Archive for the 'History Stuff' Category

Encounter the Heritage of the Castles of England

Friday, August 27th, 2010

Over 30 old castles still stand in the southeast area of England as reminders of the days when Great britain was a country split by ruling families who created solid fortresses to guard their lands from invaders, both overseas and domestic. Contemporary castle excursions allow visitors to obtain a feeling of how significant these superbly conserved complexes are to the rich history and way of life of Britain.

Exploring the the royal collections of notable aristocrats including Mary Queen of Scots during guided trips of the Arundel Castle in West Sussex provide tourists a feeling of the splendour and style that were all around the British aristocracy in medieval times. The specialist guides tell stories that bring the past alive as they recount famed struggles and stories that surround this exciting castle.

At the majestic Guildford Castle, tourists can safely ascend to high on top of the Great Tower to see the panoramic perspective that was utilised by the castle’s defenders to see approaching enemy soldiers. Indoors are showcases that let guests examine designs of the castle as it was formerly made in the 1300s. Educational videos describe the function that Guildford Castle performed in British heritage.

The minute the magnificent Herstmonceux castle comes into sight, visitors are astounded by the moat that emphasizes how solid defenses were needed to dissuade invaders when this castle was made in the violent times of 15th century England. Although once in ruins, the castle has been wonderfully restored and is now house of the Queen’s Bader Institute. Encircling the castle beside the moat are public grounds that echo the Elizabethan era when gardens were exquisite play grounds for the aristocracy. After the twisting forest paths that lead towards woodland sculptures that are viewable in the Shakesphere garden, Rose Garden and the Herb Garden offer tourists a feeling of how the romance of chivalry was once played out amongst these magnificent surroundings.

High atop the well-known white cliffs of Kent, the Dover Castle’s breath-taking views throughout the English channel make it apparent why this ancient site has been put to use for centuries to defend the south eastern shores of Britain. Dover Castle was constructed by William the Conqueror in 1066 after his success at the Battle of Hastings, yet there are damages encircling the castle that date back much further, and evidence of enhancements through the years. Witnessing the many versions of this strategic site, which include a hall once referred to as Arthur’s Hall, gives modern day tourists an idea of Britain’s rich history.

When you come into Hever Castle, the childhood household of Anne Boylen, the homely atmosphere is quite different from other southeastern English castles. The exhibits of personal items and copies of the gowns worn by the six wives of Henry the VIII reflects the richness of 16th century Tudor lifestyle. But the group of weapons, armor and instruments of torture and execution in the Council Chamber talk of a much darker side of life full of high intrigue and authentic risk that lurked in the medieval courts.

Find out more details about some of the many Castles in England

The Background about Hampton Court Palace

Wednesday, August 11th, 2010

Hampton Court Palace has been house to Henry VIII along with other members of the royal family. It is the setting of formal gardens, beautiful works of art, and centuries of history. Fans of English historical past have a possibility to see how royalty once lived, look at regal rooms from the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and stroll via magnificently restored gardens. It’s a must-see destination in the London location.

Hampton Court Palace is best known as the home of Henry VIII and can be a major tourist destination within the United Kingdom. It was constructed in the mid 1520s by Thomas Wolsey after he obtained a 99 year lease on the property in 1514. Henry VIII got the property from Cardinal Wolsey inside the late 1520s and commenced to make several additions towards the palace. Not a lot of the original building remains due to the substantial remodeling and rebuilding by Henry VIII. King Henry enlarged his own living quarters, rebuilt parts of the kitchens, reconstructed the Chapel Royal, replaced much of theGreat Hall, and added tennis courts to the grounds. By the time he finished the upgrading around 1540, there were tennis courts, bowling alleys, gorgeous gardens, large dining halls, plus a vast hunting park.

The palace carried on to be employed by royalty, from Henrys children through to the House of Stuart. In 1689, Sir Christopher Wren demolished components of the Tudor Palace and started constructing a new construction for King William III and Queen Mary II. In 1760, when George III became king, he made the decision that Hampton Court ought to no more be a royal home. Hampton Court Palace is essentially two palaces from diverse eras: a Tudor palace produced by Cardinal Wolsey and Henry VIII, along with a Baroque palace constructed by William III and Mary II.

There is much to see when visiting Hampton Court Palace. One of the most pleasant things to experience could be the world well-known hedge maze. Construction commenced in 1690 as a form of entertainment for William III. It is now over a half mile of winding paths surrounded by seven foot high hedges covering one-third of an acre. Sixty acres of natures most stunning shades mixed with vines, sculptures, and paintings produce an idyllic scene.

The Tudor kitchens ought to not be missed; these kitchens have been built between 1530 and 1737 and have been capable of providing meals for 600 individuals. The chefs within the Hampton Court kitchens cooked a yearly average of 8200 sheep, 2330 deer, 1240 oxen, 1870 pigs, and other numerous animals. All this food was washed down with an annual consumption of 600,000 gallons of beer. The Royal Chapel, with its ornate ceiling should furthermore be on everyones schedule.

Going to Hampton Court Palace is quick and easy from London. It’s located next to the River Thames, southwest of London. It can be effortlessly accessible by train, bus, taxi or car. It is a must-see attraction when going to the London region for those who really like history, royalty, architecture, and stunning gardens.

Locate more information about Hampton Court Palace

Things to Know about Dalmatia

Monday, March 29th, 2010

Having a deep history that runs to the Great Romans, Dalmatia is one of the nicest place in Europe. It is not another region of administration rather it is a fairfield of geography that runs from Croatia to Montenegro being owned by the two states alike.

Dalmatia and its features

In the historical point of thought, Dalmatia is not just a geographical region, but it also represents
some culture and settlements. But in the
contemporary point of view, Dalmatia is most far-famed for its
varied nature and variety in the environment.

Covered with Dinaric Alps for the most part of the country visitors find it easy to spent time in Mediterranean climate in the costal areas.
When it comes to the summer, it is invariably hot and dry. Due to vivid
differences in the climate, Dalmatia has become one of the main tourist attractions in Europe.

There are many travel sites that operate tour services / packages to the area of Dalmatia. These travel
internet sites provide online booking facilities, so the travelers can visit the areas for leisure purpose. These travel packages also comes united with leisure – so let’s take a look at some common offers.

Traveller’s Heaven

Travelers are free to choose the kind of accommodation they favour be it private apartments or hotel rooms. However, hotels are not frequently found in there so you’d be better off settling for a room or an apartment.

When it comes to Dalmatia, there are many common destinations such as Vodice, Srima, Tribunj, Sibenik, Pirovac, Jezera, and
Betina. The travel website or portals usually extend accommodation facilities in almost all destinations mentioned
above. All these destinations have their own set of divergences. Vodice
is considered one of the biggest tourist attractions of the region, where there are a lot of facilities for contemporary tourist.
When it comes to Tribunj, the tourists may not find such luxury as in Vodice. While Tribunj is one of the oldest Dalmatia towns, it accommodates the ambiance from 10AD, making things laid back in nature for a tourist.

Things to try out in Dalmatia

If you are visiting Dalmatia, be sure to visit Pirovac as it is one of the best destinations around. You will find sea food
festivals in here. The tourists who are interested in sport fishing can also engage in fishing in Vransko Lake where a variety of fishes are
available. At the peak of the tourist season, there are many traditional events presented such as singing competitions, Pirovac Night, and the First Voice of
Pirovac.