https://1700somewhere.com/2017/08/12/barging-on-irelands-royal-canal/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/locks-kilcock-spectators-13x17-p1020158.jpgLocks-Kilcock-Spectators-13x17-P1020158https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/canal-view-13x19-72dpi-p1010906.jpgCanal View-13x19-72dpi-P1010906https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/galway-tig-cc3b3ilc3ad-pub-12x-72dpi-dscf6800.jpgGalway-Tig Cóilí Pub-12x-72dpi-DSCF6800https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/1-brazen-head-12x-p1010655.jpg1-Brazen Head 12x-P1010655https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/sheep-and-lamb-crop-13x17-72dpi-p1020055.jpgSheep and Lamb-Crop-13x17-72dpi-P1020055https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/rcp-kathy.jpgRCP-Kathyhttps://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/final-composite-4.jpgFinal Composite 4https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/open-door-to-interior-from-stern2-p10201781.jpgopen door to interior from stern2--P1020178https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/tiller-in-stern-cropped2-p1010878-copy.jpgtiller in stern cropped2--P1010878 copyhttps://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/brazen-head2-copy.jpgBrazen Head2 copy2020-08-06T14:00:32+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/12/02/irelands-ancient-east/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/glendalough-traveler-gate-2015-01-12_317.jpgGlendalough-Traveler-Gate-2015-01-12_317Note: The photo above was taken by this guy. Thank you to all the fellow travelers who took pictures of Sarah and I together on this adventure!https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/tara-celtic-cross-2015-01-04_620.jpgTara-Celtic Cross-2015-01-04_620Celtic Cross on the Hill of Tara.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glendalough-c-s-gate-2015-01-12_332.jpgGlendalough-C-S-Gate-2015-01-12_332We were happy to have had the chance to explore this magical place. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/st-kevins-cell-sr-2015-01-12_732.jpgSt Kevins Cell-SR-2015-01-12_732Sarah made the climb to the cell while I rested in the valley.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/st-kevins-cell-sr-2015-01-12_698.jpgSt Kevins Cell-SR-2015-01-12_698We hiked deep into the valley, to the site where St. Kevin lived in monastic isolation. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glendalough-cathedral-sr-2015-01-12_408.jpgGlendalough-Cathedral-SR-2015-01-12_408Here in the off-season, we were almost alone wandering in the valley and among the ruins.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glendalough-cathedral-cs-2015-01-12_429.jpgGlendalough-Cathedral-CS-2015-01-12_429The stones are brief but fascinating glimpses into the lives of those they represent.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glendalough-cathedral-grave-2015-01-12_415.jpgGlendalough-Cathedral-Grave-2015-01-12_415Each stone tells another cryptic story.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glendalough-cathedral-2015-01-12_375.jpgGlendalough-Cathedral-2015-01-12_375Gravestones line the walls of the cathedral, marking the graves of those buried below it.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glendalough-cathedral-2015-01-12_369.jpgGlendalough-Cathedral-2015-01-12_369The largest structure in Glendalough is the Cathedral.2015-12-11T18:00:45+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/11/19/dublins-seaside-suburbs/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/howth-waterside-pub-2015-01-12_244_2581.jpgHowth-Waterside Pub-2015-01-12_244_258After a brisk walk on the seawall, a pint of Guinness in the Waterside Pub is just the thing.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/charlieatnewgrange-2011_11_26-079.jpgCharlieAtNewgrange-2011_11_26-079Sarah snapped this photo of me at the entrance to Newgrange.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-strollers-2015-01-21_664.jpgBray-Strollers-2015-01-21_664Despite the chill, a few hearty souls were strolling by the sea.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-strand-2015-01-21_698.jpgBray-Strand-2015-01-21_698The Strand Hotel proudly proclaims that it was once the home of Oscar Wilde.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-sr-2015-01-21_416.jpgBray-SR-2015-01-21_416It's tempting to take a few as souvenirs.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-stones-spiral-2015-01-21_519.jpgBray-Stones-Spiral-2015-01-21_519This one reminded me of the Celtic spirals which are so emblematic of ancient Ireland.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-stones-2015-01-21_508.jpgBray-Stones-2015-01-21_508The pebbles display a vast variety of colors.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-stones-2015-01-21_559.jpgBray-Stones-2015-01-21_559The beach itself is largely composed of colorful pebbles rounded by the sea.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-2015-01-21_374.jpgBray-2015-01-21_374In the chilly January wind, the broad, rocky beach was almost deserted.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/bray-town-2015-01-21_362.jpgBray-Town-2015-01-21_362Even in chilly January, Bray seemed a lively town.2015-12-02T16:36:45+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/11/22/normandy-and-the-d-day-beaches/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/7-bunker-granville-dscf3173.jpg7-Bunker-Granville - DSCF3173On the way to Mont St. Michel we saw yet another German bunker, left in place as a permanent reminder of the https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/15-70th-anniversary-billboard-dscf2442.jpg15-70th Anniversary Billboard - DSCF24422014 was the 70th anniversary of D-Day. All over Normandy are signs, billboards, posters, and drawings in shop windows commemorating the event, in addition to permanent memorials.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/pegasus-bridge-dscf3392.jpgPegasus Bridge - DSCF3392Pegasus Bridge, site of the first casualties on D-Day. It is no longer in use but has been reassembled near the original site and restored as a memorial. The British squadron landed silently in three 30-man gliders and took the Nazis by surprise, capturing and holding this critical bridge. After the war It was renamed "Pegasus" because that was the insignia on their uniforms. The flags of every nation that participated in the D-Day invasion are flown.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/14-britishe-cemetery-bayeux-dscf2424.jpg14-Britishe Cemetery - Bayeux - DSCF2424It wasn't just Americans who are honored here. This is the British Cemetery in Bayeux. In a supreme irony, nearly 1,000 after the Norman conquest of England was launched from this coast, British soldiers returned to Normandy to help liberate France.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/13-broadway-sims-of-tennesee-june-11-1944-dscf2918.jpg13-Broadway Sims of Tennesee June 11 1944-DSCF2918Every Cross or Star of David marks the grave of an ordinary American who made an extraordinary sacrifice. This is the grave of Broadway Sims, from Tennessee. His name made me want to know his story, and a reader of this blog responded, so CLICK THE PHOTO TO LEARN MORE ABOUT BROADWAY SIMS. A website about him will open in a new window.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/12-monument-and-pond-dscf2898.jpg12-Monument and Pond - DSCF2898One is easily moved to tears at this powerful site. Every American should come here to honor the young heroes who died in the liberation of Europe.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/11-american-cemetery-dscf2905.jpg11-American Cemetery - DSCF2905This is the beautiful and solemn American Cemetery overlooking the English Channel in Colleville-sur-Mer, Normandy, France. It is the final resting place for 9,387 Americans who died on D-Day and in the subsequent Battle of Normandy.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/10-remains-of-port-winston-dscf3011.jpg10-Remains of Port Winston-DSCF3011These are the remains of Port Winston, the artificial harbor in the English Channel, assembled immediately after the invasion.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/9-omaha-beach-dscf2828.jpg9-Omaha Beach - DSCF2828Omaha Beach was the site of some of the most courageous and costly actions by American troops. They had to take the German positions on those cliffs. Many died, but they ultimately succeeded. The movie "Saving Private Ryan" begins on this beach.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/8-german-bunker-dscf2844.jpg8-German Bunker - DSCF2844The Nazis had created the "Atlantic Wall" to make any attempt at invasion very costly. This is what remains of a bunker overlooking Omaha Beach.2015-11-16T04:07:42+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/10/18/paris/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/rodin-museum-garden-dscf1550.jpgRodin Museum garden--DSCF1550https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/mauthausen-dscf0517.jpgMauthausen--DSCF0517https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/plcc-wheelbarrow-dscf0574.jpgPLCC-Wheelbarrow-DSCF0574https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/three-graces-2-dscf1144.jpgThree Graces-2-DSCF1144https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sr-resting-at-pere-lachaise-dscf0510.jpgSR resting at Pere Lachaise--DSCF0510https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/plcc-dog-dscf0449.jpgPLCC-Dog-DSCF0449https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/charlieavotresante-dscf08311.jpgCharlieAVotreSante-DSCF0831https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sacrecour3-dscf1865.jpgSacreCour3-DSCF1865We noted with some irony that Pigalle is nearly straight downhill from Sacré-Cœur, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The magnificent white church is perched on Paris's highest hill.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/sacrecour2-dscf1865.jpgSacreCour2-DSCF1865https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/charlie-magne-dscf07371.jpgCharlie-Magne-DSCF0737We noted with some irony that Pigalle is nearly straight downhill from Sacrzé-Cœur, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The magnificent white church is perched on Paris's highest hill.2015-11-14T23:46:42+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/11/13/the-past-and-the-present-meet-in-dublin/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/7-lpc-apres-crawl-2015-01-04_5161.jpg7-LPC-Apres Crawl-2015-01-04_516Of course, at each pub, time was allotted to allow the participants to sample the offerings.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/charlie-2015-01-21_016.jpgCharlie-2015-01-21_016Click this picture to see a very short video of the view from our Portmarnock apartment.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/dublin-map.jpgDublin-Maphttps://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glasnevin-oconnell-2015-01-19_130.jpgGlasnevin-Oconnell-2015-01-19_130O'Connell is known in Ireland as "The Liberator" or "The Great Emancipator" for his success in achieving Catholic Emancipation. He did much to lay the groundwork for the eventual Irish independence from Britain. He is held in the same kind of high esteem that Americans hold for George Washington.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glasnevin-oconnell-2015-01-19_102.jpgGlasnevin-Oconnell-2015-01-19_102But the greatest honor goes to Daniel O'Connell, Ireland's Great Liberator. His tomb and the monument that towers above it are prominently placed near the entrance to Glasnevin.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glasnevin-michael-collins-2015-01-19_361.jpgGlasnevin-Michael Collins-2015-01-19_361The grave of Michael Collins, "The Big Fella," is given a special place.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glasnevin-catal-bruja-2015-01-19_304.jpgGlasnevin-Catal Bruja-2015-01-19_304The graves of other famous Irish have humbler monuments, such as that of Catal Bruga. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glasnevin-parnell-2015-01-19_190.jpgGlasnevin-Parnell-2015-01-19_190Ireland's heroes are honored in Glasnevin. This great stone marks the resting place of politician, reformer, and agitator Charles Stewart Parnell (1846-1891).https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glasnevin-guide-2015-01-19_088.jpgGlasnevin-Guide-2015-01-19_088A guided tour is highly recommended. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/11/glasnevin-2015-01-19_415.jpgGlasnevin-2015-01-19_415Not unlike Pere Lachaise Cemetery in Paris, a visit to Glasnevin is a beautiful way to explore the nation's history.2015-11-20T02:51:32+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/10/30/along-the-wild-atlantic-way/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/westport-woodland-walk-2014-12-26_045.jpgWestport-Woodland Walk 2014-12-26_045The day after Christmas we were invited to explore the woods around Westport with our hosts and their dog, Suzy.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/westport-cronins-sr-cs-2014-12-24-051.jpgWestport-Cronins-SR-CS-2014-12-24 -051Here we are enjoying hot cider on Christmas Eve in Cronin's Sheebeen.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/christmas-eve-in-the-sheebeen-2014-12-24-091.jpgChristmas Eve In The Sheebeen-2014-12-24 091"Midnight Mass" was over by 10 pm. After that, we accompanied our hosts to Cronin's Sheebeen, where we joined entire families of other locals for their traditional Christmas Eve celebration. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/westport-mass-2014-12-24_034.jpgWestport-Mass 2014-12-24_034Our generous and friendly Westport hosts invited us to attend Midnight Mass with them on Christmas Eve. Pictured here after mass are (L-R) Mairead, son Simon, Brian, and of course Sarah.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/galwaypub-dscf6800.jpgGalwayPub-DSCF6800We made new friends in one of the town's many pubs.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/galway-dscf6824.jpgGalway-DSCF6824At the eastern end of Connemarra is the delightful city of Galway. We drove there for a day-into-night trip.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/connemara-truck-dscf6531.jpgConnemara-Truck-DSCF6531...and dramatic mountain views...https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/connemara-sheep-in-road-four-dscf6091.jpgConnemara Sheep In Road-Four-DSCF6091While driving the Wild Atlantic Way in Connemara, we were reminded that there's one traffic law a driver must remember in rural Ireland: Sheep always have the right of way!https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/connemara-kylemore-abbey-dscf6140.jpgConnemara-Kylemore Abbey-DSCF6140Kylemore Abbey and its large walled Victorian gardens are now open for public tours.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/connemara-killary-fjord-dscf6019.jpgConnemara-Killary Fjord-DSCF6019...where the clouds reached down from the sky.2015-10-31T16:08:01+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/08/04/greetings-from-amsterdam/2015-10-31T14:15:32+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/08/18/exploring-art-in-amsterdam/2017-03-18T11:37:12+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/09/03/more-from-amsterdam/2015-10-31T14:06:56+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/09/04/farewell-amsterdam/2015-10-31T14:03:06+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/09/20/our-first-taste-of-france/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/sarlat-troglodyrevillage2-dscf98901.jpgSarlat-TroglodyreVillage2-DSCF9890Over the centuries, successive generations occupied and developed the site.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/arch-and-facade-dscf9383.jpgArch and Facade-DSCF9383Narrow, winding streets lead to delightful scenes like this.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/close-up-our-lady-of-the-pillar-dscf9149.jpgClose up Our Lady of the Pillar--DSCF9149https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/cs-in-front-of-chartres-cathedral-cropped-flattened-dscf92911.jpgCS in front of Chartres Cathedral cropped flattened--DSCF9291https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/sarlat-dscf9707.jpgSarlat-DSCF9707Narrow cobblestone streets are now dotted with little cafes.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/sarlat-dscf9678.jpgSarlat-DSCF9678The medieval architecture shows both Romanesque and Gothic influences.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/plaque-about-our-lady-of-the-pilar-dscf9152.jpgPlaque about Our Lady of the Pilar--DSCF9152The plaque on the periphery of the chapel shows the original carving. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/our-lady-of-the-pillar-final.jpgOur Lady of the Pillar FINAL"Our Lady of the Pillar" (photo from the website of the French Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs, communication department.)https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/assumption-of-mary-dscf9156.jpgAssumption of Mary--DSCF9156The enormity and beauty of the sculpture at the high altar is compelling. It can be seen even from the back of this vast cathedral. "The Assumption of Mary" by Charles-Antoine Bridan bids visitors down the long central nave and rewards them with a beatific view of the Divine Feminine--arms flung wide, supported by the hosts of heaven.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/map-paris-chartres-sarlat-cap.gifMap Paris-Chartres-Sarlat-CapOur route through South-Central France.2015-10-31T13:35:30+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/10/22/irelands-wild-wild-west/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/1-main-map1.jpg1-Main-MapAfter stays in Cappoquin and Kinsale, Westport was our base for the next four weeks.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/doolough-map.jpgDoolough-Maphttps://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ceidefields-map.jpgCeideFields-Maphttps://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/ceidefields-sr-2014-12-25-north-mayo-2011.jpgCeideFields-SR--2014-12-25 North Mayo 201We visited Céide Fields on Christmas Day. It was closed for the season, and completely deserted, of course. We hopped the fence and explored it on our own.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/rainbow-flipped-dscf5709.jpgRainbow-Flipped-DSCF5709Rainbows are pretty much an everyday sight in the west of Ireland.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/westport-croaghpatricksnow-dscf6761.jpgWestport-CroaghPatrickSnow-DSCF6761Croagh Patrick is one of those half-mile-high mountains. This is the view of Croagh Patrick from our yard the morning it snowed. Croagh Patrick had been a site of pagan pilgrimage, especially for the summer solstice, since 3,000 B.C.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/westport-croagh-patrick-shrouded-clew-bay-dscf6367.jpgWestport-Croagh Patrick Shrouded - Clew Bay-DSCF6367Seen here shrouded in clouds, the mountain is now a site of Christian pilgrimage. Saint Patrick reputedly fasted on the summit for forty days in the fifth century A.D. Thousands of people climb the mountain every Reek Sunday, which is the last Sunday in July. "The Reek" is a nickname for the mountain.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/sheep-2014-12-19-donegal-439.jpgSheep-2014-12-19 Donegal 439We grew very fond of them as we traveled the countryside.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/sheep-2014-12-19-donegal-456.jpgSheep-2014-12-19 Donegal 456No hillside is to too precarious for them!https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/sheep-2014-12-19-donegal-159.jpgSheep-2014-12-19 Donegal 159Whether they are naturally friendly, or just hoping for a hand-out, the sheep always seem to notice the humans who stop to watch them. 2015-10-30T20:48:09+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2014/12/13/barcelona-to-antibes/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/saint-sara-dscf5868.jpgSaint Sara--DSCF5868https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/sr-exiting-st-sara-church-at-stes-marie-de-la-mer-dscf5915.jpgSR exiting St. Sara Church at Stes Marie de la Mer--DSCF5915https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/twosarahs-dscf58761.jpgTwoSarahs-DSCF5876Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer is also a pilgrimage destination for Roma (Gypsies), who gather yearly for a religious festival in honor of Saint Sara (or Sarah.) Dark-skinned Saint Sara is said to have been the Egyptian servant of the three Marys. In another version, Sara was a local woman who welcomed the three Marys on their arrival. This statue of Saint Sara is in the crypt of the church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer. Here, our Sarah poses with Saint Sara. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/stesmaries-dscf59061.jpgStesMaries-DSCF5906Inside the church are said to be relics of two saints, Mary Salome and Mary Jacobea. Mary Salome was mother of St. John the Evangelist and St. James. Mary Jacobea also was the mother of several of Jesus' apostles. They are believed to be among the women who first witnessed the empty tomb after the resurrection of Jesus. The story is that these two women, along with others, were exiled from Palestine during persecutions of Christians in A.D. 45. They were launched off in a boat with no oars and ended up on this shore of southern France. They are reputedly the first people to tell this part of the world about the miracle of the Resurrection.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/dscf5827.jpgDSCF5827https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/eglise-stes-maries-dscf5928.jpgEglise Stes Maries - DSCF5928St. Sara is housed in the Church of the Saintes Maries de la Mer. Built from the 9th to the 12th centuries, it served not only as a church, but as a fortress and refuge. It has a fresh water well inside, for when the villagers had to take shelter from Saracen raiders.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/sarah-sf-dscf49541.jpgSarah-SF-DSCF4954https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/cover-view-of-vsm-at-night.jpgCover-view of VSM at nightAt the end of the two days, we were ready for our next stop further down the coast. This is the night-time view of Nice and Villfranche-sur-Mer, where we would be staying next. The lights trace the paths of the famous Corniches, the mountain roads that lace the Cote'D'Azur. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/charlie-dscf0423.jpgCharlie-DSCF0423The Picasso museum has exhibits of paintings, sculpture, and ceramics by Picasso and others, both inside and out. Here I'm posing in front of a large sculptural installation.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/picassomuseum-dscf0343.jpgPicassoMuseum-DSCF0343It is also the home to a permanent collection of the works of Picasso, who worked in Antibes for a time. Photos are not allowed in the Museum, but I managed to sneak a few.2015-10-30T18:54:47+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/01/04/the-wonders-of-provence/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/view-over-alpille-plains-cjs-dscf79961.jpgView over Alpille plains-CJS-DSCF7996The view over the Alpille Valley below Les Baux-de-Provence would have provided defenders with advance warning of an attacking force. Now, the view is of peaceful almond and olive groves.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/view-over-alpille-plains-dscf7996.jpgView over Alpille plains-DSCF7996https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/site-from-war-plain-dscf8051.jpgSite from war plain--DSCF8051https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/huguenot-window-dscf7806.jpgHuguenot window--DSCF7806https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/oppede-dining-dscf6114.jpgOppede Dining-DSCF6114We had a tasty lunch on the shady terrace outside L'Echauguette Boutique Restaurant. The food in French restaurants is justly famous for its quality and presentation. This meal was no exception.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/oppede-restored-renaissance-house-dscf6091.jpgOppede restored Renaissance house--DSCF6091https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/oppede-clock-tower-dscf6055.jpgOppede clock tower-DSCF6055https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/oppede-chapel-ruin-dscf6078.jpgOppede Chapel ruin-DSCF6078https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/dwelling-carved-out-of-rock-dscf6085.jpgDwelling carved out of rock--DSCF6085https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/romanmonument-glannum-dscf88361.jpgRomanMonument-Glannum-DSCF88362015-10-30T18:47:30+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/01/11/provence-romans-van-gogh-and-more/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/vg-sr-at-st-pauls-dscf8704.jpgVG-SR at St Pauls--DSCF8704Sarah resting at an outbuilding in view of Van Gogh's window at Saint-Paul's.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/vg-stpauls-olivetrees-sr-diddles-dscf82611.jpgVG-StPauls-OliveTrees-SR diddles--DSCF8261https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cafe-terrace-at-night.jpgCafe Terrace at Nighthttps://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/avignon-gate-dscf7330.jpgAvignon Gate--DSCF7330Behind its walls lie narrow streets, beautiful squares, a grand Catholic palace, and what remains of a famous bridge.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/vg-arles-sr-dscf6338.jpgVG-Arles-SR--DSCF6338We visited the hospital in Arles where Van Gogh was taken after he cut off a portion of his ear. Now called Espace Van Gogh, the artist painted several works while he recuperated here.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/alyscamps-vg-sr-dscf7508-copy.jpgAlyscamps-VG-SR--DSCF7508 copyAs we discovered, Van Gogh walked the avenue of Alyscamps too. This plaque displays Van Gogh’s Alyscamps.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/vg-charlieatstpauls-dscf87131.jpgVG-CharlieAtStPauls-DSCF8713It was quite moving to share this space with the ghost of Vincent Van Gogh.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/mossy-fountain-dscf9632.jpgMossy Fountain-DSCF9632Since the 16th century, moss has been allowed to build up. It is now a beloved feature of the town.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/mossy-fountain-dscf9623.jpgMossy Fountain-DSCF9623But get closer, and it is revealed to be a very old fountain.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/mossy-fountain-dscf9588.jpgMossy Fountain-DSCF9588From a distance, this looks like a tree.2015-10-30T18:37:06+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/01/18/au-revoir-france/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-zzz-dscf2011.jpgCheval-zzz-DSCF2011Cheval also wanted to be buried in his palace. However, since that is illegal in France, he proceeded to spend eight more years building a mausoleum for himself in the Hauterives cemetery. He died on 19 August 1924, about a year after he had finished building it, and is buried there.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval3-dscf1988.jpgCheval3-DSCF1988https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-z-sarah1-dscf1861.jpgCheval-z-Sarah1-DSCF1861We were amazed anew at every turn. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-z-charlie-dscf1921.jpgCheval-z-Charlie-DSCF1921https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-e-dscf1838.jpgCheval-e-DSCF1838This translates roughly as "by creating this rock I wanted to prove that the will can."https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-dscf1857.jpgCheval-DSCF1857...to prove that there are geniuses and energetic men in my class also."https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-dscf1790.jpgCheval-DSCF1790"Work is my only glory and honor my only joy."https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-c-dscf1825.jpgCheval-c-DSCF1825...but also giants, fairies, mythological characters, waterfalls, and architectures from all continents."https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval-b-dscf1795.jpgCheval-b-DSCF1795"I have been a rural postman for 29 years."https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/cheval10-dscf1760.jpgCheval10-DSCF17602015-10-30T18:31:05+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/03/18/venice/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/lovers-and-moon-dscf3803.jpgLovers and Moon - DSCF3803The night before we left, I got this shot of a young couple under the twin spells of a full moon and this intoxicating city. I think we'll have to return some day. Venice, after all, is for lovers. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/nunonstairs-dscf4469.jpgNunOnStairs-DSCF4469Life seems to go on as if unchanged through the centuries, despite some graffiti here and there....https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/alleyb-dscf4344.jpgAlleyB-DSCF4344Somehow an aura of mystery surrounds the everyday comings and goings of people.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/arch-woman-dscf4099.jpgArch-Woman-DSCF4099Beauty takes many forms in the life of this city.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/gondolavideo.jpgGondolaVideoFor many tourists, a gondola ride is an essential Venetian activity. Click this image to see a short video of a musical gondola ride I happened upon.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/leda-swan-dscf3107.jpgLeda-Swan-DSCF3107Leda And The Swan is another 16th century work by an unknown artist. The Correr's identification plaque says it is "after a painting by Michaelangelo."https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/dierickbouts15thcentmadonnaconbambino-dscf3247.jpgDierickBouts15thCentMadonnaConBambino-DSCF3247Among the many Madonna and Child paintings in the Correr are several that depict Mary nursing the baby Jesus -- something I've never seen before. Dierick Bouts, Madonna Con Bambino, 15th century.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/bosch-dscf3259.jpgBosch--DSCF3259The Correr has many surprising works of art. This detail is from The Temptations of St. Anthony, 16th century. An unknown Belgian follower of Hieronymous Bosch is credited with the bizarre painting. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/vittoriocarpaccio-madonnaconbambino1485-87-dscf3098.jpgVittorioCarpaccio-MadonnaConBambino1485-87-DSCF3098The Correr features many examples of the works of Venetian masters. This one is Vittore Carpaccio's Madonna Con Bambino, 1485-87.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/museoceiling-dscf3136.jpgMuseoCeiling-DSCF3136Some of the rooms of the Museo Correr are quite spectacular.2015-10-30T16:45:13+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/06/28/four-days-in-rome/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vatican-square-dscf6002.jpgVatican-Square-DSCF6002The exit from the Sistine Chapel dumps you onto St, Peters Square, the place where the Pope addresses the faithful. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vatican-swissguards-dscf5993.jpgVatican-SwissGuards-DSCF5993Back on St Peter's Square, you wath the Swiss Guards do their thing, and then wander back toward the Metro to get back home. You've "done" Rome. You've made the history books real.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vatican-stpeters-pieta-dscf5925.jpgVatican-StPeters-Pieta-DSCF5925Once you see it, the work transcends its setting. The context doesn't matter. It's masterful presence is unquestionable. It is one of the best examples of cold stone brought to passionate life.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vatican-stpeters-pietacrowds-dscf59211.jpgVatican-StPeters-PietaCrowds-DSCF5921https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vatican-stpeters-pietacrowds-dscf5921.jpgVatican-StPeters-PietaCrowds-DSCF5921Once inside, follow te crowds to Michelangelo's Pieta. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vatican-stpeters-dscf5939.jpgVatican-StPeters-DSCF5939After having visited some of Europe's most magnificent cathedrals, St. Peter's still manages to impress. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vatican-stpeters-dscf5915.jpgVatican-StPeters-DSCF5915The exit from the Sistine Chapel dumps you onto the plaza, from where one can choose to visit St. Peter's Basilica. And who wouldn't?https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/sistineceiling-dscf5870.jpgSistineCeiling-DSCF5870By this time I had become proficient at surreptitious photography, so I ignored the ban on photos. Come on -Michelangelo is not around to collect royalties on his work. It now belongs to humanity. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/sistinechapel-dscf5876.jpgSistineChapel-DSCF5876Last stop on the tour is the Sistine Chapel. Our guide warned us that pictures are forbidden and then disappeard. We ere on our own, in a sea of cows - I mean people - just like us.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/vaticanmuseum-dalisignature-dscf5838.jpgVaticanMuseum-DaliSignature-DSCF5838Once again I found myself drawn to the signatures of the artists. They take me to the moment when the artist, a real live person, declared the work complete and signed his (or her) name for all eternity to acknowledge.2015-10-30T16:40:41+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/08/08/pompeii-and-paestum-walking-through-ancient-history/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/bustonaples-dscf8620.jpgBusToNaples-DSCF8620So ended our three months on the European continent. After celebrating Sarah's birthday the next day (previous post), we took the convenient shuttle bus from the Sorrento rail station directly to the Naples airport. We had tickets to London!https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-tomb-dscf6614.jpgPaestum-Tomb-DSCF6614Although most of Poseidonia was obliterated when the Romans conquered it, this roof top was part of a grave enclosure built by the Romans to preserve a Greek grave. Turns out the Romans were superstitious about disturbing graves. So they just built an enclosure around it, and kept on going.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-ruins-dscf6768.jpgPaestum-Ruins-DSCF6768Ruins of the Roman town, Paestum, which was built right over the original Greek settlement of Poseidonia in the 3rd century BC.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-charlie-dscf6597.jpgPaestum-Charlie-DSCF6597Here I’m standing in front of the Temple of Athena, c. 500 B.C.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-temple-detail-dscf6866.jpgPaestum-Temple-Detail-DSCF6866Doric capitals on the Temple of Hera.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-temples-dscf6843.jpgPaestum-Temples-DSCF6843The Temple of Hera, the oldest of the three Greek temples, has a colonnade right down its center that helped support the roof. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-temples-dscf6795.jpgPaestum-Temples-DSCF6795Here you can see the Classical lines of the Temple of Poseidon, c. 460-450 BC, next to the more primitive lines of the Temple of Hera, c. 550 BC.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-statuary-dscf6396.jpgPaestum-Statuary-DSCF6396Ancient votive offerings depict Hera on her throne. As wife of Zeus and Queen of Heaven, she had a very large cult following.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/paestum-vases-dscf6502.jpgPaestum-Vases-DSCF6502Ceramic vases and jugs surviving from the 5th century BC. Hard to imagine….https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/tomb-of-diver-reassembled-dscf64801.jpgTomb of Diver reassembled-DSCF6480Photographic representation of The Tomb of the Diver, were it reassembled.2015-10-30T16:37:33+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/07/19/sorrento-and-the-amalfi-coast/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/charlie-sarah-sunset-cropped-dscf6931.jpgCharlie-Sarah-Sunset-cropped-DSCF6931https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/sorrentoatsunset-dscf6967.jpgSorrentoAtSunset-DSCF6967This is a view from one of the roads above Sorrento, looking toward the town just after sunset.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/charlie-sarah-sunset-dscf6931.jpgCharlie-Sarah-Sunset-DSCF6931It was a lovely evening in Sorrento.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/sarahbirthdaydinner-dscf86041.jpgSarahBirthdayDinner-DSCF8604Sarah was not happy when I tried to sneak a photo of her while she ate...https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/sorrento-charlie-sarah-bday-dscf8613.jpgSorrento-Charlie-Sarah Bday-DSCF8613So she took the camera and took one of me after I'd had more than my share of wine!https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/amalfialleys.jpgAmalfiAlleys-Old alleyways and staircases beckon you to explore. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/amalfi-church-dscf7322.jpgAmalfi-Church-DSCF7322Amalfi town itself is delightful. Saint Andrew's Cathedral (Duomo) overlooks the Piazza Duomo in the heart of Amalfi. The cathedral dates to the 11th century.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/amalficoast-dscf7070.jpgAmalfiCoast-DSCF7070Positano offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/amalficoast-dscf7082.jpgAmalfiCoast-DSCF7082Along the coast are the defensive towers, built to watch out for Saracen pirates who raided this area centuries ago.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/amalficoast-positano-dscf7119.jpgAmalfiCoast-Positano-DSCF7119Positano is a pedestrian-only town. Narrow streets, lined with shops and restaurants, snake down to the beach far below.2025-04-29T08:12:54+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/08/31/wayfaring-strangers-in-london/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/takecourage-dscf8899.jpgTakeCourage-DSCF8899London is in many ways a living history exhibit. This is an old, so-very-British advertising slogan for Courage Beer.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/pedbridge-dscf8952.jpgPedBridge-DSCF8952Just walking about is a pleasure in London.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/music-tradjam-dscf9731.jpgMusic-TradJam-DSCF9731We were invited by some of the musicinas and other patrons at the Green Note to join them at an after-party of sorts. It was a traditional music jam in a neighborhood pub.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/music-lukedaniels-dscf9703.jpgMusic-LukeDaniels-DSCF9703Luke Daniels was the featured performer for the afternoon.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/music-greennote-dscf9724.jpgMusic-GreenNote-DSCF9724We wanted to hear some of the live music for which the city is justly famous. We found the Green Note.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/angel-securitycamera-dscf9031.jpgAngel-SecurityCamera-DSCF9031On the corner of the building was this interesting detail -- along with one of London's ubiquitous security cameras.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/pub-dscf9048.jpgPub-DSCF9048We had lunch at this classic London pub.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/lindowman-dscf9619.jpgLindowMan-DSCF9619Lindow Man was found well-preserved in a peat bog in England, some 2,000 years after his burial.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/threewomen-dscf9575.jpgThreeWomen-DSCF9575These rare ivory figurines show the Egyptians ideals of feminine beauty. The bald one probably had a wig.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/britishmuseum-monument-dscf9637.jpgBritishMuseum-Monument-DSCF9637The Nereid Monument is a sculptured tomb from ancient Greece.2015-10-30T16:29:51+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/09/13/cead-mile-failte-go-heirinn-100000-welcomes-to-ireland/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/dromana-gate.jpgDromana GateCappoquin's Dromana Gate is a Hindu-Gothic structure built in the early 1800s. It was on the Dromana Estate that Katherine, wife of the 16th Earl of Desmond, is reputed to have lived to the great age of 160 (!) and to have died as a result of a fall from a cherry tree.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/bridge-2011_11_26-ireland-1366.jpgBridge-2011_11_26 Ireland 1366Cappoquin's Dromana Gate is a Hindu-Gothic structure built in the early 1800s. It was on the Dromana Estate that Katherine, wife of the 16th Earl of Desmond, is reputed to have lived to the great age of 160 (!) and to have died as a result of a fall from a cherry tree. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/15-lifebouy-dscf0304.jpg15-Lifebouy-DSCF0304These rescue stations dot the coastline everywhere in Ireland.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/14-fishingboats-dscf0290.jpg14-FishingBoats-DSCF0290The sea is never very far away in this island nation.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/13-waterfordcountycoast-dscf0267.jpg13-WaterfordCountyCoast-DSCF0267While staying in Cappoquin we found time for a side trip to the Waterford County coast.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/10-dee-susan-daniel-ashley-2011_11_21-28-ireland-sbr-093.jpg10-Dee Susan Daniel Ashley-2011_11_21-28 Ireland SBR 093Our adopted family in Cappoquin includes retired travel writer Susan Poole McGraw. She is shown here with her granddaughter Dee (left), her great granddaughter Ashley (right), and her great great grandson Daniel (in Susan's arms).https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/11-charlie-sarah-at-evelyns-2011_11_21-28-ireland-sbr-115.jpg11-Charlie Sarah at Evelyns--2011_11_21-28 Ireland SBR 115Here we are in the inn's dining room during our 2011 trip.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/9-sarah-evelyn-2011_11_21-28-ireland-sbr-111.jpg9-Sarah-Evelyn-2011_11_21-28 Ireland SBR 111This photo shows Sarah with her friend Evelyn, the proprietor of the inn. The place is no longer officially open to the public, but Evelyn is always happy to welcome old friends.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/8-gardenwallcapoquin-13x17-2011_11_26-ireland-1292.jpg8-GardenWallCapoquin-13x17-2011_11_26 Ireland 1292I took this picture in the garden of the B&B. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/7-sidewalkplaque-dscf0224.jpg7-SidewalkPlaque-DSCF0224Also in Cappoquin is a former orphanage turned into a lovely Bed-and-Breakfast. This is where we stayed. This plaque is in the sidewalk in front of the place. 2025-05-31T16:32:15+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/10/07/day-trips-south-by-southwest-in-ireland/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/charlieinsquare-bydeas-p1000136.jpgCharlieInSquare-ByDeas-P1000136We spent four wonderful weeks in and around Kinsale, three of them with family visiting. This photo was taken by Sarah's sister, Deas. Yes, I'm guilty of sharing my snack with the little dog.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/cands-kinsale-carolynpic-sam_0237.jpgCandS-Kinsale-CarolynPic-SAM_0237As lovely as Kinsale is, we were excited about our next destination: Ireland's wild and rugged west coast. (Photo by Carolyn Sawyer)https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/boy-rocks2-dscf2267.jpgBoy-Rocks2-DSCF2267I spotted this boy playing with his family along the rocky coastline. His dirty and disheveled clothing reflects the good time he was having!https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/13-clonakilty-michaelcollins-dscf4070.jpg13-Clonakilty-MichaelCollins-DSCF4070This stature of the Irish hero Michael Collins stands in Clonakilty, just West of Kinsale. This is near where The Big Fella was born and raised, and, sadly, not too far from where he was assassinated. We'll have lots more about Irish history, ancient and modern, in upcoming posts.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/12-trailerpark-dscf2309.jpg12-TrailerPark-DSCF2309This probably the most appealing trailer park I've ever seen! Robert's Cove, County Cork, Ireland.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/10-countycork-dscf2370.jpg10-CountyCork-DSCF2370Street scene, Robert's Cove, County Cork, Ireland.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/9-ironfence1-dscf2440.jpg9-IronFence1-DSCF2440Detail, iron gate, County Cork, Ireland.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/8b-cows-dscf2228.jpg8b-Cows-DSCF2228These clouds are resting in their hillside pasture in Oysterhaven.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/11-oysterhavenbay-dscf2216.jpg11-OysterhavenBay-DSCF2216This view is in the area known as Oysterhaven. I love how all the elements in this photo come together - the rocks, the fence, the water, the green, and the shadows of couds on the hillside.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/8a-church-dscf2487.jpg8a-Church-DSCF2487I ran across this lovely country church in Minane Bridge, a little town east of Kinsale.2015-10-30T16:22:35+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/2015/09/28/life-on-the-water-in-kinsale-ireland/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/charlesfort-dscf1351.jpgCharlesFort-DSCF1351Around every corner we hoped to catch a glimpse of the White Lady of Kinsale, Ireland's most famous ghost. Click here to learn about her gruesome fate and that of her soldier husband. (Will open in a new window.)https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/moonrise-dscf09351.jpgMoonrise-DSCF0935Our front porch provided excellent views of sun- and moon-rises over the harbor.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/worldsend-b-dscf0652.jpgWorldsEnd-B-DSCF0652We stayed right on the harbor at No.1 Lobster Cottage, World’s End. It was a very nice three-bedroom townhouse behind the red door in this photo. The extra bedrooms allowed us to invite family members to visit us from the US. You’ll meet them later in this post. This place was perhaps the best off-season travel bargain of the whole trip, at about $1100 US for the entire four weeks.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/deas-sarah-kinsale-ireland-135.jpgDeas Sarah-Kinsale-Ireland 135Here Sarah and her sister Deas, visiting from Florida, enjoy rest and refreshment in the square.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/charlesfortview-hillside-cows-dscf1017.jpgCharlesFortView-Hillside-Cows-DSCF1017...though it did fall during a land-based siege during the Williamite wars in the late 17th Century.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/charlesfort-boat-oldheadlight-dscf10101.jpgCharlesFort-Boat-OldHeadLight-DSCF1010The fort was never taken from the sea...https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/charlesfortview-dscf1109.jpgCharlesFortView-DSCF1109It's thick walls and position on a high bluff made it impossible to attack by direct force for centuries. https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/charlesfortview-dscf4417.jpgCharlesFortView-DSCF4417The fort's bastions provide spectacular views of the River Bandon.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/views.jpgViewsThe fort's bastions provide spectacular views of the sea, the river, and the countryside. It's thick walls and position on a high bluff made it impossible to attack by direct force for centuries. Charles Fort was never taken from the sea, though it did fall during a land-based siege during the Williamite wars in about 1690.https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/carolyns-birthday-group-20141121_194748.jpgCarolyns birthday-group--20141121_194748Kinsale is also a world-famous gastronomic destination. Here, Sarah and I, along with my son, Joe (left), and my sister, Carolyn (right), enjoy a fine meal to celebrate Carolyn’s birthday.2015-10-30T16:19:33+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/museum-images/https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/asg-openmic1-backstage-hotel-dscf60601.jpgASG-OpenMic1-Backstage Hotel-DSCF6060https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/figures-in-wheelbarrow-dscf7473.jpgFigures In Wheelbarrow-DSCF7473https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/selfportraitwithcows-dscf5824.jpgSelfPortraitWithCows-DSCF5824https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/church-dscf80451.jpgChurch-DSCF8045https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/vergulde-fortuyn-dscf63741.jpgVergulde Fortuyn-DSCF6374https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/strongman2-dscf77351.jpgStrongman2-DSCF7735https://1700somewhere.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/man-stature-and-car-dscf60191.jpgMan stature and car- DSCF60192014-08-19T19:27:19+00:00weekly0.6https://1700somewhere.com/2014/05/20/why-its-1700-somewhere-2/2014-09-28T02:53:35+00:00monthlyhttps://1700somewhere.com/photography/2014-05-21T15:06:59+00:00weekly0.6https://1700somewhere.com/about/2014-05-21T14:56:38+00:00weekly0.6https://1700somewhere.comdaily1.02025-05-31T16:32:15+00:00