Archive for October, 2009

 
Saturday, October 31st, 2009
by Regino Rodriguez

The Capitol building is probably the most astonishing peace of architecture in Havana. Located in the Old Town, this is a palace that I will definitely recommend you do explore during your stay in Cuba.

Only few connoisseurs of the Cuban history know that the very first Botanical Garden in Cuba in the 19 Century was located in the land today occupied by the Capitol building.

Neither is it known that the definitive construction the Capitol was many time delayed because its high cost on one hand; and to the political indecisions, on the other. Then, on March 1926, the construction of the Capitol began finally.

The grand structure was unveiled on Thursday May 20 just after mid day with the attendance of the president of the Republic of Cuba and the rest of the government cabinet ruling the island at that time.

Eugenio Raynieri Piedra a very well-known and prestigious architect at the time; led the planning and construction joined by the best professionals in the Construction Industry in Cuba. By the time this project was finished it had already taken 17 millions out of the National Budget.

To any walker, the dome of the Capitol of Havana can with no trouble attract his/her interest, fifth in the world of Renaissance style that, for its dimensions and outline, it copies that of Washington, San Pedro’s Basilica, in Rome and San Pauls Cathedral in London. The Cupola is the second higher building peak of the metropolis, following the tower of the Monument to Mart in the Revolution Square.

Another detail that attracts is the central piazza, supported by 17 ionic columns of granite. In it, the three big brass doors that give access to the main floor and the bas-reliefs stand out due to its beauty.

It has been about eight decades since the Capitol building was finished in Cuba. It stands out for its monolithic construction considered among the three most important in Latin America and no doubt about it the most impressive building in Cuba.

From the Capitol of Havana -that is not national -, the kilometer 0 of all the highways of the country begins. It was designed so that in it the two chambers of the legislative body of the Republic worked all the sessions until 1959.

It also accommodates the third tallest sculpture indoors in the whole world and it symbolizes The Republic of Cuba. Angelo Zanelli an Italian artist sculpted it moved by a famous Cuban model with who he was very fond of. It was inaugurated in 1929, in the Hall of the Lost Steps (Saln de los Pasos Perdidos).

Visiting the Capitol of Havana is just an amazing trip to the past. It was built to resemble the one in the United States, but in its rooms you will find a lot of history hidden behind its columns. Your vacation will be complete when you experience this visit. Do not miss the chance.

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Friday, October 30th, 2009
by Jack F Davis

There are most likely not many people on earth who have never heard about Cairo. This bustling metropolis is famous around the world for its mind boggling mix of sights, the cacophony of sounds it produces 24 hours and day, and the smells of spices and perfumes that forever linger in the desert air. A Cairo holiday is something very unique.

The first thing that comes to mind when someone talks about Cairo? The Pyramids of course. Grand stone structures built thousands of years ago in the desert just outside the city to serve as burial chambers for the nobility of the time. They were preserved remarkably well by the dry desert air, and is a must-see if you visit Cairo.

You should spend at least a day exploring the Heliopolis district. This is a great neighborhood where you can truly experience Egyptian culture. This district contains the veer popular Baghdad Street and you can easily spend a day weaving among the many streets, tasting the Egyptian cuisine and shopping.

Another stop in your trip should be a trip up the Cairo tower. This tower is very tall and offers some of the best views of the city. There is a revolving bar and restaurant at the top and you should definitely take some refreshment as you constantly see new views of the city. This is one spot where you should remember to bring your camera.

Besides visiting all of the wondrous sights that are in and around Cairo many individuals just enjoy the pace of life. Everything is much more relaxed and you are encouraged to take your time.

This can be like a breath of fresh air for those that are used to going from morning till night with no break. So sit down at a local cafe, have a cup of coffee and watch life as it happens in front of your eyes.

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