A (VERY BRIEF) GUIDE TO CHICAGO

Chicago, the birthplace of the modern skyscraper is still a trendsetter in urban architecture and a must for people interested in 20th century urban architecture. But the Windy City offers a lot more than architecture alone. Chicago is a thriving center of international trade and commerce and a city of world-class status and unsurpassed beauty. It features world-famous museums and galleries, amazing architecture, lake front parks and a huge variety of restaurants and shops. It is a bustling city, with a vibrant nightlife and is also a great city to live in, especially the northern part which has a lively atmosphere and even nice beaches.

Predominant architecture:
Chicago features an outstanding architectural legacy. This city has long been connected with some of architecture’s most important names: Frank Lloyd Wright, Louis Sullivan, Mies van der Rohe, and Holabird & Root. The Loop District offers an extensive number of Chicago’s famous architectural “must-see” buildings such as Old Post Office, Sears Tower, Old St. Patrick’s Church, or Rookery Building.

Places to see:
Sears Tower: At the time the Sears tower was constructed in 1974, it was the world’s tallest building, eclipsing New York’s twin-towered World Trade Center

Magnificent Mile: The northern part of Michigan Avenue is Chicago’s version of the Champs-Elysées: a grand wide boulevard with exclusive shops, museums, restaurants and hotels.

Millennium Park: The 24.5 acre park is a magnificent state of the art facilities, with unique public artwork and beautiful gardens.

Chicago River: Flowing through downtown Chicago, the river, once a corridor of commercial activity, has been transformed into a recreational area with sightseeing boats and a pedestrian promenade.

Union Station: Built in 1925, it is one of the last grand American railway stations. At the time Chicago was a national railway hub, connecting the east and west coasts of the United States.

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A (very brief) Guide to Tokyo

Tokyo is Japan’s capital and the world’s most populous metropolis. It is also one of Japan’s 47 prefectures, consisting of 23 central city wards and multiple cities, towns and villages west of the city center. The Izu and Ogasawara Islands are also part of Tokyo.

Prior to 1868, Tokyo was known as Edo. A small castle town in the 16th century, Edo became Japan’s political center in 1603 when Tokugawa Ieyasu established his feudal government there. A few decades later, Edo had grown into one of the world’s most populous cities. With the Meiji Restoration of 1868, the emperor and capital moved from Kyoto to Edo, which was renamed Tokyo (“Eastern Capital”). Large parts of Tokyo were destroyed in the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 and in the air raids of 1945.

Today, Tokyo offers a seemingly unlimited choice of shopping, entertainment, culture and dining to its visitors. The city’s history can be appreciated in districts such as Asakusa, and in many excellent museums, historic temples and gardens. Contrary to common perception, Tokyo also offers a number of attractive green spaces in the city center and within relatively short train rides at its outskirts.

Predominant Architecture:
Architecture in Tokyo has largely been shaped by Tokyo’s history. Twice in recent history has the metropolis been left in ruins: first in the 1923 Great Kantō earthquake and later after extensive firebombing in World War II.[1] Because of this, Tokyo’s current urban landscape is one of modern and contemporary architecture, and older buildings are scarce.

Places to See:
The Imperial Palace: residence of the Japanese Emperor was once the site of the Edo Castle in the 17th – 19th Century. Located in the heart of the city, it is a vast expanse of green and is surrounded by moats. The palace is open only for two days a year. However, walking tours of the inner palace grounds is conducted on weekdays.

The Asakusa district: Famous for the Senso-ji temple and is one of the few places in Tokyo that retains the old world charm. The temple markets, narrow streets, traditional shops and restaurants provide a glimpse of old Tokyo. It is also known as Tokyo’s oldest geisha district.

The Ueno Park: Located next to the Ueno station is a public park that offers visitors a large number of attractions. The area is home to many of the famous attractions in Tokyo. They are the Ueno Zoo, major museums like the Tokyo National Museum, The National Science Museum and The National Museum of Western Art.

Ginza Shopping Area: Often compared with New York’s Fifth Avenue, Ginza is a district situated in Chuo, Tokyo. It is known as one of the most luxurious shopping regions in Tokyo. The area is home to big department stores and almost all leading world brands have their presence here. Ginza is also famous for its bakeries and restaurants. The small allies leading off from the main road is lined with galleries exhibiting paintings and other artwork.

Religious Takanawa Area: Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines dot Japan’s landscape. These temples and shrines are an architectural splendor and many of these can be found in every part of Tokyo.

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A (very brief) Guide to Bruges

The Historic Town of Brugge hides stunning architectural monuments within its egg-shaped boundary. It is the home of both modern and medieval masterpieces. It was honored in 2012 with the title of European Capital of Culture. It boasts of its grand Royal Theater and of the Concertgebouw, where one can hear contemporary music or watch ballet performances. The city preserves many amazing landmarks within its walls.

Predominant Architecture:
Unspoiled for hundreds of years, the city’s canals, churches and cathedrals date to the Middle Ages, most of the cityscape preserved in its medieval existence as the leading port city of Northwest Europe. Gothic Architecture is best represented here.

Places to see:
Grote Markt of Brugge: The central square of Bruges. It is flanked by several important historical buildings and is the starting point of walking tours around the city.
The Burg: A small square located in the heart of Bruges. It is flanked by many historic buildings and is the administrative center of the city.
Bargebrug: The contemporary Barge Bridge connects Minnewater Park and Barge Square. The bridge is really eye catching – it is bright red and is asymmetrical in form.
The Church of Our Lady: It dates mainly from the 13th, 14th and 15th centuries. Its tower, at 122.3 meters, is the tallest structure in the city and the second tallest brickwork tower in the world Image Courtesy
Provost’s House: One of the jewels of the Flemish capital is the Provost’s House. It is an amazing Baroque-style white structure built in 1666. Originally, it served as the bishop’s residence and continued so until 1794. It is located in Burg Square and is currently occupied by government offices.
Provinciaal Hof: The city of Brugge boasts impressive medieval architecture mixed with some marvelous 19th century buildings. The Provinciaal Hof or Provincial Court is an astonishing Neogothic building. Located in the Grote Markt, it houses the headquarters of the government of West Flanders and the post office.
Poortersloge: or Burgher’s Lodge is a worthy representative of the Gothic architecture of Brugge. It was built at the end of the 14th century and served as a meeting place for the burghers.
Hof Bladelin: is a large mansion in Bruges. It was built in 1451. It is now a convent and home for the elderly with a small museum inside.
Ezelpoort: or Donkey’s Gate, is one of the four remaining medieval city gates of Bruges. Unlike the other gates that were built on the banks of the canal, it is completely surrounded by water.

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A (very brief) Guide to Tirana

Tirana is Albania’s largest city and serves as the country’s capital. Although Tirana’s history is relatively recent compared to that of the Albanian people, Tirana has managed to become the country’s economic, cultural and administrative center.

Tourists usually find Tirana a beautiful and charming city, with a lively night life. Tirana is undergoing a major renovation from its communist days. Many of the ugly dull buildings have been repainted,

Predominant Architecture:
Following a short period of Nazi and Italian fascists’ occupancy, Albania became a communist republic in 1944. During the communist period, Tirana suffered a serious transformation, with numerous institutions, streets and residential areas being built after the principles of Stalinist architecture.

Modern Tirana boasts a range of towers and colorfully painted apartment buildings. But there are also elegant, distinctive, historic buildings dating back to the nineteenth century. Liberal use of color is one of the main characteristics of Tirana architecture.

Places to See:
Clock Tower of Tirana: It was built in 1822 by Haxhi Et`hem Bey, who also oversaw the construction of the Et’hem Bey Mosque. Until 1970 it was the tallest building in Tirana
Et’hem Bey Mosque: Located in the center of the Albanian capital of Tirana, construction started in 1789 and it was finished in 1823 by his son Ethem Pasha (Haxhi Ethem Bey), great-grandson of Sulejman Pasha
Ministry of Internal Affairs: The Ministry of Internal Affairs is a fascist-era building. The structure is eye-catching, because of its elegant architecture and pleasant pastel colors.
Pyramid: Tirana’s Pyramid is a modern pyramid-style building. It was built as a memorial museum for the ex-communist leader of Albania, Enver Hoxha. Today it is the International Center of Culture.
Presidential Palace of Tirana: The Presidential Palace of Tirana is used by the Albanian government. The palace was built in the Rationalist style, and its architecture is unique not only in Albania, but in the entire formerly-fascist region of Italy.
The Block (Blloku): The area where in the past, the communist leaders used to live under strict protection. Today is the main business and entertainment area.

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A (very) brief Guide to Jerusalem

Jerusalem, Yerushalayim in Hebrew and Al Quds in Arabic, is the capital and largest city of Israel. The city is considered a holy city by adherents of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam; it contains sites sacred to all three religions. The city has been a focal point for conflict between Arabs and Israelis since the establishment of Israel in 1948.

The city is located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Dead Sea. It straddles the Judean Hills, which run north-south in Israel. The city is built on a cluster of hilltops and valleys.

The Old City of Jerusalem contains many religious and historical sites. A wall was constructed around the Old City in AD 1538 during the reign of the Ottoman ruler Suleiman I. The area inside the wall is divided into 4 areas, named for their dominant ethnic communities: the Muslim, Jewish, Christian, and Armenian quarters.

Outside of the walled Old City lies modern Jerusalem. The Israeli parliament,called the Knesset and the Supreme Court Building are both located in modern Jerusalem.

Predominant Architecture:
Jerusalem’s skyline is distinct and the city has a somewhat uniform look due to strict building regulations. The height of most structures is limited. Most construction is channeled to hilltops, and the valleys are preserved as open space. The British, who ruled Jerusalem from 1917 to 1948, mandated the use of local limestone, known as Jerusalem Stone, for all facades. Jerusalem Stone is a pinkish-white color, and its hue changes throughout the day as the light changes.

Places to See:
The Temple Mount: Called Haram esh-Sharif by Muslims, is located in the Old City. Tradition holds that Abraham nearly sacrificed his son Isaac on this site. It was here that King David established the First Temple of Israel in about 1000 BC.
The Church of the Holy Sepulchre: It stands on what is traditionally held to be the hill of Golgotha, where the crucifixion and burial of Jesus Christ occurred.
The Via Dolorosa: The route traditionally believed to be taken by Jesus Christ on the way to his crucifixion.
Israel Museum (1965): Houses the Shrine of the Book, where the Dead Sea Scrolls are exhibited.
The Rockefeller Museum (1938): Contains important archaeological finds
The Yad Vashem Holocaust Museum (1953): The official memorial to the Jewish victims of the Holocaust.

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A (very brief) Guide to Bangkok

Bangkok, the capital of Thailand, is not just an old city, but also a crossroads where people of different races, regions and religions have for centuries converged.

Ancient Buddhist temples that sparkle in the sun, the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha – this is just the beginning of what Bangkok, the City of Angels has to offer.

Boasting some of the most lavish hotels in the world, Bangkok is also known for its extraordinary museums, shopping centers and street stalls with incredible bargains.

Predominant Architecture:
Bangkok is a bustling city mixing both modern and ancient Thai architecture. The site of the city was selected for its position as a natural defense from enemies and its rich supply of water. Today, it is a renown expansive capital, with large, looming sky scrapers combined by European-style parks, neon-lits and traditional Thai temples.

Places to See:
The Grand Palace: Although the Royal Family no longer resides here, the palace is an example of great architecture and the one of the best in of Bangkok’s impressive collection of temples and palaces.
Chinatown:This Byzantine labyrinth of shops, stalls and alleys is where the movers and shakers of Thailand’s economy got started.
Wat Traimit: Also known as the Temple of the Golden Buddha, this wat houses the world’s largest solid gold Buddha.
Victory Monument: This “obelisk,” constructed during the early days of King Rama IX’s reign, is composed of reinforced marble and concrete.
Wat Phra Kaew: the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, is regarded as the most important Buddhist temple in Thailand. Located in the historic centre of Bangkok.

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A (very brief) Guide to Beijing

In Beijing, the slew of construction for the 2008 Summer Olympics gave shape to an emerging national identity. China wanted to prove it had more to offer the world than its ancient culture and architecture. And so the world watched as Bejing built Western-inspired buildings that went above and beyond the limitations of Chinese architecture.

Now, Beijing is home to a collection of both traditional and contemporary buildings.

Predominant Architecture:
The traditional style reflects Chinese beliefs and ethics of symmetry. These buildings give attention to decorative details, are built outward (not upward), and major construction materials include timber columns, beams and brackets.

The buildings Beijing built for the Olympics completely challenge the city’s own style of architecture. Beijing’s new construction is tall and asymmetric. Instead of creating an image of calm and focusing attention inward, both the exteriors and interiors of Beijing’s new construction aim to grab attention and awe viewers.

Places to see:
Great Wall of China: The expansive wall is more than 2,000 years old and extends almost 9,000 kilometers (5,500 miles).
Forbidden City: Although Beijing’s Forbidden City is now overrun with tourists and vendors selling kitschy souvenirs, it is still an important monument to traditional Chinese architecture and culture. For centuries, this was the home of Chinese emperors and their governments.
CCTV Headquarters: To complete construction on the new headquarters of China Central Television, architects had two engineering hurdles to jump. The skyscraper stands in a seismic region. And two L-shaped towers leaning at 90-degree angles form the top and bottom of the building.

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A (very brief) Guide to Dubai

Short a construction crane for a building project? Blame it on Dubai. It’s estimated that this architecture capital has 25% of the world’s cranes working around the clock. Although Chicago gave birth to the skyscraper, in recent years Dubai has been the city to master constructing these tall and extravagant buildings.

Dubai’s economy was initially built on oil, but its oil reserves have already been significantly depleted and only account for a small percentage of the economy. So the government recently decided to reinvent its image as a major international hub of commerce.

Predominat Architecture:
Want a peek at the future? Here’s the place.

Places to See:
Hydropolis: The world’s first underwater hotel
Burj Dubai: The world’s tallest building,
Burj Al Arab: This luxury hotel is the only self-proclaimed seven-star hotel in the world. The building exterior is meant to represent Dubai’s transformation and resembles a sail.
Dubailand: A Walt Disney-style amusement park expected to crush Disney as the biggest and best thing in the world.
Burj Khalifa: As of 2010, this skyscraper is the tallest man-made building ever built. The $150 billion building has 160 floors and stands at 2,717 feet high.
The World: This archipelago of 300 man-made islands was constructed with sand dredged from the sea. The islands are meant to look like a map of the Earth and can be seen from space.

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A (very brief) Guide to Brasilia

The basic structure of Brasilia was completed in just four years, from 1956 to 1960, under the leadership of President Juscelino Kubitschek, with the slogan “fifty years of progress in five”, and the city is in a sense a memorial to him.

In less than four years, this place went from an idea to Brazil’s living and breathing capital city. Thought up by urban planner Lucio Costa in 1957, with buildings designed by architect Oscar Niemeyer, the city was laid out as a cross, but better resembles a butterfly or airplane shape when seen from the air. While some have criticized the design, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Predominant Architecture:
Modernist in style, the design was inspired by Le Corbusier, a French architect considered a forefather of modern architecture.

Places to See:
Palacio da Alvarado: The official residence of the president of Brazil. Its arches are icons of the capital.
Juscelino Kubitschek Memorial: on the western part of the axis is a museum dedicated to the life and accomplishments of the president. It’s located underground and has a slightly spooky 1960’s science-fiction feel to it.
Cathedral Basilica: is midway along the axis. With its sixteen curved 90-ton concrete pillars and stained-glass panels, is one of the world’s most amazing modernist buildings.
Three Powers Square: At the extreme end of the axis includes the seats of the country’s 3 highest authorities: the Congress, the Presidential Palace, and the Supreme Court.

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A (very brief) Guide to Rome

No city in the world equals the history of the Eternal City. Founded 2700 years ago, Rome long reigned as Capital of the World. Rome’s history spans two and a half thousand years. It was the capital city of the Roman Kingdom, the Roman Republic and the Roman Empire, which was the dominant power in Western Europe.

Monumental buildings like the Colosseum are reminiscent of the era when emperors like Nero and Trajan ruled the Roman Empire. But today’s Rome owes much of its attractiveness to the Renaissance period when new squares like Campidoglio were created and new buildings were constructed including the world’s largest church, the Saint Peter’s Basilica.

Predominant Architectural Style:
Rome’s architecture over the centuries has greatly developed, especially from the Classical and Imperial Roman styles to modern Fascist architecture. Rome was for a period one of the world’s main epicentres of classical architecture, developing new forms such as the arch, the dome and the vault. The Romanesque style in the 11th, 12th and 13th centuries was also widely used in Roman architecture, and later the city became one of the main centers of Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Rome’s cityscape is also widely Neoclassical and Fascist in style.

Places to See:
Colosseum: The most famous building of the Roman Empire is probably the Colosseum. The building accommodated more than 55.000 spectators and was home to many games featuring gladiators and wild animals.

Pantheon: The Pantheon was built in 118 AD by emperor Hadrian as a temple for all pagan gods. The building’s immense dome was the largest dome in the world for more than 13 centuries.

Trevi Fountain: Rome’s most spectacular fountain is the Fontana del Trevi or Trevi Fountain. The large 18th century fountain occupies a small square which is usually packed with tourists.

St. Peter’s Basilica: The largest church in the world, this great building with Michelangelo’s impressive dome is the center of christianity. The opulence of its interior bears testimony to the wealth of the catholic church in the 16th century.

Piazza di Spagna: The Piazza di Spagna is one of the most popular tourist locations in Rome. The famous Spanish Steps lead to the Trinita dei monti, a French church with rosy facade.

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A (very brief) Guide to Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, the capital and largest city of Argentina, is one of the most mesmerizing cities in the Americas. Plenty of magnificent buildings and monuments recall the city’s heyday in the 19th and early 20th century when Europeans emigrated to this prosperous metropolis.

Despite its European connections, Buenos Aires has a flavor all its own. Street performers doing the tango are as much a part of the landscape as famous buildings like the opulent, French-designed Teatro Colon. Local culture is celebrated in the weekly Mataderos Fair, featuring regional food, crafts and horse races. The city’s dozens of neighborhoods, each with its own personality, offer museums, restaurants, shopping, history, dancing and outdoor activities to suit any taste or budget.

Predominant Architecture:
Buenos Aires architecture is characterized by its eclectic nature, with elements resembling Barcelona, Paris and Madrid. There is a mix, due to immigration, of Colonial, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Neo-Gothic and French Bourbon styles. Italian and French influences increased after the declaration of independence at the beginning of the 19th century, though the academic style persisted until the first decades of the 20th century.

More recent architecture can be found as well, in particular in the gentrified Puerto Madero district where modern skyscrapers tower over the old docks.

Places to see:
Recoleta Cemetery: Many presidents and historic figures important to Buenos Aires history are buried there. The architecture styles of the tombs range from neo classic to art deco and the some of the sculptures have declared national historic monuments.

San Telmo: Buenos Aires has tons of really different neighborhoods, but none of them embodies the traditional culture like the bohemian San Telmo.

Puerto Madero: By day, this riverfront area is a booming business and shopping district and by night, a hip neighborhood with pricey restaurants and fashionable clubs.

Casa Rosada: The government’s executive branch is housed in this building, a strange mix of various architectural styles, perhaps best known for the balcony from which Evita rallied the working class crowds.

Caminito: Colorful and traditional, this walkway in the La Boca area is dominated by tango dancers and artisans.

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A (very brief) Guide to London

London, the capital of England and the United Kingdom, was founded 2000 years ago by the Romans as Londinium. The city has been Western Europe’s largest city for centuries: as early as in 1700 more than 575,000 people lived in London.

Today London is not only the largest city but also one of the most visited thanks to its numerous famous attractions such as the Tower Bridge and the Big Ben.

Predominant Architecture:
The city of London is not characterized by any particular architectural style, having accumulated its buildings over a long period of time. Few structures predate the Great Fire of 1666, notable exceptions including the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, Banqueting House and several scattered Tudor survivors in the City of London.

Places to See:
Big Ben: The Clock Tower of the Palace of Westminster, known as the Big Ben, is one of London’s most famous landmarks. At the time the tower was built in 1858 its clock was the largest in the world.

Tower Bridge: Despite being disliked by many when it was built in 1894 the bridge soon became one of the London’s most famous landmarks.

London Eye: A giant observation wheel in the center of London. Since its opening in 2000 the 30-minute ‘flight’ offers visitors great panoramic views over London.

Houses of Parliament: The seat of Britain’s two parliamentary houses was built in 1870. The enormous building is best known for its iconic clock Tower, the Big Ben.

Westminster Abbey: Construction of the Westminster Abbey started in 1050 and spanned 8 centuries. The abbey serves as a burial ground for many famous monarchs, scientists and artists.

Buckingham Palace: The most famous of all the palaces in London. The palace is still used as the official residence of the Queen.

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A (very brief) Guide to Vancouver

Vancouver is a very young city; it wasn’t until after the World Exposition in 1986 before Vancouver changed from a sleepy provincial city to a booming metropolis.

Even today the city continues to expand at a high rate: once abandoned industrial areas have thus turned into fashionable and lively districts such as Yaletown and Coal Harbour.

Predominant Architecture:
Vancouverism is a term that refers to tall, but widely separated, slender towers interspersed with low-rise buildings, public spaces, small parks and pedestrian-friendly streetscapes and facades to minimize the impact of a high density population.

However, Vancouverism is more of an architectual technique rather than style. Vancouver’s predominent style is Neomodernism, which shares many of the basic characteristics of modernism.

Places to see:
Chinatown: Vancouver’s Chinatown is one of the largest in North America. The neighborhood’s main attraction is the beautiful Dr. Sun-Yat-Sen garden, an authentic Chinese garden.

Gastown: Named after the saloon proprietor Gassy Jack Deighton, is the area where Vancouver was founded in 1867. The historic area is especially popular with tourists.

Granville Island: In the 1970s this former industrial site was turned into a recreational and entertainment area. The popular island is best known for its indoor public market.

Canada Place: One of Vancouver’s main landmarks, originally built for the 1986 World Exposition. The building is now mainly used as a convention center.

Stanley Park: A 1000-acres large park on a peninsula bordering downtown Vancouver. This forest-like park, surrounded by the ocean, comprises many recreational areas.

Robson Street: Vancouver’s main retail strip, ideal for shopping and dining. Some of the city’s attractions are located here, such as the Art Gallery and the modern library building.

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A (very brief) Guide to Stockholm

Stockholm, the largest city in Scandinavia, has a surprisingly large number of interesting sights, with plenty of palaces and monuments that are reminiscent of a time when the Swedish empire was one of Europe’s largest powers.

The city is defined by its location on a large archipelago, and it is spread over 14 islands. The abundance of water and the many riverboats have given Stockholm the name ‘Venice of the North’.

Predominant Architecture:
Stockholm has a history that dates back to the 13th century, possibly even longer. Most major buildings were mainly designed by influences from abroad. During 1600 and 1700, foreign architects were recruited to build the city and in recent periods Swedish architects often drew on their inspiration from their study tours to Europe, in the 20th century, particularly in the USA.

Stockholm’s historic buildings are largely conserved, possibly because the city escaped destruction by war, suffered by so many other cities in Europe.

Places to see:
Gamla Stan: The Old Town of Stockholm. The area, with its picturesque squares and cobblestone alleys is a favorite with visitors. Many of Stockholm’s top sights can be found here.

Royal Palace: Kungliga Slottet is a large Baroque palace built in the early 18th century at Gamla Stan. Every day during summertime crowds gather here to watch the Changing of the Guards.

Vasa Museum: The Vasa, a historic warship decorated with hundreds of statues, sank on its maiden voyage in 1628. It was salvaged in the mid 20th century and is now displayed in its own purpose-built museum.

Drottningholm Palace: The official residence of Sweden’s royal family. Built at the end of the 17th century in a Baroque style, it was one of the most magnificent palaces of its time.

Stadshuset: Stockholm’s city hall is one of Sweden’s most important 20th century buildings. It has a magnificent interior; its Golden Hall is decorated with gilded Byzantine mosaics.

Storkyrkan: The cathedral of Stockholm has a Gothic interior dating back to the 15th century. Inside is a unique wooden statue of St. George and the Dragon.

Strandvägen: Stockholm’s most impressive boulevard is lined with grand, monumental buildings that were designed during the 19th century by some of the best architects of the time.

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A (very brief) Guide to Vienna

Vienna, the capital of Austria, boasts an impressive number of palaces, monuments and other landmarks due to its centuries-long position as the heart of the Habsburg Empire.

Most of the city’s main sights are located in Vienna’s compact center or at the boulevard encircling the historic center, which makes it easy to visit the city on foot. Other neighborhoods are easily accessible thanks to the efficient subway.

Predominant Architecture:
A variety of architectural styles can be found in Vienna, such as the Romanesque Ruprechtskirche and the Baroque Karlskirche. Styles range from classicist buildings to modern architecture. Art Nouveau left many architectural traces in Vienna, and concurrent to the Art Nouveau movement was the Wiener Moderne, during which some architects shunned the use of extraneous adornment.

Places to see:
Hofburg: An immense Imperial palace, built by generations of Habsburg rulers from the 13th century up to the early 20th century. It is home to a number of interesting museums.

Schönbrunn Palace: The favorite residence of the Habsburg family. Its Schlosspark is a magnificent park with numerous monuments and fountains.

Stephansdom: Vienna’s Cathedral, the Gothic Stephansdom, was built in the 14th century at the site of an earlier church, of which two towers were incorporated.

Karlsplatz: One of the largest squares in Vienna. Much of it is occupied by the Resselpark, where two beautiful former metro pavilions are located.

Ringstrasse: The Ringstrasse is a boulevard created in the 19th century at the site of the former city
fortifications. In a span of two decades a host of magnificent buildings were erected here.

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A (very brief) Guide to Istanbul

Istanbul is located on both the continents of Europe and Asia. Most citizens practice Islam, but the city also claims strong Christian and Jewish communities. Istanbul is thus known as a cultural melting pot, and the city’s architecture certainly lives up to that reputation.

Visitors to Istanbul will find more than 2,000 mosques, 100 churches and 20 synagogues. Over time, Istanbul has served as a capital for Roman, Byzantine, Latin and Ottoman Empires, and is now Turkey’s capital. Each period built a new architectural layer on top of the old, and many of these monuments remain intact.

Predominant Architecture::
The Ancient Romans and Greeks left their aqueducts and the Walls of Constantine. The Byzantines and Genoese left their domed churched with arches. The Ottoman Empire left its castles, palaces and mosques. And the European Baroque styles and Art Nouveau palaces and mansions that followed add more to the eclectic landscape of Istanbul.

Places to See:
Hagia Sophia: This museum was once a church and then a mosque. Hagia Sophia, also known as the Church of the Holy Wisdom, is most known for its unique dome.

Blue Mosque: Six minarets towering over the skyline of Istanbul make it easy to locate the Blue Mosque. On closer inspection, visitors can also observe a series of cascading domes on the building’s exterior.

Column of Constantine: When Constantine the Great declared the city the capital of the Roman Empire in 330, he built this commemorative column.

Hippodrome: The arena with the scenes of chariot races and also cultural focus of the Byzantine (Roman) Empire. Remains of the three of the great monuments can be seen: the Obelisk of Theodosius, the bronze Serpentine Column and the Column of Constantine.

Underground Cistern: Built in the fourth century, is one of the underground cisterns that riddle the foundations of the city. It has been extensively excavated and renovated and is worth visiting and exploring while listening to the tunes of classical music.

Grand Bazaar: The world’s biggest covered historic Bazaar. It is one of the most famous spots of Istanbul, always filled with crowds who not only come to shop but to window-shop carpets, jewellery, leathers,handcrafts, home decoration items and many more.

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A (very brief) Guide to Berlin

Ever since the creation of a unified Germany in 1871, the nation’s tumultuous history has had a profound impact on the history of its capital Berlin.

Many historic neighborhoods and monuments were destroyed during the Second World War, but since the reunification after the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, historic areas like Potsdamer Platz and Pariser Platz have been completely revamped. Nowadays, Berlin is once again one of the greatest European cities: lively, dynamic and inviting.

Predominant Architecture:
Berlin’s legacy of artistic innovation and chaotic political change has created a spectacular mix of buildings. Neoclassical and baroque masterpieces line the streets of the historical centre. East and West Berlin neighborhoods display competing efforts towards post-World War II reconstruction. Bombastic structures built by kings and dictators, relics from tyrannical dictatorships, vie for attention. In many places, mundane buildings stand side-by-side with some of the most daring experimental structures of modern times.

Places to See:
Reichstag: The historic Reichstag building was reconstructed after the fall of the Berlin Wall. The original dome however was replaced by a modern glass one. Since 1999 the building serves again as Germany’s seat of Parliament.

Zoo: One of the largest zoos in the world. It boasts some 1400 different species including pandas, gorillas, wolves, polar bears and elephants and many more exotic animals.

Brandenburger Gate: The Brandenburger Tor was originally a gate in Berlin’s city wall at the end of the Unter den Linden avenue. Since the fall of the Wall, Brandenburger Tor has become the symbol of a reunified Berlin.

Berlin Wall: Most of the Berlin wall has been demolished since the border between East and West Berlin opened in 1989. The more than 1km long East Side Gallery is the most important part still standing.

Holocaust Memorial: This Memorial to the victims of the Holocaust is an undulating forest of 2711 slabs of concrete, each of a different size. It was dedicated 60 years after the fall of the Nazi regime.

Checkpoint Charlie: One of three checkpoints at the Berlin Wall, Checkpoint Charlie was the site of a standoff between American and Russian tanks in 1961. It became one of the most famous symbols of the Cold War Era.

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A (very brief) Guide to Paris

The world’s most popular city destination has plenty of must-see places but make sure you spend at least a day strolling off the beaten path, as this is the only way to discover the real Paris: a lively cosmopolitan but undeniably French city.

The center of Paris is divided in 20 arron-dissements with the majority of the world known attractions (Eiffel Tower, Champs-Elysées, Louvre, Panthéon, Notre-Dame,…) situated in the first 8 arrondissements.

Predominant Architecture:
The architecture of Paris can be divided into four time periods: Roman, Medieval, Renaissance, and Classical. The Roman period of architecture was symmetrical and organized. The Medieval period of architecture consisted of buildings erected haphazardly and streets that were narrow and unplanned. The Renaissance style in Paris symmetrical and proportional, much like Roman architecture. The French Classical style, developed in the 1600s, made Paris famous for its architecture, which has been emulated around the world.

Places to see:
Eiffel Tower: Probably the best known landmark in Europe, the Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris and one of the city’s must-see attractions.

Versailles Palace: What started as a modest hunting lodge was expanded into the world’s most famous palace, a model for all future European palaces. The palace is located just 20km southwest of Paris.

Arc de Triomphe: Located at the Place Charles de Gaulle commemorates Emperor Napoleon’s victories, the arch was completed in 1836, long after Napoleon’s reign had come to an end.

Louvre Museum: One of the not-to-miss sights in Paris, possibly the most famous museum in the world with a fabulous collection. It is housed in the Louvre Palace, once home to France’s Royal Family.

Notre Dame Cathedral: One of the first Gothic Cathedrals ever built. Construction started in 1163 and lasted for almost two decades. From the lookout at the north tower you have a great view over the city.

Champs-Elysées: The most prestigious and most famous street in Paris and possible in the whole world. It stretches all the way from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe.

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A (very brief) Guide to Milan

The capital of Lombardia, the richest and most populous region of Italy. The city, the second largest in the country, is best known as an economic and financial center but it also has its fair share of cultural and architectural attractions.

Predominant Architecture:
As a city with a millennium long history, Milan has an amazing array of architecture. Over the centuries, the city of Milan has been home to some of the best artists and architects of the world. Masterpieces of Baroque, Neoclassical, and Renaissance styles make Milan a city of unparalleled architectural value.

Some of the must see attractions in Milan include the majestic Cathedral, the monumental Castello Sforzesco and Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of the Last Supper in the Santa Maria delle Grazie.

Places to See:
The Duomo: Milan’s magnificent cathedral, is one of the largest in the world. Its front façade, decorated with a dazzling array of statuary, dominates the cathedral square. Read More…

Castello Sforzesco: The Sforzesco Castle has long been a symbol of power from where local and foreign rulers reigned over the city. Today the castle is home to a number of civic museums.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II: Architect Giuseppe Mengoni’s masterpiece, an impressive glass and iron covered arcade, is one of city’s most famous attractions. Dubbed Milan’s living room, it is always teeming with people.

Fashion District: Milan has a reputation for its stylish fashion and chic boutiques, most of which can be found in the Quadrilatero della Mode, Milan’s famous fashion district centered around the Via Montenapoleone.

Piazza della Scala: A square named after the famous Theatro alla Scala, also simply known as La Scala, and one of the world’s most prestigious opera houses. It overlooks the pedestrianized square. A central monument honors Leonardo da Vinci.

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A (very brief) Guide to Seville

Seville, the capital of the Spanish community of Andalusia, is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its architecture is a reflection of its tumultuous history with long spells of occupation by the Romans and later the Moors.

In the 16th century, after the reconquista by the Christians the city reached its Golden Age thanks to a monopoly on trade with the New World. Many of the city’s magnificent landmarks such as the Cathedral, the Royal Alcazar and Golden Tower were built earlier, in the 13th and 14th centuries.

Predominant Architecture:
Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque elements can be found in Seville’s buildings, but the most notable Architectural style is perhaps the Mudejar.

Places to See:
Cathedral: Seville’s magnificent cathedral, built in the 15th century, is one of the largest in the world. The gothic interior of the church and the huge gilded altarpiece are simply breathtaking.

Golden Tower: The Torre del Oro was built in the early 13th century as a watchtower by the Almohades, who at the time ruled the region. The tower is now home to a naval museum.

Plaza Virgen de los Reyes: A historic square surrounded by historic buildings. It is dominated by the famous bell tower of Seville’s Cathedral, the Giralda.

Real Alcazar: The Royal Palace of Seville, a magnificent complex of patios and halls in different architectural styles, from Mudéjar to Gothic. The heart of the complex is the Palace of King Pedro I, who constructed his royal residence in 1364 at the site of a Moorish palace.

Plaza de Espana: A majestic architectural complex built as the central office for the Ibero-American Exposition, a world fair held in Seville in 1929.

La Giralda: The bell tower of the Cathedral is the most famous landmark in Seville. The tower was originally built at the end of the 12th century as the minaret of a large mosque built by the Moors.

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A (very brief) Guide to Saint Petersburg

Saint Petersburg was founded in 1703 by Tsar Peter the Great. During the following two centuries, when Saint Petersburg was the capital of Russia, the city quickly developed into one of the world’s most magnificent cities thanks to the construction of impressive edifices such as the Winter Palace, the Admiralty, the Mariinsky Theater and St. Isaac’s Cathedral.

Despite the many monumental buildings the city has an unmistakable charm thanks to the numerous channels and bridges which give Saint Petersburg a romantic flair.

Predominant Architecture:
The range of architectural styles is breathtaking, from the elegant charms of early baroque to the staggering ornamentation of the Russian revival. Nowhere else in the world can be found such varied architectural styles – classicism, eclecticism and Modern – in such close proximity.

Places to See:
Hermitage: One of the most famous museums in the world. Founded in 1764 by Catharine the Great, the museum is housed in the magnificent Winter palace and adjoining Hermitage buildings.

Peterhof: A magnificent country residence created in the early 18th century by tsar Peter the Great.

Church of the Savior on Spilled Blood: This remarkable church with colorful onion domes was built at the end of the 19th century in honor of the assassinated tsar Alexander II.

St. Isaac’s Cathedral: Completed in 1858 after 40 years of construction, the magnificent cathedral with its enormous gilded dome is one of the largest in Europe.

Nevsky Prospekt: A wide boulevard connecting the Admiralty Building with the Alexander Nevsky Monastery is Russia’s most famous boulevard. It is lined with magnificent palaces, churches and monuments.

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A (very brief) Guide to Venice

Venice is one of those cities that are truly unique. Once the center of a powerful maritime empire, Venice is a city dotted with magnificent palaces and churches. Mostly devoid of cars and modern buildings, time seems to have stood still here. The city is located in the middle of a lagoon and is dissected by about 150 channels.

Predominant Architecture:
The city’s architecture is unique, a mixture of Gothic and Byzantine styles. If you are into modern art, the world-renown Biennale exhibitions is held every year in Venice.

Places to see:
Doge’s Palace: This Palace in Venetian Gothic style was the center of power in Venice. From here the Doge and the government of Venice ruled over the Venetian Republic.

St. Mark’s Square: Possibly the world’s best known square, the Piazza is surrounded by magnificent historic buildings that are a testament to the power and wealth of the Venetian Empire.

Grand Canal: Venice’s major water-traffic corridor, sweeping through the city. Lined with majestic buildings, it was once described as ‘the most beautiful street in the world’.

Rialto Bridge: Venice’s famous Rialto Bridge was long the only bridge crossing the Grand Canal between the San Marco and San Polo districts. The bridge was built in the 16th century and is covered with shops.

St. Mark’s Basilica and Campanile: The opulent Basilica di San Marco is the most famous of all churches in Venice. The Campanile – Venice’s tallest bell tower – is one of the city’s most recognizable buildings. The 16th century tower collapsed in 1902 but was rebuilt 10 years later.

Arsenale: During its heyday, Venice’s Arsenal was the largest shipyard in the world. It played a crucial role in the city’s role as a naval power.

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A (very brief) Guide to Budapest

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, was formed at the end of the 19th century when the 3 cities Pest, Buda and Óbuda merged but its history goes back more than 1,000 years.

The city may be known for its thermal baths but there are also plenty of other attractions such as the vast Buda Castle, the majestic Chain Bridge and the romantic Fisherman’s Bastion.

Predominant Architecture:
Budapest’s Classicist, Romanesque, Gothic and Art Nouveau architecture is predominantly shaped by the works of master architects of the 19th century. Many significant buildings that were built during Roman times and the Turkish occupation of Hungary still stand.

Places to see:
Buda Castle: The origins of the expansive Buda Castle go back to the 13th century. The splendid castle houses several museums.

Chain Bridge: This magnificent suspension bridge connects Buda with Pest across the Danube river. The 375 meters long bridge was built in 1857 by William and Adam Clark.

Váci Utca: This pedestrianised street in the heart of Budapest’s downtown area is not only the city’s most popular shopping street, it is also lined with some beautiful buildings.

Parliament House: A magnificent 19th century building situated at Pest’s river bank. The neogothic building is clearly inspired by London’s Houses of Parliament.

Fisherman’s Bastion: The Fisherman’s Bastion, situated in the picturesque Castle District, is a romanticized version of a medieval bastion complete with beautiful turrets and ramparts.

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A (very brief) Guide to Hong Kong

In 1841 Hong Kong Island – not much more than ‘a barren island with few houses’ – was ceded to the British.
In 1997 negotiations between Britain and China resulted in the handover of Hong Kong back to China. Under the credo ‘one country, two systems’, Hong Kong is now a Special Administrative Region (S.A.R.) of China.

Hong Kong is a dazzling commercial city where east meets west. The lack of space in Hong Kong has led to the largest concentration of tall buildings in the world, even ahead of New York City.

Predominant Architecture:
Hong Kong features great emphasis on Contemporary architecture, specially Modernism, Postmodernism, Functionalism, etc. Due to the lack of available land, few historical buildings remain in the urban area.

Some places to see:
The Peak: A funicular tram ride brings you to Victoria Peak, at 1800ft, the highest point on Hong Kong Island. It is a popular tourist attraction thanks to the spectacular views over Hong Kong’s skyline.

Mongkok: Known as the most crowded area in an already overcrowded Kowloon, Mongkok is busy day and night. The area is a shopper’s paradise, despite its reputation as the heartland of triad gangs.

Nathan Road: This long, crowded boulevard in Kowloon is dubbed the ‘Golden Mile’ for its many neon signs. The road, which runs from the waterfront to Mongkok, is popular with visitors for the many shopping opportunities

Star Ferry: Despite modern competition from rail and road tunnels, the historic Star Ferry continues to be a popular means of crossing Victoria Harbour, especially with tourists.

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A (very brief) Guide to Barcelona

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. The city combines modern and historic architecture in a unique way.

The modernist movement of which Gaudi was the most prominent exponent left its mark on the city with magnificent buildings like the Sagrada Familia, Casa Milà and Casa Batlló.

Predominant Architecture:
Don’t let anyone tell you that Barcelona’s architecture is simply about Gaudí. The three predominant architectural styles to be found in the city can be categorized as Catalan Gothic, Modernism and Contemporary.

Some places to see:
Sagrada Familia: Barcelona’s most famous landmark. The modernist church is far from completed though, it will take several more decades before the building and its 18 towers will be finished.

Casa Milà: One of Antoni Gaudí’s many unconventional buildings in Barcelona. It was his last work before devoting his life to the construction of the Sagrada Familia.

La Rambla: Barcelona’s most famous street, always crowded with both locals and tourists. The partly pedestrianized boulevard connects the Plaça de Catalunya with Port Vell.

Guell Park: This unconventional park is one of Gaudí’s most famous works and a must for any visitor to Barcelona. The park is a UNESCO world heritage site since 1984.

Montjuïc: A hill located near the center of Barcelona. The area boasts many attractions such as Poble Espanyol and the Calatrava Tower, a legacy of the 1929 Exhibition and 1992 Olympics.

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A (very brief) Guide to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, even though neither the Dutch government nor the head of state resides in Amsterdam. The largest city in the Netherlands is also the country’s biggest tourist-draw.

Most of Amsterdam’s top attractions date from the city’s heyday during the seventeenth century when it was a financial and political powerhouse. Most of the cities’ famous canals and harmonious architecture stems from this era.

Predominant Architecture:
The dominant styles in downtown range from the Renaissance styles to 19th century neo-classicism, but there are also fine examples from Medieval to Modern architecture.

Places to see:
Amsterdam’s Canals: The many canals are lined with beautiful, mostly 17th century houses. While the canals were built for economical reasons, they are now Amsterdam’s biggest tourist attraction.

Rembrandt Square: This popular and often crowded square was originally created in 1668 as the Butter Market. A statue of the famous Dutch painter Rembrandt graces the center of the square.

Anne Frank House: The Anne Frank House – the hiding place of the Frank family who tried to escape the Nazis – is now a museum. On display are a facsimile of Anne Frank’s famous diary.

Van Gogh and Rembrandt Museums: Amsterdam’s most popular museums, boast over 200 works of the famous Dutch painters.

Waag: This 15th century building originally functioned as one of Amsterdam’s three main entrance gates. It was later converted into a weigh house, which gave its current name.

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A (very brief) Guide to Agra

Agra, in Uttar Pradesh is a city full of history. Once the capital of the Moghuls, Agra can boast a number of marvelous buildings, the most magnificent and well known being the Taj Mahal. Besides this mausoleum, one of the greatest buildings on earth, there are other attractions in Agra like the massive Agra fort and Akbar’s mausoleum.

Agra is located in the western corner of the northern province Uttar Pradesh. Together with Delhi and Jaipur, the city forms the ‘golden triangle’, India’s most popular tourist itinerary.

Predominant Architecture:
The advent of the Mughal dynasty marked a striking revival of Isl?mic architecture in northern India. The various provincial styles were successfully fused to produce works of unusual refinement and quality. Consisting of red sandstone and marble, it shows considerable Persian influence.

Places to see:
Agra Fort: The impressive Agra fort was built between 1156 and 1605. The outside wall in red sandstone is almost 2.5 km long. Inside the fort, you’ll find beautiful mosques and palaces.

Taj Mahal: One of the finest buildings humans ever built is the Taj Mahal, built by Shah Jahan in 1632. It is an absolute must for people visiting Agra and India in general.

Akbar Mausoleum: A great example of combination of Hindu and Moslem architectural styles.

Fatehpur Sikri: A fascinating ghost city built in the 16th century, 37 km from Agra, was intended to be the joint capital with Agra, but was soon deserted because the water system could not support any residents. It remained untouched for over 400 years.

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A (very brief) Guide to Prague

Known as the “golden city of spires,” Prague in the Czech Republic has architectural splendors that span a thousand years. During the Middle Ages, Prague was the most important city in Central Europe. After emperor Charles IV had all the city gates’ roofs covered with lead, Prague was dubbed the ‘Golden City’. It would remain one of the most influential cities in Europe until the 20th century.

Today ‘the City of a Hundred Spires’ is a magnet for tourists, with numerous magnificent towers, palaces and churches.

Predominant Architectural Styles in Prague:
Gothic
Baroque
Renaissance

Prominent Buildings in Prague:
Prague Castle, or Hradcany Castle, is part of the vast royal complex, the Hradcany.
Astronomical Clock in Old Town Square.
Archbishop’s Palace (Baroque).
St. Vitus Cathedral (Nearly 600 years went into the construction of this famous landmark).

Walking Tours in Prague:
Old Town Square
Old Jewish Cemetery in Josefov
Along the Vltava river
Charles Bridge
Sidestreets and Alleyways

At the turn of the century, Prague was home to the surrealist author, Franz Kafka. The city’s convoluted streets and unpredictable architecture are reflected in his bizarre, disturbing stories.

Famous Quote by Franz Kafka:
“Prague never lets you go… this dear little mother has sharp claws.”

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