UNESCO World Heritage - Blogs - Tripatini2024-03-28T20:02:40Zhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/feed/tag/UNESCO+World+HeritagePetra, the Mysterious Jewel of Jordanhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/petra-jordan-archaeology-unesco-world-heritage-sites2024-03-18T06:55:00.000Z2024-03-18T06:55:00.000Z0ooauhxlle31mhttps://tripatini.com/members/0ooauhxlle31m<div><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12391716060,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12391716060,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12391716060?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/people-walking-on-brown-rocky-mountain-during-daytime-mYEqvgcY1G4" target="_blank">Ahmad Qaisieh</a></em></span></p>
<p><br /> In southern Jordan, just under three hours from capital <strong>Amman</strong>, one of the most recognisable ancient sites in the <strong>MIddle East</strong> - and indeed, the world - was rediscovered by archaeologists in 1812. But it dates back to at least the 2nd century BCE and probably earlier, settled by an ancient Bedouin Arab tribe called the Nabataeans, who spoke Aramaic rather than Arabic and grew into a wealthy, powerful kingdom which at its height - and until it was absorbed by the <strong>Roman Empire</strong> in the 2nd century CE - controlled territory and trade - and especially the frankincese trade - from what is today the west coast of <strong>Saudi Arabia</strong> up to <strong>Damascus</strong>. </p>
<p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12393120261,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12393120261,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12393120261?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Amphitheatre,_Petra,_Jordan1.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Diego Delso</em></span></a></p>
<p><br /> Its named derived from the Greek for stone (the original Nabataean name is lost to history), this city remained undiscovered by outsiders for so many years because the <strong>Bdoul Bedouin</strong> kept it a secret, using it as a place to live during the winter for centuries - even up until 1984, the year Petra was declared a <strong>World Heritage Site</strong> by <strong>UNESCO</strong>.The beautiful nature of life in Petra, along with the Bedouin culture, attracted many travellers to stay and live in Petra - some even married Bedouins and raised families here (one of the most best known examples is the Dutch-born New Zealander <strong>Marguerite van Geldermalsen</strong>, who beginning in 1978 lived here in a cave with her Bedouin husband <strong>Mohammad Abdullah</strong> and later wrote a book about it, called <strong><em><a href="https://marriedtoabedouin.com/" target="_blank">Married to a Bedouin</a></em></strong>).<br /> <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12393120861,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12393120861,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12393120861?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ornamental_Garden_and_Pool_Complex_(12294195964).jpg" target="_blank">Jorge Láskar</a></em></span></p>
<p>The excavated portion of Petra spreads over 264 square kilometres (102 sq. miles) - yet even this represents just 20 percent of its total area, with the rest yet to be discovered, Serious excavation has only been done since the early 1990s, its pace purposefully slow to maintain the site´s integrity; some of the more recently unearthed sites are the tombs under the Treasury, and in some spots they´ve gotten all the way down to the original ground level, around seven metres (23 feet) down. From what archaeologists now know, Petra in its heyday as a trading capital and entrepôt was a amazing place of gardens (like the ones above), fountains, huge temples (most notably the Great Temple, last photo), opulent villas, and rich farm fields irrigated by an innovative water-supply system, with tanks carved in stone and channels start from <strong>Wadi Mousa</strong> (also known as <strong>Moses Springs</strong> 10km (nearly seven mles) away.</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12393121293,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12393121293,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12393121293?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Palace_Tomb,_Petra.jpg" target="_blank">Bernard Gagnon</a></em></span><br /> <br /> <br /> The most iconic structure of Petra´s Hellenistic architecture is of course the <strong>Treasury</strong> (top), the first site you see after the end of the <strong>Siq</strong> the narrow gorge stretching from an outside valley more than a kilomter (3/4 of a mile) through the sandstone. It got its name from the Bedouins (<em><strong>al-Khazneh</strong> </em>in Arabic), as it was believed that there was a treasure hidden in a jar near its top, and many of archaeologists theorise that it was a temple as well as a royal tomb for <strong>King Aretas VI</strong>, who ruled from aroud 9 BCE to 40 CE. Other notable landmarks include the <strong>Hadrian (Temenos) Gate</strong>, the royal tombs such as the <strong>Palace Tomb</strong> (above), and the amphitheatre (second photo).</p>
<p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12393122254,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12393122254,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12393122254?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Great_Temple_of_Petra_02.jpg" target="_blank">Bernard Gagnon</a></em></span><br /> <br /> Fun fact: when it rains, most of the city doesn´t get wet, in part because its builders carved façades into the cliffs, leaving rocky overhangs to shield them against the elements, and in other cases carving channels to act as gutters, sluicing rainwater away.</p>
<p><br /> <br /> For more information, check out the websites of <strong><a href="https://international.visitjordan.com/Discover" target="_blank">Visit Jordan</a></strong> and <strong><a href="https://jordantours.net/petra-jordan/" target="_blank">Jordan Tours</a></strong>.</p>
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<div class="elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default"> </div></div>Top 10 Things to Do at Ancient Ephesus, Turkeyhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/ephesus-turkey-archaeological-unesco-world-heritage-site2023-11-22T16:10:09.000Z2023-11-22T16:10:09.000ZOne Nation Travel Agencyhttps://tripatini.com/members/OneNationTravelAgency<div><img src="https://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/12299291264?profile=RESIZE_400x&width=400"></div><div><p>Ephesus, the ancient city that whispers stories of a bygone era, beckons travelers from across the world to explore its time-tested streets and monuments. Situated in the heart of Turkey's Aegean region, this historical gem is more than just a tourist destination—it's a journey through time. If you're planning to embark on Ephesus tours, here’s a list of the top 10 things you must do to experience the essence of this ancient wonder.</p>
<h3>1. <strong>Marvel at the Library of Celsus</strong></h3>
<p>The Library of Celsus, a stunning facade that once housed over 12,000 scrolls, is a testament to the grandeur of ancient Ephesus. Its intricate designs and imposing columns make it a perfect starting point for your Ephesus tour.</p>
<h3>2. <strong>Stroll Through the Terraced Houses</strong></h3>
<p>Get a glimpse of ancient luxury in the Terraced Houses. These residences, once home to Ephesus’ elite, showcase well-preserved frescoes and mosaics, offering a unique window into the past.</p>
<h3>3. <strong>Explore the Great Theatre</strong></h3>
<p>The Great Theatre, an impressive structure that could hold 25,000 spectators, is a sight to behold. It's where politics, religion, and entertainment intersected in ancient times and a must-visit spot on your Ephesus tour.</p>
<h3>4. <strong>Visit the Temple of Artemis</strong></h3>
<p>Though little remains of the Temple of Artemis—one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World—its history is enough to captivate any history enthusiast. Take a moment to imagine its past glory.</p>
<h3>5. <strong>Walk Down Curetes Street</strong></h3>
<p>Curetes Street, a marble-paved road lined with ruins of shops and temples, offers a wonderful walk through history. The remnants along this street tell countless stories of the city’s vibrant past.</p>
<h3>6. <strong>Discover the Ephesus Archaeological Museum</strong></h3>
<p>Located nearby in Selçuk, the Ephesus Archaeological Museum houses a collection of artifacts from the ancient city. It's a must-visit to deepen your understanding of Ephesian history and culture.</p>
<h3>7. <strong>Experience the House of the Virgin Mary</strong></h3>
<p>A place of pilgrimage and reverence, the House of Virgin Mary is believed to be where Mary spent her last days. This serene spot offers a tranquil break from the bustling ruins.</p>
<h3>8. <strong>See the Basilica of St. John</strong></h3>
<p>Explore the remains of this once-magnificent basilica, believed to be the burial site of St. John the Apostle. Its ruins provide a panoramic view of the surrounding area.</p>
<h3>9. <strong>Indulge in Turkish Cuisine</strong></h3>
<p>No Ephesus tour is complete without sampling the local Turkish cuisine. Treat yourself to a delicious meal at a nearby traditional restaurant and savor the flavors of Turkey.</p>
<h3>10. <strong>Shop at the Local Markets</strong></h3>
<p>End your tour with a visit to the local markets. Here, you can find a variety of Turkish handicrafts, spices, and souvenirs to take back home as a reminder of your journey.</p>
<h2>Plan Your Ephesus Adventure Today!</h2>
<p>Ready to explore the wonders of Ephesus? Plan your trip and book an Ephesus tour to ensure a well-rounded and enriching experience. Remember, Ephesus is not just a destination; it's a portal into a world of history, culture, and timeless beauty.</p>
<p>For more information on <a href="https://www.onenationtravel.com/package-category/ephesus-tours/" target="_blank">Ephesus tours</a> and to book your next adventure, visit our exclusive travel partners. Your journey into the heart of ancient Turkey awaits!</p></div>The Allures of Ivory Coast/Côte d´Ivoirehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/ivory-coast-cote-d-ivoire2023-10-14T16:06:52.000Z2023-10-14T16:06:52.000ZHelen Brownhttps://tripatini.com/members/HelenBrown<div><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12256877292,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12256877292,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12256877292?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ivory_Coast_Base_Map.png" target="_blank">ERCC</a></em></span><br /> <br /> <br /> A bit smaller than <strong>England</strong> and a bit larger than <strong>New Mexico</strong> this chunk of <strong>West Africa</strong> (formally known in French as <strong>Côte d'Ivoire</strong>), gets only some 670,000 visitors a year but deserves many more, as a fascinating mix of natural, cultural, and historical attractions. Here are its top draws:</p><p><br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12256878074,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12256878074,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12256878074?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Vue_du_quartier_%27Le_Plateau%27_d%27Abidjan_%2823711182653%29.jpg">Citizen59</a></em></span></p><p><strong><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;">Abidjan</span></strong></p><p>The country's largest city as well as sub-Saharan <strong>Africa</strong>´s sixth largest (pop. around 5.7 million), the former political and still economic capital is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern skyscrapers (in its business district Le Plateau), vibrant markets, cultural sites, and the national airport. Top musts include the vibrant <strong>Treichville Market</strong>, the 43-year-old Roman Catholic <strong>St. Paul's Cathedral</strong> in Le Plateau, the affluent suburb of <strong>Cocody</strong> with some beautiful stretches of beach; and <strong>Banco National Park</strong> – just 13½ square miles (about 35 sq. kilometers) but the world´s only primary dense tropic forest in an urban area apart from <strong>Tijuca Forest</strong> in <strong>Rio de Janeiro</strong>.</p><p><br /> <a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12256937263,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12256937263,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12256937263?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jbdodane/9626696361" target="_blank">jbdodane</a></span></p><p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Yamoussoukro</strong></span><br /> <br /> Located inland a 2½ hour drive north of Abidjan, the country´s political capital since 1983 (pop. 422,000) was a village of just 500 up till the 1950s and was afterward developed and elevated to capital status by Ivory Coast´s first and longest serving president, <strong>Félix Houphouët-Boigny</strong>, a native son. He was also responsible for the construction here of the Roman Catholic minor basilica <strong>Notre-Dame de la Paix</strong> (<strong>Our Lady of Peace</strong>, above), the world's largest church (with space for up to 18,000 worshippers), with architecture inspired by <strong>Saint Peter's Basilica</strong> in <strong>Vatican City</strong>. There´s also a white <strong>Grand Mosque</strong> (Muslims make up around 39 percent of the population, as against 33 percent Christians). The rest of the city´s architecture has been described as a dilapidated “time capsule of the 1970s,” with landmarks such as the <strong>Presidential Palace</strong> (known mostly for its three lakes stocked with big – and reportedly several man-eating – Nile crocodiles) and the <strong>Boigny Felix Houphouet Foundation for Peace Research</strong>.</p><p> </p><p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t_F10rtZ5Fo?si=C-BHetpQZZC3HBRk" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><p><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Grand_Bassam,_Ivory_Coast.jpg"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><br /> </em></span></a><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Grand-Bassam</strong></span></p><p>Speaking of dilapidated, down on the coast a half hour from Abidjan, the French colonial capital (though just briefly, from 1893 to 1900, though it remained a key seaport for years afterward(,with a current population of around 125,000, is a <strong><a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1322">UNESCO World Heritage Site</a></strong> with plenty of colonial-era buildings – many pretty shabby and some even abandoned – with standouts including the <strong>Post Office and Customs House</strong>, the <strong>Ganamet House</strong>, the <strong>Hotel de France</strong>, and the main bank. Other attractions include the <strong>Akan Costume Museum</strong>, which offers insights into the local culture, showcasing a variety of traditional costumes and masks. However, most people actually come here for the long beach, lined with restaurants, bars, shops, and hotels. </p><p> </p><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12256937474,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12256937474,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12256937474?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a></em></span><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/botalex/24148248710"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>Dr Alexey Yakovlev</em></span><br /> </a></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;">Ecotourism in Nature Parks and Reserves</span> </strong></p><p><strong><a href="https://www.parc-national-de-tai.org/">Taï National Park</a><br /> </strong><br /> Near the border with <strong>Liberia</strong> – just 215 miles northwest of Abidjan but reachable only by a five-hour flight– one of West Africa´s last remaining primary rainforests (above) is a 1,300-square-mile UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its biodiversity. Taï is home to a wide variety of wildlife including pygmy hippos, chimpanzees, and various species of monkeys.</p><p><strong>Comoé National Park </strong><br /> <br /> Ivory Coast´s other UNESCO World Heritage reserve is way up north –a more than six-hour flight from Abidjan – and at 4,440 sq. mi. is West Africa’s largest. Renowned for its biodiversity, Comoé´s habitats range from savannah to forest and its array of wildlife is extensive, with more than 500 species of birds and some 135 of mammals, including elephants, hippos, and many species of antelope. It’s also listed by UNESCO as in danger due to poor management, unregulated poaching, and overgrazing.</p><p><strong>Îles Ehotilés National Park</strong><br /> <br /> Located near Assinie (see below) a three-hour drive east of Abidjan, these half dozen small islands offers nearly 41 square miles´worth of lovely landscapes/seascapes, mangroves, and diverse birdlife of 128 species, mostly aquatic.</p><p><br /> <iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LMkzzb8b8ww?si=4ngLyGn4qvQl__VK" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;"><br /> Beautiful Beaches</span> </strong></p><p>Apart from the beaches at Cocody and Grand Bassam, the country´s main strands are the following:</p><p><strong>Assinie</strong></p><p>Located an hour 40 minutes east of Abidjan, this long stretch of golden sand and crystalline waters (above) also features swaying coconut palms; a wide variety of water sports such as Jetskiing and parasailing; and an array of beachfront bars, restaurants, and hotels/resorts from budget to luxurious.</p><p><strong>Jaqueville</strong><br /> <br /> On the other side of Abidjan – on a barrier island just under an hour´s drive westward – this hidden gem is a long stretch of white sand that´s relatively undiscovered by tourists, yielding a more peaceful and secluded beach experience yet also a variety of beachfront bars and restaurants. Jaqueville also offers an appealing ecotourism bonus in the form of nearby mangrove forests, harboring a variety of wildlife and explorable by kayak or boat.</p><p><strong>Sassandra </strong></p><p>Somewhat farther west – four hours from Abidjan – this laid-back fishing town offers an ideal respite for those looking for a more relaxed environment, along with golden sand with clear waters and a variety of bars and restaurants; dramatic cliff scenery; and a lagoon visitors can explore by boat or kayak.</p><p><strong>San Pedro</strong></p><p>Even farther west than Sassandra – a five-hour drive from Abidjan and just under three if you fly – another tranquil fishing village is home to another stretch of golden sand and amenities similar to Sassandra, minus the lagoon and mangroves.</p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12256938894,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12256938894,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12256938894?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/jbdodane/9620667359"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>jbdodane</em></span><br /> </a></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>The Man Region</strong></span><br /> <br /> Located inland in the west of the country –6½ hours by car and three by plane from Abidjan and a four-hour drive from Yamassoukro, Man is famous for its scenic beauty, with rolling hills, cascading waterfalls like <strong>Le Cascade</strong>; dense rainforests; and peaks such as <strong>La Dent de Man</strong> and <strong>Mount Tonkoui</strong>, which at 3,027 feet is the country´s second highest</p><p> </p><p><iframe title="YouTube video player" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/kjDiscXD1zc?si=gHoOURyhSUhYy7Er" width="750" height="400" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></p><p><br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Community Tourism</strong></span></p><p>While the Akan are by far the majority - more than 42 percent - there are around 60 other ethnic groups throughout this small country, such as the Ebrie, the Gur, the Krous, and the Mande. And a number of Abidjan-based tour operators can introduce visitors to their cultures and ways.</p><p> </p><p> </p></div>5 Fabulous Sites of Classical Antiquity in Libyahttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/libya-roman-greek-archaological-sites-archaeology-history-unesco2023-10-03T13:46:14.000Z2023-10-03T13:46:14.000ZRiccardo Rhttps://tripatini.com/members/RicardoR<div><p><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12238952290,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12238952290,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12238952290?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://es.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Archivo:Libya_5453_Leptis_Magna_Luca_Galuzzi_2007.jpg" target="_blank">Luca Galuzzi - www.galuzzi.it</a></em></span><br /> <br /> <br /> The territory of what is today <strong>Libya</strong>, along with <strong>Algeria</strong> and <strong>Tunisia</strong>, was once part of ancient Rome´s second most prosperous region after Italy itself, beginning with the Roman Republic´s conquest of <strong>Carthage</strong> and the rest of the Punic Empire in 146 BCE and lasting until 439, when it was in turn conquered by Germanic Vandals. Its legacy (as well as that of ancient <strong>Greece</strong>, which had its own colonies along this coast) lives on today in some extraordinary archaeological sites which will thrill ancient history aficionados, and here are ten of the most significant: <br /> <br /> <span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Leptis Magna</strong></span></p><p>Located near the modern-day city of <strong>Al Khums</strong> and just under a two-hour drive east of capital <strong>Tripoli</strong>, this is is one of the most Mediterranean´s most prominent and best-preserved Roman ruins of all, protected as a <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site</strong>. Founded by Berbers around 1000 BCE, like Carthage it became an important city of for the Phoenicians, and then for another 500 years flourished under Roman rule. Emperor <strong>Septimius Severus</strong> (193 BCE-211 CE) was a native of the city, and a number of landmarks date from his rule; highlights include the <strong>Severan Basilica</strong>, a grand amphitheater (top), a marketplace, forum, the <strong>Arch of Septimius Severus</strong>, the <strong>Hadrianic Baths</strong>, and much more.</p><p> </p><p><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12238953080,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12238953080,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12238953080?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/duimdog/127614169/in/set-72057594105577693/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><em>duimdog</em></span></a></p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong><br /> Sabratha</strong></span></p><p>Another UNESCO World Heritage Site and like Leptis Magna one of the three cities of ancient Roman <strong>Tripolis</strong>, it´s was founded as a trading post by the Phoenicians around 500 BCE and is located on the coast about 45 minutes west of Tripoli. Its impressive remains include a well-preserved 3rd-century theatre (above, one of the most imposing of its type in existence), basilica, and various temples.</p><p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12238954058,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12238954058,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12238954058?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Cyrene8.jpg">Maher27777</a></em></span></p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;"><br /> Cyrene</span> </strong></p><p>Also known as <strong>Kyrene</strong> , this one´s a bit farther afield – on the eastern coast between Benghazi and Derma (the city devastated by the recent floods) and reachable from Tripoli in a bit over four hours by flying to Benghazi, then driving, if you don´t want to spend 12 hours driving the entire way. Before it was conquered by Rome, this was one of the principal cities in the Hellenistic world, founded around 630 BCE; as yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site is famed for ruins including the Temple of Zeus, the Sanctuary of Apollo, a large theatre, a renowned library, a necropolis, and Roman tombs. Just 20 kilometres (a bit over 12 miles) away, you can also see <strong>Apollonia</strong>, a harbour town which served as Cyrene´s port, with ruins of Roman baths and a small theatre as well as several Byzantine churches; there´s also a museum dedicated to Apollonia in the contemporary town of <strong>Susa</strong> next door.</p><p><br /> <span style="font-size:8pt;"><em><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12238955286,RESIZE_1200x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12238955286,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12238955286?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ptolemais_(5283376622).jpg" target="_blank">David Stanley</a></em></span></p><p> </p><p><strong><span style="font-size:14pt;">Ptolemais</span> </strong></p><p>Also well worth a stop in this area (it´s located between Cyrene and Apollonia, part of the modern-day village of Tolmeita), this was one of the Pentapolis (five significan Greek colonies of this region, which also include Cyrene, Apolonnia, and Tocra, below). Founded in the 7th century BCE and then in the early 3rd century BCE expanded under and named after one of the Ptolemies (the Greek dynasty which included Cleopatra and ruled Egypt and this part of North Africa for nearly three centuries), ruins of villas, a basilica, and public baths.</p><p><span style="font-size:14pt;"><strong>Tocra</strong></span><br /> <br /> Also known and <strong>Tauchira</strong> and <strong>Tukrah</strong>, and located just 40 minutes west along the coast from Ptolemais, remnants of a Roman theatre, basilicas, tombs, baths, houses, and various other structures are visible at both the oldest and least excavated of the Pentapolis towns (sadly, it´s also under threat from coastal erosion, which has already resulted in the loss of a significant part of the site)..</p><p> </p></div>Landscape of Light: Celebrating Madrid's Very First UNESCO World Heritage Sitehttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/madrid-spain-unesco-world-site-paseo-prado-el-retiro2021-09-07T10:35:23.000Z2021-09-07T10:35:23.000ZJosé Balidohttps://tripatini.com/members/JoseBalido<div><h6><em><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}11018875452,original{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}11018875452,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="11018875452?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://www.tripatini.com/profile/JoseBalido?xg_source=profiles_memberList" target="_blank">José Balido</a></span><br /> </em></h6>
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<p>Congratulations are in order! <strong>UNESCO</strong> (the <strong>United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization</strong>) has just this summer honored <a href="https://www.tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/10-musts-of-madrid-spain" target="_blank"><strong>Spain</strong>'s capital city</a> with <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1618" target="_blank">its first <strong>World Heritage Site</strong> designation</a>, elevating <strong>Madrid</strong> to the ranks of destinations with districts or monuments worth preserving for future generations (the larger Madrid community surrounding the capital already had UNESCO sites, including <a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/2015/01/delightful-day-trips-from-madrid/" target="_blank">the royal complexes of <strong>El Escorial</strong> and <strong>Aranjuez</strong>, which make marvelous day trips)</a>.</p>
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<p>The leafy <strong>Paseo del Prado</strong> boulevard, long a favorite of urban strollers, joins the nearby <a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/2015/08/retiro-park-madrid-spain/" target="_blank"><strong>Buen Retiro Park</strong></a> and 90 other adjacent monuments and institutions to form the "<strong>Landscape of Arts and Sciences</strong>," reflecting a true gem of urban planning: the unique mix of culture, learning, nature, and leisure that have been brought together in this beautiful corner of our city whose universal value UNESCO has just recognized.</p>
<p>Arts and sciences being the light that guides our civilisation, this corridor has also been dubbed the "<strong>Landscape of Light</strong>," doubly appropriate for its allusion both to the Enlightenment of the 18th century, a period during which many of its key elements were built, and to the intense luminosity of our Madrid skies, born of our clear dry air and setting high on the <strong>Meseta Central</strong> plateau near the <strong>Guadarrama Mountains</strong>.</p>
<p> <img src="https://ning.zendesk.com/attachments/token/gQKzCkDdMHMXMuNVWIK4e8R8N/?name=L2F+Sep+21+pic+Spain+Madrid+UNESCO+World+Heritage+Site+Plaza+Cibeles+iStock-508451794.jpg&lotus_request=true" alt="L2F Sep 21 pic Spain Madrid UNESCO World Heritage Site Plaza Cibeles iStock-508451794.jpg" /></p>
<h6><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/fuente-de-la-cibeles-en-la-plaza-de-cibeles-en-madrid-gm508451794-85266395" target="_blank"><em><span style="font-size:8pt;">GoranQ</span></em></a></h6>
<p><br /> The district includes some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and cultural institutions along the tree-lined Paseo del Prado running just under a mile (1.5 kilometres) between a pair of squares - the <strong>Plaza de Cibeles</strong> at its northern end south to the <strong>Plaza de Atocha</strong> (officially the <strong>Plaza del Emperador Carlos V</strong>). With roots in the mid-17th century, it's a lovely stroll (about 20 minutes without stops), along a verdant landscaped median past statuary and monumental fountains – most notably the late-18th-century <strong>Neptune Fountain</strong> and especially the also neoclassical <strong>Cibeles Fountain</strong> (above), built around the same time. This depicts the Roman goddess of fertility riding in a chariot drawn by a pair of lions, and it's a truly inspiring and iconic sight, especially as set against the elaborate Madrid city council building, a glorious mix of Modernist, Art Deco and other styles designed by prominent Madrid architects of a century ago <strong>Antonino Palacios</strong> and <strong>Joaquin Otamendi</strong> and inaugurated as the national postal-service headquarters in 1919.</p>
<p> <img src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6b/Interior_del_Museo_del_Prado.jpg/800px-Interior_del_Museo_del_Prado.jpg?20150321234218" alt="File:Interior del Museo del Prado.jpg" /></p>
<h6><em><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Interior_del_Museo_del_Prado.jpg" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">FouPic</span></a></em></h6>
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<p>And it's here, too, that the arts and sciences come into play, because on and around the Paseo del Prado are several of <a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/2014/05/the-impressive-museums-of-madrid/" target="_blank">Madrid's most distinguished museums</a>. The top of the list is of course the <a href="https://www.museodelprado.es/en" target="_blank"><strong>Museo del Prado</strong></a> (above), Spain's foremost art museum, while other institutions include the <a href="https://www.museothyssen.org/en" target="_blank"><strong>Thyssen-Bornemisza</strong></a> (spanning eight centuries of European and U.S. artists) and the <a href="https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/caixaforum-madrid" target="_blank"><strong>CaixaForum</strong></a> (international art from the 1980s to the present day), the astronomical <a href="https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/real-observatorio-de-madrid" target="_blank"><strong>Royal Observatory</strong></a> (dating back to the end of the 18th century and open for visits/tours) and the <a href="https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/real-jardin-botanico" target="_blank"><strong>Royal Botanical Garden</strong></a> (occupying this site since 1781 and home to some 30,000 plants plus 1,500 trees). Meanwhile, just a block away from the Paseo you'll find the <a href="https://www.museoreinasofia.es/en" target="_blank"><strong>Reina Sofía</strong></a>, Spain's premier modern art museum, as well as the <a href="https://www.esmadrid.com/en/tourist-information/museo-arqueologico-nacional" target="_blank"><strong>National Anthropology Museum</strong></a>, specialising in non-European cultures and particularly those once ruled by the Spanish empire - not just in <strong>Latin America</strong> but <a href="https://love2fly.iberia.com/2019/05/spain-spanish-history-asia-africa-colonies/" target="_blank">also in <strong>Asia</strong> and <strong>Africa</strong></a>.</p>
<p> <img src="https://ning.zendesk.com/attachments/token/BeThW2w7OLOZMgWY4euJNlUVC/?name=L2F+Sep+21+pic+Madrid+UNESCO+World+Heritage+Sites+Buen+Retiro+Park+lake+iStock-672802922.jpg&lotus_request=true" alt="L2F Sep 21 pic Madrid UNESCO World Heritage Sites Buen Retiro Park lake iStock-672802922.jpg" /></p>
<h6><em><a href="https://www.istockphoto.com/es/foto/buen-retiro-park-en-madrid-espa%C3%B1a-gm672802922-126309243" target="_blank"><span style="font-size:8pt;">Ershov_Maks</span></a></em></h6>
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<p>Just east of the Paseo del Prado, the new UNESCO site also includes one of Madrid's onetime city gates, the 243-year-old <strong>Puerta del Alcalá</strong> (top) and adjacent to it the city's most prominent park, the aforementioned Buen Retiro. Created in the late 17th century as a <em>buen retiro</em> ("pleasant retreat") for the royal court and since 1868 a public park, this 120-hectare (297-acre) spread is anchored by a manmade water basin presided by a 1922 colonnade and equestrian statue of late-19th-century king <strong>Alfonso XII</strong> (these days it's plied by rentable dinghies). Notable buildings in the park include the <strong>Palacio Velázquez</strong> and <strong>Palacio de Cristal</strong>, both built in the 1880s, as well as the 17th-century <strong>Salón de Reinos</strong> ("Hall of Kingdoms"), a remnant of the original Buen Retiro royal palace; all are used these days for temporary exhibitions. Meanwhile, out amid the woodsy and grassy patches interspersed with smaller ponds you'll find plantings including a rose garden. Among the statuary, one especially curious standout is possibly the world's only public statue of Lucifer, the 1878 <strong>Fountain of the Fallen Angel</strong>. Most days and especially on weekends, you can find both locals and visitors strolling, biking, sunbathing, and sitting in outdoor cafés.</p>
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<p>So whether you’re looking for an city stroll, culture, learning, or a spot of nature, Madrid’s newly anointed Landscape of Light is certain to illuminate your visit to our capital city, as it will now continue to do for generations to come.</p>
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<p> </p></div>The Ancient Majesty of Mexico's Teotihuacánhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/the-ancient-majesty-of-mexico-s-teotihuacan2018-12-29T19:32:05.000Z2018-12-29T19:32:05.000ZDavid Paul Appellhttps://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16<div><p><em><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12281480063,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12281480063,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="750" alt="12281480063?profile=RESIZE_930x" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/carlosvanvegas/5722057756" target="_blank">CarlosVanVegas</a></span><span style="font-size:8px;"><a id="portfolio_link" href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-185431256/stock-photo-close-up-pyramid-of-the-sun-teotihucan-mexico-city.html?src=R-Xh49NtpJcSCH1KntWwJQ-1-0" target="_blank" name="portfolio_link"></a></span></em></p>
<p><br /> <br /> I will never forget, nearly 40 years ago, laying eyes for the first time on my first ancient archaeological site. About an hour’s drive north of <strong>Mexico City</strong>, this <strong>UNESCO World Heritage</strong> complex of temples absolutely electrified my imagination and became a driving force in my fascination with not just archaeology but travel and world cultures in general. Teotihuacán has that kind of impact.<span id="more-14040"></span></p>
<p>Even after decades of study, archaeologists still aren’t quite sure who (<strong>Toltecs</strong>? <strong>Otomi</strong>? More likely <strong>Tonotacs</strong>?) actually built one of the first of the great cities of the <strong>Western Hemisphere</strong> as early as 400 BC, sprawling across 21 square kilometers (eight sq. miles) and thought have reached a population as high as 200,000 – the largest city in the hemisphere until the 15th century. <strong>Teotihuacán </strong>is thought to have met its downfall during a period of drought and famine around the 7th/8th century AD, but even afterward, influenced the culture of the <strong>Aztecs</strong> who arrived centuries later.</p>
<p>The core open to visitors today consists of a grid with a broad central boulevard, the <strong>Calle de los Muertos</strong> (<strong>Street of the Dead</strong>), running 2.4 km (1½ mi.) north-south and linking various structures, most notably the <strong>Pyramid of the Sun</strong> (71 meters/234 feet high), the <strong>Pyramid of the Moon</strong> (46 m/150 ft.), and the <strong>Temple of the Feathered Serpent</strong> (which the Aztecs called <strong>Quetzalcoatl</strong>), a six-stepped truncated pyramid with elaborate walls and sculptures (detail below).</p>
<p><br /><br /><em><span style="font-size:8px;"><span style="font-size:8pt;"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12281481260,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12281481260,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="750" alt="12281481260?profile=RESIZE_930x" /></a><a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/gallery-933973p1.html">Noradoa</a></span></span></em></p>
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<p>In other parts of the site there are other fascinating buildings such as the <strong>Palace of the Jaguar</strong>, as well as multi-story living compounds where visitors can get a good look at pictograms and murals featuring all manner of gods and animals. And you’ll want to make time for the pair of museums on the site that display and explain the artifacts and murals, and their context; there are another pair of museums just outside the archaeological area that provide additional context to Teotihuacán and what is known of its culture (and that, knowledge, by the way, keeps growing as new discoveries are made every year at a site which is still only about five percent scientifically excavated).</p>
<p>Interesting local options include a hot-air balloon ride over the site, and in the evening there’s now also a sound and light show. You can get here via organized tour, or independently either by hiring a car or an <strong>Autobuses Teotihuacán</strong> bus from Mexico City’s <strong>Norte</strong> terminal (guidebooks and signage can get you through the site on your own, or you can hire a guide at the entrance for less than a bus tour from the city). Keep in mind, please, that even if the outside temperature isn’t high on the day of your visit, the sun is relentless, and there’s not a lot of shade. So sunscreen, hats, and bottled water are highly recommended.</p>
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<p>More information: <a href="http://www.visitmexico.com/en/teotihuacan" target="_blank">VisitMexico.com</a>.</p>
<p> </p></div>León, Nicaragua's Most Venerable Cityhttps://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/leon-nicaragua-s-most-venerable-city2017-08-22T23:52:20.000Z2017-08-22T23:52:20.000ZDavid Paul Appellhttps://tripatini.com/members/DavidPaulAppell16<div><p><em><span class="font-size-1"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12127354494,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12127354494,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12127354494?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Catedral_de_Le%C3%B3n_Nicaragua2.JPG" target="_blank">Elemaki</a></span> </em></p>
<p><br /> <br /> When it comes to tourism in <strong>Central America</strong>’s largest country, the city that tends to get most of the attention is Granada (while ironically, capital <strong>Managua</strong> is pretty much avoided by all but business people). But in many ways I find its traditional – and less tarted up for tourists/expats – rival <strong>Santiago de los Caballeros de León</strong>, even more fascinating, beginning with the fact that despite its somewhat lower contemporary profile among foreigners, <strong>Nicaragua</strong>'s second largest city (after Managua) is actually is actually home to the country’s oldest history, and indeed has always been considered its intellectual, cultural, and even emotional capital.<br /> <br /> <span id="more-13901"></span>Located just several miles in from the <strong>Pacific</strong> coast – a 90-minute drive northwest of Managua and some 2½ hours from Granada – much of León’s appeal is in fact similar to Granada’s, in the sense that it’s packed with wonderful colonial-era churches, civic buildings, townhouses, and monuments.</p>
<p>The obvious place to start is the central square, the <strong>Plaza Mayor</strong>, presided over by the Baroque-style <strong>Catedral de la Asunción de María</strong> (<strong>Mary’s Assumption Cathedral</strong>), finished in the early 19th century and burial place of a number of prominent Nicaraguans, including its best known literary figure, <strong>Rubén Dario</strong>; you can get some sweet city and volcano views from the rooftop here. Another particularly notable church of the many here of the many churches here, by virtue of being the oldest, is <strong>San Francisco</strong>, built in 1639, with some wonderful plateresque interior details and an especially lovely cloister.</p>
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<p><em><span class="font-size-1"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12127356263,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12127356263,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" alt="12127356263?profile=RESIZE_930x" width="750" /></a><a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Ruinas_leon_viejo36.jpg" target="_blank">Helmut Haefner</a></span></em><br /> <br /> <br /> Across the Plaza Mayor from the cathedral is the <strong>Museum of the Revolution</strong>, a fairly homespun collection of exhibits and memorabilia relating to the history surrounding the overthrow of the ruling <strong>Somoza</strong> dynasty in 1979 by the Sandinista rebels, who have been the ruling party almost in all the years since. León played a pivotal role in those events, and even though the way the revolution has turned out all these years later has disappointed most (i.e. turned into yet another dictatorship, albeit less oppressive than Somoza's), a visit here will help you understand the history that has shaped Nicaragua since the 1950s. </p>
<p>Other museums include the <strong>Museo Rubén Dario</strong>, in a pair of houses on <strong>Avenida Central</strong> down from the cathedral, and including a pretty good little collection of traditional and contemporary art; the <strong>Museum of Traditions and Legends</strong> (once an infamous prison and torture centre); and the <strong>Casa Salud DeBayle</strong>, a lovely restored colonial house now containing locally discovered <strong>pre-Columbian artifacts</strong>.</p>
<p><br /> Atmospheric as León is, two of the most fascinating area attractions lie outside the city. First, about a half hour east, is <strong>León Viejo</strong> (above), the ruins of the first attempt to found the city, in 1524. This town was abandoned after a 1610 earthquake, when everyone relocated to the site of the current city. These days, this <strong>UNESCO World Heritage Site</strong> does give you some truly fascinating insight into the life, times, and architecture of the earliest period of Spanish colonisation.</p>
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<p><em><span class="font-size-1"><a href="{{#staticFileLink}}12127357659,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}"><img class="align-center" src="{{#staticFileLink}}12127357659,RESIZE_930x{{/staticFileLink}}" width="750" alt="12127357659?profile=RESIZE_930x" /></a><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/bluesonicboy/6317097779/sizes/l" target="_blank">bluesonicboy</a></span></em><br /> <br /> <br /> Second is <strong>Cerro Negro</strong>, one of the prominent volcanoes which are a particular Nicaragua claim to fame. “<strong>Black Hill</strong>”, about a half hour’s drive out of town, has another special claim to fame, because though it’s just 1,312 feet (400 meters) high, the gravelly volcanic sand on one side makes a great place to board down. Yes, several local outfitters (such as Leon’s <a href="http://www.bigfootnicaragua.com" target="_blank">Bigfoot Hostel</a>, <a href="http://www.vapues.com" target="_blank">Va Pues Tours</a> and <a href="http://www.tierratour.com" target="_blank">Tierra Tours</a>) will drive you out, get you up top (takes about an hour to hike up – steepish in spots but not too strenuous if you’re in decent shape), and get you back down on a wooden board (I find that sitting is a both faster and more easily controllable experience than standing, so ask before you book).</p>
<p>Finally, if you want to head out to the coast for some sun ’n’ surf action, head 20 to 30 minutes out to the little fishing villages of <strong>Las Peñitas</strong> and <strong>Poneloya</strong>, where the waves are just grand, the sands are uncrowded, and there’s a cool little beach life. A truly great balance to a culture and adventure visit to historic León…</p>
<p><br /> More info: <a href="http://visitnicaragua.us/" target="_blank">VisitNicaragua.us</a>, <a href="http://www.vianica.com/" target="_blank">ViaNica.com</a>.</p>
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<p><em> </em></p></div>Visiting Gjirokastra, Albania's 'Stone City'https://tripatini.com/profiles/blogs/gjirokastra-gjirokaster-albania2015-10-17T19:00:00.000Z2015-10-17T19:00:00.000ZGerti Boshnjakuhttps://tripatini.com/members/GertiBoshnjaku<div><p><br />
<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008715687,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008715687,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-center" width="750" alt="9008715687?profile=original" /></a><br />
Gjirokastra (also spelled <span>Gjirokastër) </span>is a town in southern Albania which in 2005 was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a highly historic city and placed on slopes of the Drino River valley, with beautiful scenery and bordered by high mountains.<br />
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Known as the "City of a Thousand Stairs" Gjirokastra is characterized by cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era houses with stone roofs and wooden balconies. Gjirokastra's historic castle is located on top of a hill. The city has a troubled past, most recently including being center for Italian fascist invaders.<br />
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<a href="{{#staticFileLink}}9008716654,original{{/staticFileLink}}" target="_blank"><img src="{{#staticFileLink}}9008716654,original{{/staticFileLink}}" class="align-right" width="400" alt="9008716654?profile=original" /></a><br />
Gjirokastra is also the city of birth of one of the most famous Albanian writers, known worldwide and published in many languages, twice nominee for the Nobel Prize: Ismail Kadare. Recipient of the Prince of Asturias Award for Letters in 2009, Kadare is a honorific personality well respected in Europe and worldwide. Many of his successful books were inspired from his city of birth, most notable <em><a href="http://www.laurahird.com/newreview/chronicleinstone.html" target="_blank">Chronicle in Stone</a></em>. Gjirokastra was also the place of birth of Enver Hoxha, the absolutist dictator of the communist regime from 1944 to 1985. </p><p><br />
This city has a long and wonderful history which has inspired many artists to create poems, songs, stories, etc. It's also known as the Stone City and is a major center of tourism development for cultural heritage. Along its cobblestone streets you may find traditional old markets (bazaars) that welcome visitors looking to go back in time. There is also a wonderful 13th-century castle that recalls the time of medieval rulers as well as those of the former communist regime. And many houses have been turned into inns to welcome travelers, showing off locals' famous hospitallity.<br />
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Albania remains one of the last frontiers of eastern Europe, and Gjirokastra is a must when visiting.<br />
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