Reggia di Venaria Reale was a royal residence and palace to the northwest of Turin, Italy. It was one of more that a dozen residences of the Savoy family. It was abondoned after the Napoleonic Wars and later became a military post and barracks and subsequently slowly fell into disrepair and abandonment. After a major restoration, it finally opened to the public in 2007 as a musuem and tourist attraction.
La Venaria Reale – Map of Complex – Turin, Italy
Getting There
The easiest was to get there from Turin is to take one of the SFM trains from Porta Susa towards the Turin Airport. Many of these trains stop at Venaria Station and it only takes about fifteen to twenty minutes and costs about €3.50 per person. We often use the phone application and do not book a round-trip ticket, since you never know how long you might stay, especially if you are planning for lunch as well.
Porta Susa – Leaving for Venaria – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Train Station at Venaria – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Train Station at Venaria – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Military Monument – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Via Andrea Mensa – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Via Andrea Mensa – Turin, Italy
The Palace
The palace is actually in two pieces, the original Palace of Diana from the seventeenth century in white stucco with a white clock tower and the latter eighteenth century addition in raw brick with the Belvedere Tower, where you enter.
La Venaria Reale – Piazza della Repubblica – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Clock Tower, Piazza della Repubblica – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Piazza della Repubblica – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Via Castelmonte – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Noble Families, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Noble Families, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Museum, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Art Room, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Art Room, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Castle Diorama, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
The Grand Gallery
Probably the most striking room and the pinnacle of the visit, the Grand Gallery is part of the Palace of Diana and a core piece of the original palace.
La Venaria Reale – Grand Gallery, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Grand Gallery, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Grand Gallery, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Saubaud Generations, Bedrooms, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
Turin At The Turn Of The Century
There is a nice collection of maps, dioramas and other works depicting Turin at the turn of the seventeenth century. Interesting from the perspective of present day Turin and what was lacking back in the day of the House of Savoy.
La Venaria Reale – Plan Room of Castle and Turin, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Plan Room of Castle and Turin, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Piazza San Carlo, Plan Room of Castle and Turin, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Plan Room of Castle and Turin, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Plan Room of Castle and Turin, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Plan Room of Castle and Turin, La Reggia – Turin, Italy
The Rooms Of Art
There is also a fine exhibit of art at the palace. Located through the entrance to the gardens, the entrance is in the back of the Palace of Diana.
La Venaria Reale – Exhibition of Art – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Exhibition of Art – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Exhibition of Art – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Exhibition of Art – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Exhibition of Art – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Exhibition of Art – Turin, Italy
The Stables
Juvarra Stables
The Juvarra Stables contain a collection of the royal family’s modes of transportation, from a river gondolla, to the royal coach and other broughams, all the way to childrens toy coach.
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
The wall is surrounded by a historical account of a trip up the River Po using the gondola from Venice to Turin.
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Juvarra Stables – Turin, Italy
Alfieri Stables
Today these just appear as a hallway depicting the transition from a palace in ruin to full restoration. Some of the photographs in the collection are strinking and it is well worth thoughful look and some consideration.
La Venaria Reale – Ruin and Restoration, Alfiere Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Ruin and Restoration, Alfiere Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Ruin and Restoration, Alfiere Stables – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Ruin and Restoration, Alfiere Stables – Turin, Italy
The Gardens
The gardens here include several, the most conspicuous one is the Flower Garden. But there is also several orchards and three distinct terraces that one can walk through and enjoy the well manicured estate.
La Venaria Reale – Flower Gardens – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Flower Gardens – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Flower Gardens – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Pig Sculpture in wood, Flower Gardens – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Patti, Flower Gardens – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Reflecting Pool, Flower Gardens – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Gondola Pool – Turin, Italy
Church of Saint Hubert
One has to walk to the Church of Saint Hubert from within the complex near the stables, outside entry is not possible. All of the pews have been removed, only the artwork, frescoes and a high altar remain, everything else is gone.
La Venaria Reale – Church of Saint Hubert – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Church of Saint Hubert – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Church of Saint Hubert – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Church of Saint Hubert – Turin, Italy
La Venaria Reale – Church of Saint Hubert – Turin, Italy
Restaurants
Il Convito della Venaria
Just on the corners of the Piazza della Repubblica and Via Andrea Mensa is the ristorante Il Convito della Venaria. A fine place for lunch, though probably a bit pricier than some of the alternatives, though restaurants and cafes appear to get sparser and sparser as you walk back towards the train station, so word of warning. We had a simple lunch of Bruschetta and two different pasta dishes, Patti had Maccheroncino al Tochio with Eggplant, Zucchini and Olives in a red sauce and I had the Agnolottini del Plin Piemontese Style, both were delicious.
Il Convito della Venaria – Pasta with Olives and Squash – Turin, Italy
Il Convito della Venaria – Plin Piemontese – Turin, Italy
This area includes the Moorish Castle of São Jorge and a number of the overlooks that the area enjoys. Of course, there is also Lisbon Cathedral, which actually looks like it might have been destroyed by the great 1755 earthquake and rebuilt afterwards, but the cathedral and area were largely spared from any damage due to that quake.
Lisbon Cathedral – Exterior – Lisbon, Portugal
Perhaps contrary to popular belief, Lisbon and Porto are very busy ALL YEAR. It appears that since RyanAir has a HUB in Porto, everyone and his cousin comes to the area for at least the weekend and many for the entire week. This not doubt puts real stress on Porto, which I can not imagine during the summer when it is really hot and full of tourists.
Lisbon on the other hand is a larger city and can handle more people, however, it has the double wamy of having cruise ships dock as well. So expect the lower parts of Lisbon to be always crowded.
Some walk from the Chiado part of town, where our hotel was located, and across the promenade of R. Augusta, is a totally different part of the city, Alfama. Here you can find the Santa Apolónia train station; in fact, check any train ticket you have that travels to Porto or beyond, and you might notice that it might not be necessary to go all the way to Oriente train station, some of those trains actually start in Santa Apolónia.
Tagus River to the Ocean – Lisbon, Portugal
If you walk the area it is quite steep, so be prepared, or for those less inclined to walk and climb, take an alternate mode of transportation like the 12E Tram, a Tuk-Tuk or the bus.
Overlook of Gra̤a РLisbon, Portugal
Church of Our Lady of Grace
The Church of Our Lady of Grace stands on top of one of the hills on this side of the city. It has a beautiful ceiling in the nave, but the altar is rather plain and typical among other churches we have seen.
Church of our Lady of Grace – Lisbon, Portugal
Church of our Lady of Grace – Nave – Lisbon, Portugal
Adjacent to the church is the Convent of Grace, which is temporarily being used as a modern art museum. However, it is nice just to drop in and see the fascinating Portuguese tiling that adorns the walls.
Church of our Lady of Grace – Convent – Lisbon, Portugal
Church of our Lady of Grace – Convent – Lisbon, Portugal
Castle of São Jorge
The Castle of São Jorge is a large Moorish castle with a commanding view of the overall area of Lisbon. It has a surrounding wall with a central castle and a number of amenities, including a cafe and a restaurant.
Castle Gate and Wall – Lisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РTagus River РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РTagus River and Bridge of the 25th of April РLisbon, Portugal
Though you can purchase tickets at the gate, we found the entire staff appeared to be very confused and we got numerous conflicting stories as to what was available, when and where we had to queue in line. We decided to purchase our tickets online, this was actually quicker and more convienent. However, we still had to stand in a line for about an hour, and it isn’t even tourist season, so bring your patience.
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РLisbon Overlook Area РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РPoints of Interest in Tile РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РOld Bronze Cannon РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РInterior РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РPeacocks РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РEntrance to Castle proper РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РInterior of Castle РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РInterior of Castle, Ramparts РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РInterior of Castle РLisbon, Portugal
Castle of Ṣo Jorge РInterior of Castle РLisbon, Portugal
Church of Saint Vincent de Fora
The Church of Saint Vincent de Fora is actually pretty far from everything else, but still walkable. From the Church of Grace and some of the observations points, it can be easily seen in the distance, usually with the National Pantheon dome looming in the frame.
Church of St. Vincent de Fora – Dome of the National Pantheon – Lisbon, Portugal
The interior is actually quite spartan and perhaps not worth the effort. However, for a fee you can enter other portions of the grounds like the sacristy, which is known to be far more opulent than the church itself. Having been in so many churches in the past few months, we decided to save our money and continue our travels.
Saint Vincent de Fora – Exterior – Lisbon, Portugal
Saint Vincent de Fora – Nave and Interior – Lisbon, Portugal
Noted in history as the port from which Vasco da Gama departed for his adventures to India, this port town’s most noticeable attribute is it tower. But there is also the monastery, its cloister and the church, all of which represent fabulous examples of the late Gothic Portuguese Manueline style of architecture.
Monastery Square – Lisbon, Portugal
Jerónimos Monastery and the Church of Saint Mary of Bethlehem
When you exit the tram the first thing you notice is the Church of Saint Mary of Bethlehem across the street. Then the Jerónimos Monastery comes into view, as an extension to these architectural marvels.
Church of Saint Mary of Bethlehem – Jerónimos Monastery – Lisbon, Portugal
Church of Saint Mary of Bethlehem – Jerónimos Monastery – Lisbon, Portugal
After we visited the Church of St. Vincent we stopped at a small restaurant along the way back called Rendez Vous. They have sort of an eclectic menu which probably does not appeal to everyone, but we found the food and wine very good and would commend the place to anyone looking for something a little different.
Rendez Vour Restaurant – Tuna Salad – Lisbon, Portugal
Rendez Vour Restaurant – Greek Salad, Bread and Fries with Olive Oil and Oregano – Lisbon, Portugal
After a dismal start and a break in the weather, we were able to explore the city of Porto a bit more rigorously. There are probably only a handful of streets that do not go up or down, so have your trekking legs prepared.
Vila Nova de Gaia – Duoro River – Porto, Portugal
São Bento Train Station
The inner city train station, and perhaps the original Porto Central Station, is the São Bento Train Station. Known for its tiled waiting hall, it is known now more for its artwork than for its use as a primary station; Campahnã having eclipsed it as the main train station now. Unfortunately, it is beset by a very large public works project outside at the moment, so access is through side entrances for the most part.
Sao Bento Train Station – Entry Hall – Porto, Portugal
Sao Bento Train Station – Entry Hall – Porto, Portugal
Sao Bento Train Station – Tracks – Porto, Portugal
Praça da Ribeira
A scenic spot on the River Duoro in the center of the old city is the Praça da Ribeira. It has several pieces of art to enjoy and the Cube Fountain, which is surrounded by a myriad of restaurants and cafe tents. It is along the Cias de Ribeira or promenade where you can enjoy a nice walk, listen to music or just enjoy the river.
Pra̤a da Ribeira РPorto, Portugal
Pra̤a da Ribeira РPorto, Portugal
Pra̤a da Ribeira РPorto, Portugal
Pra̤a da Ribeira РCube Fountain РPorto, Portugal
LuÃs I Bridge
Between the Praça da Ribeira, RibeiraDoPorto and the other side of the river, or Vila Nova de Gaia, is the LuÃs I Bridge, which was originally proposed by Gustave Eiffel, even though he did not win the competition to build it.
Pra̤a da Ribeira РLuis I Bridge РPorto, Portugal
Luis I Bridge – Douro River Upstream – Porto, Portugal
Luis I Bridge – Vila Nova de Gaia – Porto, Portugal
Luis I Bridge РView of Pra̤a da Ribeira РPorto, Portugal
Pra̤a da Ribeira РLuis I Bridge РPorto, Portugal
Vila Nova de Gaia
On the other side of the river is the area or civil parish of Vila Nova de Gaia. This prefecture or parish you can find many of the great port wine houses, such as Sandeman, Kopke and Warres to name a few. It also has a very nice river side promenade that can be enjoyed on a nice sunny day.
Vila Nova de Gaia РPra̤a da Ribeira РPorto, Portugal
Vila Nova de Gaia – Sandeman Port – Porto, Portugal
Vila Nova de Gaia – Duoro River – Porto, Portugal
Vila Nova de Gaia – Duoro River – Porto, Portugal
Churches
Our visit here continues with a few other churches, which we were unable to see the previous day.
Church Of Saint Anthony
A regular church by any measure, the church of St. Anthony does have a remarkable gilded altar, which would be the prize of any structure.
Church of Saint Anthony – Outside – Porto, Portugal
Church of Saint Anthony – Nave and Altar – Porto, Portugal
Church of Saint Anthony – Altar – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church
Best known for its Portuguese tiled exterior, the Carmo Church sits on top of the hill next to the Lion Fountain and its park. The tiling on the outside is unfortunately covered with a gauze, no doubt to protect the surface of the tiles from prolonged exposure to the elements, so taking photographs at a distance is probably best.
Tickets For Two – Carmo Church – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Entrance with Church of the Carmelitas on the left – Porto, Portugal
The interior is nice and in the baroque style of churches. Its other claim to fame are the side altars depicting Christ in one form of tribulation or another.
Carmo Church – Nave from above – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Organ – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Nave and Altar – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Nave and Organ from above – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Side Altar – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Side Altar – Porto, Portugal
The Hidden House
Between the Carmo Church and the Church of the Carmelites is the Hidden House. A four story structure built between the two to prevent the appearance of impropriety, though it has had other uses throughout its 250 years.
Carmo Church – The Hidden House – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – The Hidden House – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – The Hidden House – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – The Hidden House – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – The Hidden House – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – The Hidden House – Porto, Portugal
The Museum
The museum of the Carmo Church houses the typical treasure and other important items used and passed down by the church through the years. There are some things of note, like the collection of hands, as well as other peculiar things that have to be seen to believe.
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Carmo Church – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Restaurants and Cafes
The restaurants and cafes in Porto come in clusters, perhaps due to it being a tourist hot spot. They seem to line most of the more important streets and more heavily trafficked areas.
Casa Deolinda
A good spot for lunch would be the Casa Deolinda right within the Praça da Ribeira. We actually felt more compelled to eat here only due to the weather, but we were not disappointed. The food was good and the service was above what we had experienced in other places. The prices were not too bad either, considering its location.
Pra̤a da Ribeira РRestaurant Deolinda РPorto, Portugal
Restaurant Deolinda – Vegetable Soup with Tuna Salad – Porto, Portugal
Restaurant Deolinda – Vegetable Soup with Cod Fish Fritters and Hot Chocolate – Porto, Portugal
The weather too, did not disappoint.
Fabrica da Nata Cafe
Known for its Portuguese Nata, or Pastel de Nata, are a custard cream delight found at Fabrica da Nata. There is a special little room within the cafe where they prepare these treats inside a glass enclosure. The cappuccino in Portugal is bit different from its Italian parent, it has more milk and is usually not as strong.
Fabrica da Nata Cafe – Making Pastries – Porto, Portugal
Fabrica da Nata Cafe – Inside – Porto, Portugal
Fabrica da Nata Cafe – Breakfast – Porto, Portugal
Popina Restaurant
On the smaller scale, if you are looking for an authentic Portuguese adventure in cuisine, look no further than Popina. They have classic dishes here that are served like appetizers and are meant to be shared, so think family-style in a way. You select several items from the menu, all of which are brought out when they are ready, and them divide them accordingly. The order in which they are brought out though can appear a bit confused and disorderly, but bear with the process and you should not be disappointed.
Wanting to visit Porto, after hearing such good things about the city from family and friends, we decided to book a trip during the off season, March in fact. Our Tickets For Two were of course electronic, so no photographs of them, sorry.
Getting There
From Turin there are two direct flights twice weekly to Porto, Portugal with RyanAir, which is also a designated hub of this carrier. Two weeks ago we booked our stays and flights, well knowing the weather during this time of year is very undependable, it did not disappoint.
Turin Airport – Gate 20, Bound for Porto – Porto, Portugal
Turin Airport – The Nose Of Our Plane – Porto, Portugal
The flight was a little over two hours and left in the evening, in fact all the flights on Mondays and Fridays between these two cities are evening flights. We left around 6:30PM and arrived a little after 9:00PM, but it is actually 8:00PM local time, since you gain an hour.
RyanAir Flight – Coming Into The City – Porto, Portugal
Our arrival was bumpy and wet, so after we arrived, Patti and I decided to take a taxi instead of the metro. It was a good decision, first it only cost us thirty Euros and second, it was pouring out; so getting door to door service was very helpful.
Carris Hotel Ribiera
The Carris Hotel Ribiera in Porto is no doubt a collection of a few building that have been extensively renovated. It is close to the water and midway down the river embankment, so no matter which was you walk there will be a hill.
The accommodations are modern enough, though there are a few oddities and some unpleasant things, for one the bed in the room was very hard. Another unfortunate oversight, the safe provided in the room is not bolted to the wall or closet, so anyone can easily just pick it up with all of your possessions and leave the room; we therefore chose not to use it.
Porto – The City
The city of Porto, or Oporto, may pose difficulties for some. For one it essentially lays on the very steep banks of the River Douro, which has its source deep in central Spain, and therefore is very hilly.
The River Douro – Ribeira Square – Porto, Portugal
Street Car or Tram – Porto, Portugal
The Streets Under Rain – Porto, Portugal
The Streets Under Rain – Porto, Portugal
The city is known for its buildings having tiled facades, as well as many of its famous buildings, like the Sao Bento train station and its churches and cathedral.
Typical Street – Porto, Portugal
Churches and Cathedrals
There are many churches and cathedrals in the city, some are free to enter, others have been repurposed and charge a fee.
Parish Church of St. Nicholas
The Parish Church of Saint Nicholas was the first church we visited. We were stuck by its tiled exterior. The interior has an amazing golden altar with a painting of a scene after the crucifixion.
Parish Church of St. Nicholas – Entrance – Porto, Portugal
Parish Church of St. Nicholas – Altar and Inside – Porto, Portugal
Church of Saint Francis
The Church of Saint Francis is without a doubt, one of the most beautiful churches we have been lucky enough to visit. Almost the entire interior is decorated with carved wooden and gilded ornamentation depicting all different scenes from Catholicism.
Church Of Saint Francis – Entrance – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Its Gilded Wooden Interior – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Its Gilded Wooden Interior – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Its Gilded Wooden Interior – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – A Gilded Wooden Tree With Figures – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Side Chapel – Porto, Portugal
The Church Museum
The museum houses an impressive collection of church artifacts and treasures, it is probably worth the reasonable cost of entry alone.
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum, Religious Sculpture Room – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum, Religious Sculpture Room – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum, Religious Sculpture Room, Old 17th Century Wooden and Iron Strongbox – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum, Treasury Room – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum, Treasury Room – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Museum, Old Tapestry – Porto, Portugal
The Crypt
One of the more extensive crypts we have seen. It also has a peculiar floor that has removable panels, no doubt for easy access to the remains in place in each sarcophagus.
Church Of Saint Francis – Crypt – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Crypt – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Crypt – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Crypt – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Crypt – Porto, Portugal
Church Of Saint Francis – Crypt Bone House – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral
Ostensibly the Porto Cathedral is crowning jewel of the church in the city, however we did not find it as interesting as St. Francis. There are several self-guided tours to chose from, including the Bishop’s quarters which we decided against. However, the rest of the grounds are interesting, if only for the tile work, or Azulejo, for which the cathedral and most of the city is so keenly known.
Porto Cathedral – Statue of Vimara Peres – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Patti in front of the Delft Tiling – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Courtyard – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Portico – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Courtyard – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Delft Tiling – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Delft Tiling – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Right Apse – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Nave and Altar – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Rose Window – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Left Apse – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Left Apse, Side Chapel – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Side Chapel – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Bronze and Baptismal Font – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Bells – Porto, Portugal
Porto Cathedral – Main Bell – Porto, Portugal
Clerigos Church
Though we did not go in, there is a fee to enter, we enjoyed the church from the street. It wasn’t really clear from our research that it was particularly known for anything, so we decided to skip this church.
Clerigos Church – Porto, Portugal
Torre Dos Clerigos
Likewise, the clock tower associated with it looks impressive from the street and probably has some interesting points inside, however, again we chose not to indulge on paying for entry, since we had no inclination for climbing the stairs to the top, we had already seen an overview of the city from other vantage points.
Clerigos Church Clock Tower – Porto, Portugal
Restaurants and Cafes
Most restaurants and cafes in Porto are small, actually very small, and you will be lucky to find a place to sit down if you are not lucky or willing to wait. For dinner it is always best to make a reservation, almost all restaurants take and honor them, though some may restrict the amount of time you may keep you table.
Forno Velho
This restaurant is part of the Carris Hotel Ribiera in Porto and serves a limited, but very good selection of food from their menu. We ate here because it was late, around 9:30PM and raining outside. Though they do get a premium price for their entrees, the food was very good and well prepared, and we received a fifteen percent discount on our bill.
Hotel Carris Porto-Ribeira, Forno Velho Restaurant – Red Mushroom Rissotto – Porto, Portugal
Hotel Carris Porto-Ribeira, Forno Velho Restaurant – Veal Tataki with apple and peppercorns, potatoes with speck – Porto, Portugal
Rocinha Cafe
On our first morning in Porto we ate at the Rocinha Cafe, which lies around the corner on the same block as our hotel. It offered an English Breakfast for ten Euros each, and we were able to substitute our cappuccinos as our beverage of choice, so our total bill was twenty Euros.
Rocinha Cafe – English Breakfast – Porto, Portugal
A Bifana Portuguesa Restaurant
For lunch we ate at A Bifana Portuguesa Restaurant. This establishment is obviously owned by an owner of a vineyard or larger farm in the area, since they have a particular brand of wine. Expect good food with a paced, if not slow service, since there is only one server and one cook. Oh, and if they bring out hot sauce that has an eye-dropper in it, it most definitely serious stuff, so administer appropriately on your dish.
A Bifana Portuguesa Restaurant – Menu – Porto, Portugal
A Bifana Portuguesa Restaurant – Kale and Potato Soup with Wine – Porto, Portugal
A Bifana Portuguesa Restaurant – Bifana Portugese Sandwich Traditional – Porto, Portugal
A Bifana Portuguesa Restaurant – Bifana Portugese Sandwich Traditional, Hot Sauce in an Eye Dropper – Porto, Portugal
Incontro Bistro
If you are looking for a small traditional Italian dinner look no further than Incontro Bistro, it is essentially a hole in the wall with a kitchen and seven tables. We sat next to the kitchen and had a wonderful time enjoying the cacophony and smells. The only one thing to point would be they only serve macaroni pasta, no long pasta, so you have to choose from one of those.
Incontro Bistrot – Kitchen – Porto, Portugal
Incontro Bistrot – Caprese for Two – Porto, Portugal
Incontro Bistrot РFusilli with Tomatoes and Basil, Penne with Rag̼ РPorto, Portugal
Incontro Bistrot – Panna Cota with Berries – Porto, Portugal
Anyone who has ever had an interest in trains, or perhaps would just enjoy a trip down memory lane, the Museo Ferroviario dell Puglia might be the place to stop on a lazy day during vacation or the weekend.
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia
Located in Lecce is the Museo Ferroviario della Puglia, or the Train Museum of Puglia. The museum has an extensive collection of period photographs, models and dioramas which reconstruct the evolution of the carriage compartment and other railroad memorabilia from 1937 onwards. From the first nineteenth century carriages with their steam locomotives, which were very similar to the old stagecoaches, the visitor enjoys a tour through railroad history. With displays on the Trans European Express (TEE), there are not only Italian examples of carriages, locomotives and communication history, but also examples from other European countries. There is also a brief display on the development of public railroads in America, before they were forced to their demise by politicians beholding to the automobile and oil industries, never to recover. The entrance fee is 5€ per person and worth every Euro. It took a little over an hour to complete the tour, stopping for photographs and reading many of the displays.
Warning: The opening and closing times for this museum may vary, so check to make sure you have plenty of time to get there before you try to go. The staff close the doors a little under an hour before the posted closing time and will not entertain any new visitors, so get there early or well within the closing time posted, or you will be turned away!
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Tickets For Two – Lecce, Italy
The Building And Sheds
The building where the museum is housed were former workshops of the Squadra Rialzo, or State Railways. These were in full operation until 1992 when their functions were transferred to newer facilities in Surbo Scalo.
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Entrance – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Entrance Accolades – Lecce, Italy
In the workshop, customary maintenance was performed on all carriages, locomotives and freight wagons at the time. Its name is derived from the fact that maintenance for the rolling stocks of the trains were actually carried out here for all axles, wheels, in addition to the carriage bodies and their contents. The current facility consists of two sheds, the first erected in the 1930s, the second with the trusses was built later, sometime in the 1970s. Both were used for numerous purposes, including offices, warehouse stocks, carpentry, forge, upholstery and heating systems. The yard had accommodation to raise wheel sets with a hoist, so that they may be reconditioned and maintained.
The Story
There is a long exhibit that details the history promised in the introduction. Taking you through the stages of evolution of the twentieth century train system in Italy. There are numerous boards to read, posters and model carriages to see along the first stage of the exhibits.
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Tour – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Tour – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Tour – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Carriage 1937 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Posters – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Postal Service – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Italian Signs – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Cars from 1901-1940 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – American Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – American Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – English Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – English Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – German Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – German Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – German Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Swiss Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Tour – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – French Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Mitropa Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Southern Italian Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Southern Italian Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Southern Italian Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Southern Italian Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Southern Italian Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – French Lines – Lecce, Italy
The Carriages, Locomotives and other Railcars
There are life size exhibits of some of the carriages, freight cars, locomotives and other vehicles, some of which you can actually enter.
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Water Pump for Steam Engines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Follow The Arrows – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Tour – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Bagagliaio/Riscaldatore FS VDrz 809.251 Heated Carriage – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Conductor Station – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Conductor Station – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Hot Water Heater for the VDr 917 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Exterior of Old Carriages – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Toilets – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Exterior of Old Carriages – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Mail or Post and Cargo Room – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Second Class – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Southeast Line – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Carriage Connections – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Second Class – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Cargo and Freight – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Exterior of Carriage, Carrozza Passeggeri FSE CTcr 454 Milan – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Exterior of Carriage Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Exterior of Carriage, Carrozza Passeggeri FSE C 151 – Lecce, Italy – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Anonima Ferrovie Salentine (AFS) Carri Merci Aperti FSE L 4000 + P 6221 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Exterior of Bagagliaio/Postale FSE DU 950 e DU 951 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Vessel for Wine, the Carri Merci Chiuso e Cisterna FSE Ma 5000 + F 1402 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Diesel Engine – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Machine – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Steam Engine, Locomotiva a Vapore FSE N. 316 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Steam Engine, Locomotiva a Vapore FSE N. 316 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Spring, Machine and Baggage – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Steam Engine, Locomotiva a Vapore FS Gr.905.043 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Steam Engine, Locomotiva a Vapore FS Gr.835.244 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Steam Engine, Locomotiva a Vapore FS Gr.835.244 Boiler – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Electric Engine, Locomotore Diesel-Elettrico FSE BB 159 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Electric Engine, Locomotore Diesel-Elettrico FS E626.033 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Electric Engine, Locomotore Diesel-Elettrico FS E626.033 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Engine, Automotore FS 216.0042 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Engine, Locomotore Diesel-Ellettrico FSE BB 169 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Engine, Locomotori Ellettrici FS E.323.105 + E.324.105 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Engine, Automotore FS 207.023 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Freight Yard Engine – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Steam Engine, Locomotiva a Vapore FS Gr.835.244 Boiler and Controls – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Engine, Automotore FS 207.023 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Engine, Automotore FS 207.023 Controls – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Steam Engine, Locomotiva a Vapore FS Gr.835.244 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Locomotore Elettrico FS E 444.069 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Il “Treno dell’Acqua” FS Dm 98.891 + M 950150 + M 550842 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Il “Treno dell’Acqua” FS Dm 98.891 + M 950150 + M 550842 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Il “Treno dell’Acqua” FS Dm 98.891 + M 950150 + M 550842 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Il “Treno dell’Acqua” FS Dm 98.891 + M 950150 + M 550842 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Carrozze Passeggeri FSE ABz 758 + Bz 614 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Carrozze Passeggeri FSE ABz 758 + Bz 614 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Carrozze Passeggeri FSE ABz 758 + Bz 614 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Carrozze Cellulare FS Kz 48.622 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Carrozze Passeggeri FSE ABz 758 + Bz 614 – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Carrozze Cellulare FS Kz 48.622 – Lecce, Italy
Dioramas and other Models
In the later stages of the exhibits, there are numerous large train models, electrified train sets and other dioramas to enjoy. The scale of some of the train sets is impressive and one can immerse oneself in their activity for quite some time.
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – German Lines – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Diorama – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Diorama – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Diorama – Lecce, Italy
Railroad Communications, Equipment and Forgery
There is a fairly large display on railroad communications from the mid to later twentieth century. Multiple versions of telephony equipment, switch control rooms and even maintenance shops with an old forge.
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Models – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Devices Used In The Yard – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Devices Used In The Yard – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Devices Used In The Yard – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Devices Used In The Yard – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Devices Used In The Yard – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Devices Used In The Yard – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Devices Used In The Yard – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Signals, Switches and Signs – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Erick enjoying the displays – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Erick posing in his uniform – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Communication Equipement – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Communication Equipement – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Diorama – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Blacksmith tools – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Machine Lathe – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Drill Press – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Giant Machine Lathe For Resurfacing Wheels And Other Rail Equipment – Lecce, Italy
Museo Ferroviario della Puglia – Old Electric Devices, Radios and Communications – Lecce, Italy
The Museo Ferroviario della Puglia, or Railway Museum of Puglia, is located on Via G. Codacci Pisanelli 3 in Lecce. From the entrance of the castle, it is probably a twenty-five to thirty minute walk along Viale Francesco Lo Re under the railroad underpass and to the right; it is located behind the existing train station of Lecce.
The second largest city in Apulia is called Lecce and is located on the Salentine Peninsula of Italy. It is rich in Baroque architecture, most of which is in the form of Lecce limestone and is often referred to as the Florence of the South. It one of the oldest settlements in southern Italy, with activity dating back to neolithic times.
Getting There
From Brindisis, or most other larger towns and cities on the east coast of Mezzogiorno, the FrecciaArgento is perhaps to quickest way to arrive. From Brindisi it is a short twenty three minute ride, a bit longer on the regional trains.
Lecce Train Station – Lecce, Italy
The City
Lecce is a typical ancient city which was at one time circumscribed with a protective wall with three main gates. The streets in the old Città Vecchia, or old history city, are narrow and mostly paved with stones.
Typical city street – Lecce, Italy
Palazzo Castromediano – Lecce, Italy
Narrow carless streets – Lecce, Italy
Old Roman columned wall – Lecce, Italy
The government here must be very careful of the city center, since it appears to have mitigated much of the traffic you would normally find in other similar cities of this size, making pedestrian traffic all that more enjoyable.
Palazzo Lecciso – Lecce, Italy
Interesting balcony supports – Lecce, Italy
Palazzo Castromediano – Lecce, Italy
Palazzo Di Giustizia – Lecce, Italy
Ports, Gates, Columns And Castles
There are numerous ports, gates, columns and obelisks in Lecce. These are spread out all of the city and are well labeled on most maps. The Triumphal Arch, or Porta Napoli, is the largest and one of the three gates to enter the Città Vecchia.
Porta di Napoli – Front – Lecce, Italy
Porta di Napoli – Back – Lecce, Italy
Porta di Napoli – Back – Lecce, Italy
Porta di Napoli – Back – Lecce, Italy
There is also the Porta San Biagio and a smaller one called the Arco di Prato, or Arch of Prato, which is somewhat hidden away within the narrow city streets.
Porta San Biagio – Lecce, Italy
The Arch of Prato – Lecce, Italy
Arch of Prato – Lecce, Italy
The Obelisk of Terra d’Otranto can be seen close to the Porta Napoli and is rather tall. It was erected in 1822 in honor of one of the rulers of the Two Sicilies. On the other side of town one can find the War Memorial for soldiers lost in war.
Porta di Napoli – Obelisco di Terra d’Otranto – Lecce, Italy
War Memorial – Lecce, Italy
In the Piazza Saint Oronzo you will find the Colonna di Sant’Oronzo, or the Column of Saint Oronzo. It is a tall pedestal with Saint Oronzo on top. The column itself was assembled from pieces of the one that fell apart in Brindisi in the mid sixteenth century, its twin can be found near the port of that city.
Column of Saint Oronzo – Lecce, Italy
The Castello de Carlo V, or Castle of Charles V sits on the eastern edge of the historic city and below the Giuseppe Garibaldi Public Gardens. It is a large structure and tours are offered, all of which are guided, so you cannot tour the grounds unaccompanied. A short walk from there you will the public park or gardens, which is always a good stop to rest your feet after a few hours of walking.
Castello Carlo V di Lecce – Lecce, Italy
Castello Carlo V di Lecce – Lecce, Italy
Giuseppe Garibaldi Public Gardens – Lecce, Italy
Giuseppe Garibaldi Public Gardens – Fountain – Lecce, Italy
Roman Ruins
Lecce has in its old historic city not one, but two Roman amphitheaters. Unfortunately for us, both were being restored while we visited and photography was very difficult in both cases.
Roman Amphitheater of Lecce – Lecce, Italy
Roman Amphitheater of Lecce – Lecce, Italy
Roman Amphitheater of Lecce – Lecce, Italy
Roman Amphitheater of Lecce – Lecce, Italy
Roman Amphitheater, 2nd Century – Lecce, Italy
Roman Amphitheater, 2nd Century – Lecce, Italy
Where We Stayed
For the second time on this trip we have booked a Bed and Breakfast. I still cannot say I am fan, but there are times when alternatives to hotels may make a better fit. However, we only commit to such alternatives directly and after thorough research.
L’Orangerie d’Epoque
We stayed at a Bed and Breakfast called L’Orangerie d’Epoque on Viale Francesco Lo Re near the Porta San Biagio. A rather large building with a central portico that appears to have one owner.
L’Orangerie d’Epoque Bed & Breakfast – Entryway and Portico – Lecce, Italy
Our room was on the ground floor with its own entrance to the portico. The entryway has a beautiful mosaic tiled floor, reminiscent of ancient Rome or Pompeii.
L’Orangerie d’Epoque Bed & Breakfast – Entrance Mosaic and Door – Lecce, Italy
The room was spacious, with a fireplace and split up into almost four equal parts. There was a large dining area by the entrance that flowed into a living room with several couches.
This small restaurant has good food and wine at fairly reasonable prices. We actually went there late for lunch, around 14:40 and they still took our order and served us.
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Entrance – Lecce, Italy
The service was very good and the menu had a decent choice of both local cuisine and other more general Italian items to chose.
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Front of the Building – Lecce, Italy
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Entrance, Cassa and Wines – Lecce, Italy
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Wines – Lecce, Italy
I ordered the Eggplant Polpette in Ragu Sauce with Ricotta Cheese, an Insalata Mista (mixed salad) and the Orecchiette with re-milled Semolina with Scottona Red Ragu and Patti ordered the Ciceri and Tria Pasta and shared my Polpette. All the dishes were very good. The wine was Negroamaro from the region and it was very good, served by the glass. The desserts you can see below and the espresso was also very good, not bitter at all.
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Eggplant Polpette in Ragu Sauce with Ricotta Cheese – Lecce, Italy
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Insalata Mista – Lecce, Italy
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Ciceri and Tria Pasta – Lecce, Italy
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Orecchiette with re-milled Semolina with Scottona Red Ragu – Lecce, Italy
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Salted Pistachio Semifreddo with Chocolate Crunchy, Martucci Spumone Hazelnut Chocolate – Lecce, Italy
La Cucina Di Mamma Elvira – Espresso and Molinari Sambuca – Lecce, Italy
Miro Wine And Lounge
We stopped here for a drink and decided on a quick bite to eat, since we were both getting hungry and it was only a little passed eleven. We were actually surprised they were serving lunch.
Miro Wine and Lounge – Patti outside waiting for soup – Lecce, Italy
Miro Wine and Lounge – Erick outside waiting for soup with a glass of red – Lecce, Italy
While we waited, I ordered a glass of Negroamaro from Puglia, a very nice wine that reminds me of Barbera. They had a nice bean and cereal soup on the menu that Patti and I decided to try and it was magnificent.
Miro Wine and Lounge – Bean and Cereal soup with Croutons – Lecce, Italy
Tranquillo
The restaurant Tranquillo is a more modern restaurant with two locations in Lecce, we chose the one located at Piazza Sant’Oronzo. The service and food were very good.
Tranquillo – Entrance – Lecce, Italy
Tranquillo – Menu – Lecce, Italy
Tranquillo – Inside – Lecce, Italy
Tranquillo – Inside – Lecce, Italy
We dined late again at around 14:30, opting for a larger lunch and skipping dinner. We find this preferrable to eating again late in the evening and going to bed with a full stomach, something that we find does not lend itself to a good night sleep as we get older. I ordered the Apulian Bombette with Cheese on greens with a side order of Potato al Forno and Cicorie (Chickory), and Patti ordered the Cicorie on Pureed Fava Beans.
Tranquillo – Chicory side and Chicory on Pureed Fava Beans – Lecce, Italy
Tranquillo – Potatoes al Forno, Ricetta Bombette with cheese and a glass of red wine – Lecce, Italy
On a lark, Patti decided to go to Trani, Italy for the day. The morning was clear, blue and fantastic, so we could not expect better weather.
Trani Centrale – Trani, Italy
VIa Cavour – Trani, Italy
Trani is a seaside town on the Adriatic Sea in the region of Apulia. It has great wine, olive oil and food. It has an active fishing community which supports the local economy.
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta
– Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Lighthouses – Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Basilica from the castle – Trani, Italy
The City
The city itself is well laid out, even for an ancient town. The historic center though windy and curvy is very clean and well labeled for tourist. After about an hour here we found it a most unexpected delight and were glad we came.
Chiesa Beata Maria Vergine del Monte Carmelo (o del Carmine) – Trani, Italy
Piazza Sacra Regia Udienza – Port of Trani – Trani, Italy
Narrow streets – Trani, Italy
One of the many portals – Trani, Italy
One of the many portals – Trani, Italy
Door with no stairs – Trani, Italy
Orologie Tower – Trani, Italy
Long portal – Trani, Italy
Auditorium San Luigi – Trani, Italy
Church of Saint Claire – Trani, Italy
The Golden or Ancient door – Trani, Italy
Another church – Trani, Italy
The Piazze Quercia has a least one cafe or bar which has outside seating. It is a great place in the spring to stop before lunch and get a drink. We find it relaxing just to watch the locals and the boats going in and out of the harbor, and of course, enjoying the sunshine and the fifty degree weather.
There is a beautiful walkway or sidewalk that enables you to walk around the entire port. Unlike Bari, where you can do this if you can tolerate the smell, the port is clean and well maintained.
Live shrimp – Port of Trani – Trani, Italy
Fishing boats – Port of Trani – Trani, Italy
Port of Trani – Trani, Italy
Port of Trani – Trani, Italy
The fishing community appears to be active daily and some of the ships sell their catch right on the pier. You can find anything from live shrimp and fish to octopus. So, if you can cook in, bring your grocery bag and your wallet.
Parco Giochi Villa Comunale
The Parco Giochi Villa Comunale is located to the right of the Port of Trani as you walk as far as you can in the city. It has a portal that leads up to a great observation place, so that you get a commanding view of the boats and the jetties containing the lighthouses, which are all a different color.
Porto or entrance – Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta
– Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Bar Boschetto – Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Fishing boat going out to sea – Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Park Seal – Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
There are some interesting monuments and an old anchor. Walking further, you will happen upon a aviary at the end of the park where they house parakeets.
We actually found it to be an amazing little park with little things to see, along with the aviary with parakeets they also have real parrots, which you will eventually notice are in the trees all around you. When we were here, they were all doing their crazy mating calls and dances on the ground, what a cacophony!
Parrots – Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Parrots – Parco Giochi Villa Comunale – Trani, Italy
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta
In the Piazza Duomo is the Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta, also known as Trani Cathedral. This cathedral is dedicated to Saint Nichola the Pilgrim. It is a very large structure, but it only opens later in the day around 15:30.
Piazza Duomo Front – Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Trani, Italy
Piazza Duomo Front – Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Trani, Italy
There are some restrictions when you enter, so please read the signs, though we saw no enforcement; having said that, it was winter and the slow season, so it may be impractical for them to oversee traffic during that time.
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Frescoes – Trani, Italy
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Frescoes in the Crypt – Trani, Italy
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Orthodox bust in the Crypt – Trani, Italy
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Altar in the Crypt – Trani, Italy
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Entrance – Trani, Italy
Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta – Nave – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani
The Castello Svevo di Trani in just a small walk from the Piazza Duomo and Basilica Cattedrale Maria Santissima Assunta. There is actually not much to see, but it does have a few small things of interest. At one time it was a prison and had other incarnations as you go back in time to protect the town. It is also noted to have a large clock on its edifice.
Castello Svevo di Trani – Entrance – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Patti and the Basilica from the castle – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Diorama of the castle – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Painting as you enter – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Sala Federico II room – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Ruins leading to the prison area – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Architecture of the castle – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Old side portal in the castle – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Strange window – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Old prison area of the castle – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Lookout to the sea – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Old prison area of the castle – Trani, Italy
Castello Svevo di Trani – Large outside area – Trani, Italy
Restaurants
Since we were only doing a day trip, we were only able to visit one restaurant and that was for lunch.
Giù a Sud, Green Bistro
The Giù a Sud, Green Bistrot is located at Piazza Cesare Battisti in Trani. After viewing the menu outside we decided we would give it a try and we are glad we did.
Giù a Sud, Green Bistrot, Piazza Cesare Battisti – Inside – Trani, Italy
Giù a Sud, Green Bistrot, Piazza Cesare Battisti – Bar and Inside – Trani, Italy
Giù a Sud, Green Bistrot, Piazza Cesare Battisti – Primitivo and bread – Trani, Italy
Giù a Sud, Green Bistrot, Piazza Cesare Battisti – Bean and Lentil soup with croutons – Trani, Italy
Giù a Sud, Green Bistrot, Piazza Cesare Battisti – Orecchiette and Broccoli Rape – Trani, Italy
The food and restaurant is sourced locally from green producers and prepared using artisanal recipes. They had a bean and lentil soup with croutons which was just delicious. I am pretty sure it is probably something that comes off the menu in the summer, but you may ask, in Italy you never know, especially in Mezzogiorno. We thoroughly enjoyed it.
In part one was an initial take on how Bari is an ancient city built on a peninsula in the Adriatic Sea on the east coast of Italy. In this second part, some of the cathedrals and museums that are interesting and available to see upon visiting are discussed.
Lungomare – Bari, Italy
Lungomare – Bari, Italy
One of the many archways – Bari, Italy
The streets in the evening – Bari, Italy
One of the many archways – Bari, Italy
Museums
Of course ancient Bari has its museums, most of which record activities by humans that predate the Roman Empire. In some places in Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, one might come to the conclusion, that if one could dig deep enough one would uncover the big bang as well.
Questura and Municipal buildings – Bari, Italy
The Svevo Castle
If the Bari peninsula were to be looked at like it was a triangle, then the Castello Normanno-Svevo or Norman-Swabian Castle, would occupy the entire lower left hand angle. It is a huge building that occupies a considerable amount of real estate on that side of the old city.
Castello Svevo di Bari – Outside back wall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Outside wall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Outside wall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Outside wall showing mote – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Outside wall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Castle Well – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Outside wall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Cappella Palatine – Bari, Italy
Surrounded by a moat that is currently grown in, the exterior appears well kept in spots, but requiring considerable work in other places.
The Swabian Castle Museum
The museum does not contain many artifacts per se, but it does have a very good multi-media presentation and displays in some of the larger spaces.
Castello Svevo di Bari – Federiciano portal stone – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Patti in courtyard – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Lion guarding entrance – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Diorama- Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Artifacts before the castle – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Entrance – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Artifacts before the castle – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Great Hall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Great Hall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Great Hall – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – archaeological dig – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Frescos – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Multimedia shows- Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Barletta bust – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – plaster casts – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – plaster casts – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – plaster casts – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – plaster casts – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – plaster cast of a capitol – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – plaster casts – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Griffins from Cathedral Saint Marie Assunta and San Sabino, 12th century – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Castello Svevo di Bari – Griffins from Cathedral Saint Marie Assunta and San Sabino, 12th century – Bari, Italy – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Basilica of Saint Nicola portal – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – altar – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – plaster casts – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Mary with Jesus and two angels from Cathedral dell Assunta and SaÃnt Michele Archangel, 14th century – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – ornate plaster casts – Bari, Italy
Castello Svevo di Bari – Mary with Jesus and two angels from Cathedral of Saint Maria Assunta, 14-15th century – Bari, Italy
Churches and Cathedrals
Cathedral Of Bari
The Cathedral of Bari was built mostly in the last thirty years of the twelfth century. It was built on top of the destroyed Byzantine church that used to stand, as well as older Roman ruins.
Cathedrale di Bari – Outside – Bari, Italy
The interior is rather majestic for an ancient Catholic church and owes much to the simplicity of its architecture.
Cathedrale di Bari – Baptism font – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Aisle along Nave – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Nave – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Right Apse – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Left Apse – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Nave – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Frescos – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Papal Seal – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Column – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Altar – Bari, Italy
The Crypt
The church, architect and builders ensured that below this amazing edifice would be a crypt. The crypt preserves the remains of Saint Sabinus in the main altar, but there are other notable sarcophagi as well.
Cathedrale di Bari – Crypt entrance – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Crypt’s Ornate Ceiling and Columns – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Crypt Main Altar – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Crypt side altar – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Sarcophagus of Colomba di Sens, Crypt – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Crypt – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari РCrypt cr̬che РBari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Crypt Fresco – Bari, Italy
The Archaeological Ruins
Alongside and even below the crypt are some amazing archaeological ruins that extend all the way back to the third century. This includes some incredible mosaics, frescos and even a partial roman road, where one can even see the remains of where the wagon wheels once traveled.
Cathedrale di Bari – Sarcophagus – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman floor – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman Mosaic floor – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Ornate Mosaic floor – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman Road – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman ruins – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman Mosaic floor and Fresco – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman ruins – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman Bath – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Another Sarcophagus – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Archaeological Roman ruins – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Stairs and a Sarcophagus – Succorpo underneath the Cathedral – Bari, Italy
The Church Museum
Finally there is a small museum showing old church vestments and other relics. Not particularly of much interest, so if you wish to skip this part you probably can without much guilt.
Cathedrale di Bari – Church Museum – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Church Museum – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Old Hymnal Parchment, Church Museum – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Ornate Capitol, Church Museum – Bari, Italy
Though having said that, the most interesting thing I though they had were a set of old hymnal parchment rolls.
Cathedrale di Bari – Old Hymnal Parchments, Church Museum – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Old Hymnal Parchments, Church Museum – Bari, Italy
Cathedrale di Bari – Old Hymnal Parchments, Church Museum – Bari, Italy
Restaurants
Ciclatera
Ciclatera, under the sea is a great spot to stop for a drink or to have a small bite to eat. Located on the Lungomare right after the Fort of San Antonio, this little cafe or restaurant has a great bar and food menu. We only stopped for a drink, but what we could see of the menu, the prices seemed pretty reasonable.
Ciclatera, under the sea – Cafe and Bistro – Bari, Italy
Piccinni 28
Located one block over in Murat from the old city on via Niccola Piccinni, is Piccinni 28 Italian restaurant. It appears to be a favorite for locals, since we saw numerous work groups come in and have lunch.
Inside – Restaurant Piccinni 28 – Bari, Italy
They offer pizza and a typical Italian menu with some Apulian twists to it. For us, it was trying something new, so we of course picked the Spaghetti All’Assassina, or assassin’s spaghetti, an overcooked spicy dish with ragu that is rather tasty.
As a Christmas gift from our children, we recently had a weekend stay at the Carolina Inn in beautiful Chapel Hill, North Carlolina. Celebrating its one hundred year anniversary this year, this old colonial inn is an integral part of the town and the university.
Carolina Inn – Reception – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ideally located within walking distance to almost everything within the town, it is a good home base for those who would rather not get in and out of the car constantly. Within five or ten minutes, you can reach Franklin Street and its restaurants, cafes and shopping, and the college is just a stone’s throw away. Parking is $26/night for either self-park or valet service and the lot is attended overnight.
West Franklin Street – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
West Franklin Street – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The UNC Campus
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill dominates the town and gives Chapel Hill that old university town feel. As one walks through the grounds of the university, it is easy to see the different architectural and building styles that were adopted throughout the years.
UNC Campus – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
UNC – Old Well – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The walkways are appointed with old style colonial lamps in many areas and in some areas it is possible to think of what it might have been like back in those times. The architectural wonders even extend to some of the fraternity houses and other ancillary buildings on the campus. The only other remarkable things of note are the massive and beautiful trees that line most of the streets, many of which probably have been around as long as the university itself.
Fraternity House (Alpha Sigma of Chi Psi) – UNC – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Fraternity House (Alpha Sigma of Chi Psi) – UNC – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Moorehead Planetarium
The Moorehead Planetarium is always a nice place to visit, especially if you have children. For a modest fee, you can enjoy both a planetarium show, as well as the museum, which also provides hands-on learning exhibits for younger visitors.
Moorehead Planetarium – One Sky, Many Eyes Show – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The most enjoyable part however is the planetarium itself. Although they were totally booked on the Saturday and we were unable to see a show with our small party of five, they did have opening for Super Bowl Sunday. So we were able to enjoy their wonderful presentation, “One Sky, Many Eyes”. Though totally automated now with computers and an updated projection system, I do miss the old planetarium projectors.
Ackland Art Museum
If you are ever in the area, I cannot think of a better place to spend a few hours of your afternoon than at the Ackland Museum. Frankly, for me it was a surprise and delight, the free admission making it even more so. Having nothing else to do on our somewhat rainy day and weekend, we decided to go after our quick stroll down Franklin Street (there are signs on the pavement on Franklin, so just follow them if you are not sure).
Ackland Museum – Entrance – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Entrance – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Funerary Stele with Islamic Epigraphy (c. 1209) – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Hindu Bodhisattva, Tang dynasty – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Indian Perforated Screen (c. 1605-27) – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Iranian Balustrade with Arabesque decorations (c. 1106) – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Amphora exhibits – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Untitled, Anibal Villacis – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Meissen Porcelain figure – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Spanish Dancer, Degas – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – African Art Exhibit – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Wind River, Nebraska, Bierstadt, 1830-1902 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Art Exhibit – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Art Exhibit – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The exhibits are eclectic in way and a bit varied, but most somehow unexpectedly go together, perhaps owing to very good planning and the way the building splits into separate areas.
I found the mixed media video of the eyeball and voice over rather well done, strange and quite interesting. Shown on a sphere, it actually had that eyeball look.
Ackland Museum – Splendor and Darkness, Dinh Le, 1998 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Splendor and Darkness, Dinh Le, 1998 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Splendor and Darkness, Dinh Le, 1998 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The museum also has a nice collection of Indian, Southeast Asian and Indonesian Art. Some contemporary and others a bit older. All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed it and found it to be a total surprise, not expecting too much when we entered.
Ackland Museum – Buddha (c. 300 CE) – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Buddha (c. 300 CE) – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Indian Dancing Ganesha – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Indian Vishnu Trimurti seated on Garuda – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Ackland Museum – Bonsai, Hung Liu, 1992 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Restaurants
Chapel Hill offers a wide variety of restaurants. Most of the ones that populate the small area around Franklin street, cater to the university students, so you will find them somewhat budget friendly and internet centric. The more upscale restaurants, you will find further out of the main town and on the periphery.
TRU Cafe
A small cafe down Henderson Street, it has both inside and outside seating and definitely caters to the university students.
Tru Cafe – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The service is very relaxed and all orders are done via their website, which at the time of this writing, was a nightmare and terrible. However, after only several attempts, we were all able to submit our orders. We were not surprised to learn later, that some of our orders did not come out and we had to re-ordered them; so, bring your patience with you. And no, they do NOT have their own phone application and no, the service people will not take your order.
Tru Cafe – Dana, Tristan and Lindsey – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Osteria Georgi
This small restaurant is situated on the corner of a small strip mall on South Elliot street and Franklin. They have both inside and outside seating and a fairly attentive staff. We sat outside, since it was tolerably warm out and it was packed inside; we didn’t want to catch anything before traveling back to Europe in the next few weeks.
Osteria Georgi – Menu – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Osteria Georgi – Soup – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Osteria Georgi – Pasta Vongole – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Osteria Georgi – Vallana, Gattinara, 2012 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The food was good, I ordered the lasagna which was very tasty and my wife order the Pasta Vongole. The Gattinara was excellent and I would commend it to anyone willing to try something a bit different.
Carolina Coffee Shop
The Carolina Coffee Shop says it is the oldest restaurant in town and is split in two, one side does only coffee and take-out, while the other offers a restaurant experience with full staff. Wanting the sit down experience, we tried the restaurant.
Carolina Coffee Shop – Bar – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Carolina Coffee Shop – Patti – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Carolina Coffee Shop – Erick – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Carolina Coffee Shop – Hot Chocolate – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Carolina Coffee Shop – BLT – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
The sandwiches are very good and the service was timely. It can get busy during peak lunch hour, so if you are willing to wait a bit and eat later, the atmosphere is more relaxed and subdued.
IL Palio Restaurant
One of our old-time favorites is the Il Palio in Chapel Hill. Located in the Siena Hotel, this restaurant usually features exceptional service and even a piano player while you order and eat. Unfortunately, we were there on Super Bowl weekend so the service was limited to the outside bar area and there was no music.
Siena Hotel – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Siena Hotel – Il Palio Restaurant – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
However, that did not prevent us from having a good time and enjoying the excellent food that is provided by the kitchen staff. Additionally, compared with other places, the prices no longer look as inflated as perhaps in previous years.
Il Palio Restaurant – Pasta Fagioli – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Il Palio Restaurant – Asparagus and Tenderloin – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Il Palio Restaurant – Chicken and Mushrooms – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Il Palio Restaurant – Cherry Gelato – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Il Palio Restaurant – Chicken and Mushrooms – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Il Palio Restaurant – Broglio, Barolo, 2019 – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
We would like to thank our children for the gift, we had a wonderful time. It was a great gift and being the travelers we are, we wouldn’t mind doing it again in a different town in North Carolina, if the occasion were to present itself.
Budapest is a very clean city, with a strange, almost quiescent nature to it. For the most part there is a noticeable absence of police, yet there appears to be very little crime, or at least the appearance of no crime, unlike other countries like Italy or France, where the authorities parade around with weapons and make their presence known.
The Parliament Building – Pest – Budapest, Hungary
The Pest side of Budapest has most, if not all, of the hotels and many of the restaurants. It has monuments on every corner and more history than you probably want to consume. Both sides are very active, but the Pest side is the side where all the boats dock, like Viking River Cruises and others, so it can get quite busy after ten o’clock in the morning.
Interesting building balcony – Pest – Budapest, Hungary
Though beautiful, after a while you realize, like so many other cities in Europe, it’s all about the facade. It’s all brick underneath, mortar and stone.
Memorial 1952 – Pest – Budapest, Hungary
It’s just a facade – Pest – Budapest, Hungary
Parliament Tour
For anyone visiting Budapest, the Parliament on the Pest side is an attraction that must be seen. However, be careful when purchasing tickets! There are a few official looking websites out there that purchase them for you at double the price. Check and double check your search engine and map application to ensure you have the official website. It will be quite obvious if you do, since you will receive your tickets immediately, instead of waiting for them to „appear“ in your mailbox.
The front – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Looking at the front of the building from the land side, you enter from the right and below ground. There are also some interesting monuments before you enter worth seeing, so keep your eyes open for them.
From the river side – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
From the land side – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Monument – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Entrance – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
The tour is rather long but very thorough. We were even able to catch a glimpse of their unicameral legislature in-session! We were actually quite impressed with the thoroughness and professionalism of the tour. Though we thought they spoke at length, perhaps too long, about the crown jewels, which of course you were unable to photograph.
Layout – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Entrance – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Stained windows – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Stairwell – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Hallway – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Ornate ceilings – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Beautiful hallways – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Windows, close-up – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Another hallway – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Sentinel figures – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Unicameral session – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
In session – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Ceiling – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Full window – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Ornate wood framing – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Another hallway – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Main stairwell – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Details main stairwell – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Another look, main stairwell – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Ceiling – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
The dome – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Occupations for protection – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Occupations for protection – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Receiving hall – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Receiving hall – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Occupations, close-up – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
More windows – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
The great stag – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Giant porcelain vase – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Occupation close-up – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
More occupations – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Legislature building – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Architecture – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Old heating and air-conditions controls – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Cigar holders and trays – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Anther hallway – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Ericka – Descending the stairway out – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Descending stairway out – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Ancillary hallway – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
The back areas – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Small museum – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Exhibit – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
The history of the building – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Large diorama of the building – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Electric controls for the building – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Statues – The Parliament Building – Budapest, Hungary
Restaurants
Here are a few more restaurants we visited in Budapest, one of which I wish I never went to due to social media idiots.
New York Cafe
There is a term in America and it is quite apropos here, „lipstick on a pig“. My thoughts regarding this cafe were that it was totally over-priced for the quality of food and service received, though the interior was quite impressive
Entrance – The New York Cafe – Budapest, Hungary
Outside lamp – The New York Cafe – Budapest, Hungary
In fact, that can be considered one of the downsides to this cafe; there were so many people mulling around and taking photographs, it was actually quite annoying at times. Especially in this day of social media, where everyone has to take the so called infamous and narcissistic „selfie“ or „influencer“ pose. It makes a person like me almost puke at times.
Inside – The New York Cafe – Budapest, Hungary
Ceiling – The New York Cafe – Budapest, Hungary
Main hall – The New York Cafe – Budapest, Hungary
The food was sub-par for such a restaurant; we had the Pasta Pomodoro and thought although the pasta was done properly, the sauce tasted of nothing. The wine on the other hand was satisfactory in taste, but way over-priced at 50€/bottle. It wouldn’t have been so bad, except the service was just not so great.
Hungarian Goulash Soup – Pick Bistro Deli – Budapest, Hungary
Inside – Pick Bistro Deli – Budapest, Hungary
Inside – Pick Bistro Deli – Budapest, Hungary
They have many great Hungarian lunch items to choose from and the staff and service were excellent for us. They also have plenty of open-air seating, which during a warm day makes the visit all that much more enjoyable.
