Slawek Malczewski

20/03/2026

From Ardgillan Castle

16/03/2026

Views from Skerries

23/06/2024

Ardgillan Castle and Demesne in County Dublin

Ardgillan Castle, a splendid 18th-century Gothic Revival mansion, was built by Reverend Robert Taylor in 1738. Overlooking the Irish Sea, the castle has been a silent witness to centuries of history, from the Georgian era to the present day. It remained in the Taylor family until the early 1960s, and today, it stands as a testament to the architectural elegance and historical significance of its time.

Must-See Highlights:

The Castle Interior:
The elegantly furnished rooms give a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of the past. Don’t miss the grand Drawing Room, the cozy Library, and the impressive Dining Room.

The Rose Garden:
A vibrant display of colour and fragrance, the rose garden is a delight for the senses. It’s a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a moment of reflection.

The Walled Garden:
This beautifully maintained garden is a haven of tranquility. With its variety of plants and flowers, it’s a must-see for gardening enthusiasts.

The Demesne:
Spanning 194 acres, the demesne offers picturesque walking trails through serene woodlands and rolling meadows. The views of the Irish Sea from the trails are simply breathtaking.

07/05/2024

🌊🏮 Step Back in Time at Balbriggan Lighthouse 🏮🌊

Dive into the rich history of the Balbriggan Lighthouse, a beacon that has been guiding sailors since 1769. Constructed under the watchful eye of the Hamilton family from Hampton Hall, this lighthouse is woven into the fabric of Balbriggan's maritime heritage.

📜 Historical Highlights:

Foundations: The lighthouse was built as part of the Balbriggan harbour project, which commenced in 1761 and concluded in 1765.
Original Illumination: Initially lit by candles, the lighthouse was a pioneer in maritime safety.
George Hamilton: The first keeper of the lighthouse, George Hamilton, served for an impressive 43 years. His dedication led to significant upgrades, including a shift from candle to oil lamp lighting, enhancing the beam with five lamps and reflectors.
Transformation: Post-1860, with the establishment of Rockabill Lighthouse, Balbriggan Lighthouse shifted from a sea light to a minor harbour light. By 1960, it had been updated to an unwatched electric lamp.
Modern Era: In 1989, Dublin Port and Docks took over the responsibility from Irish Lights, marking a new chapter in its management.
🔍 Recent Restoration:
The iconic glass and brass dome, removed years ago, causing local dismay, has been a subject of community and political advocacy. Responding to these voices, Fingal County Council initiated restoration work in 2017 to reinstall the cherished dome, restoring the lighthouse’s historical silhouette.

📸 Visit and Reflect:
Today, Balbriggan Lighthouse stands not just as a navigational aid but as a symbol of community resilience and historical preservation. Visit to experience a piece of Irish maritime history and enjoy stunning views of the Irish Sea.

22/03/2024

Sagrada Familia

22/03/2024

Palau de la Música Catalana
The Palau de la Música Catalana, located in the heart of Barcelona, Spain, is not just a concert hall, but an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the creative spirit of Catalan Modernisme. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner and inaugurated in 1908, the Palau is a celebration of light, space, and color.
As a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palau de la Música Catalana captivates visitors with its elaborate façade and interior design, which features a stunning array of mosaics, stained glass, and sculptural elements. The hall is a masterpiece of decorative arts, seamlessly blending glass, ceramics, and ironwork.
One of the most remarkable features is the concert hall's luminous stained glass skylight, designed as an inverted dome. Natural light pours through it, bathing the auditorium in a kaleidoscope of colors that change with the time of day. This is not just for aesthetics; it also plays a psychological role in connecting the audience with the natural rhythms of the outside world.
The columns, as seen in the photograph, are adorned with intricate mosaics that exhibit a vibrant palette of colors and a variety of floral motifs, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry that Modernisme is known for. The attention to detail extends to the sculpted busts of famous composers, adding a sense of grandeur and inspiration within the space.
The Palau is more than a performance space; it is an immersive experience. It is recommended to not only attend a concert but also to take a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical and cultural context of this architectural gem.

05/10/2023

Exploring the enchanting town of Pedraza, Spain! 😍🏰

Nestled in the heart of Segovia, Pedraza is a hidden gem that effortlessly blends history and natural beauty. The cobblestone streets transport you to another era, while the well-preserved historic buildings whisper stories of the past.

Wandering through the town, you can't help but be captivated by the medieval charm, the picturesque squares, and the stunning castle that dominates the skyline. Every corner is a picture-perfect postcard waiting to be captured.

Pedraza, you've stolen my heart with your timeless allure. 💖

08/09/2023

Tor by Bengt Erland Fogelberg (1844) - Nationalmuseum, Stockholm

04/09/2023

Laocoön in Nationalmuseum, Stockholm

22/10/2022