The post 3 of Europe’s Oldest Libraries You Have to Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This stunning Baroque-style library hosts many thousands of texts, some dating to the medieval period. While the library has existed since the 8th century AD, the current building in which the books are housed dates to the mid-1700s. It is one of the oldest monastic libraries in the world, and well worth a visit.
One of the most famous libraries in Europe, it’s said that the Milk Abbey library inspired the author Umberto Eco when he was writing his novel, “The Name Of The Rose”. Founded in the 1700s, the library holds many rare and valuable texts, including some that date back to 900AD!
Founded in 1602, the modern Bodleian Library is in fact a collection of 26 separate libraries spread across the University of Oxford. Many of these are open to the public (although some cost money to enter), and it really is impressive to enter and see the rows upon rows of ancient, highly valuable books.
The post 3 of Europe’s Oldest Libraries You Have to Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Incredible Greek Temples You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>If you’re visiting the beautiful island of Rhodes, don’t neglect to visit this amazing temple complex. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the site is situated right beside the sea, offering some great panoramas and photo opportunities.
This temple, situated on the southern tip of mainland Greece, is dedicated to the god of the sea. Offerings left here indicate that the temple was popular amongst the elite and aristocracy, whilst carbon dating suggests that the temple was constructed around 700 BCE. If you think that’s old, archaeologists have evidence that there was a religious site here as long ago as the 11th century BCE! This area of Greece is often quieter and more relaxed than the large cities or popular islands, so take your time exploring the temple complex and surrounding area.
Standing on top of the Acropolis and looking out over the city of Athens is an experience not to be missed. What makes the climb up even better? Having the opportunity to visit the stunning temple of Athena Nike (meaning “Athena of victory”). Like most Greek temples, the structure is beautiful but incomplete, but luckily you have the chance to see some of its original friezes and statues which are housed nearby in the Acropolis Museum.
The post 3 Incredible Greek Temples You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Of The Best French Castles You Have To Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Looking like something out of a fairy tale, Mont St-Michel is located on an island that is accessible via a causeway when the tide is low. Although the structure on top is technically an abbey rather than a castle, there’s still plenty of fascinating history to be found at this site. The abbey was used as a prison by French forces during the Hundred Years War and has also functioned as a stately home, a place of refuge, and a religious sanctuary. Nowadays, tourists flock to it to experience some of those impressive vistas and to learn about French culture and history.
Similar to Mont St-Michel, this castle is situated on an island. However, this chateau has perhaps not fared as well from its waterside location. During its long history, it has been flooded several times, eventually being abandoned in the nineteenth century. Over the past twenty years, it has been restored and is now accessible to tourists interested in experiencing the interior of a medieval castle.
This famous and impressive castle has inspired a board game named after the town in which it is found. With views from the battlements stretching out to the Pyrenees in the north and Provence to the south, visiting this castle is a truly immersive experience. Once you’ve had your fill of history, you can enjoy dining in one of the many restaurants situated inside the castle’s fortifications.
The post 3 Of The Best French Castles You Have To Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Abbeys to Visit in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Perhaps the most powerful abbey during the medieval period, Rievaulx Abbey now stands as a shell of its former self. However, despite the destruction the ruins are incredibly compelling, and it’s easy to see how powerful and influential the men who once ruled the abbey would have been. The abbey stands at the edge of a very pretty village which is also worth visiting, once you’re done gazing at the remains of this historical site.
Starkly silhouetted against the sky, it’s easy to see why Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker to set a portion of his Gothic novel Dracula in the Yorkshire town. Like Rievaulx, not much remains of the abbey that once stood on the clifftop, but the structure that still stands is undoubtedly compelling and beautiful.
Unlike the previous abbeys mentioned here, Buckfast does not stand in ruins. Built on the site of a medieval abbey which was indeed levelled according to the orders of Henry VIII, the modern church was constructed in the early 20th century. However, this site is still well worth visiting from a historical perspective, especially as the formal grounds and gardens have been laid out in imitation of a medieval monastic garden.
The post 3 Abbeys to Visit in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Reasons to Visit The White Horse of Uffington in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>There are several horse hill carvings around the British Isles, but the White Horse of Uffington is the only genuine Neolithic example. It is markedly different in design compared to later versions, and some people have disputed whether it is in fact a horse—it could be a dog or another quadruped. Whatever you believe the carving represents, there is something seriously special about standing and viewing an artwork from several thousand years ago.
Once you’ve had your fill of admiring the white horse, you can enjoy the rest of your surroundings. The horse is carved onto one of a chain of gently rolling hills, so you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the area with the promise of great views. It is worth being aware that as this area is fairly remote, you won’t find a cafe or restrooms nearby.
The location of the hill on which the horse is carved means that it’s a particularly good spot for sunrises and sunsets. On a warm summer’s day, while away the afternoon with a picnic on the hill, before you enjoy a stunning sunset that will light up the valley and plains below you.
The post 3 Reasons to Visit The White Horse of Uffington in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 of the Best UK Sites for Ancient Archaeology appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Avebury is not too far from Stone Henge, which is perhaps the most famous outdoor historical site in the UK. Constructed at around the same time, the Avebury stones form a long line of stone monuments that historians believe were used for ritual purposes. Close by, there is also a mound which is in fact an ancient rubbish tip—as grass and turf grew over the discarded pots and tools, a small hill was formed.
Across the Dartmoor National Park, there are countless Bronze Age artifacts that have been left behind in this rugged and desolate landscape. Check out the impressive Bronze Age village of Grimspound, located three miles away from the village of Moretonhampstead. You could also travel to the White Horse Hill site, where there is a Bronze Age burial chamber which was recently excavated by archaeologists. This chamber yielded some of the most impressive finds, including entirely intact jewelry and clothing.
This famous and impressive wall once spanned the entire width of the country, and even today large sections are incredibly well preserved. While access to the wall itself is free, you can also pay to enter well-preserved Roman-era forts along the length of the wall.
The post 3 of the Best UK Sites for Ancient Archaeology appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Historical Reasons to Visit Pompeii, Italy appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Pompeii hosts some of the best-preserved remnants of art from the ancient Mediterranean world. Whether you’re admiring the wall art in the so-called ‘House of Mysteries’, or observing the stunning detail in a bath-house mosaic, Pompeii is packed with examples of the artistry and expertise of the ancient Romans.
Given how well known the tragic history of the town of Pompeii is, it feels quite surreal to stand in the ancient marketplace and look up at Mount Vesuvius, the cause of so much death and destruction. These days, the mountain appears verdant and benign, although in fact the volcano is classed as one of the most dangerous in the world! It is well monitored by volcanologists, who will have to sound the alarm in order to evacuate one of the most populated areas of Italy, as and when Vesuvius erupts again.
Theaters and live entertainment were key to many people’s lives in the ancient world, and standing inside the remnants of Pompeii’s amphitheater, it’s easy to understand the impact that seeing a live performance here would have had. It is remarkably well preserved and offers a precious insight into the lives of people who inhabited Pompeii thousands of years ago.
The post 3 Historical Reasons to Visit Pompeii, Italy appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 of the Best Historical Sites Around London, England appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This iconic cathedral has stood in central London since 1710, although there was an older structure on the same site which dated back to AD 604! It is possible to book tours around the beautiful building, so that you can learn more about its construction and history from experts. Alternatively, you can enjoy the space by simply walking around the impressive interior and exterior of this stunning cathedral.
This ship dates back to World War II and now functions as an amazing time capsule and museum. Staff advise allocating at least three hours to exploring the nine decks of this ship, as you walk around there are plenty of notice boards and interactive displays providing you with information and insight about this fascinating ship.
Why not pay a visit to the seat of the British government on your trip to London? Sections of the Palace of Westminster date back to AD 1016, and it’s possible to take part in guided tours of the amazing chambers, halls, and passageways inside this incredible structure.
The post 3 of the Best Historical Sites Around London, England appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Of the UK’s Oldest Buildings You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This Roman lighthouse, also found in the South Eastern county of Kent, is over two thousand years old! It is part of the Dover Castle complex, so while you do need to pay to get up close and personal with the lighthouse, you certainly get good value with access to multiple historical sites.
Tucked away in the South East of England is this charming church, which dates back all the way to the 7th century and the dawn of Christianity in the UK! The church is home to several remarkable artifacts and objects, including a stunning font thought to date to the medieval period.
While most of the buildings at this Roman site now lack roof coverings, the impressive foundations give you a sense of the scale—this city was once the fourth largest in the UK! The town was inhabited for around six hundred years, so plenty of fascinating archaeological material has been discovered at Wroxeter over the years.
The post 3 Of the UK’s Oldest Buildings You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Amazing Archaeological Artefacts to See in the National Museum of Ireland, Dublin appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This museum hosts some of the most stunning examples of late Bronze Age jewelry, and observing these amazing pieces, it is hard to imagine how complex the task of making these was with relatively limited technology. The fact that they have survived is also amazing, many of them were hidden away and buried for safekeeping, only to be rediscovered many thousands of years later.
The museum has displayed the bog bodies (human remains preserved in bogs) it holds in its collections in a very sensitive way, holding them at the center of spiral-like structures which feel like entering a tomb or sacred place. Still, seeing these human remains can be a moving experience and some visitors opt out, feeling that having these artifacts on display is disrespectful. If you do decide to visit the bog bodies display, you are certain to be awestruck by the preservation of these remains.
There are several examples of intricate stone carvings in the museum. Some of these have been discovered submerged in bogs, whilst others were removed from their original locations and used in more modern buildings before being rescued and taken to the museum. Some of them were used as place or way markers, whilst others were used as decorative objects in dwellings.
The post 3 Amazing Archaeological Artefacts to See in the National Museum of Ireland, Dublin appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 of Europe’s Oldest Libraries You Have to Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This stunning Baroque-style library hosts many thousands of texts, some dating to the medieval period. While the library has existed since the 8th century AD, the current building in which the books are housed dates to the mid-1700s. It is one of the oldest monastic libraries in the world, and well worth a visit.
One of the most famous libraries in Europe, it’s said that the Milk Abbey library inspired the author Umberto Eco when he was writing his novel, “The Name Of The Rose”. Founded in the 1700s, the library holds many rare and valuable texts, including some that date back to 900AD!
Founded in 1602, the modern Bodleian Library is in fact a collection of 26 separate libraries spread across the University of Oxford. Many of these are open to the public (although some cost money to enter), and it really is impressive to enter and see the rows upon rows of ancient, highly valuable books.
The post 3 of Europe’s Oldest Libraries You Have to Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Incredible Greek Temples You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>If you’re visiting the beautiful island of Rhodes, don’t neglect to visit this amazing temple complex. Dedicated to the goddess Athena, the site is situated right beside the sea, offering some great panoramas and photo opportunities.
This temple, situated on the southern tip of mainland Greece, is dedicated to the god of the sea. Offerings left here indicate that the temple was popular amongst the elite and aristocracy, whilst carbon dating suggests that the temple was constructed around 700 BCE. If you think that’s old, archaeologists have evidence that there was a religious site here as long ago as the 11th century BCE! This area of Greece is often quieter and more relaxed than the large cities or popular islands, so take your time exploring the temple complex and surrounding area.
Standing on top of the Acropolis and looking out over the city of Athens is an experience not to be missed. What makes the climb up even better? Having the opportunity to visit the stunning temple of Athena Nike (meaning “Athena of victory”). Like most Greek temples, the structure is beautiful but incomplete, but luckily you have the chance to see some of its original friezes and statues which are housed nearby in the Acropolis Museum.
The post 3 Incredible Greek Temples You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Of The Best French Castles You Have To Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Looking like something out of a fairy tale, Mont St-Michel is located on an island that is accessible via a causeway when the tide is low. Although the structure on top is technically an abbey rather than a castle, there’s still plenty of fascinating history to be found at this site. The abbey was used as a prison by French forces during the Hundred Years War and has also functioned as a stately home, a place of refuge, and a religious sanctuary. Nowadays, tourists flock to it to experience some of those impressive vistas and to learn about French culture and history.
Similar to Mont St-Michel, this castle is situated on an island. However, this chateau has perhaps not fared as well from its waterside location. During its long history, it has been flooded several times, eventually being abandoned in the nineteenth century. Over the past twenty years, it has been restored and is now accessible to tourists interested in experiencing the interior of a medieval castle.
This famous and impressive castle has inspired a board game named after the town in which it is found. With views from the battlements stretching out to the Pyrenees in the north and Provence to the south, visiting this castle is a truly immersive experience. Once you’ve had your fill of history, you can enjoy dining in one of the many restaurants situated inside the castle’s fortifications.
The post 3 Of The Best French Castles You Have To Visit appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Abbeys to Visit in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Perhaps the most powerful abbey during the medieval period, Rievaulx Abbey now stands as a shell of its former self. However, despite the destruction the ruins are incredibly compelling, and it’s easy to see how powerful and influential the men who once ruled the abbey would have been. The abbey stands at the edge of a very pretty village which is also worth visiting, once you’re done gazing at the remains of this historical site.
Starkly silhouetted against the sky, it’s easy to see why Whitby Abbey inspired Bram Stoker to set a portion of his Gothic novel Dracula in the Yorkshire town. Like Rievaulx, not much remains of the abbey that once stood on the clifftop, but the structure that still stands is undoubtedly compelling and beautiful.
Unlike the previous abbeys mentioned here, Buckfast does not stand in ruins. Built on the site of a medieval abbey which was indeed levelled according to the orders of Henry VIII, the modern church was constructed in the early 20th century. However, this site is still well worth visiting from a historical perspective, especially as the formal grounds and gardens have been laid out in imitation of a medieval monastic garden.
The post 3 Abbeys to Visit in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Reasons to Visit The White Horse of Uffington in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>There are several horse hill carvings around the British Isles, but the White Horse of Uffington is the only genuine Neolithic example. It is markedly different in design compared to later versions, and some people have disputed whether it is in fact a horse—it could be a dog or another quadruped. Whatever you believe the carving represents, there is something seriously special about standing and viewing an artwork from several thousand years ago.
Once you’ve had your fill of admiring the white horse, you can enjoy the rest of your surroundings. The horse is carved onto one of a chain of gently rolling hills, so you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the area with the promise of great views. It is worth being aware that as this area is fairly remote, you won’t find a cafe or restrooms nearby.
The location of the hill on which the horse is carved means that it’s a particularly good spot for sunrises and sunsets. On a warm summer’s day, while away the afternoon with a picnic on the hill, before you enjoy a stunning sunset that will light up the valley and plains below you.
The post 3 Reasons to Visit The White Horse of Uffington in The UK appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 of the Best UK Sites for Ancient Archaeology appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Avebury is not too far from Stone Henge, which is perhaps the most famous outdoor historical site in the UK. Constructed at around the same time, the Avebury stones form a long line of stone monuments that historians believe were used for ritual purposes. Close by, there is also a mound which is in fact an ancient rubbish tip—as grass and turf grew over the discarded pots and tools, a small hill was formed.
Across the Dartmoor National Park, there are countless Bronze Age artifacts that have been left behind in this rugged and desolate landscape. Check out the impressive Bronze Age village of Grimspound, located three miles away from the village of Moretonhampstead. You could also travel to the White Horse Hill site, where there is a Bronze Age burial chamber which was recently excavated by archaeologists. This chamber yielded some of the most impressive finds, including entirely intact jewelry and clothing.
This famous and impressive wall once spanned the entire width of the country, and even today large sections are incredibly well preserved. While access to the wall itself is free, you can also pay to enter well-preserved Roman-era forts along the length of the wall.
The post 3 of the Best UK Sites for Ancient Archaeology appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Historical Reasons to Visit Pompeii, Italy appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>Pompeii hosts some of the best-preserved remnants of art from the ancient Mediterranean world. Whether you’re admiring the wall art in the so-called ‘House of Mysteries’, or observing the stunning detail in a bath-house mosaic, Pompeii is packed with examples of the artistry and expertise of the ancient Romans.
Given how well known the tragic history of the town of Pompeii is, it feels quite surreal to stand in the ancient marketplace and look up at Mount Vesuvius, the cause of so much death and destruction. These days, the mountain appears verdant and benign, although in fact the volcano is classed as one of the most dangerous in the world! It is well monitored by volcanologists, who will have to sound the alarm in order to evacuate one of the most populated areas of Italy, as and when Vesuvius erupts again.
Theaters and live entertainment were key to many people’s lives in the ancient world, and standing inside the remnants of Pompeii’s amphitheater, it’s easy to understand the impact that seeing a live performance here would have had. It is remarkably well preserved and offers a precious insight into the lives of people who inhabited Pompeii thousands of years ago.
The post 3 Historical Reasons to Visit Pompeii, Italy appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 of the Best Historical Sites Around London, England appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This iconic cathedral has stood in central London since 1710, although there was an older structure on the same site which dated back to AD 604! It is possible to book tours around the beautiful building, so that you can learn more about its construction and history from experts. Alternatively, you can enjoy the space by simply walking around the impressive interior and exterior of this stunning cathedral.
This ship dates back to World War II and now functions as an amazing time capsule and museum. Staff advise allocating at least three hours to exploring the nine decks of this ship, as you walk around there are plenty of notice boards and interactive displays providing you with information and insight about this fascinating ship.
Why not pay a visit to the seat of the British government on your trip to London? Sections of the Palace of Westminster date back to AD 1016, and it’s possible to take part in guided tours of the amazing chambers, halls, and passageways inside this incredible structure.
The post 3 of the Best Historical Sites Around London, England appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Of the UK’s Oldest Buildings You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This Roman lighthouse, also found in the South Eastern county of Kent, is over two thousand years old! It is part of the Dover Castle complex, so while you do need to pay to get up close and personal with the lighthouse, you certainly get good value with access to multiple historical sites.
Tucked away in the South East of England is this charming church, which dates back all the way to the 7th century and the dawn of Christianity in the UK! The church is home to several remarkable artifacts and objects, including a stunning font thought to date to the medieval period.
While most of the buildings at this Roman site now lack roof coverings, the impressive foundations give you a sense of the scale—this city was once the fourth largest in the UK! The town was inhabited for around six hundred years, so plenty of fascinating archaeological material has been discovered at Wroxeter over the years.
The post 3 Of the UK’s Oldest Buildings You Have to See appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>The post 3 Amazing Archaeological Artefacts to See in the National Museum of Ireland, Dublin appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>This museum hosts some of the most stunning examples of late Bronze Age jewelry, and observing these amazing pieces, it is hard to imagine how complex the task of making these was with relatively limited technology. The fact that they have survived is also amazing, many of them were hidden away and buried for safekeeping, only to be rediscovered many thousands of years later.
The museum has displayed the bog bodies (human remains preserved in bogs) it holds in its collections in a very sensitive way, holding them at the center of spiral-like structures which feel like entering a tomb or sacred place. Still, seeing these human remains can be a moving experience and some visitors opt out, feeling that having these artifacts on display is disrespectful. If you do decide to visit the bog bodies display, you are certain to be awestruck by the preservation of these remains.
There are several examples of intricate stone carvings in the museum. Some of these have been discovered submerged in bogs, whilst others were removed from their original locations and used in more modern buildings before being rescued and taken to the museum. Some of them were used as place or way markers, whilst others were used as decorative objects in dwellings.
The post 3 Amazing Archaeological Artefacts to See in the National Museum of Ireland, Dublin appeared first on History Chronicle.
]]>