Close to my heart #2
For reasons unknown – the Churches, Cathedrals, Chapels & the Basilica have been a huge draw for me.
These pieces of history are remarkable in so many ways and are an absolute piece of architectural splendor.
Perhaps because I treat myself and my family as global citizens.
While I pack my bags with the essentials to travel – there is one piece of information I am always very keen on – does the place have an old Church ?
India has witnessed several rulers in the last 1000 years or so and hence there is a range of rich art, culture and heritage. Colonization was a significant era of building churches as the Dutch, Portuguese, French and Britishers brought with them the varied styles of architecture, which resulted in delivering India with some exquisite churches.
What fascinates me is the evolution of these building in the past few thousand years. The doorways, the arches, the windows, the ceiling heights, the bells, the stained-glass work, the pillars and the details. Right from the era of Saxon (597-1066); Norman (1066-1200); Early English (c1200-1290); Decorated (c1290-1350); and Perpendicular (c1350-1530) theses buildings have really come a long way.
You could spend hours looking at some ceilings or admiring certain walls or scan through several rows of old wooden benches or look at the chandeliers or simply admire the large piano, or closely look at the old Organ which perhaps has seen better days – a visit would be worth your time. Do a little research there, ask questions, important events and you will be amazed at the stories that show up.
And while you sit there, just soak in everything you see and in everything you don’t see.
Bring back home some cherished moments and some deeper sense of clarity; at least that’s what I love to do.
Close to my heart for more than one just reason and just one shade of me – many more sides still to explore !!