Eurasia

 Eurasia 

I've seen places in over half the world, but I never cease to be amazed. Every new site offers something incredible. Something to be learned, and cultures to dive into and dig up. History, tradition, and a new meaning to a place that won't be forgotten. 

Site 1: St. Basil's Cathedral. Built in the mid 1500's, this special cathedral is famous for its extravagant colors, design, and shape. Ivan the Terrible ordered it to be built with nine temples within it. Many rulers have since wanted it to be theirs to transport wherever they go, such as Napoleon, because of the power its beauty has on a person. When looked down upon from the 156 foot top, a religious star is formed by the collection of domes. Just like any other antique building, it has been through many fires and loots but has always been restored. I could have stared, studying the design of this magnificent cathedral for days; it is a great idea for a trip to Moscow, Russia to stop here. 

https://rees.sas.upenn.edu/about/spotlight/saint-basils-cathedral-moscow-russia

 

 

 

 

 

Site 2: Vardzia. This site is in Georgia within the Caucasus Mountain range. Built in the 12th century by the Georgian Kingdom, this now exposed underground city used to be a defense mechanism and hiding place from the Mongols. The king was the a woman, the first ever, named Tamar. She had 365 rooms, one for each day of the year, to confuse the enemy and stay safe in the underground caves. the people had irrigation systems and wine cellars to sustain them in the mountain city. The thing that eventually destroyed the cave city was an earthquake. This is why the caves are exposed for visitors like myself to see. It was such a unique story to be heard. 

https://www.journalofnomads.com/vardzia-cave-monastery-georgia/