Exploring World Civilizations at the British Museum

17 December 20243 May 2025

I was overwhelmed with excitement as I entered each of the rooms at the British Museum. I have never before seen so much history represented in one place. Unprepared for the amazing relics and archaeological objects spanning thousands of years, I was excited for the opportunity to glimpse into the lives and cultures of so many ancient civilizations. Established in 1753, the British Museum is the oldest public museum in the world and in my opinion, one of the most fascinating.

Credited as the first “archeologist”, Roman Queen Helena’s pilgrimage to the Holy Land in the 4^th century AD was focused on preserving the sites and relics relating to biblical accounts of the life of Jesus Christ. It was her desire to protect the Christian items and locations so that others could visit them in the future.

Today, museums such as the British Museum, house spectacular finds through archaeological digs and private collections that span thousands, even millions of years. Covering the rise and fall of some of the most powerful civilizations such as Egypt, Assyria, Greece and Rome, these insights explain their religious, political and societal beliefs. From artwork to architecture and skeletons to sarcophagus, visitors have the ability to understand how these societies evolved over many generations.

Ancient Egypt:

The mummies are one of the most popular exhibits among visitors and are located in rooms 61 – 66 upstairs. On display are some of the various instruments used by embalmers to preserve the bodies before they were entombed. This floor also houses Coptic art, fancy jewelry and one of my favorite statues, the bronze cat with the gold nose ring.

Entering through the main entrance and arriving into the Grand Court, the Egyptian Exhibit is located to the left of the Reading Room in Room 3. Displays of large, colossal statues and Egyptian sculptures dominate the space dating from 3000 BC. One of the most historically significant finds in all of ancient history is the Rosetta Stone.

One of the most visited objects in the British Museum, along with the mummies, is the Rosetta Stone. Unearthed in the Egyptian desert in 1799, the Stone was used by Francois Champollion, a French scholar, to decipher Egyptian hieroglyphics. This black slab of rock included three inscriptions in three different languages (Classical Greek and the two forms of ancient Egyptian) which assisted in the decoding of the Egyptian pictographs. Their biggest breakthrough was when it was discovered that the name of ruler Ptolemy V appeared on the sixth line of the stone. The Rosetta Stone dates back to 196 BC, made in honor of the coronation of Ptolemy. Large stones, such as this one, would have been displayed in temples all across Egypt and there are another seventeen quite similar that have since been discovered.

Not far from the Rosetta Stone (about 20 steps), is the Limestone False Door and Architrave of Ptahshepses dating back to 2400 BC. The door as well as the lintel are inscribed with hieroglyphics which tell the life story of a man named Ptahshepses. False doors were similar to our grave markings today, yet they were used as a ceremonial entrance into the room in which the mummified deceased was buried with his belongings. The purpose of the door was to allow the soul to come and go as it pleased but also used to keep out grave robbers from removing the earthly possessions of the dead.

Towering over the Ancient Egypt complex on the main floor, I easily spotted the Colossal Statue of Ramesses II in the distance. Ramesses took the throne in 1279 BC and reigned for 66 years. Known for his building accomplishments erecting temples, tombs, palaces and a large number of statues of himself, it is debated that he may have been the King of Egypt during the Exodus of Moses.

Weighing in at twenty tons, the full size sculpture stood 8 – 9 feet high. It was the largest Egyptian sculptures the British had ever seen and only the upper half of Ramesses statue is displayed at the British Museum. The statue dates back to approximately 1250 BC and was found in the Ramesseum, the pharaoh’s mortuary temple in Thebes. This memorial complex was built so that Ramesses could be worshiped as a god for many years after his death.

Exiting the Egyptian Room through the door facing the back of the Ramesses statue, there is a set of stairs that leads up to the mummies, coffins and one of the most fascinating displays I had ever seen, the human remains of the Gebelein Man (nicknamed Ginger due to a tuft of reddish hair) a naturally preserved body.

The body was discovered in 1856 in the desert of Egypt in a grave covered by stones. A combination of elements contributed to the preservation of the human tissue to include the hot sand naturally dehydrating and protecting the body and the additional layer of grave stones may have kept animals away. Scientists estimate Ginger to have died 5400 years ago, long before the pyramids were erected. He was found buried with bowls, beads and a flint blade next to his arm.

New technology has brought additional information to light about the death of Ginger. With digital imagery, it was determined that Ginger was “certainly murdered” and “his injuries suggest he was the victim of a deliberate, violent killing….consistent with a stab wound”. Additional information states that he was between the ages of 18 and 21 and was “stabbed by a blade of copper or flint at least five inches long.”

Ancient Assyria

Assyria, known today as modern-day Iraq, was a power-house civilization of the Middle East. Making their way as conquerors and traders, this Semitic culture expanded their dominion in a fierce ruthless manner terrorizing their neighbors from 900 – 600 BC. Some of the most beautiful artwork comes from the Assyrians on display at the British Museum.

Backtracking back to the Rosetta Stone in the Egyptian Gallery in Room 6, there are Two Winged Lions with Human Heads dating back to 870 BC. Found guarding the Assyrian palace of Ashurnasirpal II at Nimrud was called the Lamassu, the god of protection which defended the king from evil spirits. What makes this statue interesting is that it has 5 legs. The small marks between the loins of the Lamassu is cuneiform writing.

Passing through the Two Winged Lion entrance, turn right into Room 7, a narrow red hallway leading into a room with brown stoned panels. The beautifully detailed reliefs would have been painted and varnished, displayed in the throne room of Ashurnasirpal II’s palace. These intricately carved panels tell the story of Ashurnasirpal’s victories and hail him as the greatest king of the world.

Known to be ruthless in battle, the Assyrians carried their brutality into their leisurely activities as depicted in a set of reliefs in Room 10 labeled the Royal Lion Hunt. The impressive artwork depicts the horses and dogs preparing for the hunt while lions await unknowingly until the lions are killed by arrows. Lion hunts were the sport of kings and when wild lions were not available, staged hunts were arranged with animals bred for the fight. One of the reliefs shows King Ashurbanipal riding in a chariot participating in the hunt. Soon after the king’s death, the civilization of Assyria is overthrown by the Babylonians in 613 BC.

In Room 55, an extraordinary artifact is on display. Dating between 1500 – 500 BC it is identified as the “Flood Tablet”, which was found in King Ashurbanipal’s library. While many people are familiar with the story of Noah and the Great Flood, according to this writing, a similar story to the biblical account is referred to as the “Epic of Gilgamesh”. The gods planned to destroy the world with a flood, so Ut-napshti built a large boat to save his family and every type of animal. Of course the finding of this documentation in the late 1800’s caused quite a scandal due to the similarity between the Gilgamesh and Noah accounts.

Ancient Greece:

Visiting Greece last summer, a trip to the Acropolis was one of the highlights of my travels. I remember standing at the bottom stair leading up towards the Propylaea. This Panathenaic Way led to the Parthenon, the temple dedicated to Athena, the goddess of wisdom and victory. Inside, there once stood a colossal statue of her likeness made of gold and ivory, while the exterior was just as extravagant, with columns and colorful relief carvings.

Today, the ninety-two reliefs, known as the Elgin Marbles, are on display at the British Museum. These metopes, carved out of stone, depict war and battle scenes in elaborate detail. Some of them represent mythological conflict, while others portray actual battles. While many visitors stroll the exhibit to view the fifth century artwork, many are also intrigued by the political controversy that surrounds the display…should these ancient artifacts stay in London or should they be returned to Greece?

Ancient Rome:

The Romans embraced many gods from various cultures and celebrated an assortment of beliefs. From Persia, they adopted the worship of Mithras, or Mithraism which involved a number of initiations and rituals. The Mysteries of Mithras lasted in Rome between the first and fourth centuries so there is limited knowledge about the religion. It was so secretive that there were underground temples. What remains of this faith are several marble sculptures portraying the god Mithras, including the Statue of Mithras on display at the British Museum.

Dating somewhere around the 2^nd century, the beautifully carved stone shows Mithras performing the ritual slaughtering of a bull. Wearing a Phyrgian cap and trousers, his attire depicts the fashion of the east. The bull’s blood was said to have had cleansing properties, which would explain the dog and snake licking the blood, while the scorpion is shown attacking the bull’s testicles.

The detail of this sculpture, the flowing skirt and cape, and the folds in the shirt are exquisite. The sculptor is unknown, but it is one of the most fascinating pieces of Roman art in the museum.

The British Museum collection includes additional artifacts from other cultures around the world. For example, the North American Otter Pipe, found in Ohio dates back to 200 BC – AD 100 or the Shang bronzes from 15=00 BC. There are modern plaques from Africa, Mayan statues, and the Lewis Chessman found on an Isle in Scotland. Even the Great Court and Reading Room are both impressive and historical.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the British Museum? What was your most fascinating memory of your visit? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Want to know where to go, eat and stay in London? Check out more of my recommendations below for a magical experience in London! Many thanks for exploring the British Museum through my post and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The British Museum
Great Russell Street
Bloomsbury, London WC1B 3DG, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7323 8000

Admission Fee: There is no fee for visiting the British Museum
Hours: Open daily from 10AM to 5:30PM and open until 8:30PM on Fridays
Amenities: scheduled tours, audio guides are provided in 10 languages, special exhibitions, restaurant, cafes, shops
Scenic View: Photograph the glass ceiling of the round reading room designed by Sidney Smirke
Length of Visit: At least 2 – 3 hours to see the highlights
Tips for Your Visit: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, pick up a map of the venue for planning your visit.

Where to Stay:

The Montague on the Gardens
15 Montague Street
London WC1B 5BJ, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7637 1001

Where to Eat:

Afternoon Tea at The Montague on the Gardens
15 Montague Street
London WC1B 5BJ, UK
Telephone: +44 20 7612 8416

On my first visit, I happened upon the Safari Themed afternoon tea which included an African-themed menu. I enjoyed a selection of finger sandwiches of African-spiced chicken and apricot, scones baked fresh with Devonshire clotted creme, a giraffe macaron with toasted coconut mouse, banana meringue and a wide variety of teas to include traditional, flavored, aromatic, fruit and green teas. I couldn’t pass up the Leopard Cocktail made with Amarula cream liquor, decorated with leopard spots and a paw print.

On Sunday, I returned for the Free Flowing Champagne garnished with fresh strawberries. From 2 to 6, I could enjoy as much champagne as my heart desired along with a wonderful selection of scones, pastries, sandwiches and cakes.

What to Eat:

Afternoon Tea at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in Piccadilly
Bangers and Mash at Mother Mash in Soho
Beef Welington at Simpsons on the Strand
Cockles, a type of clam, are best tried at Borough Market
Crumpets, similar to English Muffins should be ordered at Ask for Janice in Farringdon
Eton Mess is an amazing British dessert made of crushed meringue, cream ans strawberries at the National Cafe at the National Gallery
Fish & Chips at Poppies Camden in London
Full English Breakfast, which also includes blood pudding (a blood sausage) at The Ivy
Pie and Mash at the Windmill Mayfair
Pimm’s Cup, a gin-based drink made with ginger ale or lemon lime soda, fruit and mint is the official drink of Wimbledon and is best ordered at Lido Cafe Bar in Hyde Park
Scones at Gail’s Bakery
Scotch Egg is a dish that includes a hard boiled egg wrpeed in sausage meet, breaded and then fried; Try this at Fortnum & Mason’s Diamond Jubilee Tea Salon in Piccadilly
Shepard’s Pie is on the menu at The Ivy Restaurant
Sticky Toffee Pudding at the Queens Arms in Kensington
Sunday Roast with Yorkshire Pudding in Nottinghill at The Windsor Castle
Toad in the Hole, a pastry filled with sausage at Bistro Union
Victoria Sponge is a vanilla sponge cake filled with jam and whipped cream at the Wallace Collection Museum

What to Read:

A Parcel for Anna Browne by Miranda Dickinson
A Week in December by Sebastian Faulks
Absolute Beginners by Colin MacInnes
Act Like It by Lucy Parker
Bridget Jones’s Diary by Helen Fielding
London: The Novel by Edward Rutherford
My Best Friend’s Girl by Dorothy Kroomson
Oliver Twist, by Charles Dickens
The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Arthur Conan Doyle

Photo Guide to London:

The Lobby of the British Museum
Covent Garden Market
St. Paul Cathedral from the Restaurant Madison at One New Change, Millenium Bridge or Paternoster Square
Summerset House, especially during the Christmas holiday
The houses of Notting Hill
The architecture of Pancras Renaissance Hotel
Saturday market at Portobello
For amazing views, photos from the Coppa Club, close to Tower Bridge
The lovely pink cafe in London, Peggy Porschen
Panorama of London from Sky Garden Rooftop
Street art in Shoreditch
Leadenhall Market looks like Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley
South Bank for photos of the Thames
Panoramic Views of London from the London Eye
Saint Aymes Cafe for lovely feminine photos

The Theater of Miletus

26 September 202317 March 2025

On a tour of Turkey, our group made a quick stop at Turkmen Carpets where we learned how carpets were made. I saw, first-hand, the exquisite work that was put into themcreation of these carpets by some of the local weavers before we boarded the tour bus for our next location, Miletus.

The archaeological site of Miletus, a once prosperous Turkish city, was one of the principal Ionian cities of Asia Minor. It was also a stop on Apostle Paul’s third missionary journey. As our coach approached the site, we noticed the outer wall of the theater, visible from the tour bus and a large space of hewn stone. It was hard to believe that at one time, Miletus was the wealthiest of all Greek cities during the Hellenistic era.

The theater is only one stop on our trip to Miletus. This large structures is similar to our theatrical stages of today and was built into a hill between the Bay of Lions and the Theater Harbor. Sixty rows of seats climb to the top with a seating capacity of 15,000 spectators. Construction began in the 4^th century BC but improvements were made under the direction of Emperor Trajan. The third level was later added with ornate decorations to the columns representing hunting scenes with the god Eros.

According to historian Josephus, there was a Greek inscription on the fifth row that read, “For the Jews and the God-fearers.” It was a reminder of Rome’s “tolerance of the Jews” that resided in Miletus and were permitted to attend the theater.

We climbed up to the seats which would have been reserved for the upper class in the first few rows. I could clearly see the three sections of the Roman theatre that included the backstage area, additional seating arrangements for the audience and the orchestra. The productions would have been nothing less than extravagant and the acoustics, spectacular.

Looking into the stadium, there were four columns that seemed set apart from the general population’s seating area. Known as the “Royal Box”, it was located in the center of the first few rows and was designated as an exclusive box for the emperors. The columns were used to drape a covering over the area to shade the royals from the inclement weather and heat of the sun.

An interesting feature of the Miletus theater were the lion paws on the outer edge of the benched seats. Lions were symbols of strength and royalty back in the ancient days and the ornate design seemed to suggest that this was once a flourishing city.

Even the small details that our tour guide pointed out were absolutely fascinating. For example, taking a closer look at the stone platform designated for the Emperor and his family, we could see the awning attachments.

Gazing up towards the high seats of the Miletus Theater, I could clearly see the third row addition. The cave-like entrances provided a way in and out of the theater. The added space would have also minimized the interaction between the upper and lower class.

Just as the spectators would have left the theater, we made our way out towards the public structures of this well-preserved archaeological site. Our guide pointed out some of the major points of interest, but with such little time, we could only see some of these ruins from afar. There was so much to explore in the town of Miletus.

Have you traveled to Miletus? What were some of the places that interested you? I would love to hear about your visit if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my excurstion to Miletus! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

To learn more about the archaeological site of Miletus, check out my recent blog post, The Baths of Miletus.

For more information about the beautiful, exotic country of Turkey, check out the following links!

Topkapki Palace
The Blue Mosque
Hagia Sophia
Spice Bazaar and Hippodrome
Ephesus, Turkey: A Journey Back in Time
A Turkish Carpet Demonstration
Kusadasi and its Symbol of Peace
The Baths of Miletus

A Turkish Carpet Demonstration

15 August 202323 September 2024

The mountains surrounded us as the road twisted and turned towards our destination to Turkmen Carpet Weaving Center. The weather was perfect as the sun shone down on our tour bus having just spent the afternoon in Ancient Ephesus.

Entering the center, there were magnificent Turkish carpets on display. Ranging from cotton to silk, the colors were absolutely vibrant and more spectacular than I could have ever imagined. We spent the day learning the art of carpet-making and had the opportunity to purchase one of their priceless floor coverings or specialty wall hangings.

I was mesmerized by the blue-colored threads that took on the deep blue hue of the ocean. This specific color stood out against the multi-colored backdrop of a myriad of royal colors. From runners to large area floor and wall carpets, there was a wide range of options, sizes and materials ranging from $500 to $50,000. While some of the carpets were created from camel or goat hair, it was the silk rugs that were the most popular and lucrative, bringing in thousands of dollars.

The artistic creativity of designing Turkish silk carpets begins with the silkworms themselves. The cocoon, which has been woven with serecin, is moistened with the use of hot water until it is time to remove the silk layer of the outer shell. The small tiny egg covering protects the worm inside. Holding it in my hand, it was lightweight and hollow. Shaking the egg, I could hear the worm inside.

Once the eggs have been moistened, the threads are ready to be “reeled” to create one strong strand.

Several “strings” are then combined into one thread and then transferred to a spool. From this stage, it will be dyed and ready for the weaving process.

Turkmen Carpet Weaving Center offers village weavers the ability to continue their family tradition of creating gorgeous designer carpets that have been passed down for many generations. Several looms were available and depending on the size of the rugs, it can take months before these masterpieces are complete.

Having concluded our educational lesson in carpet making, we were offered refreshments as carpets were being prepared for demonstration. We had the choice of red or white wine, raki (similar to ouzo) or apple tea. The apple tea (so yummy!), which is popular among the Turks, is a warm cider drink which was very refreshing.

We took our seats at the benches surrounding the room. Once everyone had received their drink, an entertaining “dance” of sorts was performed as carpets were rolled out for our consideration. It was overwhelming with so many shapes, sizes, colors and materials yet the show was a sight to remember.

One of my favorite rugs was a light blue with hues of light brown and off-white accents. Unfortunately, I knew it would not fit into my small living room, but I was still curious to learn the price for this amazing piece of artwork. I was even more amazed when I learned that the price tag was a staggering $14,000!

I realize that these spectacular rugs are probably worth every penny spent on them and will last for years, but I was not financially prepared to make the investment. I had such a great time watching my fellow travelers make their purchases.

Do you own a Turkish carpet? Have you ever been curious to learn how they are made? I would love to hear about your visit to Turkey and some of the items that you may have purchased if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading my post about my experience with Turkish carpets and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Turkmen Carpets
Telephone: 0232 893 12 12

Admission Fee: There is no admission fee and tour groups are provided with admission free of charge as well.
Hours: The carpet center is open every day from 9AM to 5PM
Amenities: They provide a carpet making demonstration from the time they prepare the silk to the finished product. In addition, they provide a complimentary drink which includes, red or white wine, raki (similar to ouzo) and apple tea.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price as this is customary and do not be afraid to let them know you are not interested because they do not want to pressure those not interested in buying. Expect to spend money here should you decide to buy a carpet, but they are superior in quality.

Where to Stay;

DoubleTree by Hilton Kusadasi
Ataturk Bulvan
Yat Limani Karsisi
09400 Kusadasi, Turkey
Telephone: +90 256 633 60 60
Website:

Where to Eat:

Erzincan Restaurant
Camikebir mah
Yedi Eylul Sok, No. 09
Kusadasi, 09430 Aydin
Telephone: +90 538 2300230

I enjoyed the seabass served with chips, baked potato and salad.

What to Eat:

- Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
- Gozleme is a type of bread that is shaped in a square and stuffed with various fillings such as meat, cheese, potatoes or vegetables and then cooked over a griddle. The cheese and spinach reminds me of spanikopita.
- Iskender Kebab: thinly sliced lamb is smothered in tomato sauce and served with traditional bread, then topped with yogurt and butter.
- Mezze is a sample of several small bites that may include yogurt with herbs, hummus, olives, dolmas (stuffed grape leaves), meatballs, eggplant, white cheese and warm bread.
- Simit is a fun street food bread that is similar to a pretzel.
- Turkish Apple Tea is absolutely amazing and was one of my favorite drinks while visiting Turkey.
- Turkish Delight: a delicious dessert is made up of dates, pistachios, hazelnuts, which is pink in color.
- Turkish Ice Cream, also known as Dondurma, is a little thicker in consistency, but it will not melt. A must try.
- Turkish Pizza is outstanding and tastes so fresh. Made from Turkish Pide (a type of pastry), it is similar to a flatbread with a variety of toppings.
- Turkish Ravioli: dumplings stuffed with beef or lamb served with yogurt.

What to Read:

The Ephesus Scroll by Ben Chenoweth
Burning of the Books at Ephesus by Sir James Thornhill
Ancient Ephesus: The History and Legacy of One of Antiquity’s Greatest Cities by Charles River Editors

Photo Guide for Ancient Ephesus:

The Facade of the Celsus Library
View from the Amphitheater

The Island of Delos: A Lesson in Greek Mythology

1 May 20233 May 2025

As the cruise ship arrived in Mykonos, I learned that I could board a ferry to Delos, the island of the gods. I immediately approached the kiosk to pick up my ticket since I had not made previous arrangements and tickets sell out fast. In only a couple of hours I would be departing on the MV Delos Express and exploring the uninhabited island considered the birthplace of Apollo and Artemis.

As the ferry approached the island, I was overwhelmed by the number of ruins sprawled out across acres of land. I purchased my ticket to enter the archaeological site and was provided a map of Delos. Local guides were on hand for an additional charge to those visitors who were interested in personal tours.

I began my adventure searching for the Temples of Apollo and Artemis. Greek mythology revolves around the story of this brother and sister duo and their temples which were of most importance. The Temple of Apollo once housed the Treasury of Greece until it was relocated in the 5th century BC. Even after the island was abandoned, Greeks continued to visit the temple for the annual Panegyris festival in spring. The remains of the temple are sparse, but visitors can see the giant marble pedestal which once displayed the 35-foot Apollo statue.

Since the 1st century AD, the island was left abandoned and excavations by French archaeologists began in 1872. By then, the island of Delos was completely covered in silt and only one-fifth of the site has been uncovered. So much more to be discovered.

The Lion Terrace was undoubtedly one of the most fascinating sites on the island. Mythological legend claims that the statues were provided by the island of Naxos to guard the Sacred Lake as Leto gave birth to the twins. Replicas of the lions continue to watch over the lake, while the originals are housed in the nearby archaeological museum.

At the Sacred Lake stands the palm tree of Leto. It is said that Hera took hold of this tree while in labor with the twins, giving birth first to Artemis and then her brother Apollo. The lake no longer exists because it was drained by the French archaeologists to prevent bacterial disease and other dangerous organisms from growing.

Where once stood the Temple of Dionysus, is now the Phallus of Apollo. Not only was the phallus a symbol of Dionysus, It was erected as a representation of Apollo, the god of Patros (the father of all), the progenitor of the male ancestor, the symbol of fertility.

A residential area stands to the south of the island where a neighborhood of homes were discovered. During excavations, the archaeologists have determined the wealth of these families based upon the beautiful floor mosaics. The minuscule tiles and delicate delicate artwork have survived over many years, protected by the silt. The museum houses additional floor mosaics to shield them from the impacts of weather and the salty environment.

I can see Mount Kynthos on the left as I navigate through the network of streets in this ancient neighborhood of sorts. Once a bustling port town, the island of Delos was home to over 30,000 residents and an estimated 3,000 shops.

Through the maze, I found the Dolphin House known for its spectacular dolphin mosaic with a circle enclosed by a square. It is one of two mosaics that were signed by its original artist. The gorgeous mosaic in the House of Dionysos shows the winged goddess riding a tiger and is an amazing example of Hellenistic art. Within the House of Trident, the perfectly refurbished floor mosaic displays a dolphin, wrapped around an anchor.

Within walking distance was the Theater at Delos which seated approximately 5,000 spectators. In need of extensive repair, even in its current state, one could see the magnitude of its size.

The island of Delos was the home to Mount Kynthos (in the background) which rises 375 feet and is the highest point on the island. Unfortunately I did not have enough time to climb up to the top of the mountain to see the remains of the Temple to Zeus and Athena but I heard other ferry passengers discussing their spectacular view from its peak.

It was decreed by the Athenians in the sixth century BC that no one could be born or die here. The residents at the time were relocated to a nearby island, Rinia to keep the island of Delos pure for the gods.

Just as I had expected, my excursion to Delos was well worth the visit. I took the time on the ferry back to imagine the island with inhabitants and wished I could have seen it in its prime. An island dedicated to the gods? Not a bad place to be born.

What are your thoughts on Delos? Have you been to the island? I would love to hear from you if you will kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many Thanks and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

The Island of Delos accessible by Naxos, Mykonos or private yacht.

Admission Fee: 12 Euros if you are not paying for a guided tour; Guided tours are 50 Euros.
Hours: The earliest ferry departs from Mykonos at 10 AM while the last ferry from Delos to Mykonos departs at 7:30 PM. Another ferry departs at 1:30PM, so if you are traveling by cruise ship, you will want to ensure that you select the early ferry.
Scenic View: Amazing views of ancient civilization and the amazing colors of the harbor.
Length of Visit: 3 hours or more to explore the ruins, climb Mt. and visit the museum.
Travel Tip: You must ensure you take the correct ferry whether you are arriving to the island of Mykonos by cruise ship or visiting the island on your own. There are no accommodations on the island and for many years the island does not allow overnight stays.

Where to Stay:

Not available on the island of Delos

Where to Eat:

There is a cafe on the island, but the food is basic and a bit overpriced, Either bring something with you or snacks or wait until you return to your original location.

For more information about the beautiful country of Greece, visit my following links!

Santorini: Life on a Volcano
Mykonos: Whitewashed and Wild
Corfu: An Old Town, Palace and Monastery
Corinth, A Biblical and Historical Perspective
The Site of Olympia and its Role in the Olympic Games
The Archaeological Museum at Olympia
Athens, Greece: A Living Museum

Guerra’s Crazy Tacos: Springfield, Ohio

13 May 202022 September 2024

Since Guerra’s Crazy Tacos first opened in Springfield, Ohio, it has drawn visitors from all over the state of Ohio and beyond. Known for its unique taco combinations, this brightly colored, boutique restaurant is the place for a unique twist on Mexican cuisine.

Drawing on recipes from his San Antonio roots, Felix Guerra III doesn’t shy away from fascinating culinary combos such as cabbage and candied ginger, teriyaki sauce and pineapple, or toppings to include BBQ sauce or jerk seasoning. Each taco creation is written on the black board and changes from time to time, leaving you wanting to return to Guerra’s to taste his next invention.

The Sugar Skull artwork makes for a beautiful interior. From the wall art to the tables and chairs, this symbol known for its remembrance of loved ones who have passed denoting the passing from the physical to the spiritual. It is also a reminder that our lives must be fully lived.

Starting with some chips and green salsa, it was the perfect distraction from my grumbling stomach anticipating the triple order of Sweet Lucy, Asian Ginger and the traditional taco. I also couldn’t resist their spicy margarita.

I savored each bite and slowly enjoyed my margarita, tempted to purchase a couple of additional combos. In the end, I decided it would not be the best idea and I could always return for more. Besides, since it has been named one of Business Insider’s top places to order tacos, let’s hope they will be here for a very long time.

Have you visited Guerra’s Krazy Taco? I would love to hear about your experience and what you ordered if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Guerra’s Krazy Taco and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH 45503
Telephone: 937 325 0799

Simon Kenton Inn
4690 Urbana Road
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 399 9950

Where to Eat:

Guerra’s Krazy Tacos
229 N. Belmont Avenue
Springfield, OH 45503
Telephone: 937 325 0799

What to Eat:

Tacos, Tacos and More Tacos!

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

A Famous Wedding Takes Place at Malabar Farm State Park

16 July 201918 September 2024

Hollywood seems so far from Ohio, but for a pair of movie stars who wanted to escape the limelight of Los Angeles, Mansfield became the perfect location to wed and escape the paparazzi.

I began my visit to Malabar Farm State Park at the home of Louis Bromfield, standing on the front porch of the farmhouse. I looked out onto the open land and could see stately maple trees and endless rolling hills. It was a beautiful sunny day for a tour of the house followed with a wagon ride around the property.

Walking across the threshold, I was surprised to hear the theme of the Mickey Mouse Club playing on the grand piano where a small crowd had gathered.

The grand entrance of the home included beautifully restored wooden floors and elegant wallpaper. Original Audobon prints were displayed on the walls as well as artwork from friends and family.

I imagined Mrs. Bromfeld preparing for her day as she checked her daily planner or making calls on her rotary phone to confirm an appointment. Would she have planned a lunch date with her girlfriends, booked her weekly facial or scheduled a fitting for a gown before a special event? I couldn’t help but allow my mind to wander about the endless possibilities.

While the home was in great condition, there was evidence of wear and tear as displayed in the downstairs’ half bathroom. The floors were stained and the walls could have used a little upgrade.

The artwork was unique in each room with a variety of paintings. One of my most memorable moments was gazing into several beautiful farmland photos by artist Grandma Moses, who took up painting in her late 70s.

In 1896, Louis Bromfield was born in Mansfield, graduating high school in 1914. He attended Cornell University to study agriculture and after one semester, returned home, Helping his grandfather with the farm, Bromfield became injured and put his education on hold.

A year later, Bromfield returned to college at Columbia University to study journalism. As WWI began, he learned that there was a shortage of ambulance drivers and decided to join the military. It was here that he met, Walt Disney, Ernest Hemingway, Ray Crock and Gertrude falling in love with the French countryside.

Bromfield returned to the United States after the war and lived with his sister, a pianist living in New York City. While here, he became a Broadway critic in his early 20s and wrote for the entertainment section of the New York Times.

Often drinking at the local bar, it was here that Louis met Humphrey Bogart. Ironically, Louis had just recently given Bogart a bad review of his play, suggesting Humphrey give up acting. Despite the negative press, they somehow became great friends.

In 1921, Louis married Mary Appleton Wood, a rich socialite whose father owned Appleton Publishing Company. Honeymooning in Paris, they returned to Mansfield and built their beautiful property. Mary wasn’t thrilled to live at Malabar Farms and made it clear that she stayed because of her love for her husband.

The Bromfields had three children, Anne, Hope and Ellen. Their photos were displayed on the mantle of the fireplace located in the guest room. Hope and Ellen would go on to marry and have lives of their own living in Montana and Brazil, respectively. Anne had never married and lived with her father until his death.

Thirteen of Bromfield’s forty books were best sellers and based on his experiences on the farm. Some of his most recognized works include The Green Bay Tree, Lost Generation and Autumn Wind.

In addition to writing books, Louis was also a screen writer as well as a member of New York’s “Cafe Society.” His income was an impressive $2500 per week.

In 1938, Walt Disney employed Louis to write the screenplay for the story of Ferdinand and to supervise its animation. Based on the popular children’s book from 1936, I was surprised to learn that the production was considered a short film, lasting under eight minutes. Cells of the animated works were presented to Bromfield’s daughters and are on display at Malabar Farm.

Bromfield was known for his love of dogs, especially boxers, where at one time he had eighty of them on the farm.

Louis Bromfield’s novel, “The Rains Came” became a movie in 1938. An aspiring actress from the 1930s and 40s, Myrna Loy, starred in the film which is based on the story of a British aristocrat who moves to India with her husband. She meets a gentleman and befriends him but becomes enamored with a surgeon who doesn’t take much notice of her.

Years later, Louis would receive a call from Humphrey Bogart that would transform the farm into a wedding chapel for two of America’s most beloved stars. It was here, in 1945, where Humphrey wed Lauren Bacall despite their 25-year age difference. The decision to marry at Malabar was to escape the paparazzi and press of Hollywood. They arrived in Mansfield under police escort as they immediately applied for their marriage license at the courthouse. The wedding ceremony took place that day in the presence of their beloved friends and they departed for Hollywood the next day.

The Bromfields decorated their living room similar to their space in Paris. Because they loved to entertain their guests, they temporarily removed furniture to make way for social events. The mirrored wall is covered with 48 stars of the 1939 American flag.

One of my favorite spaces in the house was the large dining room with its elegant chandelier and casual sunroom. On the white table, there were several wedding photos and a copy of their marriage certificate on display.

Exiting the kitchen, we were invited to board a tractor pulled hayride. Ready to explore the rolling hills and the surrounding tall trees, we passed by the family cemetery, a large pond, the Bromfield barn and the Malabar Farm Restaurant.

The hayride dropped us off at the barn and I was excited to see several animals boarded here. The rambunctious baby goats chased each other within the enclosure. I couldn’t help but stay to watch them play for awhile before deciding to have lunch at the nearby Malabar Farm Restaurant.

Bromfield led a colorful life before returning back to his native home of Ohio. Malabar Farms, the 32-room mansion standing in the midst of 600 acres of farmland in Pleasant Valley, was once the home of Pulitzer Prize-winning Louis Bromfield and the setting of a Hollywood wedding.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Malabar Farms State Park? Did you tour the Louis Bromfield home? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my visit to Malabar Farms and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Malabar Farms State Park
4050 Bromfield Road
Lucas, OH 44843
Telephone: 419 892 2784

Malabar Farm House – The guided tour of the Bromfield family house lasts 75 to 90 minutes and is not recommended for small children

Admission Fee: $6 per adult, $5.40 for seniors, $4 for youth and no charge for children 5 and under
Hours: April: Sat – Sun at 11AM and 2PM most weekends. Call ahead. Memorial Day through Labor Day: Sunday to Thursday: 11AM & 2PM, Friday and Saturday: 11AM, 2PM and 4:30PM; Labor Day through October 31^st: Tuesday through Sunday 11AM and 2PM; November and December: 11AM and 2PM; November – December: Saturday through Sunday: 11AM and 2PM most weekends. Call ahead. No tours on December 24^th, 25^th and 31^st; Closed January through March.
Tips for Your Visit: Call ahead of time for tour dates and times.

Where to Stay:

Landoll’s Mohican Castle
561 Township Road 3352
Loudonville, OH 44842
Telephone: 419 994 3427

Where to Eat:

Malabar Farm Restaurant
3645 Pleasant Valley Road
Lucas, OH 44843
Telephone: 419 938 5205

This restaurant has amazing farm-to-table menu items. Try the Maytag Bleu Filet Mignon.

What to Read:

Pleasant Valley, by Louis Bromfield
The Farm, by Louis Bromfield

An Authentic Audubon Print

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

Treating Ourselves in Traverse City

23 April 201921 September 2024

Traverse City’s charm is in its shops, restaurants and scenic shoreline. We picked up the local publication, “Northern Express” for the most recent events and up-to-date information. With so many options, we decided first to eat lunch and Grand Traverse Pie Company was our unanimous vote.

Michigan is known for its cherries, so it would only make sense to stop by the Grand Traverse Pie Company for a slice of cherry pie. We were surprised to find over 50 flavors of pie in addition to a few other dessert options.

GT Pie Company’s menu was extensive to include dishes from breakfast to dinner. With a so many great options, we each placed our orders for soups, sandwiches, salads and desserts. Among the eight of us, we decided on the Grand Traverse Chicken Salad, Cherrywood BLT, Chicken Focaccia and Lighthouse Turkey Cheddar Sandwich. The meals were fresh and delicious served with either coleslaw or blueberry applesauce.

Leaving room for dessert, we decided to order their signature Cherry Pie (perfect….not too sweet and not too tart), Blueberry Pie (with a crumble on top), ABC Pie (apple, blueberry and cherry) and Peanut Butter Cups.

Our meals and dessert were amazing so we found ourselves stopping by a couple more times during our vacation, even if it was only to pick up a pie or two.

Another great reason to add Grand Traverse Pie Company to your list of restaurants to visit is that they partner with local farmers for the fruit that goes into their delicious pies. They are also involved in several projects that give back to their community, which makes them pretty amazing. Check out their website to learn more about the charities they sponsor.

Another company that supports local farmers is Cherry Republic. This great store perfectly represents Michigan’s designation as the Cherry Capital of the US. With its humble beginnings to its claim of being the “most exclusive retailer of cherry food creations”, Cherry Republic was a mandatory stop on our tour of downtown Traverse City.

But to be honest, what we couldn’t resist were all of the samples that were available throughout the store . From cherry salsa to cherry chews, cherry wine and cherry sodas, we were in cherry heaven. We left with quite a few souvenirs and gifts to take back home.

The staff were extremely helpful with any questions and suggestions on what to purchase. We left with several products and enjoyed lunch at their wonderful café. I loaded up on the salsa and cider, perfect gifts for friends and family back home. Of course we had to make a second stop because we ran out of chips and cherry salsa midway through the week.

Cherry Republic is a wonderful success story with its start as a t-shirt business in 1989. Branching out to four locations in Michigan, the store sells over 200 types of cherry products. You can read more about the company on their website and revel in their accomplishments, which includes a flourishing catalog and online business as well. Visit their website to place an order or request a catalog.

According to its website, most of Cherry Republic’s produce comes from its own backyard, the Leelanau peninsula. And if that wasn’t enough, the company has established programs that have given back over $600,000 to charitable causes in northern Michigan.

After having lunch at Grand Traverse Pie Company and trying samples at Cherry Republic, we needed some time to walk off the calories. It was such a beautiful day and there were several shops that we found interesting. Downtown Grand Traverse is such a quaint, friendly town and we stopped by the Visitor’s Center for a map and suggestions on what to see while we were here.

One of my favorite places to visit was Nest. Described as a home interiors and furnishings boutique, we enjoyed all of the designs and merchandise on display. The décor is said to be “Up North Chic” and “Modern Cottage” and I loved all of the unique home goods and decorations.

Not only are the products fabulous, but the building in itself is artistic and appealing. The original brick walls display the fabulous artwork and the refurbished 1800’s tin ceiling was absolutely stunning.

What we love about Nest is that they have an online store. With so many great products, this is the perfect way to shop from home and search for updated items for your home. Just visit their website.

Michigan’s Traverse City is a great way to see the local flavors of Michigan as well as to taste them. If you have already visited this beautiful part of Michigan and want to bring back some of those fabulous memories, shop the online stores of Grand Traverse Pie Company, Cherry Republic and Nest. You can also check out “Traverse City in a Box” for additional selections as well.

If you have visited Traverse City or Grand Traverse, Michigan, what were some of your most memorable moments? Did you try some of the state’s local offerings? I would love to hear what you would suggest the next time we visit Michigan if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reading about my adventures in Traverse City, Michigan and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Grand Traverse Pie Company
525 West Front STreet
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 922 7437

Cherry Republic
154 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 932 9205

Nest of Grand Traverse
218 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 946 0232

Where to Eat:

amical
929 E. Front Street
Traverse City, MI 49684
Telephone: 231 941 8888

It was time for lunch and I wanted something light to tie me over for dinner. The French Onion soup with Jumbo Lump Crab Meat was a perfect combination. The crabcakes were served with a sweet chili aioli sauce which had a little heat so I needed a nice local Pinot Grigio from Good Harbor Winery in Leland, Michigan.

What to Eat:

Bell’s Oberon beer
Blueberries
Boston Cooler – ginger ale and vanilla ice cream float
Cherries
Chipati – salad made of lettuce, mushrooms, cheese and peppers stuffed in a pita
Cider and Doughnuts
Cudhigi – spicy Italian sandwich
Deep Dish Pizza
Detroit Street Brick – aged goat’s milk cheese and green peppercorns
Double Baked Rye Bread
Faygo Pop
Hot Fudge Cream Puffs
Mackinac Island Fudge
Packzi (pronounced Punch-key) – Polish donut stuffed with jam
Pasty – hand made pies filled with meat
Whitefish

What to Read:

Blameless; A Novel, by Lisa Reardon
Two, Two Lily-White Boys, by Geoffrey Clark

Photo Guide to Traverse City:

Bijou by the Bay movie theater
Cherries
Cherry Bowl Drive In
Gallagher’s Farm Market Produce and Barn
Glen Haven Beach at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Grand Traverse Lighthouse
Grand Traverse Pie Company
Lads Winery
North Bar Lake at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Tall Ships along the Lake
Vineyards of Black Star Farms

Entering Grand Traverse Pie Company

Peanut Butter Cup Dessert, Grand Traverse Pie Company

One of the many delicious pies we ordered from Grand Traverse Pie Company! Is that the state of Michigan in the center?

The Springfield Farmer’s Market, From History to the Here and Now

11 August 201716 September 2024

Update! Vendor List Revised on August 13, 2018

During the summer months, the Springfield Farmer’s Market sets up shop downtown outside the Heritage Center. With vendors lining the side pedestrian area, the market brings visitors here each Saturday from 9 AM to 12:30 PM.

I had the opportunity to visit the Market on its opening day and was excited to see the diversity in products that were available. From baked goods to produce, local services and artwork, this venue is the perfect location for learning about some of the small businesses that are helping to revive the economy of Springfield. The Painted Pepper, a well known food truck from town, was on hand for visitors to purchase breakfast items.

Here is just a small list of wonderful vendors that I met during my visit:

Slice of Heaven Bakery

En.Jamb.Ment

Davidson Family Growers

Sobaby Jam Company

Stevens Bakery and Orchard

Robin’s Nest Granola

Champion City Jam

Additional services and products were provided by:

OSU Food Training
Baker’s Vegetable Market and Greenhouse
MAD Sweet Heat
Wags N Wiggles
The Lady Mugs
Classy Trash
Little Hoot’s Boutique
Birth Photography
On the Rise
Covered Wagon Farm Market
Meyer’s Premier Berries
Mawmaw’s Gardens
Reaver Farms
Blue Jacket Dairy
The Hippie and the Farmer
Annabelle’s Blooms
Friends Cupcakery
Mama Nola’s Pies
Unbelievable Bakery
Jenny’s Sweet Shop
PURE by Mimi
Hope Essentials
Joyce Gerhardt
Ladybugs
VOICE Birth Options
One Hundred Feathers
Alisa Domer
Russell Shatto
Connie Chappell
Wanda Harris

One of the great advantages of shopping at The Springfield Farmer’s Market, is that they make it easier for those on federal food assistance programs to use their benefits at the market by using tokens and with the use of EBT.

Unbeknownst to many local Springfielders, the downtown Springfield Farmer’s Market was first established in the late 1800s. After the completion of the new city building by Oliver S. Kelly (today’s Heritage Building), the first floor was designated as the location for the new city market, which replaced the old market house.

The opening of the City Building and Market included “parades, opening exercises and the illumination of natural gas standpipes and arches”. The event was covered nationally as over 40,000 people joined in the festivities. It was a grand night for the city of Springfield.

Over the years, the market assigned stalls to vendors where they would bring their produce, meats and items for sale. It was described as having an “accumulated fragrance of the…annual crops of pork and cabbage – not always the freshest – ascended to the upper floor – and where the fumes of tobacco and possibly stronger stimulants, penetrated from the time-honored Springfield forum to the vicinity of the market stalls…”

I can imagine that the Springfield Farmer’s Market would have been similar to a small version of the North Market in Columbus, Ohio. Measuring only 50 x 500 feet, each vendor was provided with a permit authorizing him to sell his merchandise. A copy of this permit can be seen at the Clark County Historical Society located in the Heritage Center.

Establishing the rebirth of Springfield’s Farmer’s Market has added a level of depth to the revitalization of this once prosperous town. The downtown continues to add a number of new businesses and restaurants and the Farmer’s Market has only added to the growing attraction to my hometown of Springfield.

Have you had the opportunity to visit the Springfield Farmer’s Market? What items did you purchase? I would love to hear from you if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.

What to See and What to Do:

Springfield Farmer’s Market (Heritage Center)
117 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 207 1950

Where to Stay:

Courtyard by Marriott Springfield Downtown
100 South Fountain Avenue
Springfield, OH 45502
Telephone: 937 322 3600

Where to Eat:

The Painted Pepper Food Truck
Telephone: 937 969 0877

I ordered the breakfast burrito with extra jalapenos and it was amazing!

More favorite Springfield eateries:

Schuler’s Donuts: Their chocolate cream-filled doughnut is their best seller…”home of homemade”. The bakery has several locations in Springfield.
Simon Kenton Inn: This historical home is an inn, restaurant and entertainment venue. With great food, I love the atmosphere of the Simon Kenton Inn.
Guerra’s Krazy Tacos: One of my favorite places to eat in Springfield, Guerra’s is known for their unique gourmet tacos.
Salato Deli: I love stopping by this deli for their charcuterie board
Le Torte Dolci Bakery; Located next to the Salato Deli, this European French bakery also serves amazing gelato.
Mike & Rosie’s Deli: This staple of Springfield is located near the Wittenberg campus and I am extremely fond of their Reuben sandwich.

Where to Drink:

Mother Stewart’s Brewing Company: Springfield’s only brewery, Mother Stewart’s showcases nine craft beers produced onsite.

What to Read:

The Book of Springfield, Ohio, 1906, by Springfield Commercial Club
Springfield, Ohio: A Summary of Two Centuries, by Tom Dunham
Ridgewood in the Country Club District, by Tamara K. Dallenbach
Still Standing: A life of pain, adversity and perseverance, by James Cooper
Hometown Killer, by Carol Rothgeb

Photo Guide for Springfield, Ohio:

Hartman Rock Garden
Westcott House, Frank Lloyd Wright House
Glen Helen Nature Preserve in nearby Yellow Springs
Heritage Center of Clark County
Tecumseh Land Trust in nearby Yellow Springs (seasonal sunflowers)
Ohio Caverns in nearby Bellefontaine
Oakes Quarry Park in nearby Fairborn, Ohio

Ohio’s Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, Part II

23 July 201716 September 2024

Attracting thousands of visitors each year, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum was a beautiful way for me to spend a lovely fall afternoon. Rolling hills, vast open spaces and sporadic woods total nearly 500 acres of canvas displaying over 80 contemporary works of art.

I have assembled a list of sculptures that cover the areas of the park’s North Woods, Central Valley and Overlook Hill as Part II of my visit. In addition to the artwork, the Ancient Sculpture Museum showcases terra cotta sculptures and old coins, an Egyptian sarcophagus and several other displays within a 10,000 square foot space. Check out my earlier post that covers the East Ridge of the park.

NORTH WOODS:

Extent / Clement Meadmore

Australian-born, Meadmore’s Extent was created from painted aluminum in 1981.

Ohio Star / Joel Perlman

New York native Perlman’s Ohio Star was commissioned by the park and stands 18 feet tall. It is one of three of his sculptures displayed at the park.

Still Life / Ed Benevente

California sculptor Benevente claims that his work “is a product of the sum of my life experiences up to that point.”

Adam’s First Breath / Sam McKinney

McKinney’s Adam’s First Breath sculpture was created out of 1800 pounds of bronze.

Keepsake / Antoinete Prien Schultze

Made from granite and glass, Prien Schultze’s Keepsake is over 10 feet tall and 4 feet wide.

Off Minor / Richard Heinrich

Heinrich’s work can be seen at various outdoor sculpture parks as well as galleries in both the United States and abroad.

Untitled / Ken Valmaki

Two Thumbs Up / Ed Casagrande

Ed Casagrande is a Cincinnatian known not only for his metal sculptures, but also his jewelry.

Untitled / John Leon

John Leon is a Cincinnati sculptor who also teaches and provides consulting services. According to John’s website, the figure seated on the bench is Harry Wilks, the park’s founder.

CENTRAL VALLEY:

Laocoon / Alexander Liberman

Liberman’s Laocoon was constructed from wielded steel in 1982.

Tory’s Comet / Harry Gordon

Gordon first studied ceramics until working with Borias Blai in Philadelphia.

Sky Walk / Joel Perlman

Perlman has studied at Cornell University and continued his education in London and Berkeley.

Wherefore Art Thou / Sam McKinney

The second of McKinney’s pieces at the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, he has been a freelance painter and sculptor over 30 years.

Abracadabra / Alexander Liberman

Liberman’s Abracadabra was made of painted steel and created in 1992.

Pteasuaurus II / John Parker

Having attended the Cleveland Institute of Art, Parker has worked extensively with metal fabrication and welding.

Long Wall / Joel Perlman

The Cube / Tony Rosenthal

Rosenthal’s The Cube can also be seen in New York City and on the University of Michigan campus.

J.S. Bach’s Fugue #1 / Tony Rosenthal

White Face / Jon Isherwood

Restoration / Jim Agard

Agard’s restoration measures 10 and a half feet tall and 18 feet wide, constructed from steel.

Cincinnati Story / George Sugarman

Sugarman’s Cincinnati Story was commissioned by the Chiquita Corporation to be placed in front of their corporate offices.

Clash of Arms / Dan Kainz

Kainz, born to a family of stonecutters, spent many hours cutting stone, creating his first sculpture at the age of 9.

Serpentine Column / Christoph Spath

German-born Spath came to the US in 1982. Serpentine Column is carved from African black granite and stands 126 feet tall, 32 feet wide and 16 feet deep. Plate glass layers are enclosed in the center giving off a green tint.

Pier Portal / Barry Tinsley

Tinsley’s sculpture was created using steel and cast concrete.

This concludes my second post about my experience at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum. For more information about the park, check out my initial post which covers the East Ridge area of the property.

Photos cannot adequately describe my amazing experience exploring this phenomenal sculpture park and I highly recommend you visit in person.

Have you had the opportunity to visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum? What was your favorite sculpture and why? I would love to hear about your experience if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below. Many thanks for reviewing my post and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum
1763 Hamilton Cleves Road
Hamilton, OH 45013
Telephone: 513 868 1234

Admission Fee: General admission to the park is $8 for general admission and $3 for children between the ages of 5 – 12. Art cart rentals are available for $20 for the first hour and $15 per hour thereafter. Members receive a discount of $15 for the first hour and $10 thereafter.
Hours: From April – October, the park is open Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 7 PM. On Saturdays and Sundays they are open from 8AM to 5PM. During the months from November to March they are open from 8 AM to 5PM seven days a week. The museum is open from 12 to 5 PM year around.
Amenities: Concerts in the Park, museum, Holiday Lights on the Hill and Annual Art Fair.
Length of Visit: To visit all of the sculptures by car, give yourself at least a couple of hours. If walking, you will need more time.
Tips for Your Visit: Visit the park and museum’s website for upcoming events and the most up-to-date information. There are benefits of becoming a member and you can research this information on the parks website!

Where to Stay:

Courtyard by Marriott Hamilton
1 Riverfront Plaza
Hamilton, OH 45011
Telephone: 513 896 6200

Where to Eat:

Hyde’s Restaurant
130 South Erie Blvd.
Hamilton, OH 45011
Telephone: 513 892 1287

Serving the community since 1946, Hyde’s is an amazing restaurant to try some down home cooking. I ordered the breaded cod sandwich with a side salad with ranch. Should you visit Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum on a Thursday, save room for Peanut Butter Creme Pie.

The Cincinnati Museum Center and the Genius of Leonardo da Vinci

22 September 201616 September 2024

Ranked in the United States as one of the top museums for kids, the Cincinnati Museum Center was hosting a Leonardo da Vinci exhibit in July of 2016. Housed within Cincinnati’s Union Terminal, the museum is a local icon in itself. Inside, I stood in amazement at the spectacular half dome, the “largest in the western hemisphere”, the colorful murals painted at the base of the dome and breathtaking views of downtown. I had noticed an exhibit of one of the great masters of Renaissance art, Leonardo da Vinci and I decided I had to visit during this spectacular event.

Surprising to some, Leonardo da Vinci was also an inventor and influential scientist in the areas of chemistry and anatomy. While I was familiar with his artwork such as the “The Last Supper”, “Mona Lisa” and “The Virgin of the Rocks”, I was extremely surprised by the number of innovations credited to da Vinci. The exhibit showcased the art, the inventions and the research of da Vinci, a spectacular genius and innovator.

Leonardo da Vinci’s pen and ink drawing of The Vitruvian Man is one of his most recognized sketches. His notes penned on the illustration are based on the works of architect Vitruvius, which defines the perfect proportions of the male body. First-century Vitruvius claimed that the human image could fit into both a circle and a square.

Da Vinci’s artwork measures 13.39 inches by 9.45 inches and is displayed in Venice, Italy at the Gallerie dell’Accademia.

One of my favorite paintings in the exhibit was the “La Dama con l’Ermellino” translated as “Lady with an Ermine.” The original artwork resides at the Czartoryski Museum in Krakow, Poland.

Da Vinci was captivated by the science of light, shadows and perspective when painting his artwork. He studied their effects on objects and experimented with pigments to perfectly capture images to resemble real life. He was such a perfectionist that he often critiqued his own work repainting his images over and over again.

Of the approximate twenty-five pieces that da Vinci painted, only a few remain as copies. In addition, Leonardo documented his thoughts and findings in volumes of notebooks, but only about a quarter of these writings exist, totaling nearly 6,000 pages.

As I stepped into the gallery that displayed Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions, I had no idea that he was known for developing war weapons. Da Vinci was known as a pacifist, but when Cesare Borgia employed him to design military machines, Leonardo knew that this opportunity would provide him an extravagant income.

The tank, one of his war machines, was not perfected during da Vinci’s time, yet the concept would come to fruition during World War I.

Musical instruments (portable piano), technology (film projector), clothing, and clock mechanisms were among the brilliant inventions of Leonardo da Vinci.

As I approached the final hall, I was interested in learning more about Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the “Mona Lisa,” I was taken by surprise to learn the scientific research that had been conducted on the artwork and the information it revealed.

Under the direction of French engineer Pascal Corte, the original Mona Lisa was removed from its frame and photographed to examine and analyze the painting. Using a specialized high resolution camera, Corte was able to inspect characteristics of the Mona Lisa undetectable to the human eye.

Once the photos were taken, experts accessed and scrutinized their findings which took over two years. On display at the museum were various images that disclosed an insurmountable size of data revealing spectacular secrets of the painting. For example, over the years, art aficionados have wondered why Mona Lisa was missing eyelashes and eyebrows, This question was answered when further research revealed that Leonardo da Vinci had, in fact, painted eyebrows and lashes on the Mona Lisa and that they had faded over the years.

Professional analysts, with the help of Pascal, identified twenty-five secrets of the Mona Lisa.

In addition to the ability to photograph the Mona Lisa with an extraordinary resolution of 240 megapixels, there were several other techniques applied to the painting. Reverse false color infrared and black and white infrared bring to light several layers to the painting, its many stages and restoration efforts.

Interesting facts about the Mona Lisa:

The painting is quite small measuring 30.31 by 20.87 inches.
Monna, an Italian name, is the actual spelling as documented at the Louvre.
The Mona Lisa was never completed. Leonardo da Vinci began painting her in 1503 and was still working on her until the time of his death in 1519
Napoleon Bonaparte once had possession of the Mona Lisa, hanging it in the bedroom and then the bathroom
The painting was stolen from the Louvre in 1911, but was recovered two years later.
In 1956, the painting was damaged when doused by acid and later that same year, a man threw a rock at it.

While many of the Mona Lisa’s secrets have been uncovered, her identity remains a mystery. With the use of Layer Amplification Method (LAM) technology, there is proof that da Vinci painted different versions of the Mona Lisa, one on top of the other.

The most popular work of art in all of the world draws nearly 10 million visitors a year to the Michelangelo Gallery at Paris’ Louvre Museum. Mona Lisa’s famous smile and gentle gaze have captured the attention of many who have had the opportunity to view this spectacular painting.

The Leonardo da Vinci exhibit proved the genius of this multifaceted Renaissance man. I spent hours pouring over his talents as artist, musician and inventor and found myself amazed at all that he had accomplished.

Having been so impressed by the exhibition of Leonardo da Vinci and wanting to see the Mona Lisa for myself, I found myself booking a trip to Paris in hopes of seeing this spectacular wonder of Renaissance art and coming face to face with this magnificent beauty.

Are you familiar with the accomplishments of Leonardo da Vinci? Have you attended an exhibition of his work? I would love to hear about your experience and what amazed you about this prolific contributor to modern day inventions. Please leave your comments below and I thank you for taking the time to read about my visit to the Cincinnati Museum Center for the Leonardo da Vinci exhibit. Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Cincinnati Museum Center
1301 Western Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45203
Telephone: 513 287 7000

Where to Stay:

Best Western Premier Mariemont Inn
6880 Wooster Pike
Cincinnati, OH 45227
Telephone: 513 271 2100

Where to Eat:

The National Exemplar
6880 Wooster Pike
Mariemont, OH 45227
Telephone: 513 271 2103

I began my meal with the Fresh Oysters of the Day, a half dozen lightly steamed, followed by the half order of linguini and clams made with prosciutto, white wine and chili flakes.

What to Eat:

Skyline Chili: My go-to meal at Skyline is the 4-way chili with onion served with oyster crackers and hot sauce. I always pick up two York peppermint patties after cashing out. Cincinnati chili is a beef based sauce served over spaghetti noodles and cheese. Additional toppings include onions and beans.
LaRosa’s Pizza: A local chain pizzeria, this Sicilian style pie is made with a sweet crust and sauce. My favorite menu item is the Caprese pesto Flatbread Pizza.
Graeter’s Ice Cream: It’s the French Pot process that makes Graeter’s Ice Cream so decadent and rich. Towards the end of the process, they pour chocolate into the mix creating large chunks of yummy goodness.
Montgomery Inn BBQ: Visiting the original Montgomery Inn BBQ at the boathouse is a culinary and scenic experience. Their ribs are served with a sweet and tangy sauce that has since made them the “Ribs King” and a favorite among locals. Load up on their amazing BBQ flavored Saratoga chips,
Glier’s Goetta: While it looks like a slab of corn beef hash, this breakfast staple is made of sausage and oats, cooked until crispy. Most breakfast restaurants carry it as a side, especially the local cafes and diners.
BonBonerie: One of the most decadent pastry shops in Cincinnati, their rich confections are absolutely amazing.

Where to Drink:

Moerlein Lager House
115 Joe Nuxhall Way
Cincinnati, OH 45202
Telephone: 513 421 2337

Books to Read:

Eligible: A Modern Retelling of Pride & Prejudice, by Curtis Sittenfeld
Running, by J.T. Cooper
Dead Witch Walking, by Kim Harrison
Beloved, by Toni Morrison
Double Dutch, by Sharon M. Draper
Romiette and Julio, by Sharon M. Draper

Photo Guide for Cincinnati (as provided by Chris Thompson on FourSquare):

The John A Roebling Suspension Bridge
- Pick a spot near the Covington pier and shoot north toward the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunset and underexpose by a few stops to get the lights just right.
- The new lights on the bridge create excellent stars when you photograph them using a narrow aperture (~f/16 and above) on your camera. That means you’ll need a longer exposure (and thus a tripod).
General James Taylor Park
- Shoot from the top of the flag pole mound to get more building reflections in your shot. Shoot at sunset or sunrise for great lighting.
Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal
- Arrive first thing in the morning when the sun is coming up
The Fountain at Fountain Square
- For great photos of the fountain: set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure (2-5 seconds) to capture the running water. Get Carew or the colored lights above Rock Bottom in the background.
Fountain Square (look for reflections in puddles)
Celestial Restaurant in Mount Adams – The restaurant is now closed, but you may still be able to use the parking lot.
Carew Tower Observation Deck
- Provides some neat photos of the highways snaking around the city. Set your camera on a tripod and use a long exposure to get moving car trails. It’s only open at sunset a few days each year.
Engine Company 46, 2733 Erie Avenue (at Michigan), Cincinnati
- One of the most beautiful historic firehouses in all of Cincinnati. The firefighters here are used to having their photo taken while they work. Ask nicely and you can get some cool shots.
Cincinnati Observatory Center
Krohn Conservatory
Great American Ball Park
- Shoot the front of the stadium around sunset to get a nice color blue in the sky. Get one of the player statues in your shot for extra effect.
Devou Park
- The overlook next to the Drees pavilion affords a great view of the Cincinnati skyline. Shoot at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting. Underexpose slightly to get the city lights just right.
Newport Central Catholic for fireworks
- Shoot the Riverfest fireworks from this location. Bring a long lens and a tripod. You’ll want a long-ish exposure (5-10 seconds) to capture the bursts, but make sure the skyline isn’t overexposed.
Riverfront Park
- The colorful fountains make a great subject, but you need to use a relatively fast shutter speed (>1/20 or so) to catch the lights before they change color, leaving your pic with plain white lights.
American Sign Museum
- Be sure to bring a tripod to capture all the signs. Manual white balance is the way to go, because there are so many crazy colors of lights that your camera won’t know how to react.

Disclosure: Please refer to our blog disclaimer tab for more information.