Archive for January, 2011

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    Neasden Temple: Sheer Magnificence
    Neasden Temple is situated in Neasden, which is in north London. The temple is popularly called Neasden Temple. The temple is a wonderful example of Indian craftsmanship and stonework. Neasden Temple is home to white pinnacles that tower high above and intricate pillars carved out of marble. The entire design of the temple has its basis in Vedic principles of architecture and art. Neasden Temple has its dedication to Bhagwan Swaminarayan. His Holiness Pramukh Swami Maharaj was his spiritual successor. The latter has also served as the temple’s creator and BAPS’s spiritual leader. This stunning marble structure is the largest temple that lies outside India. Every year, half a million tourists and pilgrims pay a visit here. Yogiji Maharaj visited London in 1970. He expressed his desire of creating a large temple in the city. 25  [...]
    Posted at January 12th, 2011 in Hindu Temples
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    Colosseum in Rome: A Mammoth Structure
    The Colosseum in Rome is probably Roman Empire’s most splendid building. The colosseum was previously known as the Flavian Amphitheater. It was the era’s largest structure. The structure quickly fell into ruins. However, till today the structure is imposing and a sight to behold. Flavian Dynasty’s founder was Emperor Vespasian. He began constructing the colosseum in Rome in AD 72. The construction was completed in AD 80, following the death of Vespasian. The site of a manmade lake served as the site for the mammoth amphitheater. The site was an integral part of huge park of Nero, which lay in Rome’s center. Golden House and the statue of Colossus were also included. Nero’s giant statue gave the structure its present name. The building is elliptical in shape. It measures 188 m by 156 m. It stands at an impressive height  [...]
    Posted at January 10th, 2011 in Largest Sacred Sites and Artifacts
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    Durham Castle: Awe Inspiring
    Durham Castle is a fortress belonging to the 11th century. It is presently home to students of various universities. Special events are also housed here. It was regarded as a world heritage site in 1987. Durham castle features as a religious interest site for two main reasons: Firstly, it has a rich history as home of the mighty Bishops and Princes of Durham. Secondly, it has two fantastic chapels. One of these chapels belongs to the Norman times. Guests need to avail guided tours to gain entry to the castle. Many university students lead these tours. Durham castle was built by William the Conqueror in AD 1072 immediately after his triumph in the Hastings battle. The castle has a rock-solid defence. Bishop Walcher added yet another hall at the current Great Hall. The castle is renowned for the Norman Chapel and Undercroft. The castle  [...]
    Posted at January 5th, 2011 in Catholic Shrines
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    Cerne Abbas Giant: A Splendid Carving
    Cerne Abbas Giant is also known as Rude Giant or Rude Man. It is one of England’s largest hill figures. It is 55 meters tall and 50 meters wide. The mammoth club carried by Cerne Abbas Giant stretches for 36 meters. Cerne Abbas Giant is one of the two ancient figures on the hillside in England. The other figure is that of Long Man. The image is clearly male. It is carved by numerous trenches measuring one foot in width. The trenches criss-cross the hillside of the historic Cerne Abbas village. The trenches, which had a depth of one foot, were carved out of the soil to reveal the chalk-like surface of the hill. The surface of the hill is snow white. Cerne Abbas Giant has a wonderful green background because of the grass on the hill. There has been a lot of debate regarding the figure’s origin. Most individuals believe that the  [...]
    Posted at January 3rd, 2011 in Ancient Megaliths and Mysteries
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    Holy Sepulchre: A Sacred Site
    The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was originally constructed by Emperor Constantine’s mother in AD 330. The church of the Holy Sepulchre is located at the site of the hill of Christ’s crucifixion and his subsequent burial tomb. The church has a rich history and tradition. Christ’s crucifixion and burial are crucial events in Christianity. The church is home to both these events. The Garden Tomb lay hidden for centuries. It was discovered only in the 19th century. Holy Sepulchre was a Byzantine church, which the Persians destroyed in AD 614. The church was rebuilt quickly. Al Hakim was an Egyptian caliph who caused destruction to the church in AD 1009. The tomb was mercilessly hacked to bedrock. Extensive rebuilding work was carried out by the Crusaders. Most of the sections that are extant today belong to the periods of the  [...]
    Posted at January 1st, 2011 in Churches