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As experts in architecture we will find the best location for your congress, hotels with an interest in design and architecture, the thematic activities best suited to your target or group, the best speakers, routes, guide-architects, services and caterings.

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Organize your study trip to update your team or as an incentive for your clients or suppliers. We adapt the contents according to the interests of your company or institution. Delegate the success of your trips to our professionals and get the best possible performance to your budget.

We work in all phases of the organization of events: initial proposal, conceptualization, contact with the speakers, budgets, hiring premises and rooms, catering, hostesses, identification, control of registrants, collections, promotions and staging.

Comments from our clients

It was a wonderful experience. Excellent trip! An unforgettable one! Besides the interesting tour we had an amazing and beautiful interaction inside the group ( we laughed and enjoyed the company of each other as we were a one little closed family 🙂 In my opinion this (the closed relationship among the group) was an positive additive element in this trip which can’t be ignored! It made the tour even more greater .. 🙂 … To suffice, I would like to thank you and all the crew for what you planed and gave to us . It will always stay as unforgettable trip and with good memories.

“Thank you so much for all your help, I can’t imagine doing the congress without your help, I think I would go crazy!! All our best to you, Fernanda, Cristina and Jordi!”

Tanto el profesor como los estudiantes me contaron que les gustó mucho el tour con Daniel y todo bien con la ruta. Me dijo el profesor que igual para la próxima vez que vengan a Madrid, les gustaría hacer un tour de la zona de Nuevo Norte. Muchas gracias de nuevo y seguimos en contacto para futuros grupos.

Dear Artchitectours, We definitely had a good time and the guides were great.  We will send you some pictures soon. Hopefully we will be able to work with you again in the future. Thank you and regards.

“La visita a Madrid nos ha gustado a todos mucho, pero era demasiado corta. ¡Hay tantas cosas que ver! Muchos recuerdos a Juan, lo ha hecho muy bien, sus explicaciones eran muy interesantes, su alemán es excelente y es muy simpático!”

“Sevilla estuvo increíble, que ciudad tan linda! Seguro volveré para ver todo un poquito más tranquilo, me encanto! Los guías también eran muy buenos y amables, el tour del sábado de verdad ha sido muy bueno!”

Este mail es para informarte que el viaje a Basilea que hemos organizado desde el Colegio de Arquitectos de Albacete conjunto a vosotros ha sido un éxito rotundo. Todos los compañeros han acabado muy contentos y no ha habido ninguna incidencia a señalar, las casi 60 personas que formábamos la expedición han tenido un comportamiento exquisito, y me han hecho muy fácil el ser jefe del grupo. Así que después de mucho negociar, discutir, hablar, etc… quería darte las gracias por todo, así como mi enhorabuena.

Hello, It was wonderful, we learned a lot, it exceeded or expectations, thanks and see you next time! Herbert

“Thank you so much for the tour today. Absolutely fabulous! A tour is only as good as the guide and that tour was one of the highlights of the trip. The architecture might have helped a little bit 😉 but you brought it to life. ¡Gracias gracias gracias!”

We had a wonderful time in Chandigarh! Thank you for setting this up!!

“Solo unas líneas para decirte que el grupo ha quedado muy contento con su estancia. La visita que hicisteis ha ido muy bien.”

“En varias ocasiones tanto como escuela o en tours más pequeños he utilizado los servicios y asesoría de Jordi. Los viajes han todos resultado impecables tanto en las recomendaciones como en la organización, jamás un problema de ningún tipo. Los recomiendo de la manera más amplia, a Jordi y su equipo, que son muy profesionales y serios, sin ninguna duda.”

L’event en general va ser un èxit: la feina realitzada per tots els treballadors, que van haver de fer front a les diverses casuístiques del dia, va ser molt bona. Incloent en Ricardo, és clar. Per tant els clients van quedar contents, i nosaltres també.

Me dijeron que estaban muy contentos del tour y que Nuria fue muy profesional, así que muchas gracias.

Just wanted to let you know we had the most amazing day today with Gabriel in Brasilia– it far exceeded our expectations. Regards Steph

“A l’occasion des 25 ans de notre association ‘Childebert’, nous avions souhaité marquer le coup, et organiser un beau voyage. Chicago avait été choisi de manière quasi unanime. Nous n’avons pas regretté ce choix. Il a été magistralement organisé par toi Jordi depuis Barcelone et par toi Larissa, qui nous a guidé magnifiquement à Chicago. Ta gentillesse et ton professionnalisme ont fait le bonheur de tout le monde, je peux te l’assurer.”

Todo ha ido muy bien, la actividad tuvo mucho éxito y los clientes están encantados. Mil gracias a ti y a Daniel 🙂

“Los tours fueron muy bien. La guía fue encantadora y super apasionada, el grupo quedó muy satisfecho.”

We enjoyed our trip to Brasil very much. Wonderful country, great architecture and good company! We wish to thank you for your professional organisation.

“Nous revenons de Séville, les yeux pleins d’images qui resteront dans nos esprits. Le séjour s’est très bien déroulé à l’hôtel EME, le guide Daniel,particulièrement sympa et avons beaucoup apprécié la collation dans le bus de Reims a Orly.”

Dear Marta, Thank you for working so tirelessly to help make the first international trip for Dar Al-Hekma University’s Architecture Department so successful!  I apologize for any inconvenience related to our requested changes in the itinerary.  In the future, we will have a much better idea of the interests and capacity of the students. We learned that students can only absorb so many buildings at a time and need more free time to explore interesting neighborhoods during guided tours.  In any event, the students absolutely loved Spain and several plan to return in the near future!  The people we met were extremely kind and generous.  We truly appreciate the efforts of you and your team on our behalf. Sincerely, Tamsen

Hi Artchitectours, I’m in São Paulo now, but my stay in Brasilia was fantastic. I cannot say enough good things about Gabriel; he was the most lovely, knowledgeable, accommodating guide I could have asked for.  We had a great time and I will be sure to recommend you and your company to anyone traveling here. What other  cities/countries do you operate in? Anyway, thank you for facilitating.  It was well worth it. My best, Martin

They have organized trips and architecture tours with us …

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• Architectural Tourism

Building for Urban Travel Destinations

• © 2014
• Jan Specht 0

Studiengang Tourismuswirtschaft, Adam-Ries-Fachhochschule, Munich, Germany

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

• Unique study about architectural tourism
• Includes supplementary material: sn.pub/extras

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Table of contents (6 chapters)

Front matter, introduction, tourism and the built environment, architectural tourism in the spatial and temporal urban context, contemporary architecture and the destination image, architectural tourism and the spectaculture, conclusions, back matter.

• Destination Branding
• Destination Development
• Tourism Marketing
• Urban Architecture
• urban geography and urbanism

About this book

Since the early times of travelling architecture does constitute an important force of attraction and a vital element in marketing. Until today destinations try to increase their market positions by means of the development and restoration of the built environment. However, architecture is characterised by an enduring presence with impacts on visitors and residents alike. Hence, on a sustainable basis it needs to chime with place and situation. Where modesty might be suitable for one destination, spectacular architecture could be a transformation catalyst or unique selling proposition for another. Destination developers have to be aware of the local requirements as well as the reciprocal relationship between the modern practice of tourism and the built environment. To address the complexity of architectural tourism, throughout the book this topic is subject of a controversial discussion and approached with a contextual and interdisciplinary view.

Authors and Affiliations

About the author, bibliographic information.

Book Title : Architectural Tourism

Book Subtitle : Building for Urban Travel Destinations

Authors : Jan Specht

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-658-06024-4

Publisher : Springer Gabler Wiesbaden

eBook Packages : Business and Economics , Business and Management (R0)

Copyright Information : Springer Fachmedien Wiesbaden 2014

Softcover ISBN : 978-3-658-06023-7 Published: 26 May 2014

eBook ISBN : 978-3-658-06024-4 Published: 19 May 2014

Edition Number : 1

Number of Pages : XIV, 199

Number of Illustrations : 115 b/w illustrations

Topics : Tourism Management , Architecture, general , Urbanism

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Architectural Tourism by Shelley Hornstein

Shelley Hornstein's new book, Architectural Tourism: Site-Seeing, Itineraries and Cultural Heritage , charts the relationship, and even the entanglement, between architecture and tourism. It reveals how architecture is always tied to its physical site, yet is transportable in our imagination – and into the virtual spheres of social media and armchair travel.

Read on for a teaser extract taken from the book's introduction...   

Around the world, architecture is a magnetic draw for tourists of all stripes. Since the era of pre-industrial religious pilgrimages, architecture has beckoned travellers. Religious and historic sights, or contemporary buildings designed by ‘star’ architects demonstrate that architecture has always been undeniably tied to our cultural and architectural heritage, our collective identity and perhaps above all, to the tourist industry. Think about what we remember about a city and why. Landmark buildings such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris by Gustave Eiffel or the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain by Frank Gehry, mark their place and leave an indelible memory for tourists. When we think of a place we’ve travelled to see, we usually think of the buildings or sites that linger in our memory. What is noticeably different today, and as a result of the indisputable impact the Bilbao museum has made, is that architects themselves have become celebrities. Therefore, while our identification of a place is often associated with the building and the cultural memory informed by it, now the name of the architect is a draw in itself.

Architectural Tourism charts the relationship, and even the entanglement, between architecture and tourism. Key global icons of ‘spectacular’ architectural sites, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Taj Mahal, as well as key current ‘starchitecture’ iconic buildings beginning with the Bilbao Guggenheim are discussed, illustrating the manifold issues involved in architectural tourism. Buildings and places are used to ‘brand’ a city so that it is immediately recognisable in visual publicity. It is no coincidence that the major travel agencies such as Globus, Abercrombie & Kent, Carlson Wagonlit, or Expedia, flash images of iconic architectural sites on their website home pages. Travel is a quest of sorts: a quest for unearthing the foreign and the unfamiliar with the frisson that it might result in a mild, or even a rude, cultural awakening. A visit to the physical site is always paralleled today by digital and virtual cultural exploration across social media platforms on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook, to name but a few. Some travel is accomplished by not going anywhere at all – physically – but rather by way of the imagination through photographs, postcards, films, theatre, or literature. Illustrated by studies of international architectural icons, the book looks at how these buildings feature in literature, art and design, marketing and social media and reveals how the impact of these depictions combine to build up a deeply romanticised idea of the icon, which is central to the desire to visit it.

From the earliest recordings by Westerners of architectural ruins and the material cultural triumphs of past cultures to the continuing thirst for knowledge of architectural sites today, tourists yearn for a connection to built forms, a material connection to place, and a desire to know the world. The Romans admired the Greeks, the Italian Renaissance masters reconsidered Roman antiquities, the Enlightenment period was preoccupied with archaeological ruins, and colonising nations portrayed indigenous cultures with mythologised histories. Architecture and the places in which they are located are markers of culture and cultural consumption. Yet while travel to places and architectural discovery has been an activity told and documented for centuries, the democratisation of travel as mass tourism only really developed as a leisure activity during the 19th century. Since then, tourists move in greater numbers from a familiar place (home) to a faraway place, and then return to the point of departure. The 19th century afforded a kaleidoscopic vision of the world that was mediated by the then current technologies: trains, steamships, and cameras. Each of these recorded and ‘captured’ movement and the new spaces of modernity. Suddenly the world became two dimensional, seen through the lens of the camera or panoramic images framed through train windowpanes. Suddenly, pictures of architecture and places became another form of tourism – a window onto the world – and subsequently piqued unbridled enthusiasm for unfamiliar places.

This year, however, that is the year 2020, the year I am writing this preface and completing this manuscript, is unlike any other. This year, we are in lockdown. This year follows on the heels of 2019, a year when we were unsuspecting of the dread to come, when the coronavirus began to spread across the city of Wuhan, China, and then unexpectedly almost, while the rest of the world imagined this was not ‘our’ problem, made its way at breakneck speed to various locations across the globe until it arrived in North America in February 2020. How did it make its way? Travel. Tourism. The international connections linking one city to another, one household to another, one site to another.

This uninvited visitor, this eager speed traveller with malicious intent and endless destinations, the Novel Coronavirus, otherwise known as Covid-19, has not completed its tour of the world as I write. A pandemic that has shaken the world has enforced global health specialists to order the reverse of travel: prescribe immobility and social distancing and keep a spacing of at least two metres from others, necessarily bringing the travel industry to an abrupt halt. In attempting to confront and placate this fast-moving virus that has already targeted upwards of four million people worldwide, everyone – the entire global community – has been asked to shelter-at-home in order to be isolated from one another, one of the only reliable weapons in the international health artillery. The travel industry’s collapse was anything but gradual. It hit like a bomb: flights were brought to a standstill, all shops and commercial activities normally conducted in person were shut down, and gatherings of people were reduced from groups of 50 to 20 to none in a matter of days. Cries of devastation by the tourism sector swarm on the media unprecedentedly: tourism-dependent cities have been walloped by the crisis. For example, job losses for the Indian travel industry could be close to 38 million which accounts for approximately 70 per cent of the labour workforce. This is only one sector yet the broader landscape of travel global losses tally 75 million jobs and $2.1 trillion in revenue, in effect paralysing any thought of how travel might recover. Indeed, as National Geographic writer, Elizabeth Becker puts it, ‘The technological revolution that brought us closer together by making travel and tourism easy and affordable – a revolution that fuelled one billion trips a year – is helpless in halting a virus that demands we shelter in place.’

Forecasts of the worst economic depression to rival that of 1929 is on the horizon while unemployment is already tabulating unthinkable numbers in every country. Most of all, the lives lost to this virus so far without a vaccine or any form of inoculation shocks us all. Just as with deadly pandemics of the past, the Coronavirus continues to be responsible for ratchetting up soon to be over 500,000 fatalities, and the numbers continue to creep upward. And all the while, our worlds involute. As Paul Daley chronicles in The Guardian , ‘Our geographic orbits have shrunk. Our homes have become countries, our streets worlds and our suburbs universes. Once small things like a visit to the supermarket, a chat with a neighbour, a dog walk, hold greater emotional meaning than we’d ever have dreamt a few months back.’

And yet! While some airports are using runways as aeroplane parking lots and hotels and cruise ships are being converted into intensive care hospital wards, designers are packaging lockdown playlists, travel websites are intensifying interest in dream-worthy armchair vacations and museums are staging virtual 3D tours of exhibitions without ever having to leave home. Even the house rental giant Airbnb has introduced ‘Online Experiences’ to binge on – ‘Cultural Journey through London Chinatown’, or ‘Follow a Plague Doctor Through Prague’ – in what has been referred to as The Great Lockdown. The National Trust for Canada invites the visitor to its website with the tagline: ‘Get out your virtual passport and celebrate World Heritage Day’ on 18 April, ‘. . . a perfect moment to discover wonderful heritage places that the world has to offer’. With an offer to ‘keep your spirits high during this time of social distancing . . . From inspiring architecture to beautiful pastoral scenery, take a moment to enjoy some of Canada’s great historic places without leaving home.’ 

The online email newsletter, Dezeen Daily , proposes a little escapism by showcasing ten ideal remote cabins, treehouses and retreats for the readers visual delectation. The Culture Trip website invites readers to travel with them vicariously in order to ‘stay curious, dream now, plan later’ by visiting ‘. . . the New Seven Wonders of the World from Your Living Room’. And with the hope of a future Covid-19 free, are the prospective tours being advertised during the pandemic such as the ‘Great British Telly: A Tour of England’ already postponed once and rescheduled for autumn. This Public Broadcasting Station sponsored tour visits the sites and villages of some of the most popular British television series such as Midsomer Murders , Inspector Morse , Downton Abbey and more. Architectural sites include Bletchley Park, Highclere Castle and the Chavenage House where the series Poldark was filmed in part. If for nothing else and the trip is postponed again or cancelled entirely, the escapist fantasy of experiencing these virtual sites is worthwhile. A colleague, commenting on a drawing by artist, Kera Till, ‘Commuting in Corona Times’, calls it ‘fabulous and . . . relevant – how to feel a sense of movement in all this stillness and stay-at-home-ness . . . how seemingly static spaces [are] punctured by routes and pathways’.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia, 2014 & Guggenheim Bilbao, by architect Frank Gehry, Bilbao, Spain, 2002. Photos by Shelley Hornstein.

So, what might all this mean for the future of architectural tourism? Perhaps the only bright spark for tourism altogether is that the extended sheltering at home imperative piques interest and fuels a desire to move, to leave the confines of isolation, and that the tangible site, the physical place, the one we cannot currently get to, will be more tantalising than ever before.

-- Extract taken from Shelley Hornstein's new book, Architectural Tourism: Site-Seeing, Itineraries and Cultural Heritage , which will be released on 20th November. Pre-order HERE .

Hardcover  •  192   Pages  •  Size:   240 × 170 mm 25 colour illustrations and 75 B&W illustrations ISBN:   9781848222274  •  Publication:   November 20, 2020

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Architectural tourism : site-seeing, itineraries and cultural heritage

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• Contributors

Description

Creators/contributors, contents/summary.

• Introduction.
• 1: Oh the Places You'll Go!
• 2: World Heritage Sites, National Identity, and What we Choose to Remember
• 3: Romancing the Stone: The Guidebook and Architectural Place
• 4: Monuments as Intangible or Tangible Heritage Tourism
• 5: The Bilbao Effect, Starchitecture and The Rise of the Designer Museum
• 6: No Place Like Home
• 7: To End with an Exceptional Architectural Tourism Story.
• (source: Nielsen Book Data)

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Discover the fascinating 150-year evolution of the Fulton-Randolph Market District from food wholesaling…

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Want a quick introduction to Chicago’s magnificent architecture? This 90-minute tour takes a comprehensive look at the city’s architectural history by viewing buildings in chronological order, from early skyscrapers to new supertall high rises.

Chicago is home to some of the world’s earliest skyscrapers. Get an up-close look at these 19th Century marvels, learn about innovations used to build them and discover how they transformed Chicago into a center of skyscraper design and engineering…

Go inside the lobbies of Art Deco masterpieces built in the heart of Chicago’s financial district during the Roaring '20s. Learn how Art Deco reflected the era’s fun-loving optimism with lavish materials and geometric ornament.

Historic Treasures of Chicago’s Golden Age

Learn about the great architectural landmarks of Michigan Avenue and State Street. The 40 years between 1890 and 1930 saw the creation of some of Chicago’s the most memorable buildings, many of which are featured on this tour.

Discover a living urban canvas along the Wabash Avenue Arts Corridor in the South Loop. Learn more about the murals that make up this colorful corridor and discover art in hidden places.

Tiffany in Chicago

Learn about the life and work of Louis Comfort Tiffany as we visit some of Chicago’s most magnificent art-glass and mosaic installations, each designed and crafted by the Tiffany Glass and Decorating Company.

Must-See Chicago is a fast-paced, 90-minute introductory tour to Chicago featuring some of its most famous buildings, including the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, the Art Institute of Chicago, Willis (Sears) Tower, and more!

Architecture of the Magnificent Mile

Discover how a dirt road known as Pine Street transformed into a "Paris on the Prairie" and later into the Magnificent Mile, the city’s premier shopping district. Hear the secrets and stories behind the striking buildings on North Michigan Avenue that…

Over the course of 90 minutes, explore some of the newest buildings around the Chicago Architecture Center, focusing on construction elements and their impact on the city’s built environment.

Previously titled Mid-Century Modern Skyscrapers, this tour takes a look at iconic Mid-Century Modern architecture in Chicago and its triumvirate of modern architects (Mies van der Rohe, Bertrand Goldberg and SOM)

Humboldt Park

Walk the historic core in the largest of Chicago’s West Side parks, created by many including William LeBaron Jenney and Jens Jensen. Discover architecture and sculpture that honor many of the immigrant groups that have created our city. Our walk partner…

Historic Austin

Explore the architectural gems of Austin, a former “railroad suburb” on Chicago’s West side. Annexed in 1899, Austin became the home of numerous immigrant communities and remains a hub for many grand residences built in the fashionable Queen Anne…

Walk Kenilworth's leafy streets, learn the history of the village, view its earliest houses and see other fine examples of residential architecture that were designed between 1891 and the mid-1920s by distinguished Chicago architects.

This lively overview of Chicago architecture explores iconic buildings from the 1890s to present. We'll compare and contrast a wide range of buildings with varying architectural styles and see how older structures connect to new skyline additions.

Oak Park is home to the world’s largest collection of buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. View the exteriors of nearly a dozen of Wright’s structures.

Discover the art, architecture and history of Chinatown on this 90-minute walk, which includes stops at a Chinese bakery and a former Italian church. The tour begins and ends near some of Chinatown's tastiest restaurants, convenient for those wanting…

Discover Northwestern University’s stunning, wooded campus on the shore of Lake Michigan. This two-hour walking tour explores a wide variety of architectural styles, from 19th Century Collegiate Gothic buildings to cutting-edge, contemporary designs…

Learn about The 606/Bloomingdale Trail and how it came to be during this 90-minute, one-mile walking tour along the beautifully restored Bloomingdale railroad viaduct on Chicago’s northwest side.

Discover the fascinating 150-year evolution of the Fulton-Randolph Market District from food wholesaling and meatpacking to gourmet restaurants, technology hubs and boutique hotels.

Lights, Camera, Architecture!

Chicago’s unique architecture has co-starred in movies with Ferris Bueller, Batman and the Blues Brothers, among other famous big screen characters. See some of the buildings featured in these films and more!

Hear the history of this stately neighborhood, home to Chicago’s early industrialists, modern-day innovators and President Barack Obama.

Walk Pilsen

Discover Pilsen, a neighborhood that continues to welcome immigrants, adding to the mosaic that enriches urban life. Walk a vibrant community whose architecture and art reflect the dreams of all who come to Chicago. Trace European and Mexican influences…

Discover Uptown—a treasure trove of terra cotta ornament and creatively repurposed historic buildings; home to entertainment palaces like the Riviera, Green Mill and the Aragon Ballroom; and one of the most diverse neighborhoods on the North Side.

Evanston Along the Lake

This walk through Evanston's Lakeshore Historic District explores a variety of churches and residences in the town that became Daniel Burnham's "country retreat" and which is still considered one of Chicago's most desirable suburbs.

In addition to being the site of the 1893 World’s Fair, Hyde Park is also home to the University of Chicago and many significant buildings, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, Robie House.

Gold Coast: Astor Street

Discover the architectural treasures of the Astor Street Historic District, one of Chicago's most affluent neighborhoods. The tour covers residential architecture of the late 19th and early 20th centuries and looks at the preservation movement of the…

Gold Coast: Dearborn Street

See beautifully preserved examples of domestic architecture of the early 1900s in this delightful walk along three blocks of Dearborn Street in the heart of Chicago’s Gold Coast.

Take a short walk to see the Lakeshore East neighborhood, featuring two notable buildings designed by the woman-led Studio Gang Architects: Aqua Tower and the St. Regis Chicago.

Mies and Modernism: The IIT Campus Tour

The Illinois Institute of Technology is home to the largest group of buildings designed by Mies van der Rohe—the most influential figure in American Modernism. This tour traces the evolution of the campus with a special emphasis on the years 1938—1958—the…

Wicker Park

Learn the history of this Northwest Side classic Chicago neighborhood listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Developed by numerous immigrant communities beginning in the 1870s, today it is a diverse mix of economic levels and architectural…

Grant Park’s landscape is both front yard and recreation spot for Chicago. But did you know that the area was once under water? Or that at one time it housed an airfield, a major league sports team and the tomb of a Civil War hero? Join us as we unlock…

Understand how the unique Chicago-style bascule bridges work. View the underpinnings of the bridges, as the tour follows the bridge lifts of three of the Chicago River’s most famous bridges, including Michigan Avenue’s DuSable Bridge, Columbus Drive’s…

Hear the stories behind the people buried at the beautiful and tranquil Oak Woods Cemetery on Chicago’s South Side, from important local African Americans who fought for Civil Rights to Confederate prisoners of war.

Civil War and Chicago's Role: Rosehill Cemetery

Hear the stories of the heroes, villains and ordinary citizens on this visit to Rosehill Cemetery. Learn about the people who were instrumental in the nomination of Lincoln, discover the role of newspaper editors in this struggle and those who were involved…

Explore Chicago’s amazing architecture from the unique perspective of elevated trains and station platforms. Learn the history behind the famous "L" system and hear how it has shaped the development of buildings within the Loop.

875 N. Michigan Ave (John Hancock Center)

Completed in 1970, 875 N. Michigan Ave (John Hancock Center) dominates the northern end of Chicago’s skyline. On this tour, you'll learn how the building forever changed the character of North Michigan Avenue.

Architectural Highlights by Bus

Discover the exciting diversity of Chicago’s world famous architecture as we trace its development from the early days up to the present.

Tour the lobbies of five opulent Art Deco skyscrapers built near the banks of the Chicago River during the business boom of the Roaring '20s. Learn how Art Deco reflected the era’s fun-loving optimism with lavish materials and geometric ornament.

Beverly (South): A Castle, Mansions and More

Tour one of Chicago’s most fascinating neighborhoods, Beverly. Explore two houses built just after the Great Fire of 1871, a Frank Lloyd Wright home and a true Chicago castle. This tour showcases part of Chicago’s Longwood Drive Landmark District…

Chicago Board of Trade Building

The Chicago Board of Trade is a Loop icon and City of Chicago and US National Historic Landmark that anchors La Salle Street, described in the building's opening brochure as the 'monarch' of the street, still standing tall and proud. We’ll see newly…

Devil in the White City

History buffs and true crime lovers, rejoice! This bus tour delves into the compelling true story told in Erik Larson’s best-selling novel, “Devil in the White City.” The story traverses two simultaneous events in Chicago’s history: the World’s…

Fine Arts Building

Discover this treasure trove on Michigan Avenue and learn how it went from a carriage showroom to a high-profile artists’ colony that housed tenants like Frank Lloyd Wright, Lorado Taft and Harriet Monroe.

Fort Sheridan

Discover the history and architecture of Fort Sheridan, a former military base listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

French Language (Langue Française): Les Incontournables

Cette visite vous propose un aperçu complet de l’architecture de Chicago, de ses bâtiments les plus connus et admirés, ainsi que la collection de nombreuses œuvres d’art dans le centre de la ville.

GRACELAND CEMETERY

Beautiful and serene, Graceland Cemetery is a treasured oasis in the center of our bustling city. Notables interred here are Chicago's movers and shakers of the late 19th and early 20th centuries: Daniel Burnham, Potter Palmer, Charles Wacker, George…

Graceland Cemetery: Symbols in Stone

As we explore a venerable section of Graceland Cemetery, we’ll discuss the meanings of and changes to gravestone symbols and shapes, from Victorian times to the present day.

Graceland Cemetery: Women of Influence

During Chicago’s period of growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, women played a hugely influential role by participating in the Underground Railroad, exhibiting the first Modern Art paintings, creating the juvenile justice system and even…

Highland Park

This tour traces Highland Park’s history from pioneer settlement to summer retreat for Chicago’s wealthy to year-round suburb. Encounter a beautiful variety of residential styles and see homes by architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and W. W. Boyington…

Hotel Boom: Making Old New Again

Chicago’s growth as a favorite travel destination has fueled a surge in the creative repurposing of historic skyscrapers into chic new hotels. Learn how and why a former motor club, insurance company and bank have undergone this change

Inland Steel Building

As the first skyscraper built within the Loop after World War II, the Inland Steel Building became an instant symbol of Chicago’s prominence as a modern American city in the 20th century.

Explore the fascinating history reflected in the unique designs of the North Shore suburb of Lake Bluff. Trace the history from the formation of the Lake Bluff Camp Meeting Association, and their plans for a resort similar to the Chautauqua movement,…

Lake Forest Cemetery

Experience the Lake Forest Cemetery's park-like setting overlooking Lake Michigan in one of Chicago's most beautiful premier suburbs. Hear stories of Lake Forest's founding and those who made their mark from Civil War to modern times.

Lincoln Park: From Cemetery to Sculpture Garden

Take a pleasant walk through Chicago’s beautiful Lincoln Park—a former lakeside cemetery turned recreation destination. Hear about the park’s history, learn the stories behind famous sculptures and enjoy a stroll through the park’s beloved zoo…

Macy's on State: The Legacy of Marshall Field's

Explore the construction, development and renovation of this State Street landmark by Daniel Burnham.

Marquette Building

Completed in 1895, the Marquette Building brings Chicago’s early history to life in an artistic and elegant setting. Examine the innovative exterior and get an up-close view of the beautiful interior.

Merchandise Mart

Once the largest building in the world, the Merchandise Mart remains a center for commercial and residential design. This massive structure has kept up with the times and is now recognized as a key Chicago hub for technological innovation.

Monadnock Building

Tour the world’s tallest commercial building with load-bearing masonry walls and learn how the transition from masonry to steel frame skyscrapers transformed the workplace.

Old Town Triangle

No other Chicago neighborhood is like Old Town. Tucked behind high-rises and moments from the vast green space of Lincoln Park, this landmark district has a unique history and diversity. Today diversity adds richness to Old Town from St. Michael's Church—considered…

Palmer House Hotel

Experience the glamour, intrigue and excitement of the bygone "Grand Hotel" era at the Palmer House. See recently restored public spaces and renovated guest rooms while learning about the history of Chicago’s oldest continually operating hotel.

Pub Tour: Andersonville

Experience the Swedish influences of Andersonville a historically landmarked neighborhood settled in the 1850's. Join us in seeing architecture taken to new uses and now operate as churches, restaurants and schools with Scandinavian inspiration. Get…

Pub Tour: Near North

Explore the variety of living spaces in the Near North neighborhood, part of River North. High rise living among micro-unit apartments interspersed with various hotels broaden the idea of working from home. Historically a destination for Italian immigrants…

Pub Tour: West Loop

Combining post-Chicago fire buildings with the recent influx of residents and company headquarters locations, see how buildings in the West Loop have adapted to spaces for families to live, work and play. Stroll by an abundance of cutting-edge dining…

Reliance Building

Marvel at the original marble, mahogany doors and decorative wrought iron found throughout the two lobbies and uppermost floors of this 1895 building, designed by John Wellborn Root and Charles Atwood.

River North: Transformation of a Neighborhood

See historic gems in this former center of manufacturing and explore its boom-and-bust transformation into a vibrant neighborhood buzzing with residential buildings, entertainment venues and office towers. Steeped in history and character, River North…

This tour helps you discover the western portion of the Riverwalk, starting at the Vietnam Memorial near State Street. As we walk to Lake Street, hear how this linear park—called Chicago’s new coastline by some—has become a magnet for outdoor recreation…

Rookery Building

Explore the interior and exterior of one of Chicago’s most famous and beloved historic buildings: The Rookery by Daniel Burnham and John Wellborn Root.

Sacred Spaces in Downtown Chicago

Chicago's downtown is home to a number of striking and architecturally significant houses of worship. Visit several of these sites, including "the tallest church in the world"—a skyscraper with offices, designed for worship and work.

Sheffield Historic District

Historic Sheffield is long considered a gem of late 19th century architecture, its streets lined with gorgeous homes from that era and beyond. Also noteworthy are the three Row House Districts from the 1870s and ’80s, each of them landmarked by the…

The Old Post Office

Explore the new Old Post Office Building, whose early 20th-century design has been adaptively reused into a beautiful, modern Class A Office building.

University of Chicago

Come explore the early Collegiate Gothic roots of the university campus in the original quadrangles, the “march of mid-century modernism” along the Midway and the recent, breath-taking architectural additions such as the Mansueto Library and the Midway…

Union Station: Icon of a Great Age

Union Station is one of the last grand train stations still operating in the U.S. and the only one in Chicago, serving both Amtrak and Metra commuter rail. Take in the elaborate details of this historic landmark, including the stunning Great Hall, which…

Columbia College Student Center

This Gold LEED certified building, with myriad sustainable features throughout, includes recyclable materials, glass that protects against birds flying into the building, noise cancelling walls for music practitioners and low-carbon concrete.

Best Driving Vacations 2024: Columbus, Indiana, has worldly architecture, small-town charm

This southern indiana city boasts buildings from i.m. pei and eero saarinen, as well as public art and seven national historic landmarks..

Today, we present the final installment in the best driving destinations from central Ohio. We hope you have enjoyed the series.

An architectural pilgrimage to Columbus, Indiana

Finnish architect Eero Saarinen said, “The purpose of architecture is to shelter and enhance man's life on earth and to fulfill his belief in the nobility of his existence."

Indeed, in his most celebrated works — the Gateway Arch in St. Louis or the sleek, futuristic TWA Flight Center at New York’s Kennedy Airport — Saarinen created structures with the intent that they would be gazed upon for generations, masterpieces that would become destinations, much like the Pyramids of Giza or the Colosseum in Rome.  

One need not travel far from Ohio to make an architectural pilgrimage the focal point of a road trip. There’s Chicago, New York or Washington, D.C., a day’s drive away, of course. But just three hours west, in the small, southern Indiana prairie town of Columbus , sits an oasis of modern architecture. A place where the most elite architects in the world have made their playground.  

Part 1: Best Driving Vacations 2024: Explore the Northern Shore of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

This other Columbus (population 50,000) earned this distinction thanks to the vision of J. Irwin Miller . In a post-WWII landscape, he wanted to attract the country’s brightest engineers to work for his Cummins engine corporation. As an incentive, he created the Cummins Foundation, which supports ambitious architectural projects throughout the town.

The first contract, Lillian Schmitt Elementary, went to architect Harry Weese in 1954. From there, the foundation snowballed — everything from the fire stations to the hospitals, the park restrooms, City Hall and even the Bartholomew County Jail is a photo opportunity for architecture enthusiasts. Roaming the town is a moveable feast of brutalism, midcentury modernism and beyond.  

The best way to see Columbus is through its celebrated two-hour architecture tour (make reservations well in advance). The knowledgeable guides start at I.M. Pei’s fortress-like Cleo Rogers Memorial Library and end with an up-close visit inside of Saarinen’s breathtaking North Christian Church, which resembles a spaceship that has landed in the bucolic environs.

Part 2: Best Driving Vacations 2024: Take a Battlefield Tour of Pennsylvania and Maryland

Columbus boasts seven national historic landmarks, most of which can be seen on the tour. A personal favorite is the minimal and spartan former home of The Republic newspaper, designed by Myron Goldsmith in 1971.  

In the afternoon, a tour of the Miller House is a must. Opened in 2011, it was purchased by Newfields, Indianapolis’ modern art institution. Since 1957, it has sat far from the road, obscured by a landscape by Dan Kiley. Exposing it was akin to opening the doors of Willy Wonka’s factory.

Alexander Girard’s bright and colorful interiors tie the whole place together. Seeing the retro-futuristic, step-in sitting room is much like visiting that Colosseum. It might just be Saarinen’s masterpiece.  

Columbus is entirely walkable, replete with public art from the likes of Robert Indiana and Dale Chihuly . Exploring further can allow you to sit for a drink in Lucabe Coffee Co., which has repurposed Weese’s award-winning Irwin Bank and Trust, or walk the methodically designed Mill Race City Park along the banks of the Flatrock River.  

Downtown offers a stark contrast to the city’s famous modern architecture, featuring faithfully restored, late-19th century, Victorian-style storefronts. The centerpiece is Zaharakos Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor. Still using the same methods since opening in 1900, it features a real soda fountain and a calliope. Order a Green River and the Gom Cheese Brr-Grr, a variation on the sloppy Joe filled with American cheese on toast.  

Part 3: Best Driving Vacations 2024: Go on the ultimate full-circle adventure around Lake Erie

Elsewhere, the three-story kidscommons is an exceptional children’s museum for a town this size. Need a libation? The Indiana-famous Upland Brewing has a taproom close by. And the surrounding prairie, through which the statelong People Trail passes, has myriad options for outdoor adventures.  

Columbus, Indiana, is not an artifact. Even if the goal is midcentury nostalgia, it’s constantly evolving. In fact, it’s a living laboratory, as Indiana University currently has a graduate architecture program there. The Cummins Foundation, too, is still thriving.

Currently on the docket is a new air-traffic control tower for the regional airport, with a short list of architecture firms vying to design it. At every turn, that “nobility of man’s existence” is in the structures and design of daily life of Columbus. It’s got both small-town charm and worldly ambitions.  

Where to Stay in Columbus, Indiana

Prominently featured in Kogonada’s heralded 2017 debut film “Columbus , ” the Inn at Irwin Gardens is a Victorian mansion that is best visited during late spring when the grounds are in full bloom.

It’s an interesting alternative to the modern architecture that draws visitors to Columbus. Those on a budget can opt for the Hotel Indigo , which was built for the purpose of receiving architecture tourism. irwingardens.com , ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/us/en/columbus/clubs/hoteldetail  

Take a Side Trip to Richmond, Indiana

If you triangulate your trip down I-71 to Columbus, spending a night in Indianapolis and heading home east on I-70, it’s certainly worth a stop in Richmond, Indiana, to see the Gennett Records Walk of Fame .

From 1872 to the turn of the century, Starr Piano in Richmond was one of the country’s largest manufacturers. In 1915, the company started making phonographs and records. In the shadow of the former factory, one can see the spot of their hand-powered recording studio and a line of plaques on the path that celebrate Charlie Patton, Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington and other luminaries who recorded there. visitrichmond.org/listing/gennett-records-walk-fame  

This story is from the Best Driving Vacations package in the February 2024 issue of Columbus Monthly. 

The architecture of Tourism

What is the first thing we do when the vacations are around the corner? The images of the places we wish to visit, beckon our mind. The one constant in those images is that we associate the name of a place with its defining architectural style or monuments. The architecture of a region represents its identity and heritage. Their images imprint effortlessly in the minds of the locals and the visitors alike. This makes the architecture of the area an unavoidable part of the tourism industry.

The tourism industry is an integral part of the world economy. Various countries have turned to tourism as a solution to alleviate socio-economic issues. It plays a significant role in terms of employment, foreign trade and global markets, etc. Tourism, in turn, began to enhance and mold the architectural identity of regions. Certain cities in the world have incorporated this aspect into the policies and laws that govern their land use and development.

Architecture and tourism when synergized open new avenues to the socio-economic development of the region. This symbiotic existence gave birth to the concept of ‘the architecture of tourism’.

The symbiosis

Postcard cities are an example of the symbiosis between architecture and tourism. Architecture, gastronomy, culture, and scenic beauty are the magnets that attract tourists to a region. The development of tourism is linked to other aspects as well. It involves the preservation and advancement of the social, historical, and economic realms of society. The preferences of tourists are of utmost importance in this case. An in-depth understanding of the community and its culture can help us carve out the potentials within it.

When mentioning architecture and tourism, the focus is often on the built environment. The structure, aesthetics, and history of a building or monument contribute to its status as a landmark. Also, the building, its site, the entrepreneurial opportunities in its surroundings, and the natural attractions the sites offer to tourists all contribute to its tourism potential. Thus, all these stakeholders contribute to the symbiosis between cultural production and cultural consumption.

The incarnations

The enrichment of the tourism potential of a region favors the utilization of architecture and urban design in multiple ways. The essence of iconic architecture and history of a region is captured into souvenirs. The pyramids of Giza or the Parthenon are transformed into a portable keepsake.

Another approach is in the form of religious tourism. Here the sacred aspects of a community or city are highlighted to cater to a specific group of tourists. This is evident in cities such as Varanasi. The tourists are fascinated by the spiritual setting and in turn the city gains benefits in the form of revenue.

Cultural tourism depends on the artistic and cultural assets of the region. But the mere existence of these assets is insufficient. These aspects have to be showcased efficiently to play to the gallery. This is where the museums and craft villages come into play. The built environment that houses the aforesaid itself becomes an icon in this process, such as the Guggenheim Museum or Smithsonian museums.

Sometimes a city in itself is designed to cater to the tourists. In this case, urban design becomes the defining factor. Favorable characteristics include the ample presence of gastronomic hotspots, shopping centers, and photogenic spaces. The  redesigning of central Glasgow by MVRDV  to make it tourist-friendly also aimed to enhance its liveability.

The creator and creation

The existing potentials within a region is definitely a principle part of tourism generation. The conventional approach is to enhance these assets and their imageability to attract tourists. This approach is most suitable for regions that possess a unique asset. The heritage, culture, or architecture of the particular region has to be one of a kind to stand out. These marketable features are essentially inimitable. It needs to be preserved as close to its original state as possible. Most of the UNESCO world heritage sites exhibit this quality.

Certain cities, on the other hand, opt to rescript its design instead. After extensive analysis of current tourism trends, the city takes on a new form. They draw from their regional contexts and reinvent it to cater to a more global taste. The characteristics of such cities are exclusive but still accessible and comprehensible to the broader public. The contemporary cities elucidate this international and universal value. This doesn’t make them plebeian; instead, it creates a compelling sense of prominence. They celebrate the differences within them and transfigure an illusion of paradise to the visitors.  The regional center of 1937 Paris exposition  was a harbinger of this trend.

The desirability of a city does not merely contain itself to the built environment. The political, economic, and social layers of a city are also the beneficiaries and key players of the tourism industry. A city like Las Vegas becomes a prime example of this. In its case, architecture becomes a tool that converts an arid landscape into a success story of ‘ experience economy’ .

The architectural language that developed here is a poster child of hedonism. Here tourism not only gave birth to a new urban design approach, but it also influenced the legal, economic, social, and political planes of the area.

The architecture of tourism

The tourism industry is an influential determinant of architecture and urban design. The dynamism of the tourism industry acts as a stimulus to the economy, employment generation, infrastructural development, and social development of a region.

The fiscal benefits are not the only aspect it caters to. Tourism ultimately aims to provide recreation and relaxation to visitors. The travelers crave a break from their humdrum lives. The quest for new destinations, new experiences, and personal development defines a tourist. The same pursuit becomes the foundation on which the design of the tourism industry stands.

In this aspect, architecture is undergoing a transformation. It is essential to determine what should be an architect’s prime approach. Should architecture be visually fascinating, or should it be utilized to fascinate tourists?

Namita is an architect. Her experience at COSTFORD paved her interest in the architectural philosophies of Laurie Baker. She has a passion for writing. Her mother, a preceptor in English literature instilled in her the passion for books and languages. She also loves to explore new places and wishes to be a globetrotter.

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Lubyanka: Inside the Story of Moscow’s Infamous Building and District

Published: June 15, 2021

There is always history surrounding us. In a city like Moscow, this can seem overwhelmingly apparent. Moscow has many imposing buildings from many eras – some are immediately recognizable and others only invite wonder as to what stories lay behind their beauty or grime.

Lubyanka is the name commonly used to refer to the building that has historically housed the security services of the USSR and modern Russia, from the Cheka to the KGB to the FSB. The name has also, for a much longer history, been applied to the adjacent square and surounding neighborhood.

The Lubyanka Building

by Alyssa Rider

The building now known as Lubyanka was originally several buildings.

The two largest were originally designed by Alexander Ivanov and were separated by a street. The largest of these two was built in 1898 and the smaller in 1902 by the All-Russia Insurance Company. Insurance and banking were rapidly growing and profitable industries at that time. Insurance companies would often invest their substantial cash holdings in real estate. Thus, most of the buildings were built as residential and the space was rented for profit.

Perhaps ironically, the original, much more ornate façade of the main building included two female figures representing Justice and Solace.

The buildings were seized following the 1917 revolution and became the headquarters for the secret police – the Cheka at the time, though it has served in the same role for the various iterations of the Soviet, and now Russian, state security services – from the OGPU and NKVD, the KGB, and now the FSB.

Lubyanka prison was established in 1920 inside a two story structure adjacent to the main buildings. It had originally been a hotel built, again, by the All-Russia Insurance Company. It was soon expanded to six floors. Jokes referred to it as the “tallest building in Moscow,” as one could purportedly see Siberia (and the Gulag system) from its basement, as that was the fate that awaited most that saw the inside of the prison’s walls.

In 1940, Aleksey Shchusev was commissioned to enlarge the complex to accommodate the increasing amount of staff required to handle the Great Purge. The staff had grown from 2,500 in 1928 to nearly 34,000 in 1940.

An extra floor was added, and the main building expanded horizontally, consuming and incorporating nearby buildings. This expansion was interrupted by the Nazi invasion, leaving the facade lopsided until it was completed under the orders of Yuri Andropov in the 1980s.

The building now contains FSB headquarters, a group of holding cells, the headquarters of the Border Guard Service, and two museums: one devoted to the KGB/FSB and one dedicated to the old prison (neither is actually open to the public).

The Museums Inside the Lubyanka Building

The museums offer regularly updated exhibits, both historical and modern. The Museum of the KGB, now known as the Historical Demonstration Hall of the FSB of Russia, is located inside the Lubyanka complex, and contains four rooms and over two thousand exhibits.

Exhibits cover the history of Russian and Soviet counterintelligence, and there are documents from the times of both Peter and Catherine the Great, as well as the Napoleonic War and WWI. There are separate stands with information on events relating to mass repressions, as well as a room dedicated to WWII. The museum also includes a significant amount of technical equipment that has been used for reconnaissance and counterintelligence purposes, as well as more recent documents relating to FSB operations.

The prison museum has never been open to the public and is maintained only for FSB personnel and high-ranking government officials. The “Demonstration Hall” was opened to the public in 1989. Accessing it was still difficult, as it is located inside the FSB complex and tours were offered almost exclusively through private tour companies and only after screening potential visitors. In recent years, the tours became rarer and today this museum, too, is officially closed to outside visitors.

Lubyanka: Fountain, Statue, or Abstract Nothing?

The names were not the only thing that changed. In 1835, a fountain was installed on the square. This fountain was called Nikolsky Fountain (its name borrowed from the same gates mentioned above), and was designed by the Italian sculptor Giovanni Vitali and supplied potable water to the neighborhood.

Nikolsky Fountain is one of the oldest in Moscow, and it still stands, but no longer on Lubyanka. It was moved in the 1930s to a new location in the courtyard of Alexandrinsky Palace in Neskuchny Garden, part of the Gorky Park complex in central Moscow.

In 1958, a 15-ton iron statue of Dzerzhinsky, known as “Iron Felix” was installed in its former place on Lubyanka. This statue, in turn, was toppled in a public demonstration after the fall of the Soviet Union. It was transferred by the Russian Academy of Arts to the Muzeon, also known as Fallen Monument Park, to be joined by many other Soviet statues removed or toppled at that time.

In 2017, a general renovation of Lubyanka and the surrounding traffic patterns was announced by the city. It was debated if the fountain or even Iron Felix should be brought back. In the end, however, the space was enlarged and landscaped with flat, circular geometric shapes. The space, used and undecorated, remains largely unused.

In 2021, another effort to bring back the statue was proposed by the modern Communist Party in Moscow. The mayor initially agreed to allow the issue to be voted on in a referendum, but soon reversed his decision and killed the initiative.

The Solovetsky Stone

The Solovetsky Stone is a monument located across the street from Lubyanka Square in a separated area known as Musuem Park. It was created in commemoration of the political prisoners who were repressed under the GULAG system.

The Solovetsky Stone is a large granite block brought from the Solovetsky Islands, where the Solovetsky Special Purpose Camp operated in the 1920s and 1930s as part of the GULAG system. It was officially opened on October 30, 1990.

Founding such a memorial had become a matter of public discussion a few years earlier, in the late 1980s. The Memorial Society, now a globally-respected NGO, began a petition with the goal of creating a monument of political repression in 1987, and in 1988, a Public Council for the creation of such a monument was formed. A contest was also held in 1988, wherein people could submit their monument ideas and suggest locations, but a winner for this contest was never chosen.

The specific stone idea came from a memorial created in the village of Solovetsky in 1989 by former Solovetsky prisoners, many of whom stayed there after their release, and members of the Memorial Society. Members of the Society from Arkhangelsk, St. Petersburg, and Moscow liked the idea so much that they acquired boulders to place in their own cities.

The opening of the Moscow memorial on served as a triumph not only in its own right, but also marked the first official recognition of the Day of Victims of Political Repression since that day began to be recognized by dissidents in 1974. Every year on this day, people now gather near the Solovetsky Stone to mourn. Since 2007, a practice called the ‘Return of Names’ has taken place on the 29th from 10 AM to 10 PM – people from across the city gather in a long line to take turns reading the names of Muscovites who were executed. Similar actions take place in many other cities and even other countries, on this day or the next.

The Solovetsky Stone has also become an unofficial site for civil protest, serving not only as a memorial but as a symbol for modern-day political dissonance.

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About the authors

Katheryn Weaver

Katheryn Weaver is a student of rhetoric and history at the University of Texas, Austin. Her primary areas of investigation include revolution and the rhetorical justification of violence against individuals, state, and society. She is currently studying Russian as a Second Language with SRAS's Home and Abroad Scholarship.

Program attended: Home and Abroad Scholar

View all posts by: Katheryn Weaver

Alyssa Rider

Alyssa Rider, at the time she wrote from this site, was a rising senior at Brandeis University in Waltham, Massachusetts, majoring in Russian Studies and International/Global Studies with a minor in History. She planned to study abroad in Dublin, Ireland, in the fall, to study Russian, as well as a few other things. While she first became interested in Russia because of the language, she also developed an interest in LGBTQ rights in Russia. She also hoped to work as a translator.

Program attended: Online Interships

View all posts by: Alyssa Rider

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Day trip to Suzdal from Moscow: transport, sights, maps and tips

 DAY TRIP TO SUZDAL

  Suzdal is one of the most popular destinations on the Golden Ring and the whole city is often described as an open-air museum.  The city has no railway station and practically no heavy industry, meaning that is has preserved its provincial charm and a great deal of architectural monuments.

  From Moscow, Suzdal is not as easy to get to as Sergiev Posad (the closest Golden Ring city to the capital) but it is worth going the extra distance as Suzdal provides more of a contrast from Moscow.  If you make use of high-speed trains it is possible and not too demanding to visit for even just a day, but of course spending the night there is recommended to soak in the atmosphere or to combine it with a visit to neighbouring Vladimir.  As the city is a very popular tourist destination you will have no problem finding a cafe or guesthouse there.  There is practically no public transport in the city, but the city is small and most sights are located relatively close to each other.

Getting There and Back

Via Vladimir

Direct to Suzdal

  Buses directly to Suzdal leave from Moscow’s Schyolkovsky Bus Station.  There are about 9 buses a day and it takes around 4½ hours depending on traffic.  The buses stop at Vladimir too.  Using this option will mean a rather exhausting day trip.

Orientation and Main Sights

  Suzdal is a relatively small city and it is not difficult to walk around the city to see most of the sights.  

  The main road in the city is Ulitsa Lenina which runs north across the whole city.  

  The main sights of Suzdal are located either on or just off this road, including the two main sights: the Suzdal Kremlin in the south and the Spaso-Yevfimiev Monastery in the north.

  More information about Suzdal can be found on our Suzdal  pages.

  Suzdal is famous for its medovukha (mead) which is an alcoholic drink made out of honey.  It can be drunk either hot or cold, meaning it perfect in both summer and winter, and you will find it on practically every menu in the city.  There are various flavours of the drink available and even a non-alcoholic version.  In addition to medovukha, you can find all traditional Russian souvenirs in the city and there is a big souvenir market on Torgovaya Ploschad.

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Balmoral Castle: See Inside the Royal Family Home for the First Time This Summer

By Michelle Duncan

Get ready for an up-close-and-personal look into the lives of King Charles and Queen Camilla. Balmoral Castle , the Scottish holiday residence of the British royals, will open its doors to the public for private tours of the interiors this summer—a first since the castle’s completion in 1855.

In a new promotion dubbed The Balmoral Experience , guests will be taken on a guided tour through rooms in the castle used by the royals from July 1 to August 4. Visitors will learn about the history and use of the spaces along the way. A tour of the Aberdeenshire castle is priced at about $126 dollars (£100) for an adult ticket, plus an extra $63 (£50) for those who add on the option of afternoon tea.

“Travel through time from the purchase of the Balmoral Estate by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, through to the present day, where you can see a selection of rooms within the castle that are used by Their Majesties The King and Queen and other members of the Royal Family,” states the castle’s official Instagram page.

Since 1931, Balmoral’s gardens and grounds open up to the public every spring. The ballroom has been the only interior space previously accessible to outsiders until now.

Queen Elizabeth (center), King Charles (right), and Princess Anne in Balmoral Castle gardens circa 1952.

Fans of the British royals expressed their excitement in the comments section of the Instagram post. Unfortunately, if you haven’t already purchased a ticket, you’ll have to wait until next year for an expedited or guided tour; according to the official website, those tickets are already sold out just only one day after the announcement. General admission tickets are still available, but those are also quickly being snapped up.

Located in the Scottish Highlands , Balmoral Castle is one of two properties personally owned by King Charles (the other being Sandringham Castle). The King inherited the property after Queen Elizabeth II’s death in September 2022. Balmoral Castle was one of the late Queen’s favorite places, and where she took her final breaths. “I think Granny is the most happy there,” Princess Eugenie once told ITV of the estate.

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King Charles is also quite fond of the retreat. “I cannot tell you how much I miss Balmoral and the hills and the air—I feel very empty and incomplete without it all,” he said in 1968, before leaving for his second year at Cambridge. Last year , the King began his contribution to the gardens, which include a stretch of cherry blossoms and thousands of daffodils, expanding the work that royals have been adding to the gardens since Prince Albert.

Those unable to score Balmoral tour tickets can get their fill of the royal experience at Buckingham Palace, which will open its east wing to the public this summer for the first time.

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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches 2024 – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Exploring historic churches is not just a journey through religious architecture; it’s an exploration of history, art, and spirituality. These sacred spaces, ranging from grand cathedrals to intimate chapels, offer a glimpse into their times’ cultural and spiritual life. This guide will take you through 10 of the world’s most historic and awe-inspiring churches, revealing their stories and the secrets they hold.

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, France

Experience the grandeur of Gothic architecture at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Situated on the Île de la Cité, this historical marvel boasts flying buttresses, gargoyles, and remarkable rose windows. Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive, with its high vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass. Don’t miss the Treasury for its sacred relics and the opportunity to climb the towers, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Seine and the Parisian skyline. Visit in the evening to catch the magnificent light show or attend an organ concert for an immersive experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend an evening concert to experience the cathedral’s acoustics.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for fewer crowds.

How To Get There: Easily accessible via the Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame metro stations.

2. St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Italy

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to witness the heart of the Catholic world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find stunning works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. The climb to the top of the dome offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome and the Vatican gardens. The scale of the basilica is awe-inspiring, from its imposing facade to the vastness of its interior. Remember to dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting this sacred site.

Insider’s Tip: Dress conservatively as a sign of respect for this sacred site.

When To Travel: Visit in the off-season to avoid long lines.

How To Get There: Reachable by metro (Ottaviano-S. Pietro-Musei Vaticani station).

3. Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain

The Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s renowned unfinished masterpiece, uniquely explores architectural innovation in Barcelona. The church’s facades, each depicting different biblical themes, are a testament to Gaudí’s creative genius. The stained-glass windows create a symphony of light that illuminates the intricate columns and ceilings. Ascend the towers for a closer look at the architectural details and a panoramic view of the city. The ongoing construction, part of the church’s charm, speaks to the evolving nature of this iconic structure.

Insider’s Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall for a more peaceful visit.

How To Get There: Accessible via the Sagrada Família metro station.

4. Westminster Abbey, London, England

Explore the rich history of England at Westminster Abbey in London. This Gothic church is a place of worship and a significant site for royal ceremonies and burials. The abbey houses tombs of monarchs, poets, and scientists, each with their own story. The Poets’ Corner is particularly noteworthy, resting place of figures like Shakespeare and Dickens. Try to attend Evensong for a traditional Anglican service accompanied by the renowned choir, a truly serene experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend the Evensong service for a spiritual and musical experience.

When To Travel: Weekday mornings are typically less crowded.

How To Get There: A short walk from Westminster or St. James’s Park tube stations.

5. St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, with its colorful, onion-domed towers, symbolizes Russia’s architectural creativity. Each dome of this iconic cathedral represents a different chapel, with vibrant frescoes and ornate altars. The interior is a maze of narrow corridors and small chapels, each uniquely decorated. Visit at night when the cathedral is illuminated to fully appreciate its beauty and the intricate details of its design.

Insider’s Tip: Visit at night when the cathedral is beautifully illuminated.

When To Travel: Late spring or early summer for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Located in Red Square, it’s easily accessible on foot from many parts of central Moscow.

6. Chartres Cathedral, Chartres, France

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and stained-glass windows. The cathedral’s labyrinth on the floor is a highlight, offering a meditative journey for visitors. The blue Chartres stained glass, especially in the famous Rose Window, is renowned for its vibrancy and craftsmanship. The cathedral also hosts light shows illuminating its exterior, showcasing its spectacular architectural details.

Insider’s Tip: Try to visit on a sunny day when the stained glass truly comes to life.

When To Travel: Spring or early fall to avoid the tourist peak season.

How To Get There: About an hour by train from Paris.

7. Duomo di Milano, Milan, Italy

Discover the Duomo di Milano, an iconic symbol of Milan and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Its elaborate façade, adorned with numerous statues and spires, is an architectural marvel. The interior is equally impressive, with high ceilings and stained-glass windows depicting various biblical stories. Don’t miss the chance to visit the rooftop terraces, where you can walk among the spires and enjoy a unique view of Milan’s cityscape.

Insider’s Tip: The rooftop is especially impressive at sunset.

When To Travel: Visit in the shoulder season to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: It’s located in the city center and accessible by metro (Duomo station).

8. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

Explore the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a magnificent structure that has stood as a church, a mosque, and now a museum. This architectural marvel boasts a massive dome, stunning mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy. Its upper galleries provide a closer view of the intricate mosaics and offer a unique perspective of the interior and the sprawling city outside. The Hagia Sophia is a testament to Istanbul’s diverse religious history and architectural innovation.

Insider’s Tip: Look for the Viking graffiti on the upper gallery marble balustrades.

When To Travel: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: Situated in Sultanahmet, it’s easily accessible by tram.

9. Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Florence, Italy

Visit the Florence Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece in the heart of the city. Known for its striking red dome designed by Brunelleschi, the cathedral stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Renaissance. The exterior, with its intricate marble panels, is as impressive as the vast interior. Climbing the dome is a highlight, offering stunning views of Florence and a close-up look at the frescoes inside the dome.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the adjacent Baptistery to see the famous bronze doors.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall to avoid the heavy tourist crowds.

How To Get There: Located in the heart of Florence, it’s best explored on foot.

10. Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany

Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s twin spires dominate Cologne’s skyline, and its interior houses an impressive collection of art, including the Shrine of the Three Kings. The stained-glass windows, particularly the modern ones in the south transept, are notable for their intricate designs and vivid colors. Climbing the south tower rewards you with a panoramic view of Cologne and the Rhine River.

Insider’s Tip: Climb the south tower for a breathtaking view of the city and the Rhine.

When To Travel: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.

How To Get There: Conveniently located near the main train station in Cologne.

The Bottom Line

Your journey through these historic churches is more than just a tour of religious sites; it explores history, culture, and art. Each church offers a unique window into the past, from the Gothic spires of Cologne to the Byzantine domes of Hagia Sophia. As you wander these sacred spaces, take a moment to appreciate the silence, the beauty, and the stories they hold. Every stone, window, and painting in these churches has a tale to tell, waiting for you to discover.

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The post The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Korkusung.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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'Rammed earth'? Quonset hut? Here's a look at unusual stops on OKC-area Architecture Tour

From a "rammed earth" house in Jones, to a made-over classic mid-century modern home in Oklahoma City's Edgemere Heights, to a vintage Bricktown warehouse married to a 1940s Quonset hut, this year's OKC-area Architecture Tour features a particularly interesting collection of designs.

The 23rd-annual self-guided tour will be from noon to 5 p.m. April 13. It will feature two homes, two commercial office buildings, and two public buildings, organized by the 500-member American Institute of Architects Central Oklahoma Chapter. Architects will be at each stop to talk about their work.

Tickets are $10 on sale now at aiacoc.org. Tickets purchased the day of the tour at any tour stop will be $20.

Here are highlights about each stop on the tour.

Rammed earth: Galt Residence, 13101 N Midwest Blvd., Jones

• Owner: Galt Ormiston
• Architect: Goldy Architecture
• Contractor: Galt Landscape

"Discover the timeless beauty of sustainable architecture with a rammed earth house. Nestled within the serene landscape just south of Lake Arcadia, this eco-friendly dwelling seamlessly blends modern design with ancient building techniques.

"Crafted from locally sourced materials, the walls of this home are formed by compressing layers of earth to create a strong and energy-efficient structure. This house highlights the importance of handcrafted elements with the rich textures and earthy striations of rammed earth, enhanced on the interior by the natural light filtering through strategically placed windows."

Mid-century modern renovation: Templeton Residence, 4120 N Harvey Parkway, OKC

• Owner: Mike and Dana Templeton
• Renovation Architect: Dana Templeton, AIA

"Located in the eastern most portion of Edgemere Heights, the Templeton residence was built in 1966 and boasts 2,246 square feet of space. The stone exterior, hipped roof and slightly angled garage presents a strong mid-century modern feel. The floor plan has a large open space in the central part of the home, with two bedrooms, both with en-suite restrooms, at opposing ends of the house.

"Sliding doors, adjacent to each other, allow for an abundance of natural light to flood both the kitchen and the living/dining areas. A large wood panel wall, which hides a bar, storage and access to a three-season room, is the focal point of the living room along with the limestone fireplace with a black metal hood that boasts a distinct mid-century modern style. ..."

Boyett Petroleum-OKC Headquarters, 123 E Main St., OKC

• Owner: Boyette Petroleum
• Architect: TAP Architecture
• Contractor: Lingo Construction

"Boyett Petroleum’s new Oklahoma headquarters at 123 E Main joins a 1920s three-story brick warehouse to a 1940s Quonset hut. The brick building was severely damaged when new piers were driven for the new Walnut Bridge in the early 2000s and considered by most to be a lost cause.

"The Quonset hut is now transformed into a dramatic light-filled space that leads into the office building. A steel skeleton was built inside the 1920s warehouse to stabilize the structure and support a new glass penthouse. The basement was cleared ... and the dirt floor replaced with a new concrete floor to house the IT department. ..."

Willa D. Johnson Recreation Center, 909 Frederick Douglas Blvd., OKC

Owner: City of Oklahoma City

Architect: FSB Architects + Engineers

Contractor: W.L. McNatt & Co.

"The recent completion of this facility marks the first new recreation center for the City of Oklahoma City in over 50 years. FSB teamed with BRS Architects to plan and design this new multi-generational center that showcases a welcoming and inviting design while also integrating into the surrounding community.

"With high visibility off NE 10th Street, the building offers views and natural lighting throughout the interior, and the surrounding park received an upgrade with new walkways and overall landscape enhancement."

Metro Technology Centers Public Safety Academy, 4901 S Bryant Ave., OKC

• Owner: Metro Technology Centers
• Architect: Renaissance Architecture LLC
• Contractor: Quad Construction (formerly Smith & Pickel Construction)

"The Public Safety Academy, a 56,000-square-foot-facility, was launched by Metro Technology Centers to revolutionize public safety education. In partnership with Renaissance Architecture and Quad Construction, Metro Tech established an industry-standard institution for the training of various public safety professionals, including Peace Officers, EMSA personnel, 911 dispatchers, security experts, and mental health professionals.

"To ensure top-notch training, Metro Tech collaborated with Oklahoma County Law Enforcement, the Oklahoma City Fire Department, EMSA, and the Oklahoma 911 Management Authority. This $15.8 million facility, built as part of the 2019 Community Bond Initiative, highlights Metro Tech's unwavering commitment to excellence."

First United Bank of Moore, 420 SW 6, Moore

• Owner: First United Bank
• Architect: Gensler
• Contractor: Lippert Bros. Inc.

"Designed by Gensler, a global architecture firm, the building creates a welcoming space that supports the comfort and well-being of all occupants, all the while being sustainable and timeless. These design goals help the building embody one of First United Bank’s key values of serving the community.

"The two-story, 43,000-square-foot building is constructed using a glulam and cross-laminated timber structure with a stone and glass curtain wall building envelope. In keeping with the owner’s community focused programming, the building features an expansive banking lobby, business offices, lounge areas, two large conference spaces that will be available for both the bank staff and customers within the community, and a large storm shelter space. Outside, there are expansive balconies, a large plaza, and drive-thru banking lanes."

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The TikTok Account Documenting London’s Most Iconic Housing Estates

Noris Obijiaku – AKA Mr Chuck – has amassed a large following on TikTok and Instagram for his unpretentious tours of London’s modernist housing estates. Here, he talks about democratising architecture for the masses

“I think it’s best if you just question everything. That’s how we evolve,” says architecture graduate and rising TikTok star Noris Obijiaku , reflecting on his ambitions in the field. Having amassed more than 240,000 followers across the platform and its rival, Instagram , Obijiaku – known online as Mr Chuck – is successfully forging a space for curious voices like his in an industry that is in desperate need of a new vanguard.

Notorious for its inaccessibility, the ability to be truly heard in the architecture world is generally reserved for a select few, but with a feed of relentlessly meticulous drawing videos and unpretentious architecture tours, Obijiaku is catching the eye of architecture lovers across the internet while harnessing social media’s primary redeeming featuring; the capacity to democratise and empower. “It’s such a mixed audience,” explains Obijiaku . “But there are a lot of young people who are discovering the world of architecture and are not really aware of how much work is put into these buildings they’ve visited.”

Obijiaku, who is quick to express his commitment to becoming a fully qualified practising architect, admits that he didn’t know what architecture even encompassed until he ran into academic frustrations while studying engineering at college. While he found himself excelling in the design module, he struggled with the others. “At the end of the year, I asked my lecturer if there was anything closely related to design, engineering and construction and he mentioned architecture. When he told me about it my mind was blown, and I could really see it as something I could do.”

While the transition from his college education to embarking on a bachelor’s degree in architecture at Coventry University was smooth, it was another unexpected academic challenge that inspired Obijiaku to seek solace in social media. “At the end of my first year I passed six modules, but failed one, meaning I couldn’t progress to the second year,” he says. Unable to continue his studies on the same timeline as his fellow cohort, and without eligibility for a student loan to pay his rent, Obijiaku found himself experiencing feelings of depression, forced to live “paycheck to paycheck” to cover the rent for university accommodation he had already committed to for another year. His face lit up by a smile, he continues, “I’m a resilient person. I just felt like, if I couldn’t make it through uni, I was just going to put myself out there. So then I thought, cool, I know I’m good at sketching, so let me just post my sketching videos online and see where it goes. It started off the back of failing the module and then something beautiful came out of it.”

Obijiaku has since graduated, all modules passed. Now, between searching for graduate roles that will allow him to move through the industry, the 24-year-old finds himself in a position to guide those experiencing similar architectural awakenings to his own. He speaks warmly of being asked for tips and advice for university applications by his followers; he feels it is his role to pass on the knowledge that has been shared with him along the way. Reminded of his fast-growing online platform, he remarks, “Before all of this happened, my primary goal was to expose myself. But that was just a byproduct of the original intention, which was just to inspire anyone around me.”

As he pursues a professional role in architecture, Obijiaku continues to work in social housing, listening to and engaging with the people who might live in the very housing developments featured in his videos. When questioned on the legacy he sees himself working toward, Obijiaku says he hopes to contribute to these people’s lives, recognising the ways our capitalist economic infrastructures fail to prioritise their needs. “What success looks like to me is impact,” he says. “What impact did I make? What contribution? What did I achieve with whoever I was working with? How have I improved people’s wellbeing and lives? I just want to be able to produce great designs.”

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Architecture tour features four locations, access to architects

• From staff reports
• Apr 10, 2024
• Apr 10, 2024 Updated 2 mins ago

The Community Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma’s 50,000-square-foot addition was designed by GH2 Architects.

• Mike Simons, Tulsa World

Members of Narrate Design work in the open concept offices on the first floor of the TransOK Building, where the company moved its headquarters to in July.

• Daniel Shular, Tulsa World Archive

Are you curious about some of the new buildings you drove by the other day?

On April 20, the Eastern Oklahoma chapter of the American Institute of Architects will sponsor a tour featuring four new facilities in Tulsa. The architects responsible for each building will be on site to answer questions and provide insight into the design process.

“Tulsa has a vast wealth of dynamic buildings in our area. Many people don’t realize that great architecture is still being designed locally so this is a chance for them to see some new design work up close that you wouldn’t normally have access to, and hear from the actual architects who designed them,” said Kate Cofer, president of AIA Eastern Oklahoma.

Tour sites include AAON Exploration Center, designed by KKT Architects; ARCO apartments designed by Davies Architects; Food Bank of Eastern Oklahoma, designed by GH2 Architects; and Narrate Design architecture firm, designed by Narrate.

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Cost of the tour is $15 in advance and can be purchased at aiaeok.org . Tickets also are available at each site on the day of the tour for $20. Children under 7 attend free, but must be accompanied by an adult at all times. Tour hours are from 1 to 4 p.m.

The tour is self-paced so participants can visit the sites as they choose during tour hours.

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