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  • “Sailing the Cinque Terre ... Riomaggiore goodbye!”…<br />
<br />
I began my daily journey at the northernmost 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. This image was created standing on the rooftop of the antique 28 foot Angelina’s galley with my arms around the mast and my 20-pound camera bag strapped over my shoulder, creating a human tripod for support. I could not help noticing tourists in each village photographing our boat as we sailed up and down the coast; perhaps it was the image of a silly photographer hanging on for dear life as the waves wobbled the boat side to side in anticipation of a splashdown?! Leaving for my destination of Monterosso, soft light illuminated the sky and azure sea of the Mediterranean convincing me to sail 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. I believe there is a great appeal in each of the five Cinque Terre villages, each with a different history, people, elements, and culture. However, I could not help falling in love with tiny Riomaggiore for its scenic appeal, charming culture, and friendly residents.
    Vela la Cinque Terre...Riomaggiore a..rci!
  • “Navigating the Cinque Terre as evening descends on Riomaggiore”…<br />
<br />
I began my daily journey at the northernmost 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. This image was created standing on the rooftop of the antique 28 foot Angelina’s galley with my arms around the mast and my 25-pound camera bag strapped over my shoulder, creating a human tripod for support. I could not help noticing tourists in each village photographing our boat as we sailed up and down the coast; perhaps it was the image of a silly photographer hanging on for dear life as the waves wobbled the boat side to side in anticipation of a splashdown?! Leaving for my destination of Monterosso, soft light illuminated the sky and azure sea of the Mediterranean convincing me to sail 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. I believe there is great appeal in each of the five Cinque Terre villages, each with a different history, people, elements, and culture. However, I could not help falling in love with tiny Riomaggiore for its scenic appeal, charming culture, and friendly residents. This photograph was created as I prepared to disembark the Angelina, and the bright hue of the evening sunlight began to fade.
    Navigando le Cinque Terre mentre ser..iore
  • “Evening In The Lively Seaside Town of Riomaggiore”…<br />
<br />
I began my daily journey at the northernmost 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. This image was created standing on the rooftop of the antique 28-foot Angelina’s galley with my arms around the mast and my 20-pound camera bag strapped over my shoulder, creating a human tripod for support. I could not help noticing tourists in each village photographing our boat as we sailed up and down the coast; perhaps it was the image of a silly photographer hanging on for dear life as the waves wobbled the boat side to side in anticipation of a splashdown?! Leaving for my destination of Monterosso, soft light illuminated the sky and azure sea of the Mediterranean convincing me to sail 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. There is a great appeal in each of the five Cinque Terre villages, each with a different history, people, elements, and culture. However, I could not help falling in love with tiny Riomaggiore for its scenic appeal, charming culture, and friendly residents.
    Sera Nella Vivace Cittadina Balneare..iore
  • “Evening Mystical Sun Rays Peep Through the Clouds Above 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. Circling the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, I finally found the parking garage 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 substantial number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California. Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian waiter from the hotel offering a towel, iced water, and drinks for the evening. I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he did not seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village. The sunset was coy and did not appear to cooperate, but during opportune moments it mystified the cloud arrangement and contributed just enough light and color to satisfy a weary photographer. 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 tucked between the descending mountains dripping with multicolored dwellings, and the transcendent blue sea, the church’s brilliant 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 iconic beautiful seaside village.
    Sera Raggi del Sole Mistici Fanno Ca..tano
  • “Positano Explosion of Colors Before Sunset” …<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. Circling the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, I finally found the parking garage 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 substantial number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California. Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian waiter from the hotel offering a towel, iced water, and drinks for the evening. I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he did not seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village. The sunset was coy and did not appear to cooperate, but during opportune moments it mystified the cloud arrangement and contributed just enough light and color to satisfy a weary photographer. 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 tucked between the descending mountains dripping with multicolored dwellings, and the transcendent blue sea, the church’s brilliant 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 iconic beautiful seaside village.
    Positano Esplosione di Colori Prima ..onto
  • “Excitement abounds as the warm summer evening falls on 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. Circling the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, I finally found the parking garage 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 substantial number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California. Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian waiter from the hotel offering a towel, iced water, and drinks for the evening. I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he did not seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village. The sunset was coy and did not appear to cooperate, but during opportune moments it mystified the cloud arrangement and contributed just enough light and color to satisfy a weary photographer. 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 tucked between the descending mountains dripping with multicolored dwellings, and the transcendent blue sea, the church’s brilliant 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 iconic beautiful seaside village.
    Eccitazione abbonda come la calda se..tano
  • "The evening sun breaks through the clouds above 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. Circling the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, I finally found the parking garage 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 substantial number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California. Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian waiter from the hotel offering a towel, iced water, and drinks for the evening. I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he did not seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village. The sunset was coy and did not appear to cooperate, but during opportune moments it mystified the cloud arrangement and contributed just enough light and color to satisfy a weary photographer. 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 tucked between the descending mountains dripping with multicolored dwellings, and the transcendent blue sea, the church’s brilliant 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 iconic beautiful seaside village.
    Il sole della sera attraversa le nuv..tano
  • “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
  • “Sunset view of Manarola from the azure Tyrrhenian Sea” …<br />
<br />
I began my daily journey at the northernmost 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. This image was composed of standing on the rooftop of the antique 28-foot Angelina’s galley with my arms around the mast and my 25-pound camera bag strapped over my shoulder, creating a human tripod for support. I could not help noticing tourists in each village photographing our boat as we sailed up and down the coast; perhaps it was the image of a silly photographer hanging on for dear life as the waves wobbled the boat side to side in anticipation of a splashdown?! Leaving for my destination of Monterosso, the radiant sunset illuminated the sky and the azure sea of the Mediterranean. I was convinced to sail back to Riomaggiore with my gracious guides Claudio and Eddie of the "Cinque Terre dal Mare" sailing excursions. We arrived just in time for the perfect magic-hour glow of the setting sun. After a nice dinner...I caught the last train at midnight back home to Monterosso. There is a great appeal in each of the five Cinque Terre villages, each with a different history, people, elements, and culture. This illuminating sunset of Manarola was captured just before arriving back in Riomaggiore. Arrivederci, Manarola!
    Tramonto vista di Manarola fin da il..Mare
  • “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
  • “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
  • “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 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
  • "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
  • "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
  • “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
  • “Our Lady of Fatima embraces the Old Glory - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
Inspiring hope in such a desperate situation, the Holy Father – John Paul II celebrated Mary as the only creature who has fully experienced the final victory of life. He presented her as the one who remains at the center of the struggle for life in this world: At her Assumption, Mary was “taken up to Life” – body and soul. She is already a part of “the first fruits” (1 Cor 15:20) of our Savior’s redemptive Death and Resurrection. The Son took his human life from her; in return, he gave her the fullness of communion in Divine Life. She is the only other being in whom the mystery has already been completely accomplished. In Mary, the final victory of Life over death is already a reality. These are astonishing words – “the final victory of Life over death is already a reality” in Our Lady! It is also one of the boldest prophetic statements of our age to claim that, after Christ, the Virgin Mary “is the only other being in whom the mystery [of Divine Life] has already been completely accomplished.” In so many words the Holy Father was saying that all those who consider themselves pro-life must take Mary as their pre-eminent champion in the struggle to restore legal protection to unborn children and to root out a pervasive culture of death. Our Lady was the channel through which Divine Life came to us. She is now the one who will restore life to a society that has succumbed to death.
    La Madonna di Fatima abbraccia la Ve..etta
  • ”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
  • "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
  • “Saint Jerome - Chigi Chapel in the Cathedral of Siena” …<br />
<br />
The Duomo in Siena lies in a piazza above the Piazza del Campo, a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio. Originally completed in 1263, the 14th century inspired an ambitious attempt to transform the cathedral into the largest in all of Christendom, which would dwarf even St. Peter's in Rome. In 1348, the Black Death killed 4/5 of Siena's population. The giant cathedral was never completed, and the half-finished walls of the New Cathedral survive as a monument to Siena's one-time wealth. The magnificent complex of the Cathedral of Siena houses a series of some of the most important monuments of the European artistic panorama. One will travel along a memorable itinerary to the discovery of self and the truth of faith through culture and art. Asked to choose only one place that represented the great history of art, architecture, culture, and faith in all of Italy…one would be hard-pressed to find a more complete portfolio than the Cathedral of Siena. I found myself awe-inspired just walking up and facing the elegant façade, striped walls and pillars, and massive size. Upon entering the nave, one is overwhelmed with a plethora of artistic expression and great beauty placed in every available space. From its dome, stained glass, frescos, sculptures, and what is said to be the most magnificent marble floor in history. Saints Jerome and Mary Magdalen are sculptures by the great Italian artist Gianlorenzo Bernini. St Jerome was above all a Scripture scholar, translating most of the Old Testament from the Hebrew. Jerome also wrote commentaries which are a great source of scriptural inspiration for us today. He was an avid student, a thorough scholar, a prodigious letter-writer, and a consultant to monks, bishops, and the pope. Saint Augustine said of him, “What Jerome is ignorant of, no mortal has ever known.”
    San Girolamo - Cappella Chigi nel Du..iena
  • “Saint Mary Magdalene - Chigi Chapel of Siena Cathedral”…<br />
<br />
The Duomo in Siena lies in a piazza above the Piazza del Campo, a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio. Originally completed in 1263, the 14th century inspired an ambitious attempt to transform the cathedral into the largest temple in all of Christendom, which would dwarf even St. Peter's in Rome. The already-large Duomo would form just the transept of this huge cathedral. In 1348, the Black Death swept through the city and killed 4/5 of Siena's population. The giant cathedral was never completed, and the half-finished walls of the New Cathedral survive as a monument to Siena's ambition and one-time wealth. The magnificent complex of the Cathedral of Siena houses a series of some of the most important monuments of the European artistic panorama. One will travel along a memorable itinerary to the discovery of self and the truth of faith through culture and art, the result of more than a millennium of Western history. If I was asked to choose only one place that represented the great history of art, architecture, culture, and faith in all of Italy…one would be hard-pressed to find a more complete portfolio than the Cathedral of Siena. I found myself awe-inspired just walking up and facing the elegant façade, striped walls and pillars, and massive size. Upon entering the nave, one is overwhelmed with a plethora of artistic expression and great beauty placed in every available space. From its dome, stained glass, frescos, sculptures, and to what is said to be the most magnificent marble floor in history…it is worth every minute. Saints Jerome and Mary Magdalene are sculptures by the great Italian artist Gianlorenzo Bernini. Work began on the sculptures in 1661 and now reside in the Chigi Chapel of the Siena Cathedral.
    Santa Maria Maddalena - Cappella Chi..iena
  • "Siena Cathedral magnificent architecture"...<br />
<br />
The Duomo in Siena lies in a piazza above the Piazza del Campo, a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio. Originally completed in 1263, the 14th century inspired an ambitious attempt to transform the cathedral into the largest temple in all of Christendom, which would dwarf even St. Peter's in Rome. The already-large Duomo would form just the transept of this huge cathedral.  In 1348, the Black Death swept through the city and killed 4/5 of Siena's population. The giant cathedral was never completed, and the half-finished walls of the New Cathedral survive as a monument to Siena's ambition and one-time wealth.  The magnificent complex of the Cathedral of Siena houses a series of some of the most important monuments of the European artistic panorama. One will travel along a memorable itinerary to the discovery of self and the truth of faith through culture and art, the result of more than a millennium of Western history.  If I was asked to choose only one place that represented the great history of art, architecture, culture, and faith in all of Italy…one would be hard pressed to find a more complete portfolio than the Cathedral of Siena.  I found myself awe-inspired just walking up and facing the elegant façade, striped walls and pillars, and massive size.  Upon entering into the nave, one is overwhelmed with a plethora of artistic expression and great beauty placed in every available space.  From its dome, stained glass, frescos, sculptures, and to what is said to be the most magnificent marble floor in history…it is worth every minute.
    Duomo di Siena magnifica architettura
  • “Angel Candelabra illuminates the way to the altar - Siena Cathedral”…<br />
<br />
The Duomo in Siena lies in a piazza above the Piazza del Campo, a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio. Originally completed in 1263, the 14th century inspired an ambitious attempt to transform the cathedral into the largest temple in all of Christendom, which would dwarf even St. Peter's in Rome. The already-large Duomo would form just the transept of this huge cathedral.  In 1348, the Black Death swept through the city and killed 4/5 of Siena's population. The giant cathedral was never completed, and the half-finished walls of the New Cathedral survive as a monument to Siena's ambition and one-time wealth.  The magnificent complex of the Cathedral of Siena houses a series of some of the most important monuments of the European artistic panorama. One will travel along a memorable itinerary to the discovery of self and the truth of faith through culture and art, the result of more than a millennium of Western history.  If I was asked to choose only one place that represented the great history of art, architecture, culture, and faith in all of Italy…one would be hard pressed to find a more complete portfolio than the Cathedral of Siena.  I found myself awe-inspired just walking up and facing the elegant façade, striped walls and pillars, and massive size.  Upon entering into the nave, one is overwhelmed with a plethora of artistic expression and great beauty placed in every available space.  From its dome, stained glass, frescos, sculptures, and to what is said to be the most magnificent marble floor in history…it is worth every minute.  This image is one of Domenico Beccafumi’s eight Angels on the pillars near the high altar- just one of the small and elegant details of this great Duomo.
    Angelo Candelabra illumina strada pe..iena
  • “The mystical evening sunlight peeking through the clouds of 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. Circling the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, I finally found the parking garage 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 substantial number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California. Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian waiter from the hotel offering a towel, iced water, and drinks for the evening. I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he did not seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village. The sunset was coy and did not appear to cooperate, but during opportune moments it mystified the cloud arrangement and contributed just enough light and color to satisfy a weary photographer. 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 tucked between the descending mountains dripping with multicolored dwellings, and the transcendent blue sea, the church’s brilliant 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 iconic beautiful seaside village.
    I raggi sera mistico del sole capoli..tano
  • “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
  • “Resting Under the Arches of the Doge's Palace – Venice”…<br />
<br />
The Palace is the most representative symbol of Venice's culture, which, together with the Basilica of San Marco at the back and the Piazzetta in the forefront, forms of the most famous sceneries in the world. Peering through the Doge’s arches, one can view the famous and ancient Church of San Giorgio Maggiore across the Grand Canal. For centuries the Doge's Palace had three fundamental roles: the Doge residence, the seat of government, and the palace of justice. This was where some of the most important decisions for Venice's, and even Europe's destiny were taken in this splendid example of Venetian gothic architecture. Most medieval palaces all over Italy, the Doge's Palace was built oppositely with the loggias down below and full walls above, whereas buildings like this normally had a huge base to make them easier to defend. Venetians considered their government as legitimate not by imposition or divine right, like in other Italian medieval cities, but as an expression of the Venetians' will. The thirty-six stone capitals on their arches are a marvelous example of medieval sculpture and give us a rich repertoire of symbolic figures: vice and virtue, saints, martyrs, knights, trades, birds, and signs of the zodiac. As on the outside, the facades indicate the double motive of the portico on the lower floors and of the walls with wide windows on the higher part. The architecture, which matches the marble loggia to the bricks of the masonry, manages to create a language that is both simple and ornate, the perfect expression of the spirit of the Republic. Majestic, mystical, and ornately reverent, indicate the one and only Doge’s Palace of Veneto.
    Riposando Sotto Gli Archi del Palazz..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
  • "Positano villa stairs and flowers"...<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. Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California. Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening. I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village. After a brief rest, I wandered around taking full advantage of Albergo California’s 180 degrees of seaside vistas and bellissimo villas.
    Positano villa le scale e fiori
  • “Dusk falls on Hotel California 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.  Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California.  Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening.  I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village.  After a brief rest, I wandered around taking full advantage of Albergo California’s 180 degrees of the perfect seaside vistas.
    Crepuscolo cade in Albergo Californi..tano
  • “Evening view from the deck of Hotel California Positano - BW”…<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.  Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California.  Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening.  I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village.  After a brief rest, I wandered around taking full advantage of Albergo California’s 180 degrees of seaside vistas.  Turning southward looking down the Amalfi Coast, the seaside town of Praiano began to appear ominous as storm clouds formed above creating a dramatic panorama.
    Serata vista dalla mazzo di Albergo ..- 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
  • “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
  • "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
  • “Adoration of the Shepherds - Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament Duomo of Siena”...<br />
<br />
Located at the corner between the right transept and the presbytery, in a position corresponding to the Chapel of Sant'Ansano, the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament occupies this span. The altarpiece is a canvas depicting the Adoration of the Shepherds by Alessandro Casolani beginning in 1594. The Duomo in Siena lies in a piazza above the Piazza del Campo, a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio. Originally completed in 1263, the 14th century inspired an ambitious attempt to transform the cathedral into the largest temple in all of Christendom, which would dwarf even St. Peter's in Rome. The already-large Duomo would form just the transept of this huge cathedral. In 1348, the Black Death swept through the city and killed 4/5 of Siena's population. The giant cathedral was never completed, and the half-finished walls of the New Cathedral survive as a monument to Siena's ambition and one-time wealth. The magnificent complex of the Cathedral of Siena houses a series of some of the most important monuments of the European artistic panorama. If I was asked to choose only one place that represented the great history of art, architecture, culture, and faith in all of Italy…one would be hard-pressed to find a more complete portfolio than the Cathedral of Siena. I found myself awe-inspired just walking up and facing the elegant façade, striped walls and pillars, and massive size. Upon entering the nave, one is overwhelmed with a plethora of artistic expression and great beauty placed in every available space. From its dome, stained glass, frescos, sculptures, and to what is said to be the most magnificent marble floor in history…it is worth every minute.
    Adorazione dei Pastori - Cappella de..iena
  • “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
  • "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
  • “Sunset view from the Hotel California 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.  Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California.  Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening.  I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village.  After a brief rest, I wandered around taking full advantage of Albergo California’s 180 degrees of seaside vistas.  Turning southward looking down the Amalfi Coast, the seaside town of Praiano began to appear ominous as storm clouds formed above creating a dramatic view.
    Tramonto vista dalla Albergo Califor..tano
  • “Sunset over Praiano from the Hotel California 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.  Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California.  Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening.  I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village.  After a brief rest, I wandered around taking full advantage of Albergo California’s 180 degrees of seaside vistas.  Turning southward looking down the Amalfi Coast, the seaside town of Praiano began to appear ominous as storm clouds formed above creating a dramatic view.
    Tramonto sopra Praiano da degli Albe..tano
  • "Sailing Cinque Terre with the late evening sun on Corniglia"...<br />
<br />
I began my daily journey at the northernmost 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 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. An exceptionally 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. I caught the last train at midnight back home to Monterosso. There is a great appeal in each of the five Cinque Terre villages, each with a different history, people, elements, and culture. This illuminating sunset of Manarola was captured just before arriving back in Riomaggiore. Arrivederci, Manarola!
    Vela Cinque Terre con la sera tarda ..glia
  • “Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament - Adoration of the Shepherds Duomo di Siena”... <br />
<br />
Located at the corner between the right transept and the presbytery, in a position corresponding to the Chapel of Sant'Ansano, the Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament occupies this span. The altarpiece is a canvas depicting the Adoration of the Shepherds by Alessandro Casolani beginning in 1594. The Duomo in Siena lies in a piazza above the Piazza del Campo, a great Gothic building filled with treasures by Pisano, Donatello, Bernini, and Michelangelo as well as frescoes by Pinturicchio. Originally completed in 1263, the 14th century inspired an ambitious attempt to transform the cathedral into the largest temple in all of Christendom, which would dwarf even St. Peter's in Rome. The already-large Duomo would form just the transept of this huge cathedral. In 1348, the Black Death swept through the city and killed 4/5 of Siena's population. The giant cathedral was never completed, and the half-finished walls of the New Cathedral survive as a monument to Siena's ambition and one-time wealth. The magnificent complex of the Cathedral of Siena houses a series of some of the most important monuments of the European artistic panorama. If I was asked to choose only one place that represented the great history of art, architecture, culture, and faith in all of Italy…one would be hard-pressed to find a more complete portfolio than the Cathedral of Siena. I found myself awe-inspired just walking up and facing the elegant façade, striped walls and pillars, and massive size. Upon entering the nave, one is overwhelmed with a plethora of artistic expression and great beauty placed in every available space. From its dome, stained glass, frescos, sculptures, and to what is said to be the most magnificent marble floor in history…it is worth every minute.
    Cappella del Santissimo Sacramento -..iena
  • "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
  • "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 magical twilight time of 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. Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California. Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening. I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village. The sunset was being coy and didn’t appear to cooperate, but during opportune moments it mystified the ominous clouds, and contributed just enough light and color to satisfy a weary photographer.
    L'orario magica crepuscolo di Positano
  • “Evening view from the deck of Hotel California 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.  Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California.  Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening.  I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village.  After a brief rest, I wandered around taking full advantage of Albergo California’s 180 degrees of seaside vistas.  Turning southward looking down the Amalfi Coast, the seaside town of Praiano began to appear ominous as storm clouds formed above creating a dramatic panorama.
    Serata vista dalla mazzo di Albergo ..tano
  • “Pine tree rises to the sky as the sun sets over the cliffs of 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.  Walking the length of the beach, I found a very, very steep staircase leading straight up to a large veranda at the Albergo California.  Taking an exhaustive seat on a plush lounge chair with a perfect view to watch the sunset behind the Amalfi Cliffs, I was taken back by a pleasant Italian (Positano) waiter from the hotel offering a towel, ice water, and drinks for the evening.  I expressed that I was not staying at the hotel, but he didn’t seem to mind and proceeded to educate me on the culture of this historic resort village.  After a brief rest, I wandered around taking full advantage of Albergo California’s 180 degrees of seaside vistas.  Turning southward looking down the Amalfi Coast, the seaside town of Praiano began to appear ominous as storm clouds formed above creating a dramatic view with my favorite tree majestically rising toward heaven.
    Pino Albero sale al cielo come sole ..tano
  • "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
  • “Leaves frame Positano in the late afternoon sun”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. 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 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 number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight reflecting off the azure blue Mediterranean Sea, was intense and blinding but illuminated the famous church with contrasting rumination. 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 tucked between the descending mountains dripping with multicolored dwellings, and the transcendent blue sea, the church’s brilliant 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 iconic beautiful seaside village.
    Foglie incorniciano Positano nel sol..ggio
  • “Contemplating Life on the Venice Canal - Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
<br />
On the Venice Canal, amidst the timeless beauty of its waters and the whispers of history, let us contemplate the figure of Jesus Christ. The juxtaposition of the divine and the earthly on the tranquil waters of the canal invites us to delve into the depths of faith and introspection. Picture Jesus, the embodiment of compassion and grace, walking beside the canal's edge. His presence radiates serenity, much like the calm waters that reflect the surrounding architecture. Christ's steps along the canal carry the weight of purpose, resonating with the souls of those who pause to contemplate. The bridges that arch over the canal become symbols of connection – bridges between human experience and divine wisdom. As one weaves a narrative, Christ's teachings are bridges that span across time, offering solace and guidance to generations. Just as the bridges join distinct parts of the city, these teachings bind together the fabric of humanity. In the gentle ripples of the canal's surface, find a metaphor for the impact of Christ's message. Like the ripples that spread outward, touching every corner of the water, His teachings have reached across continents and cultures, touching hearts and transforming lives. The play of light and shadow upon the canal mirrors the contrasts present in the human experience. In a world that often navigates the interplay of joy and sorrow, Christ's example of unwavering love and resilience becomes a guiding light. Art and writing, too, can serve as beacons of hope, reminding us of the beauty that can emerge even from life's shadows. As one contemplates Jesus Christ on the Venice Canal, let creativity flow like the canal's waters – freely and authentically. Just as Christ's presence brings a sense of purpose, may this painting reflect one's own unique purpose.
    Contemplando la vita sul Canale di V..etta
  • “Mystical Rays of the Evening Sun Shine Above Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs of the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. 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 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 considerable number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight reflecting off the azure blue Mediterranean Sea, were intense and blinding but illuminated the famous church with contrasting rumination. 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 tucked between the descending mountains dripping with multicolored dwellings, and the transcendent blue sea, the church’s brilliant 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 iconic beautiful seaside village.
    Raggi Mistico della Sera Sole Splend..tano
  • “Evening Rain Over Positano - Painting by Dino Carbetta”… <br />
<br />
The last day of three in Positano was an up and down day of light, dark, rain, cold, and more light. I began the day with a glorious photo session at sunrise, then took a rainy ferry to Amalfi and was thrilled with the indoor images from the Duomo. The journey back on the ferry was windy and rainy with an extreme cold front coming in. I continued to take pictures during the steady downpour as we approached Positano. The combination of the fog and rain made it seem impossible to capture a good image. But, to my surprise, this very combination created a surreal and mystical view of the colorful seaside village. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious, and architectural landscape, and is still pronounced in the rain. The ancient church was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. I was taken aback at the thought of cold weather in the southernmost seaside town of my Italian journey in late May. However, the waiter who I met the first evening while photographing the sunset, informed me that most of the residents close their shops, restaurants, and hotels during the winter months because of the cold and lack of tourists. Not having long pants or a heavy coat, dinner at the terrace restaurant of the hotel was frigid, but they had a propane heater and blanket for each diner. However, with all wet and cold comes the light, and just as the evening came to a close….the rain stopped and the sun appeared again…just in time for a perfect sunset. Occasionally, one gets lucky and just happens to stay at the perfect location. And, Positano performed remarkably well once again and took the award for the most photogenic village in Italy. The weather conditions created a Bellisimo photograph, the final painting just slightly enhanced its mystic beauty
    Pioggia serale su Positano - Dipinto..etta
  • “Front doors 24-26-28 along Via Roma Cortona”…<br />
<br />
Before embarking upon my one-month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 20lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside. No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona. This image was created on one of the main streets of Cortona with gradients reaching about 15% or more. This image is not distorted as Italian architects are famous for overcoming difficulties or seemingly impossible tasks. Here is an example of three front doorways along perhaps one of the steepest town streets I have ever encountered. I had to stand sideways to create this photograph to level out the image. Thanks be to God for the amazing beauty of the flowers, which give hope to the weary and exhausted climbers into the tiny town center. "From a high Tuscan hill, fifty miles from Florence between Arezzo and Perugia rises the equally ancient and noble city of Cortona. Before the city lays a vast and beautiful plain, it is flanked on either side by distant hills and valleys while behind it are towering yet fruitful mountains. Cortona has a picturesque aspect, quite a bit longer than wide, turned towards the midday sun.”… 17th-century quote. Apart from its artistic beauty, Cortona is a very important tourist destination because of its privileged geographical location. One can easily visit many interesting close towns, which have appeal from a cultural and artistic point of view, like Florence, Siena, Perugia, Pienza, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Lake Trasimeno, Arezzo, Assisi, Gubbio, Orvieto, Spoleto, and many others.
    Porte anteriori 24-26-28 lungo Via R..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 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 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 number of tourists and the 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.
    Cremisi Crocifissione nella cappella..tano
  • “Moorish style cloister and gardens in Villa Rufolo, Ravello”…<br />
<br />
The Villa Rufolo, which overlooks the Piazza Vescovado, is the historical and cultural center of Ravello. Built by a wealthy merchant family in the 13th century, the villa has a rich and storied past. Boccaccio, one of the earliest authors of the Italian renaissance, wrote a story about the villa and its owner in his Decameron. In its prime, it was one of the largest and most expensive villas on the Amalfi Coast, and legends grew about hidden treasure on its premises. When Sir Francis Neville Reid, a Scottish botanist, visited the villa in 1851, age and neglect had taken a toll on the villa and many of the rooms had fallen into ruin. Reid, however, fell in love with the Moorish towers and the expansive views. He purchased the villa and began an extensive renovation of the gardens and the remaining rooms. The town has become known as “la città della musica“, city of music, and for the past several decades the Villa Rufolo has been the center of an annual summer concert series that features piano concerts, chamber music, and a grand orchestral performance on a stage built jutting out over the Mediterranean Sea and the rugged Amalfi Coast below. The gardens and grounds of the Villa Rufolo are open year-round and attract visitors from all over the world. Juxtaposed against the sea, the sky, umbrella pines, and the Church of the Annunziata below, the gardens, with their profusion of flowers, have a magical quality to them. The villa itself contains two large towers and the larger of them stands next to a magnificent Moorish style cloister. Because of the magnificent gardens, the Moorish architecture, and the inspiring vistas, the Villa Rufolo is often described as a smaller version of Spain’s famed Alhambra. Traversing the Amalfi Coast was as thrilling as it sounds. The small towns built into the cliffside along the Mediterranean Sea romanticize of glorious past and envisage adventures to come.
    Chiostro e giardini in stile moresco..ello
  • "Front doors 26-28 along Via Roma Cortona"...<br />
<br />
Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside.  No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona.  This image was created on one of the main streets of Cortona with gradients reaching about 15% or more.  This image is not distorted as Italian architects are famous for overcoming difficulties or seemingly impossible tasks. Here is an example of three front doorways along perhaps one of the steepest town streets I have ever encountered.  I actually had to stand sideways to create this photograph to level out the image. Thanks be to God for the amazing beauty of the flowers, which give hope to the weary and exhausted climbers into the tiny town center.  "From a high Tuscan hill, fifty miles from Florence between Arezzo and Perugia, rises the equally ancient and noble city of Cortona. Before the city lays a vast and beautiful plain, it is flanked on either side by distant hills and valleys while behind it are towering yet fruitful mountains. Cortona has a picturesque aspect, quite a bit longer than wide, turned towards the midday sun.”… 17th century quote.  A part from its artistic beauty, Cortona is a very important tourist destination because of its privileged geographical location. One can easily visit many interesting towns, which have appeal from a cultural and artistic point of view, like Florence, Siena, Perugia, Pienza, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Lake Trasimeno, Arezzo, Assisi, Gubbio, Orvieto, Spoleto and many others.
    Porte Anteriori 26-28 lungo Via Roma..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
  • “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
  • “The evening descends on the church of San Nicolò da Tolentino Venice - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
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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
  • “Church of San Nicola da Tolentino – Veneto”…<br />
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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
  • "Privileged Altar - The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption Positano"...<br />
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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
  • "Privileged Altar - Church of Our Lady of the Assumption Positano"... <br />
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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 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
  • "Colorful overview 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 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 colorata di Santa Maria A..tano
  • “This is the Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world - Painting by Dino”…<br />
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(Matthew Chapter 27:45-50) “From noon onward, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And about three o’clock Jesus cried out in a loud voice, “Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?” which means, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” Some of the bystanders who heard it said, “This one is calling for Elijah.” Immediately one of them ran to get a sponge; he soaked it in wine, and putting it on a reed, gave it to him to drink. But the rest said, “Wait, let us see if Elijah comes to save him.” But Jesus cried out again in a loud voice, and gave up his spirit.<br />
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John the Baptist’s Testimony to Jesus. Jn 1:29-34 “The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him and said, ‘Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world. He is the one of whom I said, A man is coming after me who ranks ahead of me because he existed before me. I did not know him, but the reason why I came baptizing with water was that he might be made known to Israel.’ John testified further, saying, “I saw the Spirit come down like a dove from the sky and remain upon him. I did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘On whomever you see the Spirit come down and remain, he is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit. Now I have seen and testified that he is the Son of God.”
    Ecce Agnus Dei, ecce qui tollit pecc..etta
  • "Sun hiding behind the Macuteo Obelisk - Roman Pantheon"...<br />
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Eventually, one discovers that God finds a way where there is none. A very crowded Pantheon at 3:00 PM in the bright afternoon made creative photography impossible. However, getting on my knees and placing the sun behind the cross of the Obelisk created a phenomenal appeal. All are original, including the landing dove/pigeon and sun flare. The Obelisk was originally built by one of the most famous Egyptian Pharaohs about 1300 years before Christ by Pharaoh Ramses II for the Temple of Ra in Heliopolis and brought to Rome in ancient times. It was rediscovered in 1374 underneath the apse of the nearby Basilica of Santa Maria Sopra Minerva. In the mid-15th century, the obelisk had been erected in the small Piazza di San Macuto some 200 meters east of the Pantheon, where it remained until its 1711 move to the Piazza della Rotonda. It is still called the Obelisco Macutèo after its previous location. Fontana del Pantheon was constructed by Giacomo Della Porta under Pope Gregory XIII in 1575, and the obelisk was added under Pope Clement XI. The city of Rome harbors the most obelisks in the world. There are eight ancient Egyptian and five ancient Roman obelisks. The Romans used special heavy cargo carriers called obelisk ships to transport the monuments down the Nile to Alexandria and from there across the Mediterranean Sea to Rome. On-site, large Roman cranes were employed to erect the monoliths. The obelisk is crowned by a bronze cross, the symbol of Jesus Christ. One idea that can be drawn from this is that Christianity—the cross of Jesus Christ—conquers paganism.  Another idea is that the obelisk represents the human desire for God which is only fulfilled in the Cross of Christ.
    Domenica di nascondersi dietro il Ma..heon
  • “The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute Venice radiates in the distance on the Grand Canal- Ultramarine blue”…<br />
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Gospel MT 14:22-33 “After the crowd had eaten their fill, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile, the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God." The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, commonly known as La Salute, is one of the largest, most iconic, and prominent churches of Venice. It stands in a conspicuous position at the junction between the Grand Canal and the Bacino di San Marco on the lagoon. In October 1630, the Venetian Senate decreed that if the city was delivered from the raging Bubonic Plague, which decimated one-third of the Venetian population, a new church would be constructed and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Basilica is an ornate, massive structure in its exterior; however, it is quite reverently quaint interiorly.
    La Basilica di Santa Maria della Sal..mare
  • “View from the Grand Canal of the church of San Giorgio Maggiore in Venice”…<br />
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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
  • “The Sacred Heart of Jesus - Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
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On the nineteenth day after Pentecost, Catholics observe the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This day is considered one of great importance in the Catholic faith, as it recognizes the immense love and sacrifice that Jesus made for all humans. The heart is an important symbol in this devotion, as it represents a person’s core, the center of all spiritual activity, and the seat of all emotion, particularly love. This symbolism is deeply rooted in Judaism, where the heart was recognized as the principal life organ and the word heart represented the essence of a person. Margaret Mary's vision in 1675, which came to be known as the "great apparition," resulted in the modern Feast of the Sacred Heart being celebrated each year on the Friday following Corpus Christi. This day serves as a reminder to Catholics to show gratitude for Christ's sacrifice and love by living following His will. A prayer that is often recited on this day is, "O most holy heart of Jesus, the fountain of every blessing, I adore you, I love you, and with lively sorrow for my sins I offer you this poor heart of mine. Make me humble, patient, pure, and wholly obedient to your will. Grant, Good Jesus, that I may live in you and for you. Protect me amid danger. Comfort me in my afflictions. Give me health of body, assistance in my temporal needs, your blessing on all that I do, and the grace of a holy death. Amen." I truly hope that my painting of Christ's Face in the Sacred Heart of Jesus brings about a positive change in your heart and soul. It is my deepest desire that you experience great blessings in every aspect of your life.
    Il Parte Sacro Cuore di Gesù - Dipin..etta
  • “The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus - Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
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On the nineteenth day after Pentecost, Catholics observe the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This day is considered one of great importance in the Catholic faith, as it recognizes the immense love and sacrifice that Jesus made for all humans. The heart is an important symbol in this devotion, as it represents a person’s core, the center of all spiritual activity, and the seat of all emotion, particularly love. This symbolism is deeply rooted in Judaism, where the heart was recognized as the principal life organ and the word heart represented the essence of a person. Margaret Mary's vision in 1675, which came to be known as the "great apparition," resulted in the modern Feast of the Sacred Heart being celebrated each year on the Friday following Corpus Christi. This day serves as a reminder to Catholics to show gratitude for Christ's sacrifice and love by living in accordance with His will. A prayer that is often recited on this day is, "O most holy heart of Jesus, the fountain of every blessing, I adore you, I love you, and with lively sorrow for my sins I offer you this poor heart of mine. Make me humble, patient, pure, and wholly obedient to your will. Grant, Good Jesus, that I may live in you and for you. Protect me in the midst of danger. Comfort me in my afflictions. Give me health of body, assistance in my temporal needs, your blessing on all that I do, and the grace of a holy death. Amen." I truly hope that my painting of Christ's Face in the Sacred Heart of Jesus brings about a positive change in your heart and soul. It is my deepest desire that you experience great blessings in every aspect of your life.
    Il Maggior Parte Sacro Cuore di Gesù..etta
  • "The Hand Of God Shines On The Cross - Convent Of Cells Cortona"... <br />
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Gospel Jn 17:11-19 “Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed, saying: ‘Holy Father, keep them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one just as we are one. When I was with them I protected them in your name that you gave me, and I guarded them, and none of them was lost except the son of destruction, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to you. I speak this in the world so that they may share my joy completely. I gave them your word, and the world hated them because they do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world but that you keep them from the Evil One. They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world. And I consecrate myself for them, so that they also may be consecrated in truth.” Sometimes a planned mistake turns out to be a great photo and, in this case, it's the flair of the sun. Peering under a canopy of trees then kneeling and placing the sun behind the Cross...God's hand illuminates one's soul and imagination.”
    Sulla Croce Splende La Mano Di Dio -..tona
  • “Apse Mosaic Triumphal Arch of Christ flanked by the Apostles - Basilica of San Paolo outside the walls of Rome”…<br />
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Saint Peter and Saint Paul are celebrated together, the two saints are the founders of the See of Rome, through their preaching, ministry, and martyrdom there. Erected during the fourth century AD, the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls is one of the four major basilicas of Rome, and the second largest after St. Peter's Basilica. It was founded on the burial ground of St. Paul. Saint Paul is well-known for his epistle to the Ephesians, where he famously describes the “armor of God.” He uses the armor that was commonly worn by a Roman Solider to describe a spiritual armor that prepares a Christian to “stand against the wiles of the devil. For we are not contending against flesh and blood, but against the principalities, against the powers, against the world rulers of this present darkness, against the spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places” Ephesians 6:11-12. Peter makes his great confession of faith: “You are the Messiah” Mark 8:29. It was one of the many glorious moments in Peter’s life, beginning with the day he was called from his nets along the Sea of Galilee to become a fisher of men for Jesus. The New Testament clearly shows Peter as the leader of the apostles, chosen by Jesus to have a special relationship with him. With James and John, he was privileged to witness the Transfiguration, the raising of a dead child to life, and the agony in Gethsemane. In 395 A.D., St. Augustine said of Saints Peter and Paul: “Both apostles share the same feast day, for these two were one; and even though they suffered on different days, they were as one. Peter went first, and Paul followed. And so we celebrate this day made holy for us by the apostles' blood. Let us embrace what they believed, their life, their labors, their sufferings, their preaching, and their confession of faith.”
    Abside Mosaico Arco di trionfo di Cr..Roma
  • “The Star of Bethlehem shines brightly above the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi”…<br />
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Luke 2:8-14 “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.”
    La Stella di Betlemme brilla luminos..sisi
  • “The Arch Papal Basilica of St. John Lateran Mosaic Apse - Rome”…<br />
 <br />
The present mosaic, executed in 1878, is a copy of the destroyed original completed in 1291 by two Franciscan friars, Jacopo da Camerino and Jacopo Torriti, commissioned by Pope Nicholas IV who was also a Franciscan. The upper part depicts the bust of Christ in a dark blue empyrean with the red clouds of dawn, accompanied by four angels on each side and with a six-winged seraph above. Here, Christ is being depicted under his aspect of the Rising Sun (Malachi 4:2, Luke 1:78). It is thought that the seraph replaced a Hand of God which, with Christ and the Dove below him, would have given a Trinitarian iconography. A jeweled cross which is a depiction of the True Cross formerly venerated in Jerusalem and bears a central medallion showing The Baptism of Christ. The Dove of the Holy Spirit emits seven streams from its beak which are symbolic of the Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit. These streams form a pool where the cross stands and from this flow the four rivers of the Garden of Eden, which also symbolize the four Gospels. Two deer (Ps 42:1) and six sheep drink from these, which run into the River Jordan, a symbol of Baptism. Heavenly Jerusalem, guarded by St Michael the Archangel and ruled over by SS Peter and Paul. In the city, the phoenix, a symbol of immortality, is perched on the Tree of Life. To the left of the central motif, and venerating it, stand the Blessed Virgin, St Francis of Assisi, and the Apostles Peter and Paul. To the right are SS John the Baptist, Anthony of Padua, John the Evangelist, and Andrew the Apostle. The pope kneeling close to the Blessed Virgin is the Franciscan Nicholas IV, who was praised for his work at the Lateran by Dante in Paradiso. The Virgin places her hand on his head, as a sign of her protection. St. John Lateran is the parish church of all Catholics because it is the pope’s cathedral. This church is the spiritual home of the people who are the Church.
    L'Arch Basilica Papale di San Giovan..Roma
  • “Mosaic facade of the Basilica of San Marco Venice”… <br />
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St. Mark's Basilica (Basilica di San Marco) is the most famous of the many churches of Venice, and the world, and a fine example of Byzantine architecture. Located just off the Grand Canal, the majestic Basilica overlooks the Piazza San Marco (St. Mark's Square) and adjoins the Doge's Palace. St. Mark’s Square and the Basilica are the central tourist focal points and most crowded of Venice. The relics of the Biblical Gospel author, Saint Mark, has resided in the Basilica since 828 AD. After a long wait in line to enter the Basilica (with no photos allowed), the interior was unique. As I headed for the exit, I noticed a very steep staircase and followed it upward. I was met at the top by a security guard charging to see the small Museum and visit the rooftop of the Basilica. At the museum, I did take a few secret photos of the very famous original four horses which are duplicated in front of the Basilica. They are very much worth viewing, and if you stare for a moment…they come to life. This image is a close up captured of the very large mosaic over the front entrance to the Basilica. Mk 16:15-20: Jesus appeared to the Eleven and said to them: “Go into the whole world and proclaim the Gospel to every creature. Whoever believes and is baptized will be saved; whoever does not believe will be condemned. These signs will accompany those who believe: in my name they will drive out demons, they will speak new languages. They will pick up serpents with their hands, and if they drink any deadly thing, it will not harm them. They will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover.” Then the Lord Jesus, after he spoke to them, was taken up into heaven and took his seat at the right hand of God. But they went forth and preached everywhere, while the Lord worked with them and confirmed the word through accompanying signs.
    Mosaico facciata Basilica di San Mar..ezia
  • “The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
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The Assumption of Mary stands as a profound belief cherished by the Catholic Church, one of the four Marian dogmas. In his apostolic constitution "Munificentissimus Deus," Pope Pius XII officially defined this dogma on 1 November 1950. It proclaims and reveals that the immaculate Mother of God, Mary ever virgin, at the end of her earthly life, was taken up, body and soul, into the heavenly glory by God Himself. This momentous declaration finds its roots in the 1854 dogma of the Immaculate Conception, affirming that Mary was conceived free from original sin, and both doctrines are grounded in the understanding of Mary as the Mother of God. "The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary - Painting by Dino Carbetta," beautifully captures the essence of this belief, depicting Mary in "the light" of her glory. She exalts the greatness of the Lord and finds joy in God, her savior. Her life reflects the marvels that God has bestowed upon her, and she humbly leads others to recognize God's holiness. Mary is portrayed as a lowly handmaid who deeply reverences her God, and yet, she has been exalted to the highest heights. From this position of strength and grace, she becomes a beacon of hope and compassion, assisting the lowly and the poor in finding justice on earth. At the same time, she challenges the rich and powerful to reconsider their attachment to wealth and power as sources of true happiness. Through the Assumption of Mary, we are reminded of the immense love and divine grace that God bestows upon His faithful followers. Mary's life journey serves as an inspiring example of faith, humility, and dedication, guiding us toward a deeper connection with God and a more compassionate outlook on the world around us. As we contemplate this dogma, let us embrace the sense of awe and wonder it evokes and seek to emulate Mary's virtues in our own lives.
    L'Assunzione della Beata Vergine Mar..etta
  • “Agony in the Garden – Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
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The agony in the Garden of Gethsemane encompasses Holy Week in the life of Jesus. Occurring after the Last Supper, before his betrayal and arrest, all part of the Passion of Jesus leading to his crucifixion and death. This episode is described in the three Synoptic Gospels in the New Testament. According to these accounts, Jesus, accompanied by Peter, John, and James, enters the garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives where he experiences great anguish and prays to be delivered from his impending suffering, while also accepting God's will. Immediately after the Last Supper, Jesus retreated to a garden to pray. Jesus was accompanied by three Apostles: Peter, John, and James, whom he asked to stay awake and pray. He moved "a stone's throw away" from them, where he felt overwhelming sadness and anguish, and said "My Father if it is possible, let this cup pass me by. Nevertheless, let it be as You, not I, would have it." Then, a little while later, he said, "If this cup cannot pass by, but I must drink it, Your will be done!" He said this prayer thrice, checking on the three apostles after each prayer and finding them asleep. He commented: "The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak". An angel came from heaven to strengthen him. During his agony as he prayed, "His sweat was, as it were, great drops of blood falling upon the ground" (Luke 22:44). In Roman Catholic tradition, the Agony in the Garden is the first Sorrowful Mystery of the Rosary and the First Station of the Scriptural Way of The Cross Catholic tradition includes specific prayers and devotions as acts of reparation for the sufferings of Jesus during His Agony and Passion.
    Agonia Nell'Orto – Dipinto di Dino C..etta
  • “Third Sunday of Advent - Painting by Dino Carbetta” …<br />
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(The Four Advent Candles): As a Christian tradition, the wreath holds the four Advent candles. The candles represent Jesus coming as the light in the darkness. One candle is lit each Sunday until all four candles are lit. Each candle brings a slightly greater light into the darkness as Christmas draws nearer. Sometimes a white candle is lit on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day to symbolize that Jesus is with us. This can be referred to as the "Christ candle." Each of the candles lit before Christmas represents an aspect of preparation during the season of Advent. Third Advent Candle/Sunday: Joy –“Gaudete Sunday” “But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid; for see — I am bringing you good news of great joy for all the people: to you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a child wrapped in bands of cloth and lying in a manger.’” (Luke 2:10-12) The third candle of Advent symbolizes Joy. As we continue to approach Christmas Day, our joy grows increasingly. The third candle takes us back to the joyful anticipation of the shepherds who journeyed to see Jesus in Bethlehem, even before the wise men. On this third Sunday of Advent, which the Church calls “Gaudete Sunday,” meaning rejoice or praise, we light the third candle and rejoice like the shepherds. For this reason, the third candle of Advent is called the “Shepherd’s Candle,” and its color is pink, the liturgical color for joy. This Advent, light the third candle on Sunday, December 11, 2022. I repainted this image from one of my photographs of, “Adoration of the Shepherds - Vatican Museums - Gallery of the Tapestries.”
    Terza Domenica di Avvento - Dipinto ..etta
  • “The Baptism of the Lord - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
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Jesus descended into the River to sanctify its waters and to give them the power to beget sons of God. The event takes on the importance of a second creation in which the entire Trinity intervenes. In the Eastern Church, this feast is called Theophany because God appeared in three persons at the baptism of Christ in the River Jordan. The baptism of John was a sort of sacramental preparatory for the Baptism of Christ. It moved men to sentiments of repentance and induced them to confess their sins. Christ did not need the baptism of John. Although He appeared in the "substance of our flesh" and was recognized "outwardly like unto ourselves", He was sinless and impeccable. He conferred upon the water the power of the true Baptism which would remove all the sins of the world: "Behold the Lamb of God, behold Him Who takes away the sin of the world". Many of the incidents which accompanied Christ's baptism are symbolic of what happened at our Baptism. At Christ's baptism, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him; at our Baptism, the Trinity took its abode in our souls. At His baptism Christ was proclaimed the "Beloved Son" of the Father; at our Baptism, we become the adopted sons of God. At Christ's baptism, the heavens were opened; at our Baptism heaven was opened to us. Lk 3:15-16, 21-22: The people were filled with expectation, and all were asking in their hearts whether John might be the Christ. John answered them all, saying, “I am baptizing you with water, but one mightier than I is coming. I am not worthy to loosen the thongs of his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire.” After all the people had been baptized and Jesus also had been baptized and was praying, heaven was opened and the Holy Spirit descended upon him in bodily form like a dove. And a voice came from heaven, “You are my beloved Son; with you, I am well pleased.”
    Il Battesimo del Signore - Dipinto d..etta
  • “The Hand of God Shines on the Cross in the Snow - Convent of the Cells of Cortona - Painting by Dino Carbetta<br />
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Gospel Jn 17:11-19 “Lifting up his eyes to heaven, Jesus prayed, saying: ‘Holy Father, keep them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one just as we are one. When I was with them I protected them in your name that you gave me, and I guarded them, and none of them was lost except the son of destruction, in order that the Scripture might be fulfilled. But now I am coming to you. I speak this in the world so that they may share my joy completely. I gave them your word, and the world hated them, because they do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. I do not ask that you take them out of the world but that you keep them from the Evil One. They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world. And I consecrate myself for them, so that they also may be consecrated in truth.” Sometimes a planned mistake turns out to be a great photo and, in this case, it's the flair of the sun. Peering through the window under a snowy canopy of trees and finding the light behind the Cross...God's hand illuminates one's soul and his imagination.
    La Mano di Dio Risplende sulla Croce..etta
  • ”Radiant Saint Teresa of Lisieux - the ‘Little Flower’ - Painting by Dino Carbetta”… <br />
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Her sense of commitment led her to a profound experience of the love of God and neighbor. She never had an easy life, but she did live with a great sense of peace and joy. “I prefer the monotony of obscure sacrifice to all ecstasies. To pick up a pin for love can convert a soul.”   Saint Therese had a simple yet powerful message that still resonates in the hearts of millions today. She died at the age of 24, believing that her life was just beginning for God, promising to spend her heaven doing good on earth. Her promised “Shower of Roses” began and has become a torrent in the Church ever since. These are the words of Thérèse of Lisieux, a Carmelite nun called the “Little Flower,” who lived a cloistered life of obscurity in the convent of Lisieux, France. And her preference for hidden sacrifice did indeed convert souls. Few saints of God are more popular than this young nun. Her autobiography, The Story of a Soul, is read and loved throughout the world. Life in a Carmelite convent is indeed uneventful and consists mainly of prayer and hard domestic work. She saw in quiet suffering redemptive suffering, suffering that was indeed her apostolate. Thérèse said she came to the Carmel convent “to save souls and pray for priests.” Pope Pius X called her "the greatest saint of modern times.” Thérèse was canonized in 1925. In 1997, Pope John Paul II proclaimed her a Doctor of the Church, the third woman to be so recognized in light of her holiness and the influence of her teaching on spirituality in the Church. Her parents were also canonized in 2015. Pope John Paul II stated: Therese of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face is the youngest of all the “Doctors of the Church”, but her ardent spiritual journey shows such maturity, and the insights of faith expressed in her writings are so vast and profound that they deserve a place among the great spiritual masters.
    Radiosa Santa Teresa di Lisieux - il..etta
  • “Statues on top of the facade of St. Peter's Basilica with Christ in the Center”…<br />
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The facade of St Peter's Basilica is crowned with thirteen colossal statues. In the center stands Christ the Redeemer (20’ high), one may assume that he is flanked by his 12 apostles. However, this is not quite the case. The basilica might be dedicated to St Peter, but the 'Prince of the Apostles' is nowhere to be seen atop the facade of the church. The twelfth figure is, in fact, St John the Baptist, who stands in the place of honor on the right side of Christ. The statues were executed between 1612 and 1614 by an assortment of sculptors. From left to right they are St Thaddeus (Carlo Fancelli), St Matthew (Bernardino Cennini), St Philip (Simeon Drouin), St Thomas (Simeon Drouin), St James the Great (Egidio Moretti), St John the Baptist (Simeon Drouin), Christ the Redeemer (Cristoforo Stati), St Andrew (Carlo Fancelli), St John the Evangelist (Antonio Valsoldo), St James the Less (Cristoforo Stati), St Bartholomew (Egidio Moretti), St Simon (Bernardino Cennini), St Matthias (Giuseppe Fontana). The facade, which is (376.3 ft.) wide and (149.4 ft.) high, was designed by Carlo Maderno (1556-1629) and built between 1608 and 1612. The building of the facade was undertaken during the reign of Pope Paul V (r. 1605-21). It is emblazoned with the inscription, which proclaims, in letters: IN HONOREM PRINCIPIS APOST PAVLVS V BVRGHESIVS ROMANVS PONT MAX AN MDCXII PONT VII (In honor of the Prince of Apostles, Paul V, Borghese, Roman, Pontifex Maximus, the year 1612, the seventh of his pontificate). St Peter's Basilica was finally consecrated by Pope Urban VIII (r. 1623-44) on November 18th, 1626.
    Statue in cima alla facciata della B..ntro
  • “Hail favored one! The Lord is with you.”- Painting by Dino Carbetta<br />
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“In the sixth month, the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary. And coming to her, he said, “Hail, favored one! The Lord is with you.” But she was greatly troubled at what was said and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. Then the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God. Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom, there will be no end.” But Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I have no relations with a man?” And the angel said to her in reply, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. Therefore the child to be born will be called holy, the Son of God. And behold, Elizabeth, your relative, has also conceived* a son in her old age, and this is the sixth month for her who was called barren; for nothing will be impossible for God.” Mary said, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her. (Lk 1:26-38) An Extraordinary Event: the child was to be conceived by the Holy Spirit and would be called the Son of God. Mary makes an astonishing response: “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word.” Mary had remarkable faith! This was the moment that our God became flesh and was conceived in the womb of the Virgin Mary. Thus, the realization and magnificence of divine grace, the blessing of God’s freely given love.
    “Hail favored one! The Lord is with ..etta
  • “The Venice canal reflects the small bridge in the early evening light - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
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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 its dynamic 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 the first glimpse of sunlight. The organic lagoon began to blossom as if the decay became antique, the gloom became a passion, the creaky became sweet sounds, and the desperate island illuminated with life, color, and hope. Heading out 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 1 of 6500 images. Not until I began writing these descriptions did I realize that many of these were taken the day I arrived in Venice…it was sensory overload. Canal sunsets became the norm of my three days in Venice.
    Il canale di Venezia riflette il pic..etta
  • “Unique View through Medieval Arches of the Cathedral of Sorrento”…<br />
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The main church in Sorrento is the Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of San Filippo and San Giacomo, which is concealed right in the heart of the town. Sorrento is not known as a pilgrimage site, but a beautiful seaside resort village. The Duomo dates as far back as the 11th century but was completely rebuilt in the 15th century in Romanesque style. The façade is very plain for a Cathedral of such interior grandeur, which has three naves separated by pillars and a very ornate ceiling. Next to the cathedral is a bell tower resting on an arch with four columns, which dates back to medieval times. Inconspicuously, I entered the cathedral and saw only a dozen elderly women sitting in the front pews reciting aloud a novena. Not wanting to disturb them, I ventured around quietly and was taken aback by the reverent beauty and peaceful aura of the magnificent Duomo. I discovered areas where the old Duomo met the new, and it seemed that some images were quite accidental. I noticed that peering through a small and out of the way opening, I could see back to a lighted statue of a patron Bishop. The juxtaposition of the descending and uniquely colored archways gave a great appearance of depth and perspective.
    Vista Unica Attraverso Archi Medieva..ento
  • "Madonna in the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo Rome"... <br />
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After a spiritual Mass at St. Peters Basilica and an intense tour of the Vatican, lunchtime with my friend and pilgrim, Patrick, proved inspirational. Forgoing the Coliseum, we aimed for Piazza del Popolo. Encompassed within its sacred walls is a variety of artwork unequaled in the world. Our eyes were on the famous Caravaggio paintings located in the Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo. The “Crucifixion of Peter” and the “Conversion of Saint Paul” were found to be elusive on my previous visit. The security guard blocked the doorway and turned off the lights to the small chapel inside the Basilica every time I came near. We found the Basilica under reconstruction, waiting for an opening, then rushed inside to find darkness and disarray everywhere. Finally, finding the dark chapel, our eyes could not focus enough to discover the paintings. Suddenly, the light arose and the Caravaggio’s were an arm’s length away. We expeditiously actuated our cameras and euphorically clicked away. Just as hastily, a mysterious guard clicked off the lights. As we calmed down and gathered benevolent thoughts, we aimed our startled eyes toward the exit. The fragmented sunlight streaming into the dark basilica from the vestibule and front doors appeared like a dream. As I vacillated forward, a dark, but luminous statue absorbed by sunlight appeared to gaze upon me with precocious compassion. Her motherly expression offered a perception of love and gratitude. Upon exit, the Eternal City awaited our next impassioned venture.
    Madonna nella Basilica di Santa Mari..Roma
  • “Father Peek Consecration Prayer - Private Mass in the Basilica of Sant'Antonio da Padova”…<br />
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One wonderful element of our Pilgrimage of 2019 was our Mass schedule in the most distinguished Basilica’s, Cathedrals, and churches in Italy and in fact the world. Often we found ourselves at the Main Altars, Sacristies, or prestigious chapels. The reverent and holy auspicious with unseen views containing profound and historic approbation was at times overwhelming. Contemplating those divine and holy who came before, left us with the feeling of wonderment. The Basilica of Saint Anthony dated back to the early year of 1233. I found myself mystified by the mere size and aura surrounding it, and especially the heavenly altar. The original arrangement is of a three-dimensional 'sacred conversation' with the six statues of the saints – Francis, Anthony, Justina, Daniel, Louis, and Prosdocimus – positioned around the “Madonna with Child” under a dome supported by eight columns and arches, all bronzed by the famous Renaissance Tuscan sculptor Donatello. As with most prestigious Basilica’s, no photos are allowed, which mostly rendered this photographer reverent, but sad. We Pilgrims, paralyzed in capture and armed only with ‘whispers’ in our ears to hear the Italian tour guide, followed intently from brilliant chapel to chapel. The Basilica is austere, mysterious, and solemn, yet capacious, monumental, and impossible to notice every grand detail. However, be emboldened that this Pilgrimage Church is one of the eight international shrines recognized by the Holy See. It is a symbol of faith and hope for all Christian believers. I believe Saint Anthony would be honored and proud to offer Mass here.
    Padre Peek Preghiera della Consacraz..dova
  • “Saint Joan of Arc - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
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Today, we celebrate the feast of St. Joan of Arc, the patron saint of France. Joan was born to a humble family in Champagne, France during the early 15th century. She began hearing the voices of St. Michael, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret at a young age. In 1428, she received a vision instructing her to aid the King of France in reclaiming his kingdom from the English and Burgundian invaders. Despite facing opposition, Joan convinced members of the court and Church to grant her a small army. She entered battle carrying a banner emblazoned with the names "Jesus" and "Mary", as well as a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Through her leadership and unwavering faith in God, she was able to lift the siege of Orleans in 1429 and win a series of battles. Joan and her army ultimately helped the king regain his crown and were victorious. However, Joan was later captured by Burgundian forces in May of 1430 and sold to the English. Despite pleas for assistance from her king and army, she was imprisoned and put on trial. Bishop Peter Cauchon of Beauvais presided over her trial, hoping that harsh treatment of Joan would aid his quest to become archbishop. Tragically, Joan was condemned to death on charges of heresy, witchcraft, and adultery. On May 30, 1431, she was burned at the stake in Rouen, France. She was only 19 years old. Thirty years after her death, Joan's case was retried and she was exonerated. In 1920, Pope Benedict XV canonized her. Joan is now recognized as the patron saint of France, captives, soldiers, and those ridiculed for their piety. The equestrian statue of Jeanne d'Arc, which inspired the painting by Dino Carbetta, can be seen at the Place des Pyramides in Paris.
    Santa Giovanna d'Arco - Dipinto di D..etta
  • “A Million Faces of Jesus by Dino Carbetta – Resplendent”…<br />
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“God of every nation and people, from the very beginning of creation you have made manifest your love: when our need for a Savior was great you sent your Son to be born of the Virgin Mary. To our lives, he brings joy and peace, justice, mercy, and love.” Since early childhood, my fascination with the face of Christ resulted in a multitude of sketches, drawings, and photographs. Today, my mind’s eye continues this perception in wonderment. I yearn to see, feel, and touch this beatific vision. Blessed with humble skills, this is my current vision after three years of introspection and change of the face of Christ. I know that in heaven the just will see God by direct intuition, clearly and distinctly. Scripture and theology tell us that the blessed see God face to face. And because this vision is immediate and direct, it is also exceedingly clear and distinct. Battle against Evil: Finally, draw your strength from the Lord and from his mighty power. Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil. For our struggle is not with flesh and blood but with the principalities, with the powers, with the world rulers of this present darkness, with the evil spirits in the heavens. Therefore, put on the armor of God, that you may be able to resist on an evil day and, having done everything, to hold your ground. So stand fast with your loins girded in truth, clothed with righteousness as a breastplate, and your feet shod in readiness for the gospel of peace. In all circumstances, hold faith as a shield, to quench all [the] flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.  EPHESIANS, 6:10-17
    Un Milione di volti di Gesù di Dino ..ente
  • “Cybo Chapel - Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo Rome”…<br />
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The Basilica of Santa Maria del Popolo, encompassed within its sacred walls is a variety of artwork unequaled in the world. The Basilica is comprised of great works by many of the preeminent artists, such as Raphael, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, Caravaggio, Alessandro Algardi, Pinturicchio, Andrea Bregno, Guillaume de Marcillat, and Donato Bramante. “Cappella Cybo” is the second side chapel in the right-hand aisle of the Basilica, which is famous for the beauty of its paintings, the preciousness of marble revetments covering its Bellissimo walls, and the renowned importance of the artists involved in its construction. The chapel is regarded as one of the most significant sacral monuments erected in Rome in the last quarter of the 17th century. The huge altarpiece, painted with oil on the wall, is one of the most important works of Carlo Maratta, finished in 1686. It depicts the Disputation over the Immaculate Conception with the Four Doctors of the Church, St Augustine, John Chrysostom, John the Evangelist, and Gregory the Great celebrating the purity of the Virgin. I knew in advance of the great Caravaggio paintings, especially the “Crucifixion of Peter;” however, I was not prepared for the security guard blocking the doorway and turning off the light to the small chapel inside the Basilica every time I came near. The guard courageously kept a watchful eye on everyone with a camera to protect the integrity of the incredibly famous artwork. I edged to the back, peered around the corner with a telephoto lens, and prevailed with a few pictures from a distance of the famous paintings just for my viewing pleasure. However, as I returned home and upon making a close inspection of the pictures, it was not the Caravaggios I had coveted, but an imposter. The guard blocked the shallow entrance and within a few steps inside, to the right and left ...the Caravaggios hid from view as if to tell me to try yet another day.
    Cybo Cappella - Basilica di Santa Ma..Roma
  • "Madonna and baby Jesus in the Cathedral of St. Andrew"... <br />
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“Holy Family, we consecrate ourselves and our family to you. May we be completely united in a love that is lasting, faithful, and open to the gift of new life. Help us to grow in virtue, to forgive one another from our hearts, and to live in peace all our days. Keep us strong in faith, persevering in prayer, diligent in our work, and generous toward those in need. May our home, O Holy Family, truly become a domestic church where we reflect your example in our daily life. Amen. Jesus, Mary, and Joseph pray for us!” On the last of three glorious days in Positano, I arose early to catch the sunrise over the village. However, at about 10:00 am …the cold rains came down dampening the glorious sun. I caught the rain-soaked ferry down the coast to the seaside town of Amalfi. The Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea/Duomo di Amalfi is usually packed with tourists bused and ferried from hundreds of miles away, but with the dreary weather, many chose to stay away. There has been a church on this site in Amalfi since 596 AD and the one built in the ninth century still stands today. The present cathedral was built adjacent to the old one in the early 13th century to provide a suitable resting place for St. Andrew the Apostle. The two were originally joined together to form a single, six-nave Romanesque cathedral. Pieces of the newer walls have been taken down to expose parts of the walls of the ancient original church, and one can ponder history with this glimpse back in time. I was enraptured by the sacred art devotional of the Madonna and Baby Jesus as I exited the magnificent Cathedral, a forever remembrance of my cherished rainy day in Amalfi. [Acts 14:17] “Yet, in bestowing his goodness, he did not leave himself without witness, for he gave you rains from heaven and fruitful seasons and filled you with nourishment and gladness for your hearts.”
    Madonna e Gesù Bambino a La Cattedra..drea
  • "The Crucifix - The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli Assisi Museum - Painting by Dino Carbetta"...<br />
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Portiuncula is a town and a parish situated about three-quarters of a mile from Assisi. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It was of this little church moved within the Basilica that St. Francis recognized his vocation in the year 1208, and it was where St. Francis spent most of his life. In 1211, the Benedictines gave him the little chapel of St. Mary of the Angels or the Portiuncula, which is a “little portion” of land. The first Franciscan convent was also formed nearby. The Portiuncula was also where St. Francis received the vows of St. Clare. St. Francis died here on October 3, 1226, and on his deathbed, he recommended the chapel to the faithful protection and care of his brothers. The Museo della Basilica is in another section of the convent. Among the most important works kept here are the "Crucifix “painted on wood by Giunta Pisano (1236-40). The return of Francis, a penitent man, contemplating his future in the Church... But God had other plans, and Francis did not travel far. 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 any more -- live by the Gospel.
    Il Crocifisso - La Basilica di Santa..etta
  • "Jesus of Nazareth - Sorrentino Fishing Boat - Marina Grande Sorrento"... <br />
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"In quaint Sorrento, near the Amalfi Coast, lies my heart's gem - Duomo di Sorrento. During our Pilgrimage in 2019, Father Peak led a cherished Mass at the majestic High Altar. Skipping Capri, I chose Marina Grande to commemorate this special day. I convinced my friend Patrick that Marina Grande held a unique charm, ideal for celebrating this thrilling journey! As we arrived at Marina Grande on a rainy Sunday afternoon, the bustling port was not teeming with tourists but filled with lively and unpretentious locals. The skies remained overcast, hinting at the possibility of rain, but the sun's occasional appearance painted the heavens with brief moments of pastel colors. Amidst this picturesque setting, a solitary boat rocked gently near the mouth of the piccolo marina, gleaming in the soft light. On its stern, the boat bore the name "Gesù di Nazareth" - a striking coincidence. The name brought to mind Saint Matthew's account of Jesus calming the stormy seas: how Jesus, despite the storm's fury, slept peacefully while his disciples feared for their lives. Upon their plea for salvation, Jesus arose and, with a commanding presence, silenced the winds and waves, filling the men with awe at his power over nature (Matt. 8:23-27). Later, we eagerly returned to the marina, ready to capture the mesmerizing evening seascape. It was a peaceful prelude to the Pilgrimage group's dinner at my favorite restaurant, "Zi'Ntonio Mare." In Sorrento's charming surroundings, amidst the beauty of Marina Grande and the Duomo's sacredness, I found solace and inspiration. The experience reminded me of the awe-inspiring power of nature and the comforting presence of faith, symbolized by the boat's name - "Gesù di Nazareth." These memories will forever hold a special place in my heart, etched alongside the breathtaking landscapes and spiritual moments of our unforgettable adventure.
    Gesù di Nazareth - Peschereccio Sorr..ento
  • “Jesus Weeps over Fractured America – Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
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“Know this, my dear brothers: everyone should be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath, for the wrath of a man does not accomplish the righteousness of God.” James 1:19-20 “Rejoice in the Lord always. I shall say it again: rejoice! Your kindness should be known to all. The Lord is near Have no anxiety at all, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, make your requests known to God. Then the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing what you have learned and received and heard and seen in me. Then the God of peace will be with you.” Philippians 4:4-9
    Gesù Piange sull'America Fratturata ..etta
  • “Luminance of Christ - Sorrento Cathedral - Painting by Dino Carbetta”… <br />
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The main church in Sorrento is the Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of San Filippo and San Giacomo, which is concealed right in the heart of the town. Sorrento is not known as a pilgrimage site but as a beautiful seaside resort village. The Duomo dates as far back as the 11th century but was completely rebuilt in the 15th century in Romanesque style. The façade is very plain for a Cathedral of such interior grandeur, which has three naves separated by pillars and a very ornate ceiling. Next to the cathedral is a bell tower resting on an arch with four columns, which dates back to medieval times. Inconspicuously, I entered the cathedral and saw only a dozen elderly women sitting in the front pews reciting aloud a novena. Not wanting to disturb them, I ventured around quietly and was taken aback by the magnificent Duomo's reverent beauty and peaceful aura. Hanging above the Altar was a lifelike Crucifix. It was not as large as it appears in the photos; however, the closer I ventured…the more mesmerized I became. Slowly and quietly moving about, from different angles I was able to capture dramatic images of window light mystically illuminating Christ. This image of sunlight shining through the window is one of the most meaningful and favorite images from my Italian journey. If you gaze for a minute or two, I believe you will also be transported on a remarkable journey. I have painted this image many times, striving for perfection. However, I have ultimately realized perfection is only found in the crucified one. Gal. 2:20 “Yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me; insofar as I now live in the flesh, I live by faith in the Son of God who has loved me and given himself up for me.”
    Luminanza di Cristo - Cattedrale di ..etta
  • “Crucified Face of Christ - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
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Hanging above the Altar of the Duomo di Sorrento was a lifelike Crucifix. My portfolio contains many different images of this mesmerizing crucifixion. It has become a primary focus of my artistic study of light and His sacred image. This “living” singular portrayal of Christ has become a major influence in my pursuit of religious art. Hopefully, the viewer will be moved by His spiritual and painful unveiling. Touching the very heart of those who empathize with this immediate closeness of the Passion of Christ and this evolving artistic impressionistic painting. The main church in Sorrento is the Duomo, also known as the Cathedral of San Filippo and San Giacomo, which is concealed right in the heart of the town. Sorrento is not known as a pilgrimage site but as a beautiful seaside resort village. The Duomo dates as far back as the 11th century but was completely rebuilt in the 15th century in Romanesque style. The façade is very plain for a Cathedral of such interior grandeur, which has three naves separated by pillars and a very ornate ceiling. Next to the cathedral is a bell tower resting on an arch with four columns, which dates back to medieval times. Inconspicuously, I entered the cathedral and saw only a dozen elderly women sitting in the front pews reciting aloud a novena. Not wanting to disturb them, I ventured around quietly and was taken aback by the reverent beauty and peaceful aura of the magnificent Duomo. This detailed statue of Jesus has continued to captivate my thoughts and memories. I finally relinquished my apprehension and painted this close view of the suffering face of Jesus.
    Volto Crocifisso di Cristo - Pittura..etta
  • 🌹“The Light of Life - Convent of Cells Cortona - Painting by Dino Carbetta”… <br />
🌹Ascending from a tiny cell within Le Celle, I noticed the radiant sunlight illuminating the ancient stone stairway. Considering the location, its 1000 years of age, and its Saintly founding fathers, one could not help feeling spiritually exalted as the bright light immersed my ascension to the top. I didn’t quite reach Heaven at the height of the mystic climb, but perhaps the illumination rendered a touch of hope to a weary and petitioning photo artist. “(Gospel - Lk 24:1-12) At daybreak on the first day of the week the women who had come from Galilee with Jesus took the spices they had prepared and went to the tomb. They found the stone rolled away from the tomb; but when they entered, they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. While they were puzzling over this, behold, two men in dazzling garments appeared to them. They were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground. They said to them, “Why do you seek the living One among the dead? He is not here, but he has been raised. Remember what he said to you while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners and be crucified, and rise on the third day.” And they remembered his words. Then they returned from the tomb and announced all these things to the eleven and to all the others. The women were Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James; the others who accompanied them also told this to the apostles, but their story seemed like nonsense and they did not believe them. But Peter got up and ran to the tomb, bent down, and saw the burial cloths alone; then he went home amazed at what had happened.”
    La Luce della Vita - Convento di Cel..etta
  • “The Pontifical Swiss Guard protects the bronze door of the Vatican – Rome”…<br />
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My Roman tour guide at the Vatican, who knew all who worked there, made sure he presented every opportunity for me knowing I was a photographer/artist. For this and several other images, he talked with security allowing me to enter areas off-limits to photograph through doorways and windows. This huge bronze door has been the official entrance to the Apostolic Palace since 1663 and is permanently watched by three Swiss guards. The Pontifical Swiss Guard was founded in 1506 and in the 18th-century several Swiss soldiers were recruited from various European courts to form the close-quarter guards of the kings. Michelangelo designed the official--highly colorful--uniform, and guards also wear a long sword and a traditional halberd. The bronze door opens to a long corridor leading to the famous steps of the Scala Regia, which was designed by Bernini to appear longer and wider than in actuality. Unfortunately, this architectural wonder is closed to visitors, as is the rest of the Apostolic Palace where the Pope lives; only official visitors are admitted inside.
    La Pontificia Guardia Svizzera prote..Roma
  • “Pietà discovered on the wall of St. Andrew's Cathedral Amalfi”… <br />
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On the last of three glorious days in Positano, I woke early to witness the sunrise over the village. However, around 10:00 am, the cold rains poured down, dampening the once magnificent sun. Undeterred, I decided to take a rain-soaked ferry down the coast to the charming seaside town of Amalfi. The Cattedrale di Sant'Andrea, also known as the Duomo di Amalfi, is usually teeming with tourists who have traveled for miles by bus or ferry. Yet, due to the dreary weather, many opted to stay away. A church has graced this spot in Amalfi since the year 596 AD, and remarkably, the ninth-century structure still stands proudly today. In the early 13th century, the present cathedral was built adjacent to the old one, serving as a final resting place for the revered St. Andrew the Apostle. Initially, the two buildings were joined to form a single, magnificent six-nave Romanesque cathedral. While exploring the cathedral, I discovered a fascinating piece of history. Portions of the newer walls have been carefully removed, revealing glimpses of the ancient original church. As I passed by one of these exposed walls on three separate occasions, I failed to notice anything extraordinary. It was only when I stepped back and gazed intently that the ancient Pieta gradually materialized before my eyes. The mystical beauty of this faded image left me astounded. Seizing the opportunity, I captured two photographs, intending to merge them into a panoramic view, fervently hoping that the essence of this miraculous vision would manifest. For over 1500 years, God has preserved this unique fresco, but its fading state suggests that it will soon vanish completely. I consider myself truly blessed to have beheld this extraordinary sight and fervently aspire to safeguard it for future generations.
    Pietà scoperto sul muro della Catted..alfi
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