TLCTravels

When we walked through the Archaeological Museum of Rhodes, I couldn't help but to think of it was a filming location for the Games of Thrones or House of the Dragon. Every turn I made, I could see the ghosts dressed in full armor and hear the sounds of metal clanging. The Museum used to be a Knights Hospitaller. You may ask what that is...because I wondering the same so I went to YouTube and this is what I found. Here's a history lesson for you and I. From as early as the 14th century, knights embarked on epic crusades, donning armor and riding into battle in their quest for glory and faith. These valiant warriors didn't just wield swords; they became symbols of a tumultuous era driven by ambition, adventure, and the quest for power across distant lands. The hospitallers started out as a charitable medical organization. When they recognize they had to protect the pilgrims, they learned how to fight.   The Knights Hospitallers cared for injured knights during battles and of...

We have always had a fascination for Greek temples such as the Parthenon, Erechtheion, Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Poseidon to name a few. I had always said, if these marble columns could talk, we would hear all the stories that went on from the construction of these temples to its destruction. It is sad seeing these temples in ruins. If I only had a time machine, it would be incredible to travel back in time to see these temples when they were complete and celebrated. Did you know the Parthenon had a full size Athena statue in it? Unfortunately when the Romans conquered Athens, they removed Athena and hid it somewhere in the Roman Empire. The Romans thought if they extinguish the light emanating from Athena, it would break the Greeks. Explore 3D view of the Parthenon The Temple of Zeus is more in ruins because Emperor Theodosius banned pagan practices and commanded its army to destroy Greek temples dedicated to the Gods. This post is used to document our travels to Greece and for...

When you visit Athens, Greece, everybody thinks of the Acropolis. The Acropolis has a number of historical sites to see including the Parthenon, Nike temple, the Erechtheion and two theatres, a Roman theatre and a Greek theatre. This post is about the Erechtion. Walking up to the Erechtheion is really something. This ancient building has lady columns supporting the roof. They are known as the Porch of the Maidens. The temple goes by another name, the Temple of Athena Polias. It is a Greek Ionic temple dedicated to the goddess of Athena. Ironically, the maidens at the temple are not within reach. In other words, you cannot walk up to the maidens and touch them nor take a closeup picture of it like you can with the real ones in the Acropolis museum. The ones that are outside and at the temple are only casts. The maidens are incredibly detailed. Each maiden is unique. In other words, each one is not a repeat of another. The braids on the back show a different pattern. This is why they rec...

Discovering Ancient Wonders: A Visit to the Acropolis Museum I f you’re a fan of history, art, or just enjoy exploring new places, a trip to the Acropolis Museum in Athens should be at the top of your bucket list. But don't be looking for ancient marble sculptures for sale here because you won't find any. My advice to you is to visit the Acropolis Museum before visiting the Acropolis. Why?  Visiting the Acropolis Museum before the actual Acropolis site is recommended because  the museum provides valuable context and insights into the history and significance of the Acropolis, making the site visit more meaningful and enriching .   The museum displays original artifacts, including sculptures and architectural elements, that were once part of the Acropolis structures, allowing visitors to better understand their original appearance and purpose.  And this is where to see the Parthenon marbles. As you approach the Acropolis Museum, you can’t help but feel a thrill of exc...

Everyone needs to experience the charm of Nafplio with a stay in one of its luxury hotels near Palamidi Fortress, where breathtaking views meet five-star comfort. Nafplio is ideal for romantic getaways and elegant escapes with upscale accommodations and world-class service in the heart of Greece's Peloponnese region. If getting married at a picturesque Venetian castle, against stunning coastal views and amongst fortresses sounds perfect, then make  Nafplio  your wedding venue. Fairytale,  beauty, romance, medieval history and a comfortable stay are all to be found in this seaside town located in the northeast of the Peloponnese. Above the city of Nafplio, you'll find the Palamidi Fortress. Built by the Venetians in 1714, this fortress is reachable by car or bus from the city center. It is only 2km away but for those who are active and energetic, they can climb the 999 steps to reach the first watchtower. But be forewarned, climbing those stairs will burn those leg muscles...

When we left the ship to explore Rhodes, we walked along a road that had the ocean on the right and the city wall on the left.  It was a quiet day like if it was a holiday or something. We crossed the road and walked up to a cathedral that was in ruins. There were a lot of feral cats there and nothing else. We continued to explore the area and found a large square and a long cobblestone road that led to a large medieval castle. The Palace of the Grand Master is where the administrative center of the Order of the Knights of Saint John were. It was built in the 7th century as a Byzantine citadel but in 1856, lightning strucked a gunpowder magazine and exploded. It killed many people and caused the upper floors of the palace to collapse. The lower floors survived but nothing on the upper floors did. It wasn't until 1937 and 1940, the upper floors were rebuilt without knowledge of historical significance or design.  History buffs think the Colloso of Rhodes used to stand on top of...