Archive for January, 2009
Identifiable Features
Cities are containers of people that over time retain some of the cultural peculiarities that make its people unique. Much like a pet, who over time retains some of its owners characteristics and qualities, buildings in cities absorb some of their inhabitants personality. Identifiable qualities are a crucial elements that make a city unique and interesting. [...]
Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque
Istanbul or Constantinople as it was previously known, has been through a lot. It was capital to the Roman Empire, the East Roman Byzantine Empire, the Latin Empire, and the Ottoman Empire. Today it is the largest city in Turkey, sits at the crossroads of two cultures, and is the only city in the world that is located [...]
City of Arts and Sciences (Ciudad de Artes y Ciencias)
Spain is a place filled with a rich history, tradition, and mystery. It has emerged during the last decade as an economic powerhouse after decades of civil war and charging towards the future. Much development and change has occurred within the last twenty years. Spain is full of modern fast paced cities clashing with traditional [...]
Downtown Miami Waterfront and Skyline
Miami being my home town, I thought of starting this section by just placing some images I have taken over the years. Miami is definetely a unique and interesting place. Over time, I plan on dissecting the city in various ways. Nevertheless, for now, I thought I would spare everyone a long spiel (yedish for babble) and [...]
Top Of The Rock – 30 Rockefeller Plaza
I can think of no better place than New York City to start discussing cities. New York City is the grandest and most impressive American city, and is perhaps one of the greatest cities in the world. In all my years of travel I have never been to a place that has the impact and power that the Big Apple impresses upon its visitors. New York city is true urban wonder that physically symbolizes in stone what man has and can accomplish given the right tools and set of circumstances.
Jane Jacobs
Anyone interested in the city, and especially the American City, must read Jane Jacobs. For those of those who dont know who Jane Jacobs is, let me introduce you to a goddess. Recently deceased, for decades she was a writer, urbanist, and activist for the tradional city. She opposed the the drastic and harmful urban renewal policies of the fifties and sixties which disconnected traditional neighborhoods and encouraged unsustainable suburban sprawl. She was insturmental in blocking urban renewal projects in Canda and New York City, where she lived in her earlier years. She was such an influential urban planner that there is evan a medal named after her.
Eiffel Tower
Oh Paris, the City of Love. Paris really is a beautiful city that inspires the heart. Don’t be deterred by those that say the Parisians are rude and snobby. Its magical public spaces and winding streets, combined with the majesty of its great wealthy empires and cultural institutions make Paris a city that moves the [...]
