What a treasure trove to visit, where the elephant in the room is never mentioned. The most valuable aspect of this museum is its free admission and its many beautiful mosaics. Among the wealth of write-ups, videos, and display features, these mosaics offer a delightful surprise: a collection of nearly 100 cross-like designs, each more intricate and fascinating than the last.
[Read more…] about A Visit and Questions about the Zetinburnu Mosaic Museum
Jvaris Mama Church with its Armenian and Georgian Churches
In the walled area of the Jvaris Mama complex sits two churches that source in two different orthodox churches. The Jvaris Mama is Georgian while the St. Mary Church is Armenian. The Georgian is active while the Armenian building sits as a hollow shell reserved for pigeons. Let’s explore this monastery complex.
[Read more…] about Jvaris Mama Church with its Armenian and Georgian Churches
Hidden Crosses at the Kocaeli Archeology Museum
The Kocaeli Archeology Museum in Izmit provides insight into the significant Christian history of Nicomedia. Numerous crosses on pillars, monuments, and oil lamps demonstrate how the cross became a life-changing and worth-dying-for symbol.
[Read more…] about Hidden Crosses at the Kocaeli Archeology Museum
How to Tour Ravenna’s three Byzantine periods Chronologically
During my visit to Ravenna, I found myself confused about the significance of the Basilicas and the historical context surrounding them. I observed most tourists entering Ravenna’s Byzantine churches only took a brief look without understanding some of the historical context. So, I decided to approach the situation by mapping out three Byzantine periods that mark the historic churches of Ravenna.
[Read more…] about How to Tour Ravenna’s three Byzantine periods Chronologically