Teatro Nacional - Costa Rica

A source of cultural pride for the performance arts, Teatro Nacional in San Jose, Costa Rica still stands like a grand dame even after being rocked by an earthquake.  Coffee plantation owners through their tax contributions financed the construction when it began in 1891 and completed in 1897.  As of 2014, major renovation is in progress to improve the quality of the auditorium, shore up the building structure to withstand earthquakes and preserve the ornate frescoes, murals and other art works created by European artisans. The interpretation of the work life of coffee plantations depicted in the murals was based on what an Italian artist envisioned at the time.

Wat Rong Khun - White Palace/Temple - Chiang Rai, Thailand

Created by Thai visual artist, Chalermchai Kositpipat in his hometown of Chiang Rai, the main temple is dazzling white and ornate. But as you get closer, you are reminded of the dark side of life - death, human struggles and weaknesses - like in the outstretched hands trying to escape hell.

Taj Mahal - Agra, India

 

NY Public Library @ 5th Ave & 42nd

A night-time glimpse of the beaux-arts style NYC public library landmark.

Doorways

Amber Fort - Jaipur, India

Near Mother Theresa's Orphanage - Kolkata, India

Amber Fort - A Closer View

Ganesh Pol or Ganesh Gate

Hall of Public Audiences (Diwan-E-Aam)

Latticed windows allow cooling breezes in summer

Amber Fort, a fortification that encompasses the many palaces within, had been home to Rajput maharajahs and their families in the past.  Throughout the palace complex, arches dominate all aspects of architecture. 

Hall of Victory (Jai Mandir) at Amber Fort

Marble & Mirror Mosaic ceiling

...and walls

Palace of Winds (Hawa Mahal) - Jaipur, India

Built by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh in 1799, five storeys of intricate lattice windows provided ladies of the royal court the ability to view processions without being seen.

A British Legacy - Victoria Memorial Hall

Standing majestic amidst beautiful gardens, the Victoria Memorial Hall in Kolkata, India is a fusion of British and Mughal architecture. The park-like surroundings are very popular among young Indian couples and families.

Amelia Island, Florida

Barcelona, Spain

Photo Credit: Vero N.

Photo Credit: Vero N.

Photo Credit: Vero N.

Photo Credit: Vero N.