major port city of Incheon, has over twenty-one million residents. This makes it the third most populous metropolitan area in the world, after Greater Tokyo and Mexico City. About one-half of South Korea's entire population live in Seoul and its environs. The city is the country's political, cultural, social, and economic center, as well as an international center for many financial and business organizations, and is considered one of the top 20 "world-class cities".

Jun 30, 2006

Photos: 101

South Korea - Cheonggyecheon (stream), Seoul

The Cheonggyecheon (stream) runs right through the center of Seoul but up until recently it was covered by a roadway and elevated expressway. The stream was basically a covered storm sewer. The infrastructure was badly deteriorated so it was decided to remove all of the roadways and open the stream back up and turn it into a recreation area. At a cost of about $900 million, construction of the nearly 4 mile long project with 22 bridges over the stream was completed in September 2005 after 3 years of construction.

Jun 28, 2006

Photos: 37

South Korea - Lotus Lantern (Buddha's Birthday) Festival & Parade, Seoul

Buddha's Birthday, the birthday of the Gautama Buddha traditionally celebrated in East Asia on the eighth day of the fourth month in the Chinese lunar calendar, is a holiday in South Korea. The date varies from year to year in the Western calendar. Siddhārtha Gautama (Gotama Buddha) was a spiritual teacher from the ancient Indian subcontinent and the historical founder of Buddhism. He is universally recognized by Buddhists as the Supreme Buddha of our age. The time of his birth and death is belived to be from 563 BCE to 483 BCE.

Jun 26, 2006

Photos: 65

South Korea - Suwon Area, Gyeonggi province

1)Lamp Museum near Suwon, South Korea. 2)Korean Folk Village is an amusement park type of visitor attraction near Suwon. The purpose of Korean Folk Village is to display traditional elements of Korean life and culture. There are numerous replications of traditional houses, and they vary by the social class of the owner (farmer, nobleman etc) and the various regions of Korea. 3)Hwaseong ("Brilliant Fortress") is located in Suwon, South Korea, 12 miles south of Seoul. Hwaseong Fortress was built over two and a half years, from 1794 to 1796. The four main gates were used as the gates for the town. The arrow-launching platforms built along ramparts with crenelleted parapets and battlements were elements of the fortress while the wall also held secret gates for offensive actions. The wall is 3.6 miles in length and 13 to 20 feet high.

Jun 24, 2006

Photos: 67

South Korea - Goheung Area, South Jeolla province

Goryeo Celadon Kiln Site at Gangjin is not far from Goheung. The Goheung area is one of the southern most parts of South Korea, a peninsula actually, with the largest city being Goheung. Geumsan is the small farming village very close to Goheung. Geumsan is where Oki is from and still has many relatives still living in the area. We arrived at a very busy time. The garlic was being harvested and the rice seedlings were being planted.

Jun 22, 2006

Photos: 58

South Korea - The National Museum of Korea, Seoul

The National Museum of Korea holds a collection of approximately 150,000 works of art. The museum holds permanent collections of ancient artifacts, historical artifacts, works of art, and related Asian cultural artifacts.

Jun 20, 2006

Photos: 23

South Korea - Daejeon Area

Cheongju - Early Printing Museum is the site of the printing of Jikji, the oldest existing book printed using movable metal type, in use 220 years before the Gutenberg movable type. The museum itself contains exhibits related to the art of printing through the ages. Cheongju - Sangdang Mountain Fortress lies on the slopes of Mount Uam comprised of a 10-13 foot tall wall that stretches over 2.6 miles in circumference. The walls date to the 1716 restoration of the site. Cheongju - Gyeryongsan is a mountain that lies at the meeting of the boundaries of several cities, including Gongju, Gyeryong, and Daejeon. Buyeo - Busosan Fortress built in 538. Nakhwaam is a rocky cliff top overlooking a sheer drop to the river below. It was from this spot, in 660 AD, that 3,000 ladies of the court of King Uija jumped to their deaths rather than fall into the hands of the invading Silla and Chinese armies. A pavilion commemorating these ladies was erected on top of the cliff in 1929

Jun 18, 2006

Photos: 69

South Korea - Bulguksa (Buddhist Temple) - Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang province

Bulguksa is a Buddhist temple that is home to seven National treasures of Korea, including Dabotap and Seokgatap stone pagodas. In 1995, Bulguksa was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List together with the Seokguram Grotto, which lies 2.5 miles to the east. The temple is considered as a masterpiece of the golden age of Buddhist art in the Silla kingdom. The current temple was constructed in 751.

Jun 16, 2006

Photos: 41

South Korea - Daegu Area

Hahoe Folk Village in Andong, established in the 16th century, is a valuable part of Korean culture because it preserves Joseon-style architecture, folk traditions, and old tradition of clan-based villages. The village maintains old architectural styles that have been lost because of rapid modernization and development in South Korea. Aristocratic tile-roofed residences and thatched-roof servants' homes preserve the architectural styles of the Joseon Dynasty. Daegu is the 4th largest city with a population of 2.5 million.

Jun 12, 2006

Photos: 35

South Korea - Haeinsa (Buddhist Temple) - Daegu, South Gyeongsang province

Haeinsa (Temple of Reflection on a Smooth Sea) is one of the foremost Buddhist temples in South Korea. It is most notable for being the home of the Tripitaka Koreana, the whole of the Buddhist Scriptures carved onto 81,258 wooden printing blocks, which it has housed since 1398. The temple was built in 802

Jun 10, 2006

Photos: 36

South Korea - Changgyeong Palace, Seoul

Changgyeonggung Palace was renovated and enlarged in 1483 to be used as a residence for three dowager queens.

Jun 8, 2006

Photos: 20

South Korea - Busan

Busan is the largest harbor city in South Korea. With a population of about 3.65 million, Busan is also South Korea's second largest city. The densely populated city is situated in the narrow Nakdong River valley, with mountains separating some of the various districts in the south-east part of the country.

Jun 6, 2006

Photos: 33

South Korea - Songgwangsa(Buddhist Temple), Suncheon, South Jeolla province

Songgwangsa is one of the most important Buddhist monasteries in Korea, and is considered one of the Three Jewel Temples of Korea. Songgwangsa is one of Korea's largest temples, a sprawling complex of buildings that is spread throughout the area. It was built during the Silla Dynasty and was the center of Buddhism in the 12th century.

Jun 4, 2006

Photos: 31

South Korea-Oedo Botanical Gardens

Oedo is a western-style island botanical garden cultivated 1969 by botanist Lee Chang Ho and his wife and fellow botanist Choi Ho Suk, in the Hallyeo Haesang National Park (national marine park), in what is part of Geoje City, Gyeongsangnam-do, South Korea. The island is home to more than 3,000 plant species, many quite rare, like Agave Americana, Rose of Sunshine, Windmill Palms, C.peruvianus (a kind of cactus), and includes many other subtropical plants, like cactus, palm trees, gazania, eucalyptus, bottlebrush bush, New Zealand flax, and agave.Oedo has a coastal climate with mild subtropical weather.

Jun 4, 2006

Photos: 35

South Korea - Gyeongbok Palace, Seoul

Gyeongbok (meaning Shining Happiness) Palace is located in northern Seoul, and was the main and largest palace of the Joseon Dynasty, constructed in 1394 with 330 buildings. The major buildings on the site include Geunjeongjeon, the royal throne room, and Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, which stands in a lotus pond and rests on 48 granite pillars. The pavilion is depicted on the Korean 10,000 won banknotes. Hyangwon-jeong, a hexagonal pavilion surrounded by a lotus pond, built in 1867 is one of the most painted and photographed places in Korea.

Jun 2, 2006

Photos: 18

South Korea-Geoji Island, Goeji POW Camp, Daewoo & Samsung Shipyards, Tongyeong Harbor

Geoje is a island city located in South Gyeongsang province, just off the coast of the port city of Busan, South Korea. The Daewoo Shipyard (now DSME) in Okpo and Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) in Gohyeon are both located on Geoje Island. Between the years of 1950 and 1953, the military government of General Douglas MacArthur used the island as a place for the containment of 170,000 POWs, at a prison of war camp established there. After the war, a portion was converted into a tourist attraction. Tongyeong is a city in South Gyeongsang Province, the name Tongyeong meaning "command post" and is itself associated with Admiral Yi, as it refers to his principal base that was located on nearby Hansan Island. The city of Geoje is made up of 60 other smaller islands, of which 10 are inhabited. Geoje city and the main island are joined to the mainland by a causeway from nearby Tongyeong. Oedo is 2.5 miles away from Geoje Island, about 20 minutes by ship from port.

Jun 2, 2006

Photos: 69

South Korea - Bunhwangsa (Buddhist temple) in Gyeongju City

Bunhwangsa (Fragrant Emperor Temple) is a Buddhist temple complex from the Old Silla era of Korea in Gyeongju built in 634. The Stone Pagoda of Bunwangsa was built of volcanic rock cut like brick. The four entrances are flanked by pairs of granite pillars bearing two relief carved Temple Guardians. The Stone Pagoda of Bunwangsa is National Treasure No. 30. - Located at the temple complex is well called Hogukyongbyeoneojeong from the Silla period. The well's octagonal upper part extends above the ground while the lower part of the well is cylindrical. The structure of the well represents Buddhism's essence. The well is Gyeongsangbuk-do Cultural Property Material No. 9

May 30, 2006

Photos: 8

South Korea - Tongdosa (Buddhist Temple) - Busan, South Gyeongsang province

Tongdosa (meaning "pass onto enlightenment") is one of the Three Jewel Temples of Korea and represents the Buddha. It reputedly houses relics of the historical Buddha himself, including a robe, a begging bowl, and a bone from his skull. The main hall in Tongdosa opens out onto a stupa which the faithful claim contains relics of the Buddha. Tongdosa became one of the three largest temples in Korea, a distinction it still shares with Haeinsa and Songgwangsa. Tongdosa was founded in 646.

May 28, 2006

Photos: 16

South Korea - Royal Wedding Reenactment & Ancestor Rites, Seoul

Reenactment of the royal wedding ceremony of King Gojong and Queen Min at Unhyeongung Palace, the original site of the royal wedding ceremony on March 21, 1866, for emperor Gojong and his empress Myeongseong. Jongmyo Daeje, a royal ancestral rite, takes place annually at Jongmyo Shrine in Jongno, Seoul on the first Sunday of May. Considered the most important ceremony of Joseon Dynasty and is registered as one of UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritages. The rite begins with a greeting to the ancestor spirits, an offering to them, a blessing by the spirits, and lastly, a farewell bidding to the spirits. The rite is accompanied by music, song, and dance. The ritual music is formal and solemn, emphasizing the importance of this royal ceremony held under the highest degree of formality.

May 26, 2006

Photos: 33

South Korea - Inchon, Cheonan, Ansong and Songtan

Incheon is a major seaport on the west coast of South Korea, near Seoul. Incheon is now home to almost 2.5 million people. On September 15, 1950, during the Korean War, Incheon was the site of the Battle of Inchon, when United States troops landed to relieve pressure on the Pusan Perimeter and to launch a United Nations offensive northward. Incheon is sometimes regarded as part of the greater Seoul metropolitan area due to its close proximity to the capital. It is, however, a major city in its own right and is a separate jurisdiction from Seoul. Cheonan is a city located about 50 miles south of Seoul. The main tourist attraction is the nearby "Independence Hall," a collection of patriotic museums, monuments and gardens. Songtan is an administrative district in the northern end of Pyeongtaek that was merged into Pyeongtaek City. Songtan's best known feature is Osan Air Base, a "forward deployed" base of the United States Air Force.

May 24, 2006

Photos: 33

South Korea - Bongjeongsa (Buddhist Temple) - Andong, North Gyeongsang province

Bongjeongsa is a small interesting temple complex 10 miles northwest of Andong. It is pretty well off the beaten path and not often visited by tourists. The temple complex is known for having the oldest wooden structure in Korea.

May 22, 2006

Photos: 19

South Korea - Songnisan National Park

Songnisan is a mountain and National Park in South Korea. It's main attractions is Beopjusa (temple) and an especially picturesque peak, Munjangdae at 3376 feet high. The mountain's highest peak is Cheonhwangbong, at 3471 feet.

May 20, 2006

Photos: 23

South Korea - Gyeongju Area - North Gyeongsang province

Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang province, is a prominent tourist destination, with a population of roughly 350,000, in the south-eastern corner of South Korea on the coast of the Sea of Japan. Nearby cities include the industrial centers Ulsan and Pohang. Numerous low mountains are scattered throughout the city. Gyeongju was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Silla, a fact to which it owes its present-day prominence.

May 18, 2006

Photos: 29

South Korea - Hwaomsa (Buddhist Temple) - Gurye, South Jeolla province

Hwaomsa Temple's name is taken from that of one of the most influential texts in the history of Korean Buddhism: the Avatamsaka Sutra, whose underlying theme is the universal oneness of all things. While legends say that it was built in 544, old records indicate that it was actually established in the 8th century.

May 16, 2006

Photos: 25

South Korea - Samgwangsa (Buddist Temple) - Busan

Samgwangsa (Samgwang Buddhist temple), meaning "Three rays of light from Buddha", was built in 1969 and expaned in 1982. The temple has the capacity to accommodate 10,000 worshipers at one time. The nine-storied pagoda, Daebotap, has 53 Buddhas carved on the eight sides of the pagoda. A very large ornately carved wooden "Moktak", woodblock like percussion instrument used by monks in rituals, sets outside one of the temple buildings. Samgwangsa is one of the most significant Buddhist temples in Busan and belongs to the Cheontae Order of Korean Buddhism.

May 16, 2006

Photos: 23

South Korea - Naganeupseong Folk Village - Suncheon, South Jeolla province

Naganeupseong Folk Village was originally built as a castle, or fortress, near Suncheon. Now a folk village where about 100 families still live in the various traditional style houses of the southern part of Korea. It is the oldest folk village in Korea, built between 1626 and 1628. One of the most unique features is the wall that surrounds the entire village. The residents receive compensation from the government and are not allowed to make alterations or improvements that would alter the appearance of the homes or grounds.

May 14, 2006

Photos: 40

South Korea - Gwangju, Damyang Sowaewon & Namwon

Gwangju is the sixth largest city in South Korea with a population of 1.4 million. The city was established in 57 BC, and has been a major political and economic center of Korea ever since. Gwangju is sometimes called "The shrine of Korean democracy" because in May 1980, civil demonstrations took place in Gwangju against the newly installed military government. The demonstrations were suppressed by military forces by firing automatic weapons into crowds of unarmed demonstrators. Today it is known as the Gwangju Massacre. Damyang is a city of about 55,000 just north of Gwangju. Soswaewon was a garden built about 1530 in Damyang.

May 12, 2006

Photos: 38

South Korea-Hyanggyo and Seowan (Confucian Academy) - Andong, North Gyeongsang province

Hyanggyo were government run neighborhood schools established by the aristocrat, or ruling elite class, in the 1500s to prepare their sons for the Seowon, or Confucian academies, where students studied for the government service exams. Students studied Chinese characters and key Confucian texts. Over 600 Seowon were spread across the country making Korea the most Confucian country in Asia. In the 1860's the government forced the closing of most the Hyanggyo and Seowon but the buildings remain as symbols of the Koreans unwavering passion for education.

May 11, 2006

Photos: 21

South Korea - Miscellaneous Temples

Pictures from minor temples throughout South Korea.

May 10, 2006

Photos: 25

South Korea - Traditional Houses in the Namsan Valley, Seoul

Traditional Houses in the Namsan Valley, Seoul, is composed of five Korean style houses belonging to the noble families during the Choson period (1392-1910) decorated with furniture appropriate to the social status of the owners.

May 8, 2006

Photos: 19

South Korea - Gochang, North Jeolla province

The Gochang Dolmen Site is the location of hundreds of stone dolmens which were used as grave markers and for ritual purposes during the first millennium BC when the Megalithic Culture was prominent on the Korean Peninsula. Korea is said to contain more than 50% of the worlds dolmens, mostly concentrated in this area. Gochang dolmens are the largest and most varied. The dolmens were built from east to west at the foot of a series of hills. Generally, the capstones of the dolmens average around 3 to 20 feet in length and can weigh 10 to 300 tons. 442 dolmen have been documented and classified based on the size of the capstone. This group is believed to have been constructed around the seventh century BC. This site was designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2000. Seonunsa Temple was built in the 6th century. It was originally a very large temple, but much was lost during the 2nd Japanese Invasion in 1597, but was subsequently rebuilt.

May 6, 2006

Photos: 28

South Korea - Jogyesa (Buddhist Temple) - Seoul

Jogyesa is the headquarters of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism. The temple is located in the heart of Seoul, in Jongno-gu, the very center of the metropolis. Jogyesa was originally built in 1910 and called Gakhwangsa. In 1936, it became the headquarters of the Korean Buddhist Joyge Order. In 1954, it was renamed Jogyesa, and it is the only traditional temple located inside the the city of Seoul built during the Joseon Dynasty.

Apr 29, 2006

Photos: 19

South Korea-Beopjusa(Buddhist Temple)-Boeum County, North Chungcheong province

Beopjusa (Buddhist Temple) in Boeum County near Daejeon, situated on the slopes of Songnisan (mountain), was built in 553. Today it is best known for Palsangjeon (Hall of Eight Pictures), a five story wooden pagoda, built at time of the founding of Beopjusa. The pagoda gets its name from paintings depicting the eight stages of the life of Buddha. This pagoda is National Treasure of Korea #55. Beopjusa Seogyeonji (Lotus shaped stone basin of Beopjusa Temple) is a miniature version of a stone pond, made of a huge rock which is carved like a half-open lotus bud, and is said to have held water with lotus flowers in it. The stone basin is National Treasure #64. In the Goryeo era (918-1392), this temple is said to have been home to as many as 3,000 monks.

Apr 25, 2006

Photos: 28

South Korea - Changdeok Palace in Seoul

Changdeok Palace (Palace of Prospering Virtue) is one of the "Five Grand Palaces" built by the kings of the Joseon Dynasty in Seoul. Because of its location east of Gyeongbok Palace is also referred to as the East Palace. Construction of Changdeok Palace originally began in 1405, and was completed in 1412, reconstructed in 1609 and again in 1623. Changdeok Palace was the site of the royal court and the seat of government until 1872.

Apr 6, 2006

Photos: 29

South Korea - DMZ, Panmunjeom/Joint Security Area

The Joint Security Area is the only portion of the Korean Demilitarized Zone where South and North Korean forces stand face-to-face. The Joint Security Area is located within the village of Panmunjom. The meeting room straddles the Military Demarcation Line so one can stand inside North Korea when standing in the north side of the meeting room. Notable landmarks within the JSA include the Bridge of No Return.

Apr 4, 2006

Photos: 18

Caribbean

Dec 12, 2005

Photos: 121

Japan - Kyoto, in and around

Kyoto has a population close to 1.5 million. With its 2000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, as well as palaces, gardens and architecture intact, it is one of the best preserved cities in Japan. Tourism forms a large base of Kyoto's economy. Kyoto Station, the second-largest station in Japan, is the center for transportation in the city. it houses a shopping mall, hotel, movie theater, department store, and several local government facilities under one fifteen-story roof.

Apr 29, 2005

Photos: 66

Japan - Kyoto Gardens and Pavilions

Ginkaku-ji, the "Temple of the Silver Pavilion," is a Buddhist temple in Kyoto built in 1474. The intention was to cover it in silver, but in 1467, construction was halted, and the silver covering never placed on the pavilion. The temple features wooded grounds covered with a variety of mosses, a Japanese garden and a pile of sand said to symbolize Mount Fuji.-- Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion Temple) was originally built in 1397 to serve as a retirement villa. The entire pavilion except the basement floor is covered with pure gold leaf. The pavilion's function is to house relics of Buddha. On the roof of the pavilion is a golden "Chinese phoenix". The pond near the Golden Pavilion is called Mirror Pond with many islands and stones on the pond that represent the Buddhist creation story.

Apr 29, 2005

Photos: 56

Japan - Kyoto's Shrines and Temples

Nishi Hongan-ji was established as a temple in 1321.-- Higashi Honganji was established in 1602-- Yasaka Shrine is a Shinto shrine in the Gion District built originally in 656.-- Chion-In Temple was built in 1234.-- Eikan-dō is the head temple for Pure Land Buddhist sect started when the monk Shinshō founded a temple in 853.-- The Heian Jingū Shinto shrine was built in 1895. The torii before the main gate is one of the largest in Japan.-- Kiyomizu Buddhist Temples is one of the best known sights of the city. The temple dates back to 798, but the present buildings were constructed in 1633. The main hall of Kiyomizu is notable for its vast veranda. Beneath the main hall is a waterfall where visitors collect water from three channels of water, which is believed to have therapeutic properties, in metal cups. It's said said that drinking the water confers health, longevity, and success in studies.

Apr 28, 2005

Photos: 139

Japan - Kyoto's Palaces, Castles and Villas

Nijō Castle construction was completed in 1626. It was built as the Kyoto residence of the Tokugawa Shoguns.The Nijō Castle has two concentric rings of fortifications, both consisting of a wall and a wide moat.-- Kyoto Palace was the Imperial Palace of Japan during the Edo Period. It is the latest of the Imperial palaces.The Imperial Palace has been officially located in this area since 12th century.-- Shūgaku-in Imperial Villa is a set of gardens and outbuildings in the hills of the eastern suburbs of Kyoto. It is one of Japan's most important large-scale cultural treasures and its gardens are one of the great masterpieces of Japanese gardening constructed in 1655.-- Katsura Imperial Villa is in the western suburbs of Kyoto, built around 1615. It is one of Japan's most important large-scale cultural treasures as it's gardens are a masterpiece of Japanese gardening, and the buildings are some of the greatest achievements of Japanese architecture.

Apr 28, 2005

Photos: 75

Japan - Nagasaki

On 9 August 1945 at 11:02 a.m., Nagasaki became the second Japanse city to be bombed by an atomic bomb. The city was rebuilt after the war and some of the rubble was left as a memorial, such as a one-legged torii gate and an arch near ground zero. New structures were also raised as memorials, such as the Atomic Bomb Museum and Peace Park. Nagasaki remains first and foremost a port city, supporting a rich shipping industry and setting a strong example of perseverance and peace. The Sapphire Princess was built here and our cruise was the first time it had returned to Nagasaki.

Apr 21, 2005

Photos: 36

Russia - Vladivostok

Vladivostok (Владивосто́к) is Russia's largest port city on the Pacific Ocean. It is the home port of the Russian Navy's Pacific Fleet. The city's name means "ruler of the east" in Russian. The city's population was 594,701 as of the 2002 Census. The city's main industries are shipping, commercial fishing, and the naval base. Fishing accounts for almost four-fifths of Vladivostok's commercial production. The Trans-Siberian Railway was built to connect European Russia with Vladivostok, Russia's most important Pacific Ocean port. Finished in 1905, the rail line ran from Moscow to Vladivostok via several of Russia's main cities. Two thirds of Vladivostok's suburbs are so polluted that living in them is classified as a health hazard and are so polluted that they are defined as ecological disaster zones. Only a few areas have permissible levels of contamination.

Apr 19, 2005

Photos: 20

China - Suzhou

Suzhou is a city on the lower reaches of the Yangtze River. The city is renowned for its beautiful stone bridges, pagodas, canals, and gardens, and has become a great tourist attraction. The Humble Administrator's Garden is considered one of the finest gardens in China. Suzhou has also been an important center for China's silk industry since the Song Dynasty (960-1279), and continues to hold that prominent position today. Classical gardens in Suzhou were added to the list of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 1997 and 2000. Suzhou is one of the most prosperous cities in China.

Apr 14, 2005

Photos: 40

China - Shanghai

Shanghai is the largest city of the People's Republic of China and the ninth largest city in the world. Widely regarded as the citadel of China's modern economy, the city also serves as one of the nation's most important cultural, commercial, financial, industrial and communications centers. Shanghai is also one of the world's busiest ports, and became the largest cargo port in the world in 2005. The 2000 census put the population of Shanghai Municipality to 16.738 million, including the floating population, which made up 3.871 million

Apr 14, 2005

Photos: 27

China - Dalian, Tianjin & Tanggu

Apr 10, 2005

Photos: 33

China - Great Wall & Ming Tombs

Apr 8, 2005

Photos: 41

China - Summer Palace

Apr 6, 2005

Photos: 35

China - Beijing's Forbidden City

Apr 5, 2005

Photos: 36

China - Temple of Heaven

Apr 4, 2005

Photos: 12

China - Beijing

Apr 3, 2005

Photos: 116

Italy - Rome

Rome is the capital city of Italy, the country's largest and most populous city with more than 2.7 million residents. A district of Rome is the State of the Vatican City, the sovereign territory of the Holy See, the smallest nation in the world. According to legend, the city of Rome was founded by the twins Romulus and Remus on April 21, 753 BCE

Apr 27, 2004

Photos: 203

Italy - Naples

Napless the second most populated city in Italy located slightly east of Mount Vesuvius. The city itself has a population of around 1 millionand the inhabitants are known as Neapolitans. Mount Vesuvius is the only volcano on the European mainland to have erupted within the last hundred years and is still an active volcano. Vesuvius is best known for its eruption on August 24 and 25, 79 AD that led to the destruction of the Roman cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. It has erupted many times since and is today regarded as one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world because of the population of 3,000,000 people now living close to it.

Apr 21, 2004

Photos: 30

Greek Island of Santorini

Santorini (annexed by Greece in 1912) is a small, circular archipelago of volcanic islands located in the southern Aegean Sea, about 125 miles south-east of Greece's mainland. It is the southernmost member of the Cyclades group of islands, with an area of approximately 28 square miles, having an estimated population of 13,600. Santorini is the most active volcanic center in the South Aegean Volcanic Arc, though what remains today is largely a water-filled caldera. The primary industry of Santorini is tourism.

Apr 19, 2004

Photos: 16

Greek Island of Rhodes

Rhodes is the largest of the Greek Dodecanese islands in terms of both land area and population, situated in eastern Aegean Sea approximately 11 miles to the west of the Turkish shores with a population that exceeds 130,000, of whom roughly 80,000 reside in the City of Rhodes, the island's capital.The medieval Old Town of the City of Rhodes has been declared a World Heritage Site.In 1309 the Byzantine era came to an end when the island was subjugated by forces of the Knights Hospitaller. Under the rule of the newly named "Knights of Rhodes,", the city was rebuilt into a model of the European mediaeval ideal. Many of the city's famous monuments, including the Palace of the Grand Master , were built during this period.

Apr 18, 2004

Photos: 15

Turkey - Kusadasi & Ephesus

Kuşadası is extremely popular as a tourist destination, and as the port for cruise ship passengers heading to the ruins of Ephesus. Being founded in 3000 BC the area has been a center of art and culture since the earliest times. Kuşadası was a minor port frequented by vessels trading along the Aegean coast. In antiquity Kuşadası was always overshadowed by Ephesus until Ephesus' harbor silted up. The population of Ephesus has been estimated to be in the range of 400,000 to 500,000 inhabitants in the year 100 AD, making it the largest city in Roman Asia and of the day.

Apr 17, 2004

Photos: 24

Greece - Athens

Athens is both the largest, and capital, city of Greece with a population of 3.3 million and is one of the oldest cities in the world with a recorded history of at least 3,000 years. The Acropolis rises 512 ft and is the best known acropolis in the world. The Parthenon is a temple of the Greek goddess Athena built in the 5th century BCE. It is the most important surviving building of Classical Greece. The Erechtheum is an ancient Greek temple, built 421-407 BCE. The Erectheum temple itself was dedicated to Athena and Poseidon Erechtheus. The Ancient Agora (a marketplace and public space) of Athens is the most well-known agora. In the 5th century BCE a temple was constructed to Hephaestus in 449 BCE, the best-preserved ancient Greek temple in the world.

Apr 15, 2004

Photos: 37

Greek Island of Mykonos and Corfu

Myconos is a Greek island and one of the top international tourist destinations, part of the Cyclades, it spans an area of 3.2 square miles and rises to an elevation of 1200 feet at it's highest point and is composed primarily of granite. There are approximately 6200 inhabitants.-- Corfu is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea off the coast of Albania. The island is steeped in history and it is perennially connected to the history of Greece starting from Greek mythology. In 2007 Corfu Old Town was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Apr 13, 2004

Photos: 17

Croatia - Dubrovnik

Dubrovnik is a historic city on the Adriatic Sea coast in the extreme south of Croatia, with a population of 49,728. In the Middle Ages, as the Republic of Ragusa, it became the only eastern Adriatic city-state to rival Venice. Supported by its wealth and skilled diplomacy, the city achieved a remarkable level of development, particularly during the 15th and 16th centuries. In 1991 Croatia and Slovenia, which at that time were states within the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, declared their independence. In that event, the Socialist Republic of Croatia was renamed the Republic of Croatia.

Apr 12, 2004

Photos: 17

Italy - Venetian Islands of Burano & Torcello

Torcello is a quiet island at the northern end of the Venetian Lagoon. Torcello rapidly grew in importance as a political and trading center and the tenth century it had a population of at least 10,000 people and was much more powerful than Venice.Torcello gradually became a swamp from the twelfth century onwards and Torcello’s heydays came to an end. Navigation in the laguna morta (dead lagoon) was impossible before long and the growing swamps seriously aggravated the malaria situation, so that the population abandoned the worthless island bit by bit and left for Murano, Burano or Venice. It now has a population of around 60 people.-- Burano is known for its small, brightly-painted houses. The colors of the houses follow a specific system originating from the golden age of its development. Burano is situated 4.3 miles north of Venice, a short 40 minute trip by vaporetti. The current population of Burano is about 4,000.

Apr 9, 2004

Photos: 17

Itally - Venice

Apr 5, 2004

Photos: 116

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