The Old World

Recently, I had the wonderful opportunity to fulfill one of my oldest dreams, to travel through Europe and photograph it, at least partially.  In a journey of just over 4 weeks and 5 visited countries, I was able to experience something truly rewarding.  After several years of planning this adventure in great detail and meticulously planning the sites I wanted to photograph, I must say it was exactly as I had hoped.

The old continent or the old world, as we know it, is truly overwhelming and almost indescribable, at least for those of us visiting it for the first time.  That small piece of the globe that houses so many nations, so similar yet so different at the same time, is an immense mixture of cultures, histories, customs, and languages.  It's as if one were visiting the very Tower of Babel, but with the difference that despite their different languages and varied customs, they all function in unison and with the precision of a Swiss clock.

Upon my arrival in Paris, I was absolutely dazzled by its architectural diversity and the remarkable displays of architecture from every period, ranging from Gothic to Postmodernism, passing through the Renaissance and the Flamboyant, among others.  Truly, this city is a monument to human ego, in the best sense of the word.  The dedication, effort, and time taken in the construction of a city full of exquisite, and sometimes redundant details, are notably visible.  Still, due to its opulence and elegance, it becomes a true gem that one can never fully explore.

Likewise, Barcelona has embraced various cultures and civilizations, each contributing its concept of art and leaving its legacy for posterity, from the Iberians to the Middle Ages.  But undoubtedly, one of the most famous styles observed in the city today is Modernism, of which Antoni Gaudí is its greatest and most famous exponent.  Gaudí was an exceptionally talented architect who left an indelible mark on architecture and design.  His innovative approach, attention to detail, and ability to blend architecture with nature make him a central figure in the history of modern architecture.

And how can we forget Brussels? Its architecture is a fascinating blend of styles and historical periods that reflect the city's rich history.  This architecture is an amalgamation of styles ranging from Gothic to contemporary architecture, making it a visually interesting and diverse city to explore.  The combination of its rich history and its role as a political and cultural center of Europe gives the city a unique architectural personality.

Last but certainly not least, the architecture of Amsterdam is a fascinating mix of styles spanning from the 17th century to contemporary architecture.  The canals and the houses along them are an iconic feature of the city, but there is also a wide variety of other architectural styles that make Amsterdam a visually appealing and culturally rich place to explore.

This is a topic that could span hundreds if not thousands of pages, but what is certain is that for an architecture enthusiast like me, Europe is to a photographer what a candy store is to a child, an endless source of fun and pleasure, and a place you'll always want to return to, with the confidence that there will always be new things to discover and enjoy.