UNESCO’s Post

The art of stone carving, also known as "La Sillería," played a significant role in the construction of colonial buildings in Cuba. The use of perfectly carved stone blocks, known as "sillares," without the use of mortar, was a technique brought to Cuba by the Spanish with roots dating back to the Roman era. From the 16th to the 19th century, this artisanal technique gave Cuban architecture solidity and distinction. Interestingly, some of the most iconic colonial buildings in Cuba, such as the Castillo de la Real Fuerza and the Cathedral of Havana, were built using this technique. Do you know any other colonial buildings in Cuba that were constructed using "La Sillería"? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #CubaColonial #ArquitecturaCubana #Sillería. https://lnkd.in/eiWFzsV5

The traditional Seven Wonders of the Ancient World are: - Great Pyramid of Giza (Egypt) - Hanging Gardens of Babylon (Iraq) - Statue of Zeus at Olympia (Greece) - Temple of Artemis at Ephesus (Turkey) - Mausoleum at Halicarnassus (Turkey) - Colossus of Rhodes (Greece) - Lighthouse of Alexandria (Egypt) However, since those were chosen in antiquity, many modern lists have been compiled to include contemporary wonders, such as the Great Wall of China, Petra in Jordan, the Taj Mahal in India, Machu Picchu in Peru, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, Chichen Itza in Mexico, and the Roman Colosseum in Italy. Another alternative ”Seven Wonders of the World” is not related to architecture or places. Instead, these Wonders are found in most individuals and best of all, all you need is within you now!

In the province of Arezzo, Tuscany, three “minor” towns at least are worth visiting: Sansepolcro (here forthcoming as a post, once more); Poppi (please see at https://lnkd.in/dUPce5sP); Cortona, of which a few of my photos are shown below. From left to right, and top to bottom: a Gothic entrance gate to the historical city, through the old walls; two examples of late medieval or early Renaissance architecture; the Town Hall, in the main square or Piazza della Repubblica, dating back to 1241 but restored and modified later more than once. Cortona was also an ancient Etruscan town, and its Museum of Etruscan Antiquities contains important finds, including an elaborate bronze chandelier or multiple oil lamp with a stylized face of the mythical Medusa carved in the centre (about the middle of the 4th century BCE). Furthermore, the local Diocesan Museum houses one of the finest “Annunciations” painted by the Tuscan-Florentine Fra Angelico, a masterpiece of transition from the Gothic to a Renaissance style (1433-34). In general, such an epochal transition is what we may perceive when walking around the city. Nevertheless, at Cortona – like at Volterra in Tuscany, or at the less known Tuscania, today located in the upper Latium – most likely there is something more. That is the awareness of an even deeper past. In particular, the heritage of an Etruscan culture, which had never completely waned, resurfacing from time to time especially in an artistic sensitivity through a collective subliminal memory.

The essential Venice of Carlo Carrà... Having gone through the avant-garde experiences of Futurism and Metaphysical Art, he was one of the best Italian painters of the first half of the 20th century and later. Albeit less known than other works, his cityscapes or sketches of Venice are not few and recurrent over time. Below, from left to right and top to bottom, just four oil paintings: “Venice” (auctioned in 2012, presumably in a private collection; 1907); “Venice, Le Zattere” (auctioned in 2018; 1947); “San Giorgio Maggiore, Venice” (private collection?; 1926); “Canal in Venice” (Kunsthaus Zürich, Switzerland; 1926). All this production is aimed at capturing an essentiality of the forms of the city on the lagoon, both environmental and monumental. The last view in particular, though, contrasts with conventional ones of Venetian canals. It shows how a modern architecture, in this case moreover utilitarian and banal, can violate the context of a centuries-old beauty, which isn't only natural but also cultural. Actually, it's almost a miracle that Venice, ultimately the fruit of a prosperous but enlightened mercantile society, survived the age of industrialization without too much damage or alteration. And, why not, a lesson for our present too.

The Acropolis of Athens isn't just ruins – it's a vibrant story etched in stone. Here, religious ceremonies unfolded under the open sky, artists left their mark, and philosophers debated ideas that shaped history. At the heart of the Acropolis lies the Parthenon, a majestic temple dedicated to Athena. This iconic structure, built over 2400 years ago, is a masterpiece of Doric architecture. In the 19th century, a British earl acquired many sculptures and artifacts from the Acropolis to protect them from wartime damage. These artifacts were later sold to the British government and are now housed in the British Museum, sparking ongoing controversy about cultural heritage and restitution. The Acropolis still boasts architectural marvels like the Propylaea, the grand entrance designed by the ingenious Mnesicles. This gateway stands as a symbolic partition, separating the city's secular and religious quarters. As a symbol of ancient Greek civilization, the Acropolis stands as a timeless reminder of the enduring legacy of the Greek people whose contributions to art, architecture, and philosophy have shaped the course of human history. #Acropolis #Athens #GreekArchitecture #AmazingArchitecture #AncientGreece #Parthenon #Athena #Architect #Architecture #History #Restitution

Trento, known for its historical significance, showcases architectural evolution from ancient Roman times to modern eras. Let's explore Trento's architectural journey: Roman Influence: Trento's roots date back to its founding as Tridentum, a Roman military colony. Remnants like Porta Veronese and Tridentum archaeological site reflect this era. Medieval Marvels: Flourishing in the Middle Ages, Trento's historic center features Buonconsiglio Castle and Duomo di San Vigilio, showcasing medieval craftsmanship. Renaissance Splendor: The Renaissance brought elegance, seen in Palazzo Thun's blend of classical and Tyrolean styles. Baroque Extravagance: Baroque architecture flourished in the 17th-18th centuries, evident in Palazzo Geremia and Church of Santa Maria Maggiore. Neoclassical Revival: The 19th century embraced neoclassicism with structures like Palazzo delle Poste and Teatro Sociale. Modern Movements: Trento's modern era saw urban renewal and contemporary designs like Museo delle Scienze and Palazzo della Regione. From ancient ruins to contemporary marvels, Trento's architecture narrates its rich history, making it a city of timeless beauty and cultural significance. #TrentoArchitecture #HistoricalHeritage #RomanInfluence #MedievalMarvels #RenaissanceSplendor #BaroqueExtravagance #NeoclassicalRevival #ModernMovements #CulturalLegacy #ArchitecturalEvolution #Trento

The Acropolis of Athens: A Symbol of Ancient Greece, 1670, 1860, and today Rising majestically above modern-day Athens, the Acropolis is not just a landmark, but a symbol of ancient Greece and its enduring legacy. This rocky outcrop, crowned by magnificent temples and monuments, stands as a testament to the artistic brilliance, political power, and religious beliefs of the Athenian civilization that flourished between the 5th and 4th centuries BC. Ascending the steep slopes of the Acropolis, one is greeted by the imposing Propylaea, a monumental gateway adorned with Doric columns. Beyond it lies the sacred precinct, dominated by the iconic Parthenon, a temple dedicated to Athena, the patron goddess of Athens. The Parthenon's harmonious proportions, intricate sculptures, and exquisite craftsmanship embody the ideals of classical Greek architecture. Adjacent to the Parthenon stands the Erechtheion, a temple dedicated to Athena and Poseidon. Its unusual design, featuring sculpted maidens known as Caryatids, adds to the architectural diversity of the Acropolis. The Temple of Athena Nike, perched on the edge of the rock, commemorates the Athenian victory over the Persians in the Battle of Salamis. The Acropolis is not just a collection of architectural marvels; it is a place where history whispers. It was here that important religious ceremonies took place, political decisions were made, and artistic expressions flourished. Walking amongst these ancient structures, one can almost feel the presence of Athenians from centuries past, their voices echoing through the timeless Agora.

Indeed, the Pons Fabricius, also known as Ponte dei Quattro Capi for its distinctive double-faced herms, is a testament to the ingenuity and durability of ancient Roman engineering. Built in 62 BC by Lucius Fabricius, the Curator of the Roads, this bridge was constructed to replace a wooden bridge that had previously collapsed. The Pons Fabricius connects the city of Rome with the Tiber Island (Isola Tiberina) and has withstood the test of time, floods, and war, remaining largely intact for over two millennia. Its robust design features two main arches that span the river, with a smaller central arch to allow for the flow of floodwaters. The use of tufa and travertine as building materials and the incorporation of a paving system have contributed to its longevity. What is truly remarkable about the Pons Fabricius is that it continues to serve its original purpose even today. Pedestrians can still cross the Tiber on this ancient pathway, walking over the same stones that Romans tread upon thousands of years ago. The bridge's survival is a physical link to Rome's past and a functioning piece of history in the midst of a modern city. It is a symbol of Rome's architectural heritage and the enduring legacy of the Roman Empire's infrastructure.

🏯 #RoofingTrivia Ancient Chinese roofs were not just architectural wonders but also symbols of status and hierarchy! The intricate designs, upturned eaves, and choice of colors often indicated the rank and importance of the structure's owner. These roofs were a beautiful blend of function, art, and cultural storytelling. Truly a testament to the rich history and craftsmanship of ancient China 🐉🍂 #RoofingTrivia #RCAT #RoofingContractors #Texas #Commercialroofing #ResidentialRoofing #WaterproofingContractors #Contractorassociation #Texas #TexasRoofing

How can art help to connect us with nature? Known for her interdisciplinary work between sculpture, architecture, and landscape design, Mary Miss has been a longtime advocate for how art can play a role in addressing contemporary social issues that affect our environment. In the latest episode of our Built Ecologies series, Miss tells us that “place is [her] medium”; she sees art as key in helping understand the world around us. Watch the full video → mo.ma/3sjOZAh