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

A Masterpiece of Athens Architecture, The Acropolis

12 September 202315 April 2025

First inhabited by the Mycenaeans, the Acropolis (acro, meaning high and polis, meaning city), towers 490 feet over the city of Athens. Strategically positioned on a large boulder of limestone, the ancient, hilltop citadel has been in existence for over 3500 years. Acting as both a fortress and place of worship over the years, it is the symbol of Athens and represents the classical civilization of Greek. The main structures of the Acropolis include the Temple of Athena Nike, the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Propylaia, many of which were completed during the Golden Age of Pericles. This inconceivable scale of buildings have been in a constant state of renovation since 1975.

The Acropolis is only accessible by its western end. This was once the entrance of the Acropolis during the Hekatombaion celebration to the goddess Athena. It was here that the Greeks built a sanctuary in her honor which included a colossal bronze statue of the goddess, designed and built by Pheidias.

The Odeon of Herodes Atticus is located close to the entrance to the Acropolis. It is also known as the Herodeon and “Yanni’s Theater”. It was constructed between 160 and 170AD by Herodes Atticus, a Greek aristocrat as well as a Roman senator. While this magnificent structure shows the grandeur of Greek architecture, its phenomenal staircases and mosaics are no longer visible.

The 5,000 seat (34 tiers) amphitheater functions as a venue for various modern cultural events such as festivals and concerts: Frank Sinatra – 1962; The Miss Universe pageant – 1973; Luciano Pavarotti – 1991 and 2004; But the most remembered concert was Yanni’s Live at the Acropolis in 1993. Sting, Elton John, Liza Minnelli, Diana Ross, Jean Michel Jarre, and a long list of Greek entertainers have also performed here over the years.

Upon reaching the Acropolis, visitors will enter the Beule Gate built by Flavius Septimus Marcellinus in AD 280. During Roman times, this was the official entrance to the Acropolis.

After passing through the gate, a brief climb heads towards the Propylaea, which is quite steep. Propylaea means “gates in front of something”. This was the entrance into the Acropolis during the Golden Age of Athens. It was originally decorated with statues and painted in bright colors with a marble tiled ceiling painted sky blue adorned with stars. Each year, the people of Athens would climb these steps to celebrate the Hekatombaion (1^st of the month in the day of the summer, usually July), to sacrifice 100 oxen to the goddess Athena. To the left, the Propylaia housed artwork and provided accommodations for dignitaries and important visitors called the Pinacoteca. The grey, stone, 25 foot pedestal (pictured to the left) is the Monument of Agrippa. This platform once displayed a bronze statue of the four-horse chariot driven by the chariot race winner in 178 BC. According to archaeologists, this gate is actually concealing the Mycenean Palace gate that was erected here around the 5^th century. This central walkway, continuing into the Acropolis, is named the Panathenaic Way.

Kallikrates designed the Temple of Athena Nike in Ionic style between 427 and 424 BC. It replaced the former sanctuary that was destroyed by the Persians in 479BC. The interior of the building held a wooden statue of Athena Nike holding a pomegranate in one hand and a helmet in the other. After the statue’s wings were broken, the temple became known as the Temple of Wingless Athena Nike (Nike Apteros, the Wingless Victory). The relief sculptures and Ionic columns are well-preserved.

Through the Propylaea is a vast field of stone ruins. Long ago, there was a bronze statue of Athena that once stood in this area as well as the original of Temple of Athena Polis. The bronze statue was moved from this location to Constantinople and the temple was burned down by the Persians under the reign of Xerxes in 480 BC as retaliation against the Athenians for destroying one of their temples in Sardis years before.

The Parthenon is the most recognized structure on the Acropolis and the largest measuring 228 feet long by 101 feet wide. This Doric-style creation was designed by Phidias, a sculptor and two architects, Iktinos and Kallikrates back in the fifth century BC (440s). This classical Greek masterpiece was constructed of the finest Pentelic marble from Mount Penteliko and was once the greatest temple of its time.

The 22,000 tons of precious marble was extravagantly painted in various colors, not the white marble you see today. Many architects have marveled at the complex design of this temple which is constructed on a platform of three steps measuring 228 feet long and over 100 feet wide. Serving as a Christian church as well as a mosque, the Parthenon has been in a state of renovation for many years.

The temple is surrounded by a peristyle with 17 Doric columns down each side. At the end is a double row of columns, eight on the outside and six smaller columns on the inside. Above the columns you can see the metatopes, the marble that sits atop these columns. The metatopes acted as bases for the pediments (triangular structure) which contained statues depicting mythical scenes of Athena, the city’s patron goddess. Inside of the Parthenon, there was once a large statue of Athena, which sat on the large socket that remains in the floor of the Parthenon.

The Erechtheion, located across from the Parthenon, was built in 406BC to replace the original temple that had once stood in the middle of the acropolis. It has been thought that its purpose was a place of worship for Erechtheus, the celebrated king of Athens and other significant gods. It is known to have included altars to Athena Polias, the protector of the city as well as Hephaistos, the god of blacksmiths and fire.

But it is the Caryatid Porch, the columns of six maidens, that is the most recognizable feature of this structure. The porch was the landing where the priestesses would stand to watch the procession of people and oxen during the annual Hekatombaion celebration. The original Caryatids can be found in the Acropolis Museum. Notice the olive tree to the left of the Erechtheion which is said to have been a descendant to the one that Athena planted.

A phenomenal view from the Acropolis is the Areopagus, a limestone rock which was once a place of judicial rulings for the Athenians. Several notable trials were conducted here, including the trial of Orestes for the murder of his mother, Clytemnestra.

To view the sculptures and fragments from the Parthenon as well as the original Caryotids and replicas of the Elgin Marbles, visit the Acropolis Museum. It can be seen here in the distance (the dark glass windowed building) from the south parapet.

A Greek flag flies high at the outer edge of the Acropolis. The tour guide explained the significance of this flag. It represents a historical event that occurred after the German invasion during World War II. It was told that German troops ordered that the Greek flag be replaced with the swastika after it had conquered Greece. During this time Greek soldiers would stand guard of their country’s flag and were responsible for the raising and lowering of if each day. On this very day, the Greek soldier on guard, lowered the Greek flag, wrapped it around himself and jumped over the parapet to his death. It would be a story that reached the citizens of Greece and would mark the beginning of the Greek resistance towards the Germans. A perfect example of the Greeks’ resilience and their nationalism…their strength to forge ahead.

Have you visited the spectacular city of Athens? 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 day in Athens and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Acropolis
Athens 105 58, Greece

Where to Stay:

Divani Palace Acropolis
Parthenonos 19
Athens, 117 42 Greece
Telephone: +30 21 0928 0100

Where to Eat:

To Kafeneio
Epicharmou 1, Plaka
Athens, Attiki, 105 51 Greece

What to Eat:

- Baklava is layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, spices and sweetened with honey
- Greek Salad
- Greek Wine from Santorini is unique as the grapes are grown in volcanic ash
- Gyros
- Lamb
- Local Olives
- Mashed Fava Beans (Fava me Koukia)
- Moussaka is an eggplant or potato based pie with meat and cheese
- Pomegranates
- Saganaki is a phyllo pastry stuffed with cheese and covered in honey
- Souvlaki are meat kabobs made from lamb, beef or chicken
- Spanikopita is a phyllo pastry filled with spinach, cheese, and sometimes onion
- Tomato Fritters made with tomatoes and onion, they are spiced either with oregano and peppermint then deep-fried
- Tzatziki is a yogurt based sauce with bits of garlic, onion, cucumbers, olive oil and lemon. Pita bread is usually served with this dish for dipping.

What to Read:

The Odyssey, by Homer
The King Must Die, by Mary Renault
Little Infamies, by Panos Karnezis
My Family and Other Animals, by Gerald Durrell
Uncle Petros and Goldbach’s Conjecture, by Apostolos Doxiadis
Freedem and Death, by Nikos Kazantzakis
The Dark Labyrinth, by Lawrence Durrell
The Names, by Don DeLillo
Atticus the Storyteller’s 100 Greek Myths by Lucy Coats and Anthony Lewis

Photo Guide for Athens, Greece:

Acropolis
Temple of Olympian Zeus
Ancient Agora
Dromeas “Running Man” Sculpture
Changing of the Guard (Evzones)
Panatheniac Stadium
Anafiotika Neighborhood
Mount Lycabettus
Lake Vouliagmeni
Pentelikion Waterfall

Corinth, a Biblical and Historical Perspective

29 August 20232 February 2025

The mainland in Greece holds such contrast to its beautiful Mediterranean islands and sailboats in the harbor. When I learned that our cruise itinerary included an excursion to Corinth, I was not certain what to expect. I only knew that this city was significant to Christians as a stop on St. Paul’s missionary tour and that a canal was built to connect the Gulf of Corinth to the Saronic Gulf as a major trade route.

Ancient Corinth is little over an hour bus ride west of Athens and our first stop was at the Corinth Canal. We had the opportunity to cross the bridge to marvel at this engineering phenomenon which took decades to complete. Visitors can cross over one of two bridges to take a closer look at the depth and length of the passageway. At its deepest, it measures 26 feet. Carved through solid rock, this sensational man-made canal became a major trade route for Greece after its completion.

Once we had finished our stop at the Corinth Canal, we had a few moments to explore the nearby shop before boarding the bus for a trip to the ruins of Ancient Corinth.

Spread out, and found undisturbed in the middle of nowhere, we arrived at the archaeological site and museum of Ancient Corinth. The location was surrounded by fields and hills, where a small Greek Orthodox Church provided solace to a sheep herder with his flock making their way to the next pasture.

The Ancient Corinth Museum was a short walk from the ancient ruins. The structure houses many of the archaeological artifacts including sculptures and engravings that were found at the site. It was here where the tour began as our friendly guide proudly discussed the relics and treasures that were discovered during the excavation. We noticed that there were quite a few headless statues located in the open air courtyard and learned that instead of making new statues, it was easier to replace the heads to include the likeness of the new rulers.

Samples of ancient Greek writing was also uncovered during the dig and they were beautifully displayed at the museum. I admired the elegance of the language in script and our guide read each of them carefully. The tablets appeared similar to today’s English language, but yet so different, especially in the way it had sound.

After a visit to the museum, we were led outside to explore the historical site of Ancient Corinth. The Temple of Apollo stood forefront over this site which once rivaled the city of Athens in both wealth and power. The Doric columns stood tall and mighty as a layer of clouds rolled in over this magnificent place. Built by the Greeks in 550 BC, only seven of its thirty-eight columns remain.

Within a short walk from the temple, the Roman Market was one of the most impressive sites of the ruins. Stalls that had once been concealed, showed the layout and structure of this large shopping plaza, the center of socialization in Corinth. In the courtyard there was once an ancient Roman fountain, known as the Fountain of Pirene, which was said to be the favorite watering-hole of Pegasus, a mythical horse with wings.

Additional structures that have been excavated and identified to date include the Propyla A as well as the Periblos of Apollo and the Bema. The Bema refers to the raised platform where a Roman magistrate or ruler sat to make decisions and pass sentence. Biblical reference to the Bema in Corinth can be found in the book of Acts where Paul was brought before Gallio, the proconsul, by local Jews. The offense was that Paul was “persuading the people to worship God in ways contrary to the law”. When Gallio refused to settle the matter, the Jews turned on the synagogue leader and beat him in front of the court. It would have been at this location where the beating took place.

A view of Akrokorinthos/Acrocorinth can be seen from the ruins of Ancient Corinth below. This town, translated as “Upper Corinth” is approximately a 30 minute drive with splendid views of the surrounding area. We were unable to visit this location, but learned that the views from here are spectacular.

The ancient site at Corinth continues on with its excavation and identification of archaeological ruins that have yet to be labeled or discovered. There still remains much work to be done on the site as a large portion of the city remains concealed beneath the countryside. It endures today as a strong spiritual and historical influence that draws thousands of visitors to this area each year. I can only imagine that with the unceasing work of researchers and archaeologists how their future progress will impact the history and findings of Ancient Corinth as we know it today.

Have you had the opportunity to explore archaeological sites that have made an impact on history? 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 historic Corinth! Wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Ancient Corinth
Archea Korinthos
200 07, Greece
Telephone: +30 2741 031207

Hours: Daily from 8AM to 7PM
Amenities: shop and limited snacks
Scenic View: Beautiful views of AcroCorinth above.
Length of Visit: 1 – 2 hours
Tips for Your Visit: Arrive early in the day as there is no protection from the sun. In addition bring bottled water and snacks as food is limited at the museum. Wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Where to Stay:

Apollonio
Sisifou 2, Ancient Corinth,
Peloponnese, Greece 20007
Telephone: +30 694 941 2888

Where to Eat:

Marinos Restaurant
Ancient Corinth,
Peloponnese, Greece, 20007
Telephone: +30 27410 31 130

What to Eat:

- - Baklava: made with puffed pastry, this dessert has chopped nuts (my favorite is pistachio), and is covered in honey.
  - Choriatiki: Greek salad
  - Dolmadakia/Dolmades: stuffed grape leaves
  - Ellinikos: Greek coffee
  - Gyros
  - Kataifi: similar to baklava, but rolled
  - Moussaka: Greek’s answer to lasagna
  - Pastitsio: pasta made with noodles, ground beef and a bechamel sauce
  - Retsina Wine: has been made over 2000 years
  - Souvlaki: meat on a skewer
  - Spanikopita: pastry filled with spinach and cheese
  - Tzatziki: a Greek sauce made with yogurt, garlic, olive oil and fresh dill

What to Read:

Ancient Corinth Site Guide, by Various Writers
Cure and Cult in Ancient Corinth by Mabel Lang
Demeter and Persephone in Ancient Corinth, by Ronald S. Stroud

Santorini: Life on a Volcano
Mykonos, Greece: Whitewashed and Wild
The Island of Delos: A Lesson in Greek Mythology
Corfu…the Favorite Vacation Destination for an Empress
The Site of Olympia and its Role in the Olympic Games
The Archaeological Museum at Olympia
Athens, Greece: A Living Museum

A Visit to Pinellas County, Florida and Busch Gardens

29 April 202219 April 2025

I woke early to make the four and a half hour journey to St. Petersburg, Florida. I was picking up my friend Shawna to take her back to Miami. In the meantime, I was excited to meet up with another friend of mine Bill for a visit to Busch Gardens and then karaoke.

The weather was absolutely beautiful as I crossed the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. Years ago, working for the cruise lines, our ship would pass under the bridge on its way to Key West. Later, while living in Tampa, I always looked forward to driving over the bridge when visiting Sarasota, Fort Myers or Sanibel Island.

Arriving in Pinellas County, I made my pilgrimage to The Frog Pond, a breakfast restaurant where I worked with my friend Theresa. We would bus tables, arriving as early as 6AM but finish the day by 2PM. Our favorite days were when Hulk Hogan would stop by with Linda for breakfast, driving up on his Hulkster. We still laugh about it to this day.

The condo where Theresa and I lived was at Gull Harbor, conveniently close to the The Frog Pond. Her father had just met his girlfriend, so when he moved in with her, he allowed us to stay at his place paying a small monthly fee. The property was beautiful with a gorgeous pool and spectacular views of North Redington Beach. I had no idea how lucky we were to live here and love to stop by each time I visit.

I had made arrangements to meet my friend Bill at Busch Gardens. We had both worked together at the Tampa Airport and he was now taking tickets at the park. When I arrived, he had a couple of additional hours to work and then we would hang out at the park riding rides and visiting the animals.

One of my favorite rides at Busch Gardens is the Skyride where I can see many of the animals in the safari park.

I remember when the Kumba first opened in 1993. There was so much hype and press covering its opening and having friends who worked at the park was the best advantage.

The SheiKra climbs 200 that slowly reaches the top the stops. The pause seems endless as you wait before diving down at 70 miles per hour. There is an Immelmann loop, a second dive into an underground tunnel and the splashdown finale where those that are waiting in line are sure to be drenched.

The Cheetah Hunt was my favorite ride as it shoots immediately out of the gate at an incredible speed. The coaster makes its way to the top only to plunge down through a rocky gorge. It is the longest roller coaster at the park.

One of my favorite attractions at Busch Gardens was the Animal Care Center where I could watch the medical team work on an eagle’s wing.

Busch Gardens opened its animal care facility in 2012 at an estimated cost of $5 million. From nutrition to treatments, X-rays to surgeries, visitors are able to watch the animal care team take on some animal science’s major challenges in their state of the art facility while guests watch the team care for over 200 species of animals.

The day was amazing with so many rides, animals and incredible experiences, but it wouldn’t have been complete without a photo with Big Bird!

Have you visited Busch Gardens in Tampa? What was your favorite activity at the park? 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 amazing day on the west coast of Florida and wishing you many Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Busch Gardens Tampa
10165 N McKinley Dr
Tampa, FL 33612
Telephone: 1 813 884 4FUN (4386)

Admission Fee: There are several entrance pass options (i.e., single day, two-day pass, annual pass, any day ticket and four-park passes) ranging from $43.33 per day. The website outlines each option along pricing.
Hours: Open daily from 10AM but closing time may change throughout the season, so confirm with the park prior to visiting.
Amenities: Rides and Attractions, Entertainment, Restaurants, Baggage storage area, Gift Shop, Private Tours, Safaris, Kid-Friendly and Educational Events
Length of Visit: With so much to do at the park, try to arrive when the park opens and stay until it closes. Check the Busch Gardens website for additional activities.
Tips for Your Visit: Reservations are highly recommended especially during high season. Wear comfortable shoes for the park and book additional experiences in advance as they sell out quickly.

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge (I-275 South from St. Petersburg, Florida to Sarasota, Florida)

Where to Stay:

Don Cesar Hotel
3400 Gulf Beach Boulevard
St. Petersburg, FL 33706
Telephone: 884 338 1501

Where to Eat:

The Frog Pond
16909 Gulf Blvd.
North Redington Beach, FL
Telephone: 727 392 4117

What to Read:

The Florida Explorer’s Guide To Busch Gardens Tampa
Dreamland, by Nicholas Sparks
St. Petersburg Florida, by Sandra Rooks

Photo Guide:

The Sunshine Skyway Bridge
The Pinellas County Beaches
Busch Gardens
Don Cesar Hotel

Exploring Bali: Singaraja and Lovina Beach

22 January 202222 September 2024

Early morning sunrise on Lovina Beach, Bali

Just as I had predicted, I had a great night’s sleep at the Aditya Beach Resort on Lovina Beach in Bali. Waking up early, I wanted to walk along the beach at dawn while the weather was still brisk and invigorating. Besides the lonely fisherman and a couple of tourists, I had the beach all to myself. I walked the short length of the coast where rowboats had been pushed up along the sand next to piles of seaweed and debris and birds were searching for their morning breakfast.

Dolphin Cruise Excursion at Lovina Beach, Bali

On my way back to the hotel, the beach began to liven up with activity. A group of sightseers were stepping into a boat for a dolphin cruise and joggers slipped past the stray dogs.

Lovina is known for its large school of dolphins and early morning cruises are a popular excursion for tourists during season. Watching the boat drift into the horizon, I met the hotel security guard, Ajit, who stopped by to say good morning. Having met him at check in last night, he offered to take me around to the local sites. Since he knows my friend Wayan, I took him up on his offer.

Hindu Offerings, Bali, Indonesia

I strolled back to my room to prepare for the day and noticed several pedestals that contained pieces of fruit, flower petals and burning incense. These are the offerings that the Balinese offer up to their gods throughout the day and are visible on the side of the road, sitting on small roadside shrines or near the large temples throughout the island.

Buddhist Monestary in Northern Bali

Ajit returned on his motorcycle and I told him that I would like to visit the Buddhist Monastery. He also suggested a nearby waterfall and the hot springs, so we had a full day ahead of us.

The atmosphere of the monastery is one of reverence and solitude. Although the island is predominantly Hindu, there are two active places of worship for Buddhists in Bali as well.

Beautiful Fountains at the Monastery

The spectacular views of the coast from the Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery went on for miles. The tropical trees met up with the beaches of Lovina for a beautiful backdrop. The paintings and sculptures within the monastery were unusually lifelike and three dimensional.

Lily ponds and fountains gave the monastery a religious sense of calm. Protecting their surroundings, the monkey gods took a stand to ward off evil spirits. The soothing sound of water and gentle rustle of leaves from the wind were comforting as I searched for koi fish under the lily pads.

The Buddhist Eightfold Path of Enlightenment

The Eight-Fold Path is the final teaching of the Buddhist Four Noble Truths. A stairway at the monastery representing the steps of these teachings are said to lead to spiritual enlightenment and the end of suffering.

The Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery is an exceptionally well maintained temple and open to the public as a place of worship. The grounds are exquisitely manicured and the views out towards the sea from atop of the temple are magnificent. Signs throughout the property strongly communicate that this is not a tourist attraction but rather a temple and should be treated with reverence and respect. Proper attire is required and courtesy must be given to those who visit.

Northern Bali Waterfall

Enjoying a peaceful morning at the temple, I was ready for our next excursion, a hike to one of north Bali’s most treacherous waterfalls. Ajit explained that the falls is a local favorite and is not open to tourists. He guaranteed that this hike would be a challenge but the view would be well worth the trek.

The concrete path was manageable at the start but became narrow as we closed in on the falls. The course quickly changed as the mist produced a muddy trail we were cautiously trying to avoid. Eventually the pathway disappeared and we resorted to rock hopping amidst the rushing water between the stones.

I was close to giving up and turning back when I noticed the shrines appear on the side of the hill. The water coming from the cascades was so strong and powerful that I was frightened I may lose my footing.

We sat for a few moments on a couple of large rocks so I could catch my breath. The mist from the falls felt so cool on my face, dampening my hair and clothes. I decided that I was ready to take a few more steps and as I rounded the corner, I was able to see the highlight of my hike, the larger of the two falls.

I wished I could have enjoyed the view for a while longer, but working to keep myself upright was draining my energy and I was ready to find security back on dry land. The hike back was not as difficult and it seemed as though we reached the entrance in half of the time it took to reach the falls.

Visiting the hot springs could not have been more appropriate after a long hike. Set among the hillside there are three pools of water to enjoy a moment of rest and relaxation. The first pool at the top is the hottest while the bottom is the coolest of the three. I was looking forward to soaking in the springs.

Air Panas was built by the Japanese hundreds of years ago and is said to be therapeutic for those suffering from rheumatic disease. A steady rush of water from the mouths of mythical creatures adds to the fascinating environment of the springs.

I enjoyed the resort for a couple of hours and visited the snack bar before leaving for the hotel.

The Aditya Hotel was hosting an event that consisted of a four course meal and a program which included two young girls performing the Balinese dance of Legong. Known as one of the most popular forms of Indonesian entertainment, the dance consists of intense facial expression, body movements, and intricate finger work accompanied by Gamelan music.

The unique music and vibrant performance were entrancing. Although I was exhausted, I felt satisfied that I had accomplished so much physically, religiously and culturally in one day. I reflected back from the start of my journey and could not have been more pleased. I am ready to do it all over again tomorrow!

Have you visited northern Bali in your travels? 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 fun day in northern Bali! Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do:

Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery
Banjar Tegeha Buleleng Buleleng
Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia

Banjar Air Panas – Hot Springs
Jalan Banjar, Buleleng,
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Where to Stay:

Aditya Beach Resort
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Phone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

Where to Eat:

Banjar Air Panas – Snack Shop
Jalan Banjar, Buleleng,
Singaraja, Bali, Indonesia

Aditya Beach Resort – Restaurant
Jalan Raya Lovina, Lovina Beach, North Bali, Indonesia
Phone: +62 362 41059
Email: info@adityalovinabali.com

What to Eat:

Babi Guling: Suckling pig, which is similar to BBQ pork in the US.
Bakso Soup: Indonesian soup made with meatballs, noodles, spices, vegetables and broth
Gado-Gado: A cold salad of vegetables served with a peanut sauce
Nasi Goreng: Fried noodles with lots of vegetables and a choice of meat, topped with peanuts and an egg.
Pisang Goreng: Fried Bananas, served with palm sugar, honey, flaked coconut or ice cream
Sate Ayam: Chicken on a stick usually served with a peanut sauce
Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with minced meat and mixed vegetables and then fried, usually served with a chili sauce

What to Read:

Balilicious, by Becky Wicks
Eat, Pray, Love, by Elizabeth Gilbert
A House in Bali, by Colin McPhee
Love and Death in Bali, by Vicky Baum
Snowing in Bali, by Kathryn Bonella
Under the Volcano: A story of Bali, by Cameron Forbes

Photo Guide for North Bali:

Git Git Waterfall
Mount Batur
Sekumpal Waterfalls
Tamblingan Lake
Twin Lakes Viewpoint

A photo of the Dalai Lama that was given to the monastery during his visit

Exploring the beautiful grounds of the monastery

Buddhist Statues

Exploring Hamilton, Ohio’s Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum, East Ridge

16 July 201716 September 2024

Opening in the spring of 1996, Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum was once the home and property of Harry T. Wilks. Wilks dedicated this piece of land for the artistic display of larger than life sculptures. Within a year, the popularity of the park led to the facility’s expansion offering Concerts in the Park, Holiday Lights on the Hill and an annual Art Fair, which has attracted over 100 vendors.

Out of curiosity, I spent a beautiful fall afternoon to walk the park’s paved trails and to explore the large scale works of art on display. Here is Part One of my visit to include an overview of the fascinating East Ridge display area. Stay tuned for an additional post that covers the North Woods, Central Valley and Overlook Hill.

Phase I, Harold Betz

This was the first sculpture installed in the park. Harold Betz owned a metal business in Hamilton, OH.

Torre II, Alexander Liberman

Alexander Liberman has three sculptures on display at the park.

The Gates / John Hock

Located in front of the gift shop, this sculpture is made from painted steel, stained and then waxed.

Triumph / Michael Tearney

A trained artist, Tearney’s education was augmented by his working with welding supply companies.

The Bench / Tony Rosenthal

Rosenthal’s Coriolis (Bench) Sculpture won him the 1997 Pyramid Hill Bench competition.

Jonah’s Passage / Jon Isherwood

Located near the amphitheater, Isherwood’s Jonah’s Passage is one of five sculptures the artist has on display at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Age of Stone / Jon Isherwood

Nine pieces of granite comprise Isherwood’s masterpiece, “Age of Stone.”

Remembering / Jon Isherwood

Born in England, Isherwood studied under Anthony Caro, a leading sculptor over the past 30 years.

Strength of the Silent / Jon Isherwood

Untitled Bench / Jon Isherwood

Stan Thomson / Butterflies

Thomson is a local Cincinnati artist who also spends time in Naples, Florida. One of many of his sculptures can also be seen at the Dayton International Airport.

Roxane / George Sugarman

Roxane is one of two Sugarman sculptures on display at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Citizen / Walter Driesbach

Driesbach’s Citizen is a bronze casting created for a mold of the original walnut carving.

Dragonfly Dome / Voss Finn

Finn is a Cincinnati native who studied in New York. His dragonfly dome was created from aluminum.

Trilogy / Obie Simonis

Simonis constructed the Trilogy sculpture from stainless steel and epoxy.

Paul / Martin Gantman

Gantman donated his winning entry for the Bench Competition 2000 to the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Melinda at the Beach / Bill Barrett

Two of Barrett’s bronze sculptures are on display at The Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Venus and Psyche / Bill Barrett

Originally from Los Angeles, Barrett’s sculptures are featured in museums in the USA, Japan and Bulgaria.

Euclid’s Cross / Michael Dunbar

Dunbar’s Euclid’s Cross is a tribute to Euclid, the father of geometry and America’s industrial resourcefulness.

Pattern IV / Greg Johns

Australian-born sculptor Greg Johns is known throughout the world for his contemporary works with steel. He has worked as a full-time sculptor for over forty years.

Untitled / Ken Valmaki

Fourth Obelisk / Tom Gibbs

Standing 16 feet tall, Gibbs’ Fourth Obelisk was constructed of painted steel.

A Smile from Bayon / Joseph Manino

Winning the 2004 Bench Competition, Manino’s 375 pound bench was created from stoneware.

The Web / Brian Monaghan

Canadian sculptor Monaghan’s beam sculpture measures 18 feet high by 20 feet wide.

The Quantic of Giza / Tim Scott

The Quantic of Giza is one of a group of three sculptures designed by Tim Scott in the mid 1960s.

Clear View / Michael Steiner

Talented Michael Steiner displayed his artwork at New York’s Fischbach Gallery at the age of eighteen.

Falline Flora / Don Creech

The sculpture was donated to the park and museum by Don Creech’s family to ensure that his artwork would forever be on display.

General / Unknown Chinese Artist

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.