You only see what you know (Goethe)
Udine is famous for several large squares with a lot of impressive details, e.g Piazza della Liberta or Piazza Giacomo Matteotti. But there also several smaller places where you can have an atmospheric break. This court, located near the Cathedral of Udine, is one of my favourite places for having a small lunch or reading a book.
This photo shows the Cathedral of Udine (Duomo Cattedrale di Santa Maria Annunziata) in the light of the noonday sun. Inside, you find works created by Giambattista Tiepolo. Another good place to learn more about this artist is the Diocesan Museum of Udine.
One detail I am fond of Udine are the various examples of beautiful smitheries. This smitherey I found at a post office of the city.
On my walk through the old part of Udine I came across this fascinating decorations right under the roof. I guess there is a special term for this kind of decoration. How would you call this kind of deco in Italian or English language?
Generally, I know Udine as a popular shopping city for us Austrian but the old part is worth a visit for people interested in architecture too. My first impression after entering the centre of Udine: Well, the gates here are heavily guarded!
Another way to depict an emblem: A mosaic, seen at a bridge in Merano, Italy. It shows the coat of arms of the Habsburg family.
At the railway station of Bolzano, I came across this statue. It reminds me of movies like ‘Metropolis’ by Fritz Lang.
One of the most peculiar architectural impressions outside the Bolzano Main Station is this lizard climbing a wall. Above the sporty creature, you see two elements similar to ancient herms. I love the idea to put a sculpture of a lizard as an add-on.
In a park of Merano, I came across a monument to Empress Elisabeth (‘Sisi’) of Austria. It happens to be I met her twice on this day. My train trip ended in Vienna, where I saw another sculpture of Sisi at the railway station Wien Westbahnhof.
The Laubengasse in Merano saw its construction around 1200 at the request of the Count of Tyrol, Meinhard II. Since then, this alley with arcades has been considered the longest lane of its kind in Tyrol. Today, the Merano arcades are primarily known for their shopping opportunities.
At the Christmas Market of Merano, I found this depiction of Santa Clauss. Several mosses formed his face.
It was in Merano where I finally came across a train that didn’t accept my InterRail pass! 🙂