Camel in Jerusalem

 

Church of Our Lady

Church of Our Lady – Dresden Frauenkirche
Dresden, Germany

Built 1726-1763 – destroyed during WWII
Built in the 18th century, the church was destroyed in the bombing of Dresden during World War II. The remaining ruins were left as a war memorial, following decisions of local East German leaders. The church was rebuilt after the reunification of Germany. The reconstruction of its exterior was completed in 2004 and its interior in 2005. The church was reconsecrated on 30 October 2005.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dresden_Frauenkirche

Fukukenjaku Kannon

Fukukenjaku Kannon

Todai-ji, Nara, Japan

The Fukukenjaku Kannon in the Sangatsu-do of Todai-ji stands 12 feet high. It dates to 746 and is made of dry lacquer. The Kannon is flanked by Nikko (right) and Gakko (left) – see previous page. This form of Kannon has eight arms. The statue bears a rather alarming expression for such a compassionate being.

“Fukukenjaku” means “never empty lasso.” It refers to the coil of rope which the Kannon holds in one of his lower arms (viewer’s right). Kannon uses this rope to catch straying souls and lead them to salvation. The lasso is found in other multi-armed forms of Kannon as well.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

Holy Trinity Cathedral
Church of Peter and Paul
Orthodox Monastery
Tymmen, Russia
Founded in 1616 by a monk Niphont

Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin

The Cathedral of the Nativity of the Virgin – 18th century
The staircase tower with a passage – 12th century
Bogolyubovo, Russia

Gozo, Malta

Gozo, Malta

Gozo is for many tourists the best part of their visit to the Maltese Islands.  Blessed with many natural sights and an interesting history Gozo has a charm all of its own.  From top left, clockwise, Ta’Pinu Church, the Citadel, Mgarr Harbour, the Azure Window, Ggantija Temples, Xlendi Tower

Mont San Michel

sent from friend in Malta from her vacation