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| Lake Baikal |
Lake Baikal is an immense freshwater expanse of 31,722 square kilometres under UNESCO protection. It is known for its unique ecosystems and pristine drinking water. Due to climate change, the lake's surface temperature during the summers of recent years has increased significantly, triggering numerous surface eutrophication effects and threatening the biodiversity of this fragile and precious ecosystem.
Source:
https://www.copernicus.eu/fr/node/10997
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| Schloss Petershagen |
Schloss Petershagen, nestled in the charming town of Petershagen in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a historical gem that has stood the test of time. Built initially as a water castle in 1306, this remarkable structure has evolved through the centuries, showcasing the architectural splendor of the Weser Renaissance. Today, it stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of the region, inviting visitors to explore its storied past and picturesque surroundings.
The origins of Schloss Petershagen date back to the early 14th century when it was constructed by Bishop Gottfried von Waldeck of Minden. Originally built as a defensive fortress, the castle was strategically positioned to protect the northern territories of the Bishopric of Minden. Dedicated to Saint Gorgonius, the castle was a symbol of the bishop's authority and a bulwark against potential invaders.
In the mid-16th century, under the direction of Bishop Franz von Waldeck, the fortress underwent a significant transformation. The Swabian master builder Jörg Unkair was commissioned to convert the medieval stronghold into a magnificent Renaissance-style palace. Using both dark Porta sandstone and light Obernkirchen sandstone, Unkair crafted a stunning example of early Weser Renaissance architecture. Although the construction was cut short due to the Schmalkaldic War, the castle's distinctive features, including an irregular two-wing layout, a polygonal stair tower, and a bastion facing the Weser River, remain notable highlights.
Throughout its history, Schloss Petershagen played a pivotal role in the region's political and military affairs. During the Thirty Years' War, the castle, like much of the Prince-Bishopric of Minden, fell under Swedish occupation. Following the Peace of Westphalia in 1648, the territory was ceded to Brandenburg-Prussia, and the castle became the seat of the governor of Minden from 1649 to 1659. It was within these walls that the Great Elector Frederick William received homage as the new sovereign in 1650.
After the seat of government moved from the castle in 1669, the once-mighty fortress began to decline. Several buildings collapsed or were demolished, and a fire in 1780 destroyed the main staircase roof. However, the late 19th and early 20th centuries brought a revival of interest in the castle. In 1901, Heinrich Hestermann, a farmer and Reichstag deputy, purchased the property and initiated renovations to restore it to a habitable state.
Source
https://www.mycityhunt.com/cities/petershagen-de-2151/poi/schloss-petershagen-22562
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| YOSEMITE |
Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the
strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and
the tranquility of the High Sierra.
First protected in 1864,
Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its
nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows,
ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area, and much more.
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Under the Mannen Bridge at Fukagawa (Fukagawa Mannenbashi shita) |
Title: Under the Mannen Bridge at Fukagawa (Fukagawa Mannenbashi shita), from the series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji (Fugaku sanjūrokkei)
Artist:
Katsushika Hokusai (Japanese, Tokyo (Edo) 1760–1849 Tokyo (Edo))
Period: Edo period (1615–1868)
(1760 – May 10, 1849)
Katsushika Hokusai (葛飾北斎, Katsushika Hokusai? 1760–May 10, 1849) was a Japanese artist, ukiyo-e painter and printmaker of the Edo period. In his time he was Japan's leading expert on Chinese painting. Born in Edo (now Tokyo), Hokusai is best-known as author of the woodblock print series Thirty-six Views of Mount Fuji (c. 1831) which includes the iconic and internationally recognized print, The Great Wave off Kanagawa, created during the 1820s. Hokusai created the "Thirty-Six Views" both as a response to a domestic travel boom and as part of a personal obsession with Mount Fuji. It was this series, specifically The Great Wave print and Fuji in Clear Weather, that secured Hokusai’s fame both within Japan and overseas. As historian Richard Lane concludes, “Indeed, if there is one work that made Hokusai's name, both in Japan and abroad, it must be this monumental print-series...” While Hokusai's work prior to this series is certainly important, it was not until this series that he gained broad recognition and left a lasting impact on the art world. It was The Great Wave print that initially received, and continues to receive, acclaim and popularity in the Western world.
