Reflecting on Milan

This shoe shop window reflects some of the architectural beauty to be found in ...

... the impressive Vittorio Emanuelle II arcade

in Milan

Linking up with James' Weekend Reflection

Shades of Oxford UK

Some 40+ years ago I lived in Oxford, England, for 2 years. 

During my trip to the UK & Europe earlier this year, a re-visit here was an essential component of my itinerary.  Once again I marvelled at the glorious architecture and sense of history (even though the bold commercialism of today was this time much more evident).

Going clock-wise (from the left) around the collage below, these colourful boats were adjacent to Magdalen Bridge awaiting eager and energetic customers;  a very weathered doorway giving access to one of the college grounds; part of Magdalen College; Oxford's "Bridge of Sighs" linking two parts of Hertford College; the beautiful tower of Merton College, and finally the outside edge of the original City wall, abutting Christchurch Meadow.

To see other regions of the world, visit Our World Tuesday

Unique Urbino

During the last few days of the European adventure (referred to in my previous post), a visit to the walled town of Urbino in Italy's Marche region was a must - Italian Renaissance painter and architect Raphael (known for his frescoes and "Madonnas" in the Vatican) was born here in 1483 and it is a UNESCO World Heritage site noted for its remarkable legacy of Renaissance culture.

Before (or after!) tackling the physical demands of walking the steep streets, delicious refreshments can be purchased from this popular "bar"/cafe adjacent to the square at the top of the town in which resides a statue of Raphael

. . . with these engaging cherubs at the base

A street sign reaffirms we're on the right track !

The streets were comfortably busy with visitors

. . . a curious feline greets us as we pass by

The town's streets are steep - not for the feint of heart or those wearing high heels! 

. . . lovely views across the town to surrounding countryside

This little shop had displays of pretty, fragrant herbs on its window sills

. . . and here is the dome of Duomo di Urbino

I wondered what hidden treasures lay behind this ornate door! 

Pretty window boxes brightened up the grey walls

Catching up with a friend in the cool shade of the trees in the square

Well, I hope you enjoyed this taste of Urbino

Canterbury Cathedral

Happy New Year to all!

Thought I'd start off the New Year with a backward glance that also anticipates some exciting periods of travel in 2014 which will embrace (in part) revisiting some favourite regions.

This shot inside the magnificent Canterbury Cathedral was taken by a friend during our6 week re-visit to the UK in 2009. What awesome architecture! 


Wishing all those who visit my blog a truly wonderful, healthy, safe and purposeful year ahead. I look forward to seeing your images throughout 2014 and hope I can post some worthwhile photos myself for your enjoyment.

Linking up with Our World Tuesday and gratefully acknowledging the combined efforts of our hosts - may their year also bring good health, safety, love of good friends and family and exciting photographic adventures!

Scot's Church

The following images are of The Scot's Church, the first Presbyterian church in Victoria, Australia, founded in 1838.

It is located at the corner of Collins and Russell Streets in Melbourne

and I so much appreciate its architectural beauty.

Here, its steeple is reaching toward the heavens.

(I've been trying unsuccessfully for some weeks now to link up with

Our World Tuesday again - would greatly appreciate it if someone could contact me by email to explain where I'm going wrong)