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  • “Madonna and Child next to Chiesa Nuova - Birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi – Snow – Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
Luke 2: 7-20, “and she gave birth to her firstborn son. She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn. Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields and keeping the night watch over their flock. The angel of the Lord appeared to them and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were struck with great fear. The angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For today in the city of David a savior has been born for you who is Messiah and Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.’ And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel, praising God and saying: “Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.’ When the angels went away from them to heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us.’ So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child. All who heard it were amazed by what had been told them by the shepherds. And Mary kept all these things, reflecting on them in her heart. Then the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all they had heard and seen, just as it had been told to them.” “Three things are too wonderful for me, yes, four I cannot understand.” Proverbs 30:18 Going back during the winter, cold and snow overcame Assisi. However, the Madonna and Child Jesus became a Beacon of pervading luminescence.
    Madonna e Bambino accanto a chiesa N..etta
  • “Madonna and Child next to Chiesa Nuova - Birthplace of Saint Francis of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This image was realized while approaching Chiesa Nuova (New Church), of the angelic shrine nearby. As I entered the quaint Bellissimo church, a Franciscan Monk working inside saw me and without reluctance, rose from his desk and graced me with a half-hour tour speaking entirely in Italian. He never hesitated and he never assumed that I was not fluent; yet, he continued to entrust me with every detail. This diminutive church appeared as a mighty Basilica found in the grand populations of Roma, Milano, and Firenze Italia. As we ventured about, he explained every nuance, even the crypt where Saint Francis’ parents reside. Upon completion of the tour, he graciously shook my hand, extended a gentle embrace, and bestowed a blessing in Italian. While not completely understanding his expression of the Italian language, I parted with gratitude and amazement …yet, somehow, I understood his every word. “Three things are too wonderful for me, yes, four I cannot understand.” Proverbs 30:18
    Madonna e Bambino accanto a chiesa N..sisi
  • “Father Peek raises the chalice for adoration - The New Church of San Francesco in Assisi – Luminescense”…<br />
<br />
The reflection of Father Peek in “The Elevation of the Host and Chalice” is after genuflection in adoration. The priest raises them both so that the Faithful may also adore Jesus Christ, true God, and true Man present on the altar. Look at the sacred Body and Blood of Jesus and then say with all your heart (interiorly): "I adore Thee, O Sacred Body of Jesus Christ, Thou art my Lord and my God; I believe in Thee, I hope in Thee, I love Thee above all things." A more ancient elevation of Host and Chalice occurs in the Mass of the Roman Rite while the priest speaks the concluding doxology of the Eucharistic Prayer: Per ipsum et cum ipso et in ipso est tibi Deo Patri omnipotenti in unitate Spiritus Sancti omnis honor et gloria per omnia saecula saeculorum (Through him, and with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honour is yours, forever and ever). The presence in the Roman Rite of this elevation can be traced back at least to the ninth century. The Chiesa Nuova is a church in Assisi, Italy, built in 1615 on the site of the presumed birthplace of St. Francis, the house of Pietro di Bernardone. It was then called Chiesa Nuova because it was the last church to be built in Assisi at that time. This Church appears as a small basilica, and on our first morning in Assisi of my Pilgrimage of 2019, Father Peek offered a venerable Mass. Two of our Pilgrimage couples renewed their vows during the celebration and an abundance of blessings were bestowed upon the faithful. The specular window light from high above the altar once again illuminates the Body and Blood of Christ as the Holy Spirit descends.
    Padre Peek solleva il Calice per L'a..anco
  • “The Glow of the New Church of St. Francis of Assisi”… <br />
<br />
John 8:12 “Jesus spoke to them again, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” This mystical image is one of several altars photographed while touring Chiesa Nuova (New Church)…the birthplace of St Francis. As I entered the beautiful small church, a Franciscan Monk working inside saw me and without reluctance, rose from his desk and graced me with a half-hour tour speaking entirely in Italian. He never hesitated and he never assumed that I was not fluent in Italian; yet, he continued to entrust me with every detail of what looked like a mini Basilica. As we ventured around, he explained every nuance, even the crypt where Saint Francis’ parents reside. Upon completion of the tour, he shook my hand, gave me a gentle embrace, and bestowed a blessing in Italian. While not understanding the language, I left with gratitude and amazement …yet, somehow, I understood his every word.
    Il bagliore Chiesa Nuova di San Fran..sisi
  • “Father Peek raises the chalice for adoration - The New Church of San Francesco in Assisi – Luminescense”…<br />
<br />
The reflection of Father Peek in “The Elevation of the Host and Chalice” is after genuflection in adoration. The priest raises them both so that the Faithful may also adore Jesus Christ, true God, and true Man present on the altar. Look at the sacred Body and Blood of Jesus and then say with all your heart (interiorly): "I adore Thee, O Sacred Body of Jesus Christ, Thou art my Lord and my God; I believe in Thee, I hope in Thee, I love Thee above all things." A more ancient elevation of Host and Chalice occurs in the Mass of the Roman Rite while the priest speaks the concluding doxology of the Eucharistic Prayer: Per ipsum et cum ipso et in ipso est tibi Deo Patri omnipotenti in unitate Spiritus Sancti omnis honor et gloria per omnia saecula saeculorum (Through him, and with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honour is yours, forever and ever). The presence in the Roman Rite of this elevation can be traced back at least to the ninth century. The Chiesa Nuova is a church in Assisi, Italy, built in 1615 on the site of the presumed birthplace of St. Francis, the house of Pietro di Bernardone. It was then called Chiesa Nuova because it was the last church to be built in Assisi at that time. This Church appears as a small basilica, and on our first morning in Assisi of my Pilgrimage of 2019, Father Peek offered a venerable Mass. Two of our Pilgrimage couples renewed their vows during the celebration and an abundance of blessings were bestowed upon the faithful. The specular window light from high above the altar once again illuminates the Body and Blood of Christ as the Holy Spirit descends.
    Padre Peek solleva il Calice per L'a..ense
  • “The New Church birthplace of St. Francis of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This photograph was created while approaching Chiesa Nuova (New Church) at the same time an elderly Italian man was entering for worship and prayer. As I entered the beautiful small church, a Franciscan Monk working inside saw me and without reluctance, rose from his desk and graced me with a half-hour tour speaking entirely in Italian. He never hesitated and he never assumed that I was not fluent in Italian; yet, he continued to entrust me with every detail of what looked like a mini Basilica. As we ventured around, he explained every nuance, even the crypt where Saint Francis’ parents reside. Upon completion of the tour, he shook my hand, gave me a gentle embrace, and bestowed a blessing in Italian. While not understanding the language, I left with gratitude and amazement …yet, somehow, I understood his every word.
    La Chiesa Nuova luogo di nascita di ..sisi
  • “Christ in the Chapel of the Crucifix - Church of the Jesus Rome - Painting by Dino Carbetta”<br />
<br />
In 1540, Saint Ignatius of Loyola needed a church to serve as the center of his newly founded Society of Jesus (the Jesuits), which Pope Paul III formally recognized that year. Saint Ignatius, finding the church too small, began fund-raising to construct a church worthy of the "Name of Jesus." Ignatius was a true mystic. He centered his spiritual life on the essential foundations of Christianity—the Trinity, Christ, the Eucharist. His spirituality is expressed in the Jesuit motto, Ad majorem Dei gloriam—“for the greater glory of God.” In his concept, obedience was to be the prominent virtue, to assure the effectiveness and mobility of his men. All activity was to be guided by a true love of the Church and unconditional obedience to the Holy Father, for which reason all professed members took a fourth vow to go wherever the pope should send them for the salvation of souls. The Chiesa Il Gesù, a 16th-century late Renaissance church in Rome, is the mother church of the Society of Jesus. Originally very austere, Il Gesù's interior was opulently decorated starting in the 17th century. Now its frescoes, sculptures, and shrines make it one of the foremost examples of Roman Baroque art. The church also plays a pivotal role in the Counter-Reformation, which was the Catholic Church's response to the Protestant Reformation of Martin Luther. The Counter-Reformation's goals worked out during the Council of Trent (1545-1563), were designed to reassert the power of the church, standardize the training of local priests, stimulate pious devotion, and wipe out the corruption in the church, which had fueled Luther's movement.
    Cristo nella Cappella del Crocifisso..etta
  • “Pieta - Church of Saint Moses Venice”… <br />
<br />
Sixth Sorrow: The Crucifixion and Descent from the Cross: After this, Joseph of Arimathea, secretly a disciple of Jesus for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate if he could remove the body of Jesus. And Pilate permitted it. So he came and took his body” (Jn 19:38). Saying, “It is finished,” Jesus bows his head and dies. Mary remembers his words at the Passover meal: “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you” (Lk 22:20). The dreaded time is now: the precious blood of her son is poured out for all humankind. The covenant is sealed. Jesus, her son, the Son of God, is dead. In her heart, Mary dies with him. Two broken hearts—one pierced with a spear, one pierced with sorrow—become one: Jesus and Mary, forever united for the whole human family. Mary’s sorrow is all the greater because of the greatness of her love. Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross and placed in her arms. Mary embraces her son with a love beyond words, beyond grief itself. For now, it is the grief of a consummate sorrow. She, who had given birth to divinity, now presses the bloodied and battered remains of his humanity close to her sorrowful and shattered heart. “Let it be done according to thy will, Lord,” she prays. Our first stop was Chiesa di San Moisè, built initially in the 8th century. It is dedicated to Moses, and like the Byzantines, the Venetians often considered Old Testament prophets as canonized saints. It also honors Moisè Venier, the aristocrat who funded the reconstruction during the 9th century. San Moisè is the parish church of one of the parishes in the Vicariate of San Marco-Castello. The elaborate Baroque facade, dating from 1668, is profusely decorated with sculpture. This Bellissimo Pietà is by Antonio Corradini, the famous Italian Rococo sculptor. We continued to the Basilica dei Frari which was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy.
    Pieta - Chiesa di San Moisè Venezia
  • “Pieta - Church of Saint Moses Venice - BW”… <br />
<br />
Sixth Sorrow: The Crucifixion and Descent from the Cross: After this, Joseph of Arimathea, secretly a disciple of Jesus for fear of the Jews, asked Pilate if he could remove the body of Jesus. And Pilate permitted it. So he came and took his body” (Jn 19:38). Saying, “It is finished,” Jesus bows his head and dies. Mary remembers his words at the Passover meal: “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which will be shed for you” (Lk 22:20). The dreaded time is now: the precious blood of her son is poured out for all humankind. The covenant is sealed. Jesus, her son, the Son of God, is dead. In her heart, Mary dies with him. Two broken hearts—one pierced with a spear, one pierced with sorrow—become one: Jesus and Mary, forever united for the whole human family. Mary’s sorrow is all the greater because of the greatness of her love. Jesus’ body is taken down from the cross and placed in her arms. Mary embraces her son with a love beyond words, beyond grief itself. For now, it is the grief of a consummate sorrow. She, who had given birth to divinity, now presses the bloodied and battered remains of his humanity close to her sorrowful and shattered heart. “Let it be done according to thy will, Lord,” she prays. Our first stop was Chiesa di San Moisè, built initially in the 8th century. It is dedicated to Moses, and like the Byzantines, the Venetians often considered Old Testament prophets as canonized saints. It also honors Moisè Venier, the aristocrat who funded the reconstruction during the 9th century. San Moisè is the parish church of one of the parishes in the Vicariate of San Marco-Castello. The elaborate Baroque facade, dating from 1668, is profusely decorated with sculpture. This Bellissimo Pietà is by Antonio Corradini, the famous Italian Rococo sculptor. We continued to the Basilica dei Frari which was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy.
    Pieta - Chiesa di San Moisè Venezia - BW
  • “Church of Santa Fosca bell tower above the canal of Santa Fosca Venice - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. My fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion of capturing the entirety of Venice in half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. In the maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission to Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated from the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Chiesa di Santa Fosca campanile sopr..etta
  • “The New Church Bell Tower, home of St. Francis of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
After a progressive but slow assent up to the mountaintop of Assisi, I took time to pause, look over my shoulder, and truly appreciate all I had seen. God always seemed to illuminate my forward path; however, He also left a glow of remembrance from where the journey began. This evening view is from the Basilica di Santa Chiara (Basilica of St. Clare), a 13th-century church that houses the relics of St. Clare, friend and protégé of St. Francis of Assisi, and the 12th-century crucifix that spoke to St. Francis at San Damiano. This image is a rear view of the church and campanile of The Chiesa Nuova, built in 1615 on the site of the birthplace of St. Francis. The church was aptly named Chiesa Nuova because it was the last church to be built in Assisi at that time. The "New Church" can be defined not so much as the Shrine of St. Francis, but the Sanctuary of St. Francis where he developed his roots of holiness.
    La Chiesa Nuova Campanile patria di ..sisi
  • “Father Peek raises the Chalice for Adoration – The New Church of San Francesco in Assisi”… <br />
<br />
The reflection of Father Peek in “The Elevation of the Host and Chalice” is after genuflection in adoration. The priest raises them both so that the Faithful may also adore Jesus Christ, the true God, and true Man present on the altar. Look at the sacred Body and Blood of Jesus and then say with all your heart (interiorly): "I adore Thee, O Sacred Body of Jesus Christ, Thou art my Lord and my God; I believe in Thee, I hope in Thee, I love Thee above all things." A more ancient elevation of Host and Chalice occurs in the Mass of the Roman Rite while the priest speaks the concluding doxology of the Eucharistic Prayer: Per ipsum et cum ipso et in ipso est tibi Deo Patri omnipotenti in unitate Spiritus Sancti omnis honor et gloria per omnia saecula saeculorum (Through him, and with him, and in him, O God, almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours, forever and ever). The presence in the Roman Rite of this elevation can be traced back at least to the ninth century. The Chiesa Nuova is a church in Assisi, Italy, built in 1615 on the site of the presumed birthplace of St. Francis, the house of Pietro di Bernardone. It was then called Chiesa Nuova because it was the last church to be built in Assisi at that time. This Church appears as a small basilica, and Father Peek offered a venerable Mass on our first morning in Assisi for my Pilgrimage of 2019. Two of our Pilgrimage couples renewed their vows during the celebration and an abundance of blessings was bestowed upon the faithful. The specular window light from high above the altar illuminates Christ’s Body and Blood as the Holy Spirit descends.
    Padre Peek solleva il Calice per L'a..sisi
  • "San Sebastiano al Palatino through the Colosseum"...<br />
<br />
The Chiesa di San Sebastiano al Palatino was founded in the 10th century. The church was named in honor of the martyr St Sabastian, a Christian imperial officer who was killed near the Hippodrome for his faith. A Benedictine monastery has presided over the church since 1060. The physical status of the building as a result of a reconstruction in 1630 advised by Pope Urban VIII. The new interior caused destruction of the 10th-century paintings, except those in the apse. The façade is simple and elegant, decorated with Barberini family bees, the famous symbols of the very wealthy family from which Urban VIII rose to the throne of Pope. The interior has a single nave with a small apse decorated with frescoes. Beneath the church, gardens of Adonis were discovered along with an ancient Temple of the Sun. As I admired the view through one of the many archways of the Roman Coliseum, picturesque dusk descended and backlit this beautiful silhouette of the ancient church.
    Chiesa di San Sebastiano al Palatino..sseo
  • “Church of Santa Sofia – Anacapri”… <br />
<br />
It is located in the Piazza of Anacapri, the mountaintop above the island of Capri. It dates to 1595 when it replaced Chiesa di Santa Maria di Costantinopoli as the parish church. One can view the ancient church contrasting with the more modern white façade. The sacristy and oratorio were originally in the Chiesa di San Carlo. Architectural features include two bell towers and a baroque facade. The church was enlarged with two chapels and the nave was extended towards the square. The plan of the church is in the form of a Latin cross with a single nave, lateral chapels, and a dome above the intersection of the nave and the transept. The belfry can be seen to the left of the facade with two clocks and three bells dedicated to Santa Sofia, Santa Maroa, and Santa Elia. The highlight of my visit was the small and very crowded bus ride along the cliff's edge to Anacapri. I was standing closest to the door on the right side of the bus during the ascent up the mountainside. All I could see was the rocky shore below and with every leaning left turn, prayed desperately I would make it to the top. Anacapri is a historic mountaintop town with commanding views of Capri and the sea below, as well as a concentration of Mediterranean colors, scents, and sounds. Town life here has remained authentic despite the island's tourism: tucked between the houses there are tiny, humble vegetable gardens surrounded by lush tropical plants. A walk around the center of Anacapri will take you past tiny Neapolitan tailor shops, artisan shoemakers, and Enoteca ...all with the scent of the town's lemon groves that permeates the air. How the ancients managed to arrive at this secluded island and traverse their way to settlements atop is mind-boggling. However, contemplating the mysteries of civilization, one gets lost in the plush ambiance. The pleasant aroma and commanding sea view demand that you stay for just a little while longer!
    Chiesa di Santa Sofia - Anacapri
  • “Winter through the illuminated medieval gates scene of the Church of the Assumption of Mary on Lake Bled, Slovenia - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
The picturesque and incredibly famous Island of Lake Bled is only 180 miles from Venice and ninety-three miles from Trieste, Italy by car. According to written sources, the first masonry church on the island, a three-nave Romanesque Basilica, was consecrated by the Aquilean patriarch Pellegrino in 1142. In the 15th century, it was rebuilt in the Gothic style: a new presbytery, a freestanding bell tower, and the main altar were built. The renovated single-nave church was consecrated in 1465 by the first bishop of Ljubljana. In 1509 it was damaged by an earthquake to such an extent that it required thorough renovation in Baroque style. Only the frescoes in the presbytery and a wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, which probably adorned the main altar, were preserved from the previous Gothic church. The present form of the church dates from the 17th century when it was renovated after another earthquake. The main altar with its rich gold-plated carving dates from 1747. On the central altarpiece, the Virgin Mary is shown seated, with the donor of the Bled estate, Henry II, and his wife Kunigunda at her side. The side altars, consecrated to St. Sebastian, St. Magdalena, and St. Anna, were made at the end of the 17th century. The present tower is 177’ high and has three bells. Like the church, the other buildings, the walls, and the monumental staircase (99 stairs) were preserved. The wishing bell…It is said that whoever rings the bell and thereby gives honor to Virgin Mary, has the wish granted. [Psalm 132:8] “Arise, LORD, come to your resting place, you and your mighty ark.”
    Inverno attraverso le porte medieval..etta
  • "Crucified Christ - Monumental Church of San Michele Arcangelo, Anacapri"...<br />
<br />
Located in the Piazza of Anacapri, the mountaintop above the island of Capri. It dates to 1595 when it replaced Chiesa di Santa Maria as the parish church.  One can view the ancient church contrasting with the more modern white façade. The sacristy and oratorio, were originally in the Chiesa di San Carlo. Architectural features include two bell towers and a baroque facade. The church was enlarged with two chapels and the nave was extended towards the square. The plan of the church is in the form of a Latin cross with a single nave, lateral chapels and a dome above the intersection of the nave and the transept. The belfry can be seen to the left of the facade with two clocks and three bells dedicated to Santa Sofia, Santa Maroa and Santa Elia. The highlight of my visit was the small and very crowded bus ride along the cliffs edge to Anacapri. I was standing closest to the door on the right side of the bus during the assent up the mountainside. All I could see was the rocky shore below and with every leaning left turn, prayed desperately I would make it to the top. Anacapri is a historic mountaintop town with commanding views of Capri and the sea below, as well as a concentration of Mediterranean colors, scents, and sounds. Town life here has remained authentic despite the island's tourism: tucked between the houses there are tiny, humble vegetable gardens surrounded by lush tropical plants. A walk around the center of Anacapri will take you past tiny Neapolitan tailor shops, artisan shoemakers, and Enoteca       ...all with the scent of the town's lemon groves that permeates the air. How the ancients managed to arrive at this secluded island and traverse their way to settlements atop is mind boggling.  However, contemplating the mysteries of civilization, one gets lost in the plush ambience. The pleasant aroma and commanding sea view demand that you stay for just a little while longer!
    Cristo Crocifisso - Chiesa Monumenta..apri
  • "Pietà in the church of Santa Sofia - Anacapri"...<br />
<br />
Is located in the Piazza of Anacapri, the mountaintop above the island of Capri. It dates to 1595 when it replaced Chiesa di Santa Maria di Costantinopoli as the parish church.  One can view the ancient church contrasting with the more modern white façade. The sacristy and oratorio, were originally in the Chiesa di San Carlo. Architectural features include two bell towers and a baroque facade. The church was enlarged with two chapels and the nave was extended towards the square. The plan of the church is in the form of a Latin cross with a single nave, lateral chapels and a dome above the intersection of the nave and the transept. The belfry can be seen to the left of the facade with two clocks and three bells dedicated to Santa Sofia, Santa Maroa and Santa Elia. The highlight of my visit was the small and very crowded bus ride along the cliffs edge to Anacapri. I was standing closest to the door on the right side of the bus during the assent up the mountainside. All I could see was the rocky shore below and with every leaning left turn, prayed desperately I would make it to the top. Anacapri is a historic mountaintop town with commanding views of Capri and the sea below, as well as a concentration of Mediterranean colors, scents, and sounds. Town life here has remained authentic despite the island's tourism: tucked between the houses there are tiny, humble vegetable gardens surrounded by lush tropical plants. A walk around the center of Anacapri will take you past tiny Neapolitan tailor shops, artisan shoemakers, and Enoteca       ...all with the scent of the town's lemon groves that permeates the air. How the ancients managed to arrive at this secluded island and traverse their way to settlements atop is mind boggling.  However, contemplating the mysteries of civilization, one gets lost in the plush ambience. The pleasant aroma and commanding sea view demand that you stay for just a little while longer!
    Pietà nella Chiesa di Santa Sofia - ..apri
  • “Ca 'Rezzonico Civic Museums Foundation of Venice and in the distance the watchful bell tower of the Church of San Samuele”…<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles walking, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day and the atmosphere that is exclusively Venice was intoxicating.  We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Ca' Rezzonico Fondazione Musei Civic..uele
  • “The glow of the Madonna in the New Church of St. Francis of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This mystical image of Mother Mary is on one of the many altars photographed while touring Chiesa Nuova (New Church)…the birthplace of St Francis.  As I entered the beautiful small church, a Franciscan Monk working inside saw me and without reluctance, rose from his desk and graced me with a half hour tour speaking entirely in Italian.  He never hesitated and he never assumed that I was not fluent in Italian; yet, he continued to entrust me with every detail of what looked like a mini Basilica.  As we ventured around, he explained every nuance, even the crypt where Saint Francis’ parents reside.  Upon completion of the tour, he shook my hand, gave me a gentle embrace, and bestowed a blessing in Italian.  While not understanding the language, I left with gratitude and amazement …yet, somehow, I understood his every word.
    Il bagliore della Madonna in il Chie..sisi
  • "Farmhouse Podere della Chiesa - Santa Maria Nuova Cortona"...<br />
<br />
Rising high upon the hillside below Cortona, the church of Santa Maria Nuova stands majestically keeping a watchful eye over the valley and the ancient farmhouse below. The antiquated dome ascends above the trees, and especially during foggy weather, aspires toward the heavens. Initial construction began in 1550 when Giorgio Vasari became engaged with the project. One of my favorite Renaissance men, Vasari was an Italian painter, architect, writer, and historian. He is famous today for his “Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects,” and considered the ideological foundation of art-historical writing. The design changed to a classic Renaissance style temple based on the Greek cross plan. The Church’s location was predestined, as miraculous apparitions of the Madonna occurred on this exact setting. It is also located along the road which leads to Del Convento di Celle fondato da San Francesco (Convent of the Cells founded by St. Francis). Stationed below the ancient wall and olive trees, the noble dome seemed to pierce into the dramatic clouds above…confident in its symbolic beauty. Fog often seeps up the ancient hilltop of Cortona from the valley and lake below to the cooler fortified town above. The enchanting affect will bequeath one with mystical views of the distinguished Basilica. It remains immersed in a haze of clouds protecting the antique farmhouse and olive trees below.
    Agriturismo Podere della Chiesa - Sa..tona
  • “The altar of the New Church of St. Francis of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This mystical image is the main altar photographed while touring Chiesa Nuova (New Church)…the birthplace of St Francis.  As I entered the beautiful small church, a Franciscan Monk working inside saw me and without reluctance, rose from his desk and graced me with a half hour tour speaking entirely in Italian.  He never hesitated and he never assumed that I was not fluent in Italian; yet, he continued to entrust me with every detail of what looked like a mini Basilica.  As we ventured around, he explained every nuance, even the crypt where Saint Francis’ parents reside.  Upon completion of the tour, he shook my hand, gave me a gentle embrace, and bestowed a blessing in Italian.  While not understanding the language, I left with gratitude and amazement …yet, somehow, I understood his every word.
    L'altare maggiore della Chiesa Nuova..sisi
  • "The illuminated main altar of the New Church of St. Francis of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
This mystical image is the main altar photographed while touring Chiesa Nuova (New Church)…the birthplace of St Francis. As I entered the beautiful small church, a Franciscan Monk working inside saw me and without reluctance, rose from his desk and graced me with a half hour tour speaking entirely in Italian. He never hesitated and he never assumed that I was not fluent in Italian; yet, he continued to entrust me with every detail of what looked like a mini Basilica. As we ventured around, he explained every nuance, even the crypt where Saint Francis’ parents reside. Upon completion of the tour, he shook my hand, gave me a gentle embrace, and bestowed a blessing in Italian. While not understanding the language, I left with gratitude and amazement …yet, somehow, I understood his every word.
    L'altare maggiore illuminato della N..sisi
  • "Chiesa dei Santi Felice e Baccolo - Sorrento"...
    Chiesa dei Santi Felice e Baccolo - ..ento
  • "Church of Santa Fosca bell tower above the Santa Fosca canal - Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Chiesa di Santa Fosca campanile sopr..ezia
  • "Fountain of Piazza del Vescovado near Santa Maria Maggiore - Assisi"...<br />
<br />
The ancient fountain between Santa Maria Maggiore and Chiesa Nuova (New Church) welcomes all to the beauty of Assisi. Entering the beautiful diminutive Chiesa Nova, a Franciscan Monk working inside saw me and without reluctance, rose from his desk and graced me with a half hour tour speaking entirely in Italian. He never hesitated and he never assumed that I was not fluent in Italian; yet, he continued to entrust me with every detail of what looked like a mini Basilica. As we ventured around, he explained every nuance, even the crypt where Saint Francis’ parents reside. Upon completion of the tour, he shook my hand, gave me a gentle embrace, and bestowed a blessing in Italian. While not understanding the language, I left with gratitude and amazement - yet, somehow, I understood his every word.
    Fontana di Piazza Del Vescovado vici..sisi
  • “Panoramic view from the Bar Giardino San Lorenzo of the Cathedral of San Rufino of Assisi”… <br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. Perfect areas abound with shaded tables and chairs and a hut for the main area of the tiny restaurant. The Italiani husband and wife smile graciously as they served up a lunch menu and drinks for the astounded patrons. It appeared to us Pilgrims that we stumbled on the most perfect plot of land in all of Assisi, and found ourselves blessed to sit and relax for moments as we could not help aiming our cameras at God’s pleasant surroundings. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Vista panoramica della Cattedrale di..enzo
  • “The Gondoliers illuminated by the afternoon light along Rio De La Toletta Venice - Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
<br />
Our itinerary included Basilica, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. In the maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission in Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated from the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Le Gondoliera illuminate dalla luce ..etta
  • "Riello Canal of Santa Sofia - Ca 'D'Oro, Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass in the sacristy. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Canale Riello de Santa Sofia - Ca 'D..ezia
  • ”Gondola escaping from the morning fog towards the sunlight of San Moisè, Venice”…<br />
<br />
Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass in the sacristy. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Gondola in fuga dalla nebbia mattuti..ezia
  • “Pastel Sunset of the Venetian Canal”…<br />
<br />
I never knew quite where I was going in Venice, but just followed the canal, or became trapped by the canals with no way of crossing and had to backtrack. Probably not the best way to traverse the Venice Lagoon. On my last evening in Venice, I accidentally stumbled on Ponte dei Scalzi, the "bridge of the barefoot [monks],” one of only four bridges in Venice to span the Grand Canal. The bridge connects the Sestieri of Santa Croce and Cannaregio. I set up my camera facing east in view of the dome and campanile of Chiesa di San Geremia, which contains the relics of Saint Lucy, the patron saint of our eyes. After taking many images of the descending sun, I decided to follow the sun by way of the church of San Geremia taking a hard left northwest along the Cannaregioa Canal and taking this photo of the setting sun from the bridge, Ponte delle Guglie. After sunset, I found my way back to my favorite restaurant, Hosteria Al Vecio Bragosso. Che Dio Benedica l'Italia! Luke 15:4-6: “What man among you having a hundred sheep and losing one of them would not leave the ninety-nine in the desert and go after the lost one until he finds it? And when he does find it, he sets it on his shoulders with great joy and, upon his arrival home, he calls together his friends and neighbors and says to them, ‘Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.’
    Tramonto Pastello del Canale Veneziano
  • "Dynamic view from the Bar San Lorenzo Garden of the Cathedral of San Rufino of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. Perfect areas abound with shaded tables and chairs and a hut for the main area of the tiny restaurant. The Italiani husband and wife smile graciously as they served up a lunch menu and drinks for the astounded patrons. It appeared to us Pilgrims that we stumbled on the most perfect plot of land in all of Assisi, and found ourselves blessed to sit and relax for moments as we could not help aiming our cameras at God’s pleasant surroundings. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and to a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Vista dinamica dal Bar Giardino San ..sisi
  • “Illuminating glow of the Grand Canal in Venice”…<br />
<br />
I am not sure if I am the first to describe Venice as “organic,” however, there has never been a more perfect description to define Venice’s ever changing persona. Venice is perhaps the most uniquely iconic seaside city in the world, and its impression changes by the minute with the ever changing light and active tide coming in and out. Flying into Venice via the USA, I was met with torrential rains in the early morning, which finally gave way to afternoon sunshine.  The creaky, wet, gloomy, old, decaying Venice sinking and soaking in the morning rain… opened like flower petals in the springtime at first glimpse of sunlight.  The organic lagoon began to blossom as if the decay became antique, the gloom became passion, the creaky became sweet sounds, and the desperate island illuminated with life, color, and hope. Venturing about the first afternoon with no sleep since leaving Atlanta the day before, I was exhausted yet had so much adrenaline and utter excitement emanating from my soul. My heart, eyes, and brain forced me to follow the light and take photos; thus, the first day of thirty began with number one of 6500 images. Not until I began writing these descriptions did I realize that many of these captures were taken the day I arrived in Venice…it was sensory overload.  Canal sunsets became the norm of my three days in Venice. This has always been one of my favorite images taken from a little alley behind the famous Rialto Bridge peering down the Grand Canal. One cannot help notice the towering Campanile of The Chiesa dei Santi Apostoli di Cristo (Church of the Holy Apostles of Christ). It is a 7th-century Roman Catholic Church, and one of the oldest churches in the city. Not imposing from the exterior, but sacred-elegant and austere interiorly, very much worthy of Mass or just a visit.
    Illuminando bagliore del Canal Grand..ezia
  • "Hidden villa along the Cannaregio Canal in Tolentino Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles walking, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day and the atmosphere that is exclusively Venice was intoxicating. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Nascosta villa lungo il Canale Canna..ezia
  • "The Gondoliera illuminated by the afternoon light along Rio De La Toletta Venezia"...<br />
<br />
Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Le Gondoliera illuminate dalla luce ..ezia
  • “Venice pastel sunset”…<br />
<br />
I never knew quite where I was going in Venice, but just followed the canal, or became trapped by the canals with no way of crossing and had to backtrack.  Probably not the best way to traverse the Venice Lagoon.  My last evening in Venice I accidently stumbled on Ponte dei Scalzi, "bridge of the barefoot [monks],” one of only four bridges in Venice to span the Grand Canal. The bridge connects the Sestieri of Santa Croce and Cannaregio. I set up my camera facing east in view of the dome and campanile of Chiesa di San Geremia, which contains the relics of Saint Lucy, the patron saint of our eyes.  After taking many images of the descending sun, I decided to follow the sun by way of the church of San Geremia taking a hard left northwest along the Cannaregioa Canal, and taking this photo of the setting sun from the bridge, Ponte delle Guglie.  After the sun set, I found my way back to my favorite restaurant, Hosteria Al Vecio Bragosso.
    Venezia pastello tramonto
  • “Cannaregio Canal Tolentino Venice”…<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles walking, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day and the atmosphere that is exclusively Venice was intoxicating.  We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Cannaregio Canal Tolentino Venezia
  • “Rio de le Romite, in the Dorsoduro district of Venice”… <br />
<br />
As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles walking, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. In the maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. The description of this image begins in 1693 when the Romite Hermits erected a small church dedicated to Jesus, Joseph, and Mary, with an adjacent convent. Father Cavanis later installed a ‘female school of charity,’ entrusted in 1863 to the Canossian nuns who are still present on the spot. Always the destination of painters and artists, the Rio delle Romite preserves its original and evocative atmosphere which remains unchanged. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Rio de le Romite, nel Sestiere di Do..ezia
  • “The Gondoliera illuminated by the afternoon light along Rio De La Toletta Venice – Vintage”…<br />
<br />
Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Le Gondoliera illuminate dalla luce ..nata
  • “The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute Venice emerges in the distance on the Grand Canal - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras were permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    La Basilica di Santa Maria della Sal..etta
  • "Waiting along the canal near the parish of Santa Maria Gloriosa Dei Frari Venice"...<br />
<br />
 The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Aspettando lungo il canale vicino a ..ezia
  • "Late afternoon sun along the Rio Dei Tolentini in Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles walking, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day and the atmosphere that is exclusively Venice was intoxicating. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Sole del tardo pomeriggio lungo il R..ezia
  • “Assisi serene afternoon view of the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Basilica of Santa Chiara from Rocco Maggiore above”…<br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick, and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Assisi sereno pomeriggio vista della..alto
  • "Hotel Giotto sunset view of the Museum of San Pietro and the Crypt of San Vittorino – Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. As we meandered and descended downward toward our elegant Hotel Giotto near St. Francis Basilica, the sun began to pose and exhibit its colorful illuminations. The balcony was a perfect resting spot to capture this dramatic vision. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Hotel Giotto vista al tramonto del M..sisi
  • “Sunset on the canal in Ca 'd'Oro – Venice”…<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles walking, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day and the atmosphere that is exclusively Venice was intoxicating.  We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Tramonto sul canale in Ca 'd'Oro - V..ezia
  • "In the late afternoon the sun penetrates through ancient abandoned buildings along the Santa Fosca Canal in Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass in the sacristy. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Nel tardo pomeriggio il sole penetra..ezia
  • "San Maurizio Canal Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass in the sacristy. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Canale di San Maurizio Venezia
  • "Canale de Santa Fosca - Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass in the sacristy. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Canale de Santa Fosca - Venezia
  • "Canal near the Accademia Bridge in Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass in the sacristy. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Canale vicino al Ponte dell'Accademi..ezia
  • "Canal on the way to the excellent Pizzería Da Alvise Restaurant - Venice"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in a half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles by foot, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent. The finest shrimp I have experienced, grateful speeches emanated the tiny venue. Melancholy gratification filled the ambiance as we said our final farewells to Italy and the wonderful new friendships and experiences we shared on this Pilgrimage of a lifetime!
    Canale sulla strada per l'eccellente..ezia
  • “The nave of the Basilica of St. Peter”…<br />
<br />
St. Peter's Basilica was until recently the largest church ever built and it remains one of the holiest sites in Christendom.  The Basilica stands on the traditional site where Peter - the apostle who is considered the first pope - was crucified and buried. St. Peter's tomb is under the main altar, and many popes were also buried in different areas of the Basilica. Originally founded by Constantine in 324, St. Peter's Basilica was rebuilt in the 16th century by Renaissance masters including Bramante, Michelangelo, and Bernini.  Built out of travertine stone, Saint Peter's is 452 feet high, 730 feet in length, and 500 feet in width, with an interior length of just over 693 feet, and covering an area of 5.7 acres…large enough for 60,000 people.  One cannot imagine the great immensity, size, and beauty of this amazing Basilica until you walk in for the first time.  Without a doubt, it will absolutely take your breath away!  However, don’t be too overcome, as the massive size and large crowds will cause one to get lost inside for an entire day.  Perhaps, the greatest purpose in the size and beauty of Saint Peter’s is to portray the beauty of heaven to all Christians.  As one meanders around with a sense of awe, it becomes impossible not to have an overwhelming feeling of gratitude and humility while contemplating the meaning of life as well as heaven and earth.  This image was created looking upward toward the ceiling of the massive Nave, with the cross illuminating the top of the St. Peter's Baldacchino.  The Baldachin was created by Bernini, 100 feet tall, and claimed to be the largest piece of bronze in the world.  Grazie a Dio per le benedizioni della sua grande Chiesa!  (Thank God for the blessings of His great Church!)
    La navata of the Basilica Papale di ..cano
  • "The sun sets on boats that rest along the Canale di Santa Fosca Venice - Painting by Dino Carbetta"...<br />
<br />
The last day of our Pilgrimage was spent in one of the most iconic locations on earth, Venice! Busing to the docks at the Venetian Lagoon from Padua to catch our private boat to the Basilica di San Marco, an exemplary spiritual treasure for a special Mass. Touring the crowded Doge’s Palace proceeded, then set free to breathe in as much of the Venetian Island as possible until our final farewell dinner and return flight home in the morning. As standard fare, my fellow Pilgrim Patrick and I took off out of the starting gate with the notion to capture the entirety of Venice in half of a day on foot. We covered exactly 8.3 miles walking, but with so much adrenaline, we could have doubled it into the nighttime. Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day and the atmosphere that is exclusively Venice was intoxicating. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. We finally made it by dusk to our waterway restaurant Ristorante Pizzería Da Alvise, which was authentic and excellent.
    Il sole tramonta su barche che ripos..etta
  • “The Bronze Dome of San Geremia - Casa di Santa Lucia rises above the Grand Canal - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
I never knew quite where I was going in Venice, but just followed the canal, or became trapped by the canals with no way of crossing and had to backtrack.  Probably not the best way to traverse the Venice Lagoon.  My last evening in Venice, I accidentally stumbled on Ponte dei Scalzi, "bridge of the barefoot [monks]," one of only four bridges in Venice to span the Grand Canal. The bridge connects the Sestieri of Santa Croce and Cannaregio. I set up my camera facing east in view of the dome and campanile of Chiesa di San Geremia, which contains the relics of Saint Lucy.  Santa Lucia - virgin and martyr who was one of the earliest Christian saints to achieve popularity, having a widespread following before the 5th century. She is the patron saint of the city of Syracuse (Sicily). Because of various traditions associating her name with light, she came to be thought of as the patron of sight. Saint Lucy is one of my favorite saints, not only for her great faith but her very name and remembrance is the very essence and luminance of my images. The original church was founded in the 11th century with the present version dating to 1760.  After the sunset, I found my way back to my favorite restaurant, Hosteria Al Vecio Bragosso, for another amazing dinner.
    La Bronzo Cupola di San Geremia - Ca..etta
  • “Sun rising along the canal near the Accademia Bridge – Venice”<br />
<br />
Our itinerary included Basilica’s, canals, bridges, gondolas, and anything resembling Venetian culture, oh, and a stop for lunch. Basilica dei Frari was foremost and Chiesa di San Geremia to visit St. Lucy. The maze that Venice presents, GPS navigation only works occasionally on this crowded water complexity. The shutters on our cameras seemed permanently depressed as we desperately tried to capture everything we possibly could in such a short window of time, as we had to be at the waterside restaurant by 7:00 pm. It was a Bellissimo Spring day, and of course, we stopped for an Aperitivo which I also fell in love with on this replete journey. We artfully meandered the narrow walkways and canals with a keen rhythm and capture of all that was superior. Not a thought of distance occurred in our surreptitious mission of Venice. Just like most former tourists of Italy, one yearns for the delectable anamnesis of Gelato. I agree with that memorable thought, but I also hunger and languish for Venice and all its hidden spirituality that most simply overlook. “For I will slake the thirst of the faint; the appetite of all the weary I will satisfy.”  Jeremiah 31:25
    Sole che sorge lungo il Canale vicin..ezia
  • “Panoramic view from the Bar Giardino San Lorenzo of the Cathedral of San Rufino of Assisi”… <br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. Perfect areas abound with shaded tables and chairs and a hut for the main area of the tiny restaurant. The Italiani husband and wife smile graciously as they served up a lunch menu and drinks for the astounded patrons. It appeared to us Pilgrims that we stumbled on the most perfect plot of land in all of Assisi, and found ourselves blessed to sit and relax for moments as we could not help aiming our cameras at God’s pleasant surroundings. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and to a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Vista panoramica dal Bar Giardino Sa..sisi
  • "The return of Francis, a penitent man, contemplating his future in the Church"...<br />
<br />
Francis of Assisi was a poor little man who astounded and inspired the Church by taking the gospel literally—not in a narrow fundamentalist sense, but by actually following all that Jesus said and did, joyfully, without limit, and without a sense of self-importance. The first change Francis experienced was his discovery of the value of the human person, irrespective of wealth, or social standing. He began to feel a deep inner kinship with the whole of humanity, but especially with the poor and the outcast. This new understanding of the human person is fundamentally identical to that found in the Gospels. So in the spring of 1205, he enlisted in Walter's army and set forth for Puglia, in southern Italy. But God had other plans, and Francis did not travel far. As soon as he reached the nearby city of Spoleto, Francis had a very strange dream. God appeared to him and ordered him to return home. Amid the bewilderment of his friends, Francis left all and made his way back to Assisi. This image of Francis on his horse in front of his eventual Basilica represents the contemplation of his growing faith. His search for conversion led him to the ancient church at San Damiano. While he was praying there, he heard Christ on the crucifix speak to him, "Francis, repair my church." Francis assumed this meant the crumbling building he was in. He later realized it was his call to rebuild the entire Church.  He read the command to the rich young man to sell all his good and give to the poor, the order to the apostles to take nothing on their journey, and the demand to take up the cross daily. "Here is our rule," Francis said -- as simple, and as seemingly impossible, as that. He was going to do what no one thought possible anymore -- live by the Gospel.
    Il ritorno di Francesco uomo peniten..iesa
  • "The guiding light of Santa Maria Maggiore and the New Church of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
(Psalms: 65:9) “Distant peoples stand in awe of your marvels; the places of morning and evening you make resound with joy.” Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted, and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the reward was always greater than the physical agony endured. This image was captured as I followed the radiant winding road illuminated by the evening glimmer of the descending sun.
    La luce guida tra Santa Maria Maggio..sisi
  • “The Altar of the Church of San Domenico – Cortona”… <br />
<br />
This image originates from Cortona in what appeared to be a nondescript church on the edge of the walls surrounding the town… little did I know the history or famously beautiful art displayed inside. The Gothic Church of San Domenico was built in the 15th century as part of the Dominican Monastery. Sant'Antonio the Bishop of Florence and Blessed Fra Angelico, who is the patron Saint of artists and is called the “Blessed Angelic One,” lived in the monastery. The facade is simple and harmonious and the lunette over the doorway is a fresco by Fra Angelico. The interior has a single nave. Despite the reformations of the baroque altars, the church has retained its primitive beauty, especially enhanced by the elegance of the archways of the apses and the raised presbytery. The prestigious work of art on the high altar is a triptych signed by Lorenzo di Niccolò, donated in 1440 by Cosimo and Lorenzo de' Medici. The reason for such generosity was to influence Fra Angelico to reside in Florence and paint the Monastery of San Marco. The triptych depicts the Coronation of the Virgin with other scenes of the Annunciation and the Crucifixion. On the left apse of the church, there is the Madonna with Angels and Saints by Luca Signorelli. In Italy, many glorious surprises and blessings may be discovered in the least celebrated and prominent locations.
    L'Altare della Chiesa di San Domenic..tona
  • “Father Peek Raises the Consecrated Host for Adoration - The Church of Santo Spirito in Sassia - Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
<br />
On our 4th gentile morning in Roma before leaving for Sorrento, we walked from our hotel to the Bellissimo Santo Spirito for Mass. Located just steps from St. Peter’s Basilica, the church is the center of the Divine Mercy established by St. John Paul II. Each day at 3 p.m. the congregants assemble to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet in this reverent sanctuary containing St. Faustina Kowalska and St. John Paul II relics. The church is distinguished for its beautiful and pious artistic and aesthetic adornment, yet, also has a long history of bringing mercy to the human spirit and body. In the eighth century, there was a church in this place called Santa Maria in Sassia dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The name of the church comes from “the Saxon school,” where pilgrims from Northern Europe and Saxon nations received their first spiritual and material assistance. In 1198, at the request of Pope Innocent III, the first “Holy Spirit Hospital” in Europe was built adjacent to the church. The chapel on the right side is dedicated to The Divine Mercy and to Saint Faustina where the “The Apostle of The Divine Mercy” statue resides with her reliquary donated by the Holy Father John Paul II. The reflection of Father Peek in “The Elevation of the Host” is after genuflection in adoration. The priest raises the Host so that the Faithful may also adore Jesus Christ, true God, and true Man present on the altar. Look at the sacred Body of Jesus and then say with all your heart (interiorly): "I adore Thee, O Sacred Body of Jesus Christ, Thou art my Lord and my God; I believe in Thee, I hope in Thee, I love Thee above all things."
    Padre Peek Eleva Consacrata l'ostia ..etta
  • “The evening descends on the church of San Nicolò da Tolentino Venice - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
My second evening enjoying the mystical aura of the Veneziano light and color, I once again found myself meandering about without ever having a good idea of my destination. Leaving the hotel every morning, I always had a semblance of an idea of what I wanted to do, see, and photograph. However, Italy always seemed to change my plans turning the first corner of the day, only to fall in love once again with the cultural brilliance and colorful antiquity which personifies the Italian landscape. This was just the beginning of many mornings, days, and evenings of my Italian inauguration. As I stood gazing down the Tolentini Canal, the evening sun shone perfectly upon the campanile and tower of the Church of St. Nicholas of Tolentino. And once again, a flying seagull posed perfectly for the photo. This photograph is beautiful in its own right, but taking the time to finally capture the Venetian essence in a painting, added to the intoxicating appeal of the total allure of  Venice.
    La sera scende sulla chiesa di San N..etta
  • "The Evening Snow covers the Church of Santa Maria Nuova - Cortona"...<br />
<br />
Rising high up on the hillside below Cortona, the church of Santa Maria Nuova stands majestically keeping a watchful eye over the valley. The ancient dome ascends above the trees, and especially during foggy weather, aspires toward the heavens. Initial construction began in 1550 when Giorgio Vasari became engaged with the project. One of my favorite Renaissance men, Vasari was an Italian painter, architect, writer, and historian. He is famous today for his “Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects,” and considered the ideological foundation of art-historical writing. The design changed to a classic Renaissance style temple based on the Greek cross plan. The Church’s location was predestined, as miraculous apparitions of the Madonna occurred in this exact setting. It is also located along the road which leads to Del Convento di Celle fondato da San Francesco (Convent of the Cells founded by St. Francis). Stationed below the ancient wall and olive trees, the noble dome seemed to pierce into the dramatic clouds above…confident in its symbolic beauty. Snow and fog often radiate up the ancient hilltop of Cortona from the valley and lake below to the cooler fortified town above. The enchanting effect will bequeath one with mystical views of the distinguished Basilica immersed in a haze of clouds.
    La Sera Neve copre la Chiesa di Sant..tona
  • "High altar of the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption - Positano"...<br />
 <br />
The history of the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is closely linked to the Benedictine monastery of St. Mary, which, according to tradition, was built when a Byzantine icon of the Virgin was brought to Positano and venerated thereafter. The Icon belonged to a cargo ship from the East, and offshore of Positano the ship was stopped by a dead calm sea. After unsuccessful attempts to continue sailing, the sailors heard a voice saying “Posa Posa”, meaning, “Put me down, put me down!” (Origin of the name “Positano”). The captain thought this miracle meant that the Virgin wanted to stop there and decided to head for shore. At that point…the ship began to sail again. The sailors disembarked the icon and gave it to the inhabitants of Positano, who chose the Virgin as their patron and built a church in her honor. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious, and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the Azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. I found this Crucifix inside a small chapel of the ancient church which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Altare maggiore della Chiesa di Nost..tano
  • “Crimson Crucifixion in the Chapel of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
Amidst the breathtaking landscapes of the Amalfi Coast, my journey led me to the enchanting village of Positano. The drive along the high cliffs, winding down the narrow lane from Sorrento, was nothing short of exhilarating. The sensory overload of Positano's beauty and its photogenic allure left me captivated. Navigating the village's single lane, which winds down from the top and back up to where it began, presented a unique challenge. After circling the entire village three times, I finally reached the parking garage by the hotel, positioned about 2/3rds up the facing village in the captivating image before you. The descent down the winding road and steep staircases, though strenuous in the late May sun, became a memorable part of the adventure. Upon reaching the beach and marina, any exhaustion I felt dissipated in the face of Positano's plush beauty. Despite the challenges posed by the multitude of tourists and the intense sunlight, I endeavored to capture the essence of this coastal haven. As I traversed the beach and shoreline, the late afternoon sunlight, piercing through the mountaintop, blinded me momentarily. It was during this encounter with the radiant glow that the Church of Santa Maria Assunta emerged before me. Positioned strategically in the heart of the town, with the Azzurro Mediterranean Sea as its backdrop, the church's colorful majolica tiled cupola stands as an iconic symbol of Positano. Delving into the ancient roots of this sacred place, I discovered a hidden gem within the church—a Crucifix housed in a small chapel. Dating back to 1159, this chapel was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary. It is here that Santa Maria, with her blessed and watchful eye, continues to oversee Positano, welcoming all to this seaside paradise.
    Cremisi Crocifissione nella cappella..etta
  • “Santa Maria Faustina - The Church of Santo Spirito in Sassia Rome - Painting by Dino Carbetta<br />
<br />
Saint Faustina's legacy is forever intertwined with the annual celebration of Divine Mercy, the recitation of the Divine Mercy chaplet, and the daily Divine Mercy prayer by countless devotees. Born in Poland the third of ten siblings, she answered the calling of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy in 1925. While diligently fulfilling her responsibilities and selflessly serving both the sisters and the local community, Sister Faustina nurtured a profound inner life. This spiritual depth included receiving revelations from the Lord Jesus himself, messages that she faithfully documented in her diary, guided by Christ's request and the counsel of her confessors. In an era when some Catholics held a perception of God as a stern judge, potentially leading to despair over the possibility of forgiveness, Jesus deliberately emphasized His mercy and forgiveness for those who acknowledged and confessed their sins. He conveyed to Saint Faustina, "I do not wish to punish aching mankind, but rather, I desire to heal it, drawing it close to My merciful heart." The two radiant rays emanating from Christ's heart, as she explained, symbolize the blood and water that flowed after Jesus' crucifixion. Despite the extraordinary revelations and spiritual gifts that Sister Maria Faustina received, she recognized that these alone did not define holiness. In her diary, she wrote, "Neither graces, nor revelations, nor raptures, nor the gifts bestowed upon a soul make it perfect. True perfection lies in the intimate union of the soul with God's will. These gifts adorn the soul but neither constitutes its essence nor its perfection. My sanctity and perfection are rooted in the profound union of my will with that of God." May this artistic tribute inspire you to explore the profound depths of faith and mercy exemplified by Saint Faustina and to reflect on the significance of Divine Mercy in our lives.
    Santa Maria Faustina - La Chiesa di ..etta
  • "Privileged Altar - Church of Our Lady of the Assumption Positano"... <br />
<br />
The history of the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is closely linked to the Benedictine monastery of St. Mary, which, according to tradition, was built when a Byzantine icon of the Virgin was brought to Positano and venerated thereafter. The Icon belonged to a cargo ship from the East, and offshore of Positano the ship was stopped by a dead calm sea. After unsuccessful attempts to continue sailing, the sailors heard a voice saying “Posa Posa”, meaning, “Put me down, put me down!” (Origin of the name “Positano”). The captain thought this miracle meant that the Virgin wanted to stop there and decided to head for shore. At that point…the ship began to sail again. The sailors disembarked the icon and gave it to the inhabitants of Positano, who chose the Virgin as their patron and built a church in her honor. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious, and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the Azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. I found this Crucifix inside a small chapel of the ancient church which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Altare Privilegiato - Chiesa di Nost..tano
  • "Crucifixion above the altar of the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi"...<br />
<br />
The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi is located outside the first city walls, in Piazza del Vescovado. It was the heart of the medieval bishop's citadel and center of religious power until the 11th century when it gave the title of the Cathedral to San Rufino. According to tradition, the first Cathedral of Assisi was built on this site close to the Roman city walls in the 4th century.  The crypt under the apse of the present church, which is the oldest surviving part of the structure, seems to date to the 9th or 10th century. St. Francis was baptized in the temple. The interior has a basilica plan with three naves, separated by pillars. In the early Middle Ages, it was an episcopal residence. In 1035, at the time of Bishop Ugone, the title of Cathedral was transferred from Santa Maria Maggiore to the church of San Rufino, where the relics of the patron saint were kept. San Francesco was a guest of Bishop Guido I several times in the adjacent Palazzo Vescovile, in front of which he stripped off his clothes, nurturing a special bond with the church of Santa Maria Maggiore. A stone outside the apse bears witness to works carried out at the time of Francis and Bishop Guido in the year 1216. I found the ancient church to be uncomplicated, yet comforting and reverent. The primitive and recently discovered catacombs below, reveal their age and status throughout history.
    Crocifissione sopra l'altare della C..sisi
  • “Monumental Church of San Michele Arcangelo, Anacapri”…<br />
<br />
On the third morning in Sorrento, I departed on a high-speed ferry to the island of Capri. Although promoting high-speed, it still took over an hour to arrive at the very crowded Island. Capri is located off the coast of Naples and there must be a new Ferry full of tourists arriving every 20 minutes throughout the day. Famous for its Blue Grotto, which I did not venture to this trip, Capri is a picturesque Mediterranean retreat with high cliffs and ancient Roman villas. The highlight of my visit was the small and very crowded bus ride along the edge of the cliff to Anacapri. I was standing closest to the door on the right side of the bus during the ascent up the mountainside. All I could see was the rocky shore below and with every leaning left turn, prayed desperately I would make it to the top. Anacapri is a historic mountaintop town with commanding views of Capri and the sea below. This 4 image panorama was taken from the tiny balcony above the diminutive Church of St Michael the Archangel in Anacapri, located on Piazza San Nicola. The church was built in 1719, with an octagonal shape and of Baroque style. The church received a "monument" designation due to its notable majolica floor mosaic of creation with Adam and Eve. One must traverse the sacred tile floor on benches around the edges to protect the imagery.
    Chiesa Monumentale di San Michele Ar..apri
  • “The glow of the Madonna in the New Church of San Francesco di Assisi – Ethereal”…<br />
<br />
Psalm 46:9-11 “Come and see the works of the LORD, who has done fearsome deeds on earth; Who stops wars to the ends of the earth, breaks the bow, splinters the spear, and burns the shields with fire; Be still and know that I am God! I am exalted among the nations, exalted on the earth.”<br />
<br />
Romans 5:1-5 “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace* with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access [by faith] to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the holy Spirit that has been given to us.
    Il bagliore della Madonna nella Chie..real
  • "Crucifixion in the Church of Santa Maria Assunta chapel in Positano"... <br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image. The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun. Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. I found this Crucifix inside a small chapel of the ancient church which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Crocifissione nella cappella di Chie..tano
  • “Immaculate, Queen and Mother of the Church - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe once asked the Immaculate Conception, "Who are you?" He deduced that she was not God, Adam, Eve, or the Incarnate Word. The Immaculate Conception, Mary, is different from the children of Eve as they are conceived with original sin while she is not. She is the only Immaculate Conception, and her union with the Holy Spirit is the pinnacle of love, where the Uncreated Love is joined with the created love. St. Bernadette Soubirous was told by the Virgin Mary, "I am the Immaculate Conception," and St. Francis of Assisi referred to Mary as the Spouse of the Holy Spirit. St. Maximilian Kolbe explained that the union between Mary and the Holy Spirit was an interior one, where the Holy Spirit dwells in her since the moment of her existence and will continue to do so for eternity. Mary's virginal womb is reserved for the divine life of the God-Man. I find inspiration in St. Maximilian's prayer and reflect on it while viewing a painting of the Immaculate Conception as I recite the Immaculate Prayer daily.
    Immacolata, Regina e Madre della Chi..etta
  • "Father Peek elevates the Host for Adoration - The Church of Santo Spirito in Sassia"... <br />
<br />
This image is one of my favorites and the most poignant of our 2019 Pilgrimage. On our fourth gentile morning in Roma before leaving for Sorrento, we walked from our hotel to the Bellissimo Santo Spirito for Mass. Located just steps from St. Peter’s Basilica, the church is the center of the Divine Mercy established by St. John Paul II. Each day at 3 p.m. the congregants assemble to pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet in this reverent sanctuary containing St. Faustina Kowalska and St. John Paul II relics. The church is distinguished for its beautiful and pious artistic and aesthetic adornment, yet, also has a long history of bringing mercy to the human spirit and body. In the eighth century, a church called Santa Maria in Sassia was dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The name of the church comes from “the Saxon school,” where pilgrims from Northern Europe and Saxon nations received their first spiritual and material assistance. In 1198, at the request of Pope Innocent III, the first “Holy Spirit Hospital” in Europe was built adjacent to the church. The chapel on the right side is dedicated to The Divine Mercy and to Saint Faustina where the “The Apostle of The Divine Mercy” statue resides with her reliquary donated by the Holy Father John Paul II. The reflection of Father Peek in “The Elevation of the Host” is after genuflection in adoration. The priest raises the Host so that the Faithful may also adore Jesus Christ, the true God, and true Man present on the altar. Look at the sacred Body of Jesus and then say with all your heart (interiorly): "I adore Thee, O Sacred Body of Jesus Christ, Thou art my Lord and my God; I believe in Thee, I hope in Thee, I love Thee above all things."
    Padre Peek Eleva Consacrata l'ostia ..ssia
  • “Positano's Church of Santa Maria Assunta illuminated by the evening light”…<br />
<br />
Taking an evening stroll along the Strada of Positano, the highlight was the majestic evening view of the church of Santa Maria Assunta overlooking the hillside. The colorful dome is made of majolica tiles which are very prominent on the Amalfi Coast, and the church contains a thirteenth-century Byzantine icon of the legendary Black Madonna. All indications seemed to verify that late May in Positano presented a spectacular pallet of every color under God’s rainbow. This quaint seaside village stimulated one’s senses, aggrandizing its chest and boasting specular perfection. I cannot imagine a more benevolent time of year than during late spring to visit the Bellissimo Amalfi coast. This image was one of my last of the evening before a long hike up to the terrace of Hotel Montemare's famous restaurant. Finally, time to relax and unwind while admiring yet another truly breathtaking sea view of Positano Bay.
    Positano's Chiesa di Santa Maria Ass..sera
  • “View from the Grand Canal of the church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice - Blue”…<br />
<br />
The first church on the island was built about 790, and in 982 the island was given to the Benedictine order by the Doge Tribuno Memmo. The Benedictines founded a monastery there, but in 1223 all the buildings on the island were destroyed by an earthquake. Andrea Palladio, an Italian Renaissance architect active in the Venetian Republic was commissioned for the rebuild. Palladio, influenced by Roman and Greek architecture, is widely considered to be one of the most influential individuals in the history of architecture, began the rebuild in 1560 and made dramatic improvements. The campanile was rebuilt in neo-classic style and completed in 1791. It was ascended by ramps and now an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Venice. The facade is brilliantly white and represents Palladio's solution to the difficulty of adapting a classical temple facade to the form of the Catholic Basilica. Two very large paintings by Tintoretto relate to the institution of the Eucharist and are located on either side of the presbytery, where they can be seen from the altar rail. “The Last Supper” and “The Jews in the Desert” (collecting and eating the manna, a gift of God to the Israelites in the Desert after they escaped Egypt, which foretells the gift of the Eucharist). Claude Monet painted a series of paintings of the island Monastery of San Giorgio Maggiore in 1908 during the artist's only visit to the city. One of the best known is “San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk”, which exists in two versions. Monet completed his paintings of Venice at home in France and in 1912 showed them in Paris. Buyers included the Welsh collector Gwendoline Davies, who bought three paintings. This vision of the Church of San Giorgio is iconic and famous worldwide. My image capture while upon an evening boat excursion appears theatrical as if the majestic church is posing for yet another Venetian canvas.
    Vista dal Canal Grande della chiesa ..urro
  • "Triptych above the altar of the Church of San Domenico - Cortona"...<br />
<br />
This image was created in Cortona in what appeared to be a nondescript church on the edge of the walls surrounding the town… little did I know the history or famously beautiful art displayed inside.  The Gothic Church of San Domenico was built in the 15th century as part of the Dominican Monastery. Sant'Antonio the Bishop of Florence and Blessed Fra Angelico, who is the patron Saint of artists and is called the “Blessed Angelic One”, lived in the monastery. The facade is simple and harmonious and the lunette over the doorway is a fresco by Fra Angelico. The interior has a single nave. Despite the reformations of the baroque altars, the church has retained its primitive beauty, especially enhanced by the elegance of the archways of the apses and the raised presbytery. The prestigious work of art on the high altar is a triptych signed by Lorenzo di Niccolò, donated in 1440 by Cosimo and Lorenzo de' Medici. The reason for such generosity was to influence Fra Angelico to reside in Florence and paint the Monastery of San Marco. The triptych depicts the Coronation of the Virgin with other scenes of the Annunciation and the Crucifixion. On the left apse of the church there is the Madonna with Angels and Saints by Luca Signorelli.  In Italy, many glorious surprises and blessings may be discovered in the least celebrated and prominent locations…
    Trittico sopra l'Altare della Chiesa..tona
  • "High Privileged Altar - Church of Our Lady of the Assumption Positano"...<br />
<br />
The history of the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is closely linked to the Benedictine monastery of St. Mary, which, according to tradition, was built when a Byzantine icon of the Virgin was brought to Positano and venerated thereafter. The Icon belonged to a cargo ship from the East, and offshore of Positano the ship was stopped by a dead calm sea. After unsuccessful attempts to continue sailing, the sailors heard a voice saying “Posa Posa”, meaning, “Put me down, put me down!” (Origin of the name “Positano”). The captain thought this miracle meant that the Virgin wanted to stop there and decided to head for shore. At that point…the ship began to sail again. The sailors disembarked the icon and gave it to the inhabitants of Positano, who chose the Virgin as their patron and built a church in her honor. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. I found this Crucifix inside a small chapel of the ancient church which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Altare Alto Privilegiato - Chiesa di..tano
  • “View from the Grand Canal of the church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice”…<br />
<br />
The first church on the island was built about 790, and in 982 the island was given to the Benedictine order by the Doge Tribuno Memmo. The Benedictines founded a monastery there, but in 1223 all the buildings on the island were destroyed by an earthquake. Andrea Palladio, an Italian Renaissance architect active in the Venetian Republic was commissioned for the rebuild. Palladio, influenced by Roman and Greek architecture, is widely considered to be one of the most influential individuals in the history of architecture, began the rebuild in 1560 and made dramatic improvements. The campanile was rebuilt in neo-classic style and completed in 1791. It was ascended by ramps and now an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Venice. The facade is brilliantly white and represents Palladio's solution to the difficulty of adapting a classical temple facade to the form of the Catholic Basilica. Two very large paintings by Tintoretto relate to the institution of the Eucharist and are located on either side of the presbytery, where they can be seen from the altar rail. “The Last Supper” and “The Jews in the Desert” (collecting and eating the manna, a gift of God to the Israelites in the Desert after they escaped Egypt, which foretells the gift of the Eucharist). Claude Monet painted a series of paintings of the island Monastery of San Giorgio Maggiore in 1908 during the artist's only visit to the city. One of the best known is “San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk”, which exists in two versions. Monet completed his paintings of Venice at home in France and in 1912 showed them in Paris. Buyers included the Welsh collector Gwendoline Davies, who bought three paintings. This vision of the Church of San Giorgio is iconic and famous worldwide. My image capture while upon an evening boat excursion appears theatrical as if the majestic church is posing for yet another Venetian canvas.
    Vista dal Canal Grande della chiesa ..ezia
  • “Evening fog blankets the Church of Santa Maria Nuova – Cortona”…<br />
<br />
Rising high upon the hillside below Cortona, the church of Santa Maria Nuova stands majestically keeping a watchful eye over the valley. The ancient dome ascends above the trees, and especially during foggy weather, aspires toward the heavens. Initial construction began in 1550 when Giorgio Vasari became engaged with the project.  One of my favorite Renaissance men, Vasari was an Italian painter, architect, writer, and historian. He is famous today for his “Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects,” and considered the ideological foundation of art-historical writing.  The design changed to a classic Renaissance style temple based on the Greek cross plan. The Church’s location was predestined, as miraculous apparitions of the Madonna occurred on this exact setting.  It is also located along the road which leads to Del Convento di Celle fondato da San Francesco (Convent of the Cells founded by St. Francis).  Stationed below the ancient wall and olive trees, the noble dome seemed to pierce into the dramatic clouds above…confident in its symbolic beauty.  Fog often seeps up the ancient hilltop of Cortona from the valley and lake below to the cooler fortified town above. The enchanting affect will bequeath one with mystical views of the distinguished Basilica immersed in a haze of clouds.
    Nebbia di Sera le le coperte Chiesa ..tona
  • “The Church of Santa Maddalena is surrounded by Roe Deer, both enjoying the sunset over the Dolomites in South Tyrol, Italy - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
The Church of St. Magdalene resides in a small village located in the Dolomites of Italy. Both, the village and the church, are symbols of the Val di Funes. This tiny picturesque village of just 377 people is located in the Trentino-Alto Adige region of Northern Italy. Historically, the church was built where the miraculous image of Santa Maddalena was washed up by the Fopal River. Saint Mary Magdalene church is mentioned beginning in 1394. The current form of the nave with a sloping base and a slightly grooved roof cornice, with pear and round bar on the pointed arch portal with a red chalk inscription, was complete in 1492. The mural exterior is the Crucifix on the gable in a niche with a donkey's back, weather-beaten, early XVI century. St. Christopher is lively and virtuoso in movement with a fluttering, wrinkled robe. Interiorly, the keystones on the vault, are bust portraits of Mary with the Christ Child and saints. The valley, as you can see, Val di Funes is stunningly beautiful. Summer, it’s very green and dotted with colorful flowers. Winter, it’s covered with snow, and the ragged Dolomite peaks, pierce the sky toward the heavens. Mary Magdalene is the first among the women following Jesus to proclaim Him as having overcome death. She is the first to announce the joyful message of Easter. But she also proved she was among those who loved Him most when she stood at the foot of the Cross on Mount Calvary together with Mary, His Mother, and the disciple, St. John. She did not deny him or run away in fear as the other disciples did, but remained close to Him every moment, up to and including the tomb. The Italian Roe Deer rejoice in the beauty of God’s creation.
    La Chiesa di Santa Maddalena e’ circ..etta
  • “Silhouette of Gondoliers against the late sun on the Grand Canal near the Church of Santa Maria del Giglio - Red”…<br />
<br />
“Venice” - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: <br />
WHITE swan of cities, slumbering in thy nest	<br />
So wonderfully built among the reeds	<br />
Of the lagoon, that fences thee and feeds,	<br />
As sayeth thy old historian and thy guest!	<br />
White water-lily, cradled and caressed	<br />
By ocean streams, and from the silt and weeds	<br />
Lifting thy golden pistils with their seeds,	<br />
Thy sun-illumined spires, thy crown and crest!	<br />
White phantom city, whose untrodden streets	<br />
Are rivers, and whose pavements are the shifting	<br />
Shadows of palaces and strips of sky;	<br />
I wait to see thee vanish like the fleets	<br />
Seen in mirage, or towers of cloud uplifting	<br />
In air their unsubstantial masonry.<br />
	<br />
The gondola is a traditional, flat-bottomed Venetian rowing boat, well suited to the conditions of the Venetian lagoon. The rowing oar, which is not fastened to the hull, is used in a sculling manner, also acting as the rudder. For centuries the gondola was the chief means of transportation and most common watercraft within Venice. It is propelled by a gondolier. In modern times the iconic boats still have a role in public transportation in the city, serving as traghetti (ferries) over the Grand Canal. There are just over four hundred gondolas in active service today, virtually all of them used for hire by tourists. In order to become a professional gondolier, you need to obtain a license from the guild. Two hundred years ago, there were 10,000 gondolas in Venice. Although the aristocracy preferred horses to boats through the early Middle-Ages, beginning in the 14th century when horses were outlawed from the streets of Venice, the noble class embraced gondolas as a respectable form of transportation.
    Silhouette di gondolieri contro il t..osso
  • “The Crucifixion above the altar of the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi”…<br />
<br />
My artistic interpretation here is of the Crucified Jesus as primary to the Image of The Divine Mercy. St. Faustina asked the Lord about the meaning of the rays in the image: The two rays denote Blood and Water. The pale ray stands for the Water which makes souls righteous. The red ray stands for the Blood which is the life of souls. These two rays issued forth from the depths of My tender mercy when My agonized Heart was opened by a lance on the Cross. Happy is the one who will dwell in their shelter, for the just hand of God shall not lay hold of him. The Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Assisi is located outside the first city walls, in Piazza del Vescovado. It was the heart of the medieval bishop's citadel and center of religious power until the 11th century when it gave the title of the Cathedral to San Rufino. According to tradition, the first Cathedral of Assisi was built in this site close to the Roman city walls in the 4th century.  The crypt under the apse of the present church, which is the oldest surviving part of the structure, seems to date to the 9th or 10th century. St. Francis was baptized in the temple. In the early Middle Ages, it was an episcopal residence. In 1035, at the time of Bishop Ugone, the title of Cathedral was transferred from Santa Maria Maggiore to the church of San Rufino, where the relics of the patron saint were kept. San Francesco was a guest of Bishop Guido I several times in the adjacent Palazzo Vescovile, in front of which he stripped off his clothes, nurturing a special bond with the church of Santa Maria Maggiore. A stone outside the apse bears witness to works carried out at the time of Francis and Bishop Guido in the year 1216. I found the ancient church to be uncomplicated, yet comforting and reverent. The primitive and recently discovered catacombs below, reveal its age and status throughout history.
    La Crocifissione sopra l'altare a Ch..sisi
  • "The sun sets behind the Church of San Giacomo Maggiore - Orvieto"...<br />
<br />
Orvieto is one of the most striking, memorable, and enjoyable hill towns in central Italy. Less than 90 minutes from Rome, Orvieto sits majestically high above the valley floor atop a big chunk of volcanic stone called tufa, and overlooking cypress-dotted Umbrian plains and vineyards. The ancient city rewards one with a peaceful and historical stroll back in time to the days of the Etruscans, who built this cliff top village over 2000 years ago for protection from their enemies. The ancient Etruscan wall still stands today presenting colorful cliffside views, and protecting the famous Duomo di Orvieto, the Palazzo del Popolo, and other antique treasures. A hospice for the poor and traveling pilgrims was established on this location in 1187 and the site eventually developed into a civic hospital.  Pope Clement IV gave permission for the erection of a chapel and cemetery in 1266.  Eventually the church finally closed in 2000, when the new Ospedale di Santa  Maria della Stella opened at nearby Ciconia.
    Il sole tramonta dietro la Chiesa di..ieto
  • “View from the Grand Canal of the church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice - Blue and Red”…<br />
<br />
The first church on the island was built about 790, and in 982 the island was given to the Benedictine order by the Doge Tribuno Memmo. The Benedictines founded a monastery there, but in 1223 all the buildings on the island were destroyed by an earthquake. Andrea Palladio, an Italian Renaissance architect active in the Venetian Republic was commissioned for the rebuild. Palladio, influenced by Roman and Greek architecture, is widely considered to be one of the most influential individuals in the history of architecture, began the rebuild in 1560 and made dramatic improvements. The campanile was rebuilt in neo-classic style and completed in 1791. It was ascended by ramps and now an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Venice. The facade is brilliantly white and represents Palladio's solution to the difficulty of adapting a classical temple facade to the form of the Catholic Basilica. Two very large paintings by Tintoretto relate to the institution of the Eucharist and are located on either side of the presbytery, where they can be seen from the altar rail. “The Last Supper” and “The Jews in the Desert” (collecting and eating the manna, a gift of God to the Israelites in the Desert after they escaped Egypt, which foretells the gift of the Eucharist). Claude Monet painted a series of paintings of the island Monastery of San Giorgio Maggiore in 1908 during the artist's only visit to the city. One of the best known is “San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk”, which exists in two versions. Monet completed his paintings of Venice at home in France and in 1912 showed them in Paris. Buyers included the Welsh collector Gwendoline Davies, who bought three paintings. This vision of the Church of San Giorgio is iconic and famous worldwide. My image capture while upon an evening boat excursion appears theatrical as if the majestic church is posing for yet another Venetian canvas.
    Vista dal Canal Grande della chiesa ..ossa
  • “Holy Door of the Church of Saint Agnes of Montepulciano"... <br />
<br />
St. Agnes of Montepulciano was born in 13th-century Tuscany. At the age of six, Agnes began trying to convince her parents to allow her to join a convent. She was finally admitted to the Dominican convent at Montepulciano at age nine. Agnes' reputation for holiness attracted other sisters, and she became an abbess at the unheard of age of 15. She insisted on greater austerities in the abbey. She lived on bread and water for 15 years, slept on the ground and used a stone for a pillow. It was said that she had visions of the Virgin Mary and that in her visions angels gave her Communion. Agnes also had a vision in which she was holding the infant Jesus. When she awoke from her trance, she was holding the small gold crucifix the infant Jesus was wearing. She died in 1317. Miracles have been reported at her tomb. When her body was moved to a church years after her death, it was found incorrupt. She was canonized in 1726. The saint’s shrine is located facing the 16th century ramparts of the Porta al Prato of Montepulciano. It opens into the lower part of the historical center and completed in 1306. The hill was chosen by the saint to build her church following visions of a stairway to heaven, it was originally occupied by brothels. Agnes purchased the land herself for 1,200 lire. The hill was transformed from a sinful location to a holy and reverent community. The church, monumental cloister, and its convent are now totally transformed and host the incorrupt body of Saint Agnes.
    Porta Santa della Chiesa di Sant'Agn..iano
  • "The angels observe from above the Monumental Church of San Michele Arcangelo Anacapri"...<br />
<br />
On the third morning in Sorrento, I departed on a high speed Ferry to the island of Capri.  Although promoting high-speed, it still took over an hour to arrive at the very crowded Island.  Capri is located off the coast of Naples and there must be a new Ferry full of tourists arriving every 20 minutes throughout the day.  Famous for its Blue Grotto, which I did not venture to this trip, Capri is a picturesque Mediterranean retreat with high cliffs and ancient Roman villas. The highlight of my visit was the small and very crowded bus ride along the cliffs edge to Anacapri.  I was standing closest to the door on the right side of the bus during the assent up the mountainside.  All I could see was the rocky shore below and with every leaning left turn, prayed desperately I would make it to the top.  Anacapri is a historic mountaintop town with commanding views of Capri and the sea below.  This 4 image panorama was taken from the tiny balcony above the diminutive Church of St Michael the Archangel in Anacapri, located on Piazza San Nicola. The church was built in 1719, with an octagonal shape and of Baroque style. The church received a "monument" designation due to its notable majolica floor mosaic of creation with Adam and Eve. One must traverse the sacred tile floor on benches around the edges to protect the imagery.
    Gli angeli osservano dall'alto la Ch..apri
  • “The bell tower of the church of San Pietro rises above Corniglia”…<br />
<br />
I began my daily journey at the northern most town of Monterosso and took the train to the southernmost town of Riomaggiore. I sailed up the coast photographing each Cinque Terre town along the way aboard the Angelina Dada. Upon arriving back home in Monterosso, soft light illuminated the sky and azure sea of the Mediterranean convincing me to sail all the way back to Riomaggiore with my gracious guides Claudio and Eddie of "Cinque Terre dal Mare" sailing excursions. We arrived just in time for a perfect sunset. After a nice dinner...I caught the last train at midnight back home to Monterosso. A very long day, but worth every minute!  This panorama image of Corniglia, the only Cinque Terre town not directly on the sea…was taken on the journey back to Riomaggiore at dusk.  The tiny village seems snuggled into the Cliffside soaking up the last bit of sunlight before nightfall.  The ancient campanile of the church of Saint Peter, which was built in 1334, begins to peer over the cliff in the upper part of Corniglia.
    Il campanile della chiesa di San Pie..glia
  • "The light of the evening sun illuminates the flowers and the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano"...<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions.  As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church.  The hazy ambience was perfectly accentuating a glowing cross and the Majorca cupula of Santa Maria Assunta.
    La luce del sole di sera illumina i ..tano
  • “The church of Santa Maria Assunta guards the coast of Positano”…<br />
<br />
I never ventured to attempt many photos in the hot daylight sun of Italy; however, as the sun dropped down behind the cliffs of Positano in early evening…the lighting on the picturesque Amalfi village brought out the depth of color and highlighted the plush vegetation.  Around 5:00pm, I positioned the camera at the edge of the opposing cliff to frame this image allowing the colors to derive their true spectrum of light and power.  The focal point of most views of Positano is the church of Santa Maria Assunta.  The colorful dome is made of majolica tiles which are very prominent on the Amalfi Coast, and the church contains a thirteenth-century Byzantine icon of the legendary Black Madonna.
    La chiesa di Santa Maria Assunta cus..tano
  • “Heaven Reigns of Glorious Snow on the Church of San Sebastiano in the Bavarian Alps - Painting by Dino Carbetta "...<br />
<br />
Psalms 42:2-6 – “As the deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, the living God. When can I enter and see the face of God? My tears have been my bread day and night, as they ask me every day, “Where is your God?” Those times I recall as I pour out my soul, When I would cross over to the shrine of the Mighty One, to the house of God, Amid loud cries of thanksgiving, with the multitude keeping festival. Why are you downcast, my soul; why do you groan within me? Wait for God, for I shall again praise him, my savior and my God.” The beautiful Bavarian church was built in 1512 under Prince Provost Gregor Rainer is consecrated to Saints Sebastian and Fabian and lies only 161 miles from Bolzano, Italy. In the late gothic built style, the 16th-century church has been extended several times and provided with a stone tower in 1611. It was finally redesigned in baroque style together with the tower built in 1700 and covered with an onion dome and wooden shingles. To the east of the church is the historic cemetery, which is adjacent to the war memorial in memory of the Ramsau people who died in World War II. In 1960 US President Eisenhower painted the church by hand based on a color photo. His work was reproduced as a Christmas present for the White House staff and published in the European edition of Stars and Stripes, the daily newspaper of the US armed forces. I found the beautiful snowy church and mountains to be a perfect backdrop in a faithful description of this Psalms bible passage.
    Il Paradiso Regna del Neve Gloriosa ..etta
  • “The Church of Sant'Anna in Marina Grande of Sorrento”…<br />
<br />
The church of Sant’ Anna at Marina Grande was consecrated as a civil parish in 1945. The church, originally dedicated to San Giacomo della Marche and a new church was created at the behest of the fishermen of the Confraternita di San Giovanni in Fontibus and dedicated to the Souls in Purgatory in 1680. The church was restored in 1800 and reconsecrated to Sant’Anna whose following in the west became popular in the 16th century when it was preached that her faith had laid the foundation of courage that allowed her daughter to stand by the Cross as her Son was crucified and still believe. The squat bell tower has a distinctive green and yellow majolica tiled cupola. Sant’ Anna’s bells are an important link between the village and its fishermen out at sea. Like many bells along the Amalfi Coast, Sant’ Anna’s bells not only call the congregation to church but chime the hours and the quarter hours. During the restoration the gilded stucco decoration was added to the cool white nave where there are statues of San Giaocchino holding two turtle doves (his other attributes are a shovel and a lamb); St Joseph; the Holy Heart of Jesus and St. Paul with his martyr’s sword. My first visit to Marina Grande, I found the church after hours to be closed, but upon my Spring Pilgrimage of 2019…the doors were open just before Mass. I captured only 2 images of the altar and the Crucified Jesus which I found alive and fascinating. Combining the two images of the small, but an elegant church with a peak of sunlight from upper windows shining upon the altar gives the reverent, spiritual, and mystical appeal the Church of Sant’ Anna in Marina Grande deserves. I hope to visit here again in the near future and spend more time getting to know this fisherman’s parish.
    La Chiesa di Sant'Anna a Marina Gran..ento
  • “View from the Grand Canal of the church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice - Dark”…<br />
<br />
The first church on the island was built about 790, and in 982 the island was given to the Benedictine order by the Doge Tribuno Memmo. The Benedictines founded a monastery there, but in 1223 all the buildings on the island were destroyed by an earthquake. Andrea Palladio, an Italian Renaissance architect active in the Venetian Republic was commissioned for the rebuild. Palladio, influenced by Roman and Greek architecture, is widely considered to be one of the most influential individuals in the history of architecture, began the rebuild in 1560 and made dramatic improvements. The campanile was rebuilt in neo-classic style and completed in 1791. It was ascended by ramps and now an elevator to the top for panoramic views of Venice. The facade is brilliantly white and represents Palladio's solution to the difficulty of adapting a classical temple facade to the form of the Catholic Basilica. Two very large paintings by Tintoretto relate to the institution of the Eucharist and are located on either side of the presbytery, where they can be seen from the altar rail. “The Last Supper” and “The Jews in the Desert” (collecting and eating the manna, a gift of God to the Israelites in the Desert after they escaped Egypt, which foretells the gift of the Eucharist). Claude Monet painted a series of paintings of the island Monastery of San Giorgio Maggiore in 1908 during the artist's only visit to the city. One of the best known is “San Giorgio Maggiore at Dusk”, which exists in two versions. Monet completed his paintings of Venice at home in France and in 1912 showed them in Paris. Buyers included the Welsh collector Gwendoline Davies, who bought three paintings. This vision of the Church of San Giorgio is iconic and famous worldwide. My image capture while upon an evening boat excursion appears theatrical as if the majestic church is posing for yet another Venetian canvas.
    Vista dal Canal Grande della chiesa ..curo
  • “Silhouette of Gondoliers against the late sun on the Grand Canal near the Church of Santa Maria del Giglio - Green Water”…<br />
“Venice” - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: <br />
WHITE swan of cities, slumbering in thy nest	<br />
So wonderfully built among the reeds	<br />
Of the lagoon, that fences thee and feeds,	<br />
As sayeth thy old historian and thy guest!	<br />
White water-lily, cradled and caressed	<br />
By ocean streams, and from the silt and weeds	<br />
Lifting thy golden pistils with their seeds,	<br />
Thy sun-illumined spires, thy crown and crest!	<br />
White phantom city, whose untrodden streets	<br />
Are rivers, and whose pavements are the shifting	<br />
Shadows of palaces and strips of sky;	<br />
I wait to see thee vanish like the fleets	<br />
Seen in mirage, or towers of cloud uplifting	<br />
In air their unsubstantial masonry.<br />
	<br />
The gondola is a traditional, flat-bottomed Venetian rowing boat, well suited to the conditions of the Venetian lagoon. The rowing oar, which is not fastened to the hull, is used in a sculling manner, also acting as the rudder. For centuries the gondola was the chief means of transportation and most common watercraft within Venice. It is propelled by a gondolier. In modern times the iconic boats still have a role in public transportation in the city, serving as traghetti (ferries) over the Grand Canal. There are just over four hundred gondolas in active service today, virtually all of them used for hire by tourists. In order to become a professional gondolier, you need to obtain a license from the guild. Two hundred years ago, there were 10,000 gondolas in Venice. Although the aristocracy preferred horses to boats through the early Middle-Ages, beginning in the 14th century when horses were outlawed from the streets of Venice, the noble class embraced gondolas as a respectable form of transportation.
    Silhouette di gondolieri contro il t..cqua
  • “Silhouette of Gondoliers against the late sun on the Grand Canal near the Church of Santa Maria del Giglio”…<br />
<br />
“Venice” - Henry Wadsworth Longfellow: <br />
WHITE swan of cities, slumbering in thy nest	<br />
So wonderfully built among the reeds	<br />
Of the lagoon, that fences thee and feeds,	<br />
As sayeth thy old historian and thy guest!	<br />
White water-lily, cradled and caressed	<br />
By ocean streams, and from the silt and weeds	<br />
Lifting thy golden pistils with their seeds,	<br />
Thy sun-illumined spires, thy crown and crest!	<br />
White phantom city, whose untrodden streets	<br />
Are rivers, and whose pavements are the shifting	<br />
Shadows of palaces and strips of sky;	<br />
I wait to see thee vanish like the fleets	<br />
Seen in mirage, or towers of cloud uplifting	<br />
In air their unsubstantial masonry.<br />
	<br />
The gondola is a traditional, flat-bottomed Venetian rowing boat, well suited to the conditions of the Venetian lagoon. The rowing oar, which is not fastened to the hull, is used in a sculling manner, also acting as the rudder. For centuries the gondola was the chief means of transportation and most common watercraft within Venice. It is propelled by a gondolier. In modern times the iconic boats still have a role in public transportation in the city, serving as traghetti (ferries) over the Grand Canal. There are just over four hundred gondolas in active service today, virtually all of them used for hire by tourists. In order to become a professional gondolier, you need to obtain a license from the guild. Two hundred years ago, there were 10,000 gondolas in Venice. Although the aristocracy preferred horses to boats through the early Middle-Ages, beginning in the 14th century when horses were outlawed from the streets of Venice, the noble class embraced gondolas as a respectable form of transportation.
    Silhouette di gondolieri contro il t..glio
  • "Madonna and Christ Child above Monumental Church of San Michele Arcangelo, Anacapri"...<br />
<br />
On the third morning in Sorrento, I departed on a high speed Ferry to the island of Capri. Although promoting high-speed, it still took over an hour to arrive at the very crowded Island. Capri is located off the coast of Naples and there must be a new Ferry full of tourists arriving every 20 minutes throughout the day. Famous for its Blue Grotto, which I did not venture to this trip, Capri is a picturesque Mediterranean retreat with high cliffs and ancient Roman villas. The highlight of my visit was the small and very crowded bus ride along the cliffs edge to Anacapri. I was standing closest to the door on the right side of the bus during the assent up the mountainside. All I could see was the rocky shore below and with every leaning left turn, prayed desperately I would make it to the top. Anacapri is a historic mountaintop town with commanding views of Capri and the sea below. This 4 image panorama was taken from the tiny balcony above the diminutive Church of St Michael the Archangel in Anacapri, located on Piazza San Nicola. The church was built in 1719, with an octagonal shape and of Baroque style. The church received a "monument" designation due to its notable majolica floor mosaic of creation with Adam and Eve. One must traverse the sacred tile floor on benches around the edges to protect the imagery. This image is high above the Altar at the very top of the small church. I climbed a very creaky and tiny spiral staircase to capture this beautiful image of the Madonna and Christ child.
    Madonna e Cristo Bambino sopra Chies..apri
  • “The Holy Family protects the entrance to the Church of Sant'Agostino Montepulciano”…<br />
<br />
A late afternoon excursion from Cortona led me to the medieval town of Montepulciano, which stands on an ancient walled hilltop in southern Tuscany, not far from Siena. Within its ramparts are elegant Renaissance palaces, ancient churches, charming squares, hidden corners, and vast panoramas of the famous vineyard valleys of the Val d'Orcia. Montepulciano has received great attention following the filming of the sequel Twilight - New Moon. I would love to spend more time in the picturesque town, and will include a longer stay in my return to Italy.  Montepulciano is famous for not just one but two excellent wines, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano and Rosso di Montepulciano. However, it is often underestimated in terms of the interest of its art and architecture, perhaps because of its small size.  This image was created of the church of St. Augustine founded in 1285, as the last rays of sunlight shine mystically across the façade of the ancient church.
    La Sacra Famiglia protegge l'ingress..iano
  • "Privileged Altar - The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption Positano"...<br />
<br />
The history of the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption is closely linked to the Benedictine monastery of St. Mary, which, according to tradition, was built when a Byzantine icon of the Virgin was brought to Positano and venerated thereafter. The Icon belonged to a cargo ship from the East, and offshore of Positano the ship was stopped by a dead calm sea. After unsuccessful attempts to continue sailing, the sailors heard a voice saying “Posa Posa”, meaning, “Put me down, put me down!” (Origin of the name “Positano”). The captain thought this miracle meant that the Virgin wanted to stop there and decided to head for shore. At that point…the ship began to sail again. The sailors disembarked the icon and gave it to the inhabitants of Positano, who chose the Virgin as their patron and built a church in her honor. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. I found this Crucifix inside a small chapel of the ancient church which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Altare Privilegiato - Il Chiesa di N..tano
  • “Overview of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano”…<br />
<br />
This image is a combination of three horizontal images to create a panoramic view centered on the main focal point of Positano…the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.  After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions.  As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. The ancient church was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159.  Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Panoramica di Chiesa di Santa Maria ..tano
  • "Decorative Wall around the New Church of St. Francis of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Italy is famous for its display of fresh and beautiful flowers outside the windows and doors throughout the countryside, and Assisi was no different with the exception of the perfection of their presentation. I am sure the Chamber of Commerce in Assisi is quite busy maintaining the continuity and beauty of Assisi, but perhaps there is no need as the residents all seem perfectly happy to respect and display all its beauty. The streets, walkways, and general environment were the most immaculate of any town I witnessed in Italy, and the most religious of any place on my journey. The town became a mystic and peaceful shrine in the early darkness of night after all the tourists departed, and all the prayers offered that day reflected and echoed off the ancient walls. Even the vending machines contained Rosaries, and its residents strolled about dressed in their religious attire with permanent smiles upon their faces. I am sure there are many remarkable religious destinations in the world, but in this photographer’s opinion…Assisi has no spiritual equal on this earth.
    Murale Decorativo circa della Chiesa..sisi
  • “Haze of light in the late afternoon descends on the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions.  As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church.  The hazy ambience was perfectly accentuating a glowing cross and the Majorca cupula of Santa Maria Assunta.
    Caligine di luce nel tardo pomeriggi..tano
  • “Church of San Nicola da Tolentino – Veneto”…<br />
<br />
My second evening enjoying the mystical aura of the Veneziano light and color, I once again found myself meandering about without ever having a good idea of my destination.  Leaving the hotel every morning, I always had a semblance of an idea of what I wanted to do, see, and photograph.  However, Italy always seemed to change my plans turning the first corner of the day, only to fall in love once again with the cultural brilliance and colorful antiquity that personifies the Italian landscape.  This was just the beginning of many mornings, days, and evenings of my Italian inauguration.  As I stood gazing down the colorful Tolentini Canal, the evening sun shone perfectly upon the campanile and tower of the Church of St. Nicholas of Tolentino. “Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” JN 8:12
    Chiesa di San Nicola da Tolentino - ..neto
  • “Church of Santa Maria Nuova – Cortona - BW”…<br />
<br />
Rising high upon the hillside below Cortona, the church of Santa Maria Nuova stands majestically keeping a watchful eye over the valley. The ancient dome ascends above the trees, and especially during foggy weather, aspires toward the heavens. Initial construction began in 1550 when Giorgio Vasari became engaged with the project.  One of my favorite Renaissance men, Vasari was an Italian painter, architect, writer, and historian. He is famous today for his “Lives of the Most Excellent Painters, Sculptors, and Architects,” and considered the ideological foundation of art-historical writing.  The design changed to a classic Renaissance style temple based on the Greek cross plan. The Church’s location was predestined, as miraculous apparitions of the Madonna occurred on this exact setting.  It is also located along the road which leads to Del Convento di Celle fondato da San Francesco (Convent of the Cells founded by St. Francis).  Stationed below the ancient wall and olive trees, the noble dome seemed to pierce into the dramatic clouds above…confident in its symbolic beauty.
    Chiesa di Santa Maria Nuova - Corton..- BW
  • “Holy Door of the Church of Saint Agnes of Montepulciano – BW”…<br />
<br />
St. Agnes of Montepulciano was born in 13th-century Tuscany. At the age of six, Agnes began trying to convince her parents to allow her to join a convent. She was finally admitted to the Dominican convent at Montepulciano at age nine.<br />
Agnes' reputation for holiness attracted other sisters, and she became an abbess at the unheard of age of 15. She insisted on greater austerities in the abbey. She lived on bread and water for 15 years, slept on the ground and used a stone for a pillow. It was said that she had visions of the Virgin Mary and that in her visions angels gave her Communion. She also had a vision in which she was holding the infant Jesus. When she awoke from her trance, she she was holding the small gold crucifix the infant Jesus was wearing. She died in 1317. Miracles have been reported at her tomb. When her body was moved to a church years after her death, it was found incorrupt. She was canonized in 1726. The saint’s shrine is located facing the 16th century ramparts of the Porta al Prato of Montepulciano. It opens into the lower part of the historical center and completed in 1306. The hill was chosen by the saint to build her church following visions of a stairway to heaven, it was originally occupied by brothels. Agnes purchased the land herself for 1,200 lire. The hill was transformed from a sinful location to a holy and reverent community. The church, monumental cloister, and its convent are now totally transformed and host the incorrupt body of Saint Agnes.
    Porta Santa della Chiesa di Sant'Agn..- BW
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