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Penang pictures 1959 (1 file)

PMR.PN-14
Malaya, Penang Island 1959: Ayer Itam Buddhist Temple - view of the pagoda from the courtyard.
Keywords: British colonies, nostalgia, historic, island, tropics, Far East

Travel (312 files)

PMR144-10
Bulgaria, Asenovgrad: Bachkovo Monastery was founded in 1083 by Prince Gregory Pakourianos, but the present buildings date back to 1604. A peaceful scene in the courtyard of the monastery, overlooked by wooded hills.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, culture, historic, Christian, Orthodox, monks, revered, Batchkovo

PMR144-09
Bulgaria, Asenovgrad: Bachkovo Monastery was founded in 1083 by Prince Gregory Pakourianos, but the present buildings date back to 1604. Orthodox priests in the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, culture, historic, Christian, Orthodox, monks, revered, Batchkovo

PMR144-04
Bulgaria: the Monastery of St. Ivan of Rila, the finest in Bulgaria, stands isolated in the Rila Mountains. Founded in 10th century, it has been repeatedly destroyed, and present buildings date from 1834-60. The monastery church, containing the relics of the founder, Ivan Rilsky, from a balcony in the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, culture, historic, UNESCO, Christian, Orthodox, monks, revered

PMR144-03
Bulgaria: the Monastery of St. Ivan of Rila, the finest in Bulgaria, stands isolated in the Rila Mountains. Founded in 10th century, it has been repeatedly destroyed, and present buildings date from 1834-60. In the courtyard the lower three storeys have Italian-Renaissance-style arches, whilst the top storey is wood, in traditional Bulgarian style.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, culture, historic, UNESCO, Christian, Orthodox, monks, revered

PMR-D12930
Germany, Bayern, Schloss Höchstädt: the castle was built between 1589 and 1602 as a seat for the widow of Count Palatine (Pfalzgraf) Philipp Ludwig von Neuburg. In 1704 over 20,000 men died in the nearby Battle of Blenheim.
View of the castle courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, culture, Duke of Marlborough, heritage, historic, mediaeval, picturesque

PMR131-01
Germany, Bavaria, Upper Franconia, Bayreuth: statue of Maximilian I in the courtyard of the old palace, with the tower of the palace church (Schlosskirche) behind. Germany, Bavaria, Upper Franconia, Bayreuth: statue of Maximilian I in the courtyard of the old palace, with the tower of the palace church (Schlosskirche) behind.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, picturesque, Baroque, monument, historic

PMR122-10
Upper Austria, Kremsmunster: founded in the 8th century by Tassilo III, Duke of Bavaria, the Benedictine Abbey has been a centre of culture for centuries. Entrance to the inner courtyard on the north side, from the abbey church portico.
Keywords: architecture, Baroque, heritage, Kremsmünster, historic

PMR118-04
Germany, Bavaria, Rothenburg ob der Tauber: the Hegereiter House in the courtyard of the hospital, formerly housed the hospital kitchens.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, Franconia, gables, tower

PMR117-02
Germany, Bavaria, Franconia, Harburg: Biergarten in the castle courtyard (mostly under renovation at this time).
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, historic

PMR116-05
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Mainau Island in Lake Constance: beds of tulips in the courtyard of the mansion, seen through the decorative wrought-iron grille (B = Bernadotte).
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, island, Swabia, Bodensee, flowerbeds, display, striking, brilliant, bright-hued, vivid, bright, plants, flowers, parkland, gardens, botanical

PMR111-06
Egypt, Cairo: the courtyard and ablutions pavilion of the Alabaster Mosque, built by Mohammed Ali, completed in 1857.
Keywords: historical, architecture, culture, Islam, religion, colonnade, arches

PMR111-01
Egypt, Thebes: the Great Temple of Amun-Ra at Karnak: Osirian pillars flanking the courtyard of the subsidiary temple of Ramesses III.
Keywords: Egyptology, archeology, antiquity, historical, hieroglyphics, architecture, culture

PMR108-01
Egypt, Edfu: the Temple of Edfu on the west bank of the Nile, was built during the Ptolomaic period between 237 and 57 BC, and dedicated to the god Horus. Main courtyard and colonnaded entrance hall, seen from the entrance. The figure of Horus stands to the left of the doorway.
Keywords: Egyptology, archeology, antiquity, historical, hieroglyphics, architecture, culture

PMR103-11
Egypt, Aswan: the Temple of Isis on the Island of Agilkia, a few miles south of Aswan, formerly stood on the Island of Philae. Built between the 4th century BC and the 2nd century AD (Ptolemies and Romans). It was removed, stone by stone, and re-erected in its present position. View of the colonnaded courtyard from the top of the pylon.
Roman garrisons erected wooden roofs for their troops under the colonnades (traces still to be seen).
Keywords: Egyptology, archeology, antiquity, historical, hieroglyphics, architecture, culture

PMR094-02
Austria, Krems: the Sängerhof (singers' courtyard) with Gothic step-gable. From 1210 the building housed an inn, with access for coaches through the arch.
Keywords: architecture, traditional, picturesque, mediaeval, step-gable

PMR093-07
Austria, Burgenland, Rust: courtyard of the local inn, with bundles of corn cobs, overlooked by the church tower with its crowded balcony.
Keywords: architecture, traditional, picturesque, Biergarten, drinking, pub, community

PMR080-10
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Munich: fountain in the Brunnenhof courtyard of the Residenz, the former palace of the royal family, Wittelsbach
Keywords: München, architecture, historic, clocktower

PMR080-09
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Munich: fountain in the Brunnenhof courtyard of the Residenz, the former palace of the royal family, Wittelsbach
Keywords: München, architecture, historic, clocktower

PMR065-02
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Munich: the Alter Hof or former palace courtyard, in snowy weather
Keywords: München, architecture, mediaeval, towers, oriel, picturesque, historic

PMR049-05
East Germany (GDR), Saxony, Dresden: courtyard and north pavilion of the Zwinger, a Baroque Palace built by Poppelmann between 1711 -28. Rebuilt after war damage 1945-64. (1977)
Keywords: city, rebuilding, River Elbe, Rococo, metropolis, architecture, Baroque

PMR-D12012
Greece, Island of Symi: the patterned courtyard of Panormitis Monastery, with the galleried cells of the former monks.
Keywords: architecture, Dodecanese, Greek Islands, Hellas, island hopping, Orthodox

PMR-D11967
Greece, Island of Tilos: newly renovated monastery of Agios Panteleimonos which is built against the cliff and is home to just one monk. The main gate leads to this shady courtyard.
Keywords: Dodecanese, Greek Islands, Hellas, island hopping, isolated, Orthodox

PMR-D11966
Greece, Island of Tilos: newly renovated monastery of Agios Panteleimonos which is built against the cliff and is home to just one monk. The church and courtyard.
Keywords: Dodecanese, Greek Islands, Hellas, island hopping, isolated, Orthodox

PMR-D11447
Greece, Island of Corfu, summit of Mount Pantokrator (914 metres): the domain of the Orthodox monastery of Ypsilou Pantokratora. The legs of the giant 86-metre-high antenna are visible in the courtyard.
Keywords: church, highest, Ionian Islands, isolated, transmission mast, well

PMR-D11416
Greece, Island of Corfu, Kerkyra (Corfu town): courtyard of a taverna in the old town.
Keywords: architecture, colourful, drinking, eating, Ionian Islands, picturesque, restaurant

PMR-D10701
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Amerang: the open air museum of historical farm buildings, part of the Glentleiten Museum:
Central courtyard and dovecote of the Bernoederhof, a large farmhouse with ancillary buildings arranged in a square format, built in 1725.
Keywords: historic, country life, dwellings, tradition, heritage, picturesque, architecture, culture

PMR-D8288
Germany, Thuringia, Gotha: courtyard and west pavilion and wing of Friedenstein Palace (Schloss) built in 1656 in Baroque style by Ernest I, Duke of Saxe-Gotha. It is now home to several museums.
Keywords: architecture, medieval, mediaeval, national heritage, historic, culture, picturesque

PMR-D8227
Germany, Niedersachsen, Wolfenbüttel: the Castle or Palace (Schloss) dates back to1074 but acquired its present Baroque facade in 1714-6 from architect Hermann Korb. The statues, by Austrian Franz Finck, are from the same period. Part of the inner courtyard.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, heritage, architecture, culture, historic

PMR-D7984
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: The Sonnenturm (Sun Tower) in the south-east corner, and the Brunnentempel, built over the well. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D7977
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: Killian's Tower with the west wing. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, Würzburg, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D7973
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: the Keep (Bergfried), built about 1200, contained a dungeon in the lower half, and "last retreat"on the upper floors. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D7972
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: a corner tower of the Princes' Wing. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, Würzburg, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D7971
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: Carved sandstone niches for saints, contemporaneous with the Brunnentempel. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, Würzburg, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D7970
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: a corner tower of the Princes' Wing. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, Franconia, historic, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse

PMR-D7969
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: The Brunnentempel, built to house the well, which reaches down to the water level of the River Main. The statues are (left to right): Daniel with the lion; Hercules forcing open the lion's muzzle, and St Hieronymus. On the roof, the gilded figure of Fortuna on a rolling ball.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage, sculpture, stone-carving

PMR-D7968
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: the round church of St. Mary, dating back to 706 AD, but rebuilt after a fire in 1600. To the left is the Brunnentempel, built over the well, and the Bergfried Tower (Keep). The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, Würzburg, Franconia, historic, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse

PMR-D7967
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: the round church of St. Mary, dating back to 706 AD, but rebuilt after a fire in 1600. To the right is the Brunnentempel, built over the well. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, Würzburg, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D7966
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: inside the main courtyard of the Marienberg Fortress: the north-west corner with Killian's Tower behind. The fortress was stormed by the Swedes in 1631 and the 600-man garrison was massacred.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, Würzburg, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D7635
Morocco, Casablanca: King Hassan II Mosque, completed in 1993, is the largest mosque in Africa, and its minaret is the world's highest religious building (210 metres). The designer was Michel Pinseau and it was built by Bouygues. It offers space for 105,000 worshippers.
Courtyard, bounded by an arched gallery.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7471
Morocco, Rissani: Ksar Abouam, a former Alaouite Wasir's fortified village dating from the 19th century, recently restored by UNESCO. This was inhabited by a whole self-contained community with granaries, mosque and hammam. The Alaouite dynasty, which has ruled Morocco since 1631, originated here.
The well, in the main courtyard.
Keywords: Africa, tradition, culture, Maghreb, Islam, Muslim

PMR-D7433
Morocco, Fez: passage to interior courtyard of Zaouia Mosque and Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II, the founder of the city, dating from the 13th century and one of the country's leading centres of pilgrimage.
Keywords: Africa, picturesque, culture, national heritage, historic, Fes, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, royal city, UNESCO

PMR-D7432
Morocco, Fez: Interior courtyard of Zaouia Mosque and Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II, the founder of the city, dating from the 13th century and one of the country's leading centres of pilgrimage.
Keywords: Africa, picturesque, culture, national heritage, historic, Fes, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, royal city, UNESCO

PMR-D7428
Morocco, Fez: Interior courtyard of the Medrasa (Koran School) Bou Inania, founded by the Merinid Sultan Abu Inan. It has similarities with the one of the same name in Meknes, also having cedarwood carvings.
Keywords: Africa, culture, national heritage, historic, Fes, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, royal city, UNESCO

PMR-D7427
Morocco, Fez: Interior courtyard of the Medrasa (Koran School) Bou Inania, founded by the Merinid Sultan Abu Inan. It has similarities with the one of the same name in Meknes, also having cedarwood carvings.
Keywords: Africa, culture, national heritage, historic, Fes, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, royal city, UNESCO

PMR-D7426
Morocco, Fez: Interior courtyard of the Medrasa (Koran School) Bou Inania, founded by the Merinid Sultan Abu Inan. It has similarities with the one of the same name in Meknes, also having cedarwood carvings.
Keywords: Africa, UNESCO, royal city, Maghreb, Islam, Muslim, Fes, historic, national heritage, culture

PMR-D7408
Morocco, Meknes: view from the gallery of the handsome courtyard of the Medrasa Bou Inania, built in 1345 by the Marinid sultans Abu al-Hasan and Abu Inan. In the centre stands a marble basin for ablutions.
Keywords: Africa, koran-school, Maghreb, culture, historic, national heritage, fortifications, architecture, royal city

PMR-D7407
Morocco, Meknes: part of the carved cedar roof and intricately decorated walls of the courtyard of the Medrasa Bou Inania, built in 1345 by the Marinid sultans Abu al-Hasan and Abu Inan.
Keywords: Africa, Maghreb, culture, historic, national heritage, fortifications, architecture, royal city, koran-school

PMR-D7406
Morocco, Meknes: an intricately carved panel which adorns the courtyard of the Medrasa Bou Inania, built in 1345 by the Marinid sultans Abu al-Hasan and Abu Inan.
Keywords: Africa, koran-school, royal city, architecture, fortifications, national heritage, historic, culture, Maghreb

PMR-D7405
Morocco, Meknes: carved cedar screen and part of the cedar roof and intricately decorated walls of the courtyard of the Medrasa Bou Inania, built in 1345 by the Marinid sultans Abu al-Hasan and Abu Inan.
Keywords: Africa, Maghreb, culture, historic, national heritage, fortifications, architecture, royal city, koran-school

PMR-D6488
England, Kent, Ightham Mote (National Trust): in a secluded part of rural Kent, the manor house dates back to about 1340 AD. Part of the Great Hall from the courtyard; note the "XXL" dog kennel!
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, colourful, botanical, mansion, country house, mediaeval

PMR-D6487
England, Kent, Ightham Mote (National Trust): in a secluded part of rural Kent, the manor house dates back to about 1340 AD. The Tudor-style west wing from the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, colourful, mansion, country house, mediaeval

PMR-D6432
Germany, Baden-Württemberg, Bad Mergentheim: north-east wing of the courtyard of the Castle of the Knights of the Teutonic Order, currently occupied by the Finanzamt (Tax Department).
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, sanatorium, spa, health-resort, Teutonic Order

PMR-D6430
Germany, Bavaria, Unterfranken, Röttingen: gardens of Brattenstein Castle, a seat of the lords of Hohenlohe until 1345. The courtyard is used every summer (since 1984) for open-air theatre performances.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture

PMR-D6256
Germany, Bavaria, Swabia, Harburg: the castle of Harburg, dating back to before 1150, is one of the largest and best-preserved in southern Germany. View of the Burgvogtei (admin), eintrance to the inner courtyard with portcullis, White Tower, defenders' gallery and wellhouse, with herb garden in the background.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6252
Germany, Bavaria, Swabia, Harburg: the castle of Harburg, dating back to before 1150, is one of the largest and best-preserved in southern Germany. The Burgvogtei (administration) on the left, with the chapel and Palas (living quarters) on the far side of the courtyard. The open-air restaurant is in the foreground.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6247
Germany, Bavaria, Swabia, Harburg: the castle of Harburg, dating back to before 1150, is one of the largest and best-preserved in southern Germany. The herb garden, in the inner courtyard.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6244
Germany, Bavaria, Swabia, Harburg: the castle of Harburg, dating back to before 1150, is one of the largest and best-preserved in southern Germany. View of the inner courtyard with wellhouse in the foreground.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6066
Oman, Taqah: courtyard of the Museum of the Frankincense Land, with a tree (Boswellia sacra) in the centre.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, sultanate, architecture

PMR-D5735
Turkey, Marmoris: the castle, built in 1522, in the reign of Suleiman the Magnificent, stands on the site of age-old defensive installations. It now houses an ethnographical museum. Gardens in the enclosed courtyard.
Keywords: port, harbour, holiday resort, marina, yachts, boats, picturesque, colourful, heritage, historic, fortress, crenellations, culture

PMR-D5388
People's Republic of China, Xinjiang Province, Kashgar: covered part of the inner courtyard of the Id Kah Mosque, built in 1442, central to Uighar Muslims. It is the largest in China, and can hold 20,000 worshippers.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, architecture, historic, heritage, Uighur, picturesque, colourful

PMR-D5387
People's Republic of China, Xinjiang Province, Kashgar: covered part of the inner courtyard of the Id Kah Mosque, built in 1442, central to Uighar Muslims. It is the largest in China, and can hold 20,000 worshippers.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, architecture, historic, heritage, Uighur, picturesque, colourful

PMR-D5386
People's Republic of China, Xinjiang Province, Kashgar: detail of the carpets used in the covered part of the inner courtyard of the Id Kah Mosque, built in 1442, central to Uighar Muslims. It is the largest in China, and can hold 20,000 worshippers.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, architecture, historic, heritage, Uighur, picturesque, colourful

PMR-D5318
Uzbekistan, Samarkand: the huge Bibi Khanum mosque, completed by Timur (Tamerlaine) in 1404 in honour of his wife. It was one of the largest mosques in the Islamic world, but soon began to crumble, and was finally ruined by an earthquake in 1887. It is in a state of reconstruction. The 35-metre-high Parade Portal leading to the courtyard.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5285
Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Registan: view of the south-east (entrance) side of the tree-shaded courtyard of Tilya-Kori ("gilded") madrasa, built 1646-60, from the iwan on the opposite side.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5284
Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Registan: facade and iwan on the south-east side of the inner courtyard of Tilya-Kori ("gilded") madrasa, built 1646-60.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5283
Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Registan: facade and iwan on the north-west side of the inner courtyard of Tilya-Kori ("gilded") madrasa, built 1646-60, from the shade of the trees in the centre of the courtyard.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam

PMR-D5279
Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Registan: facade and iwan on the north-west side of the inner courtyard of Tilya-Kori ("gilded") madrasa, built 1646-60.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5278
Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Registan: facade, iwan and dome of the mosque on the west side of the courtyard of Tilya-Kori ("gilded") madrasa, built 1646-60.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5274
Uzbekistan, Samarkand, Registan: two-storied courtyard ofTilya-Kori ("gilded") madrasa, built 1646-60, with two iwans. The galleries contained dormitories for the students..
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5220
Uzbekistan, Province Khorezm, Khiva, a walled, desert city founded about the beginning of the millennium: the "winter" courtyard in the Tosh Khauni (Kohna Ark), where the Amir had his yurt on the raised stone platform, with gallery and large panels of ornate blue tiles.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5219
Uzbekistan, Province Khorezm, Khiva, a walled, desert city founded about the beginning of the millennium: colourful decorated roof adjoining a courtyard in the Tosh Khauni ( Kohna Ark).
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5218
Uzbekistan, Province Khorezm, Khiva, a walled, desert city founded about the beginning of the millennium: corner of the "winter" courtyard of the Tosh Khauni (Kohna Ark), where the Amir had his yurt, with gallery and large panels of ornate blue tiles.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5217
Uzbekistan, Province Khorezm, Khiva, a walled, desert city founded about the beginning of the millennium: a corner of a courtyard in the Tosh Khauni (Kohna Ark), with gallery and panels of ornate blue tiled decoration.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5216
Uzbekistan, Province Khorezm, Khiva, a walled, desert city founded about the beginning of the millennium: gallery in the central courtyard of the Tosh Khauni (Kohna Ark), from where the Amir would watch special presentations.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5214
Uzbekistan, Province Khorezm, Khiva, a walled, desert city founded about the beginning of the millennium: one of the large courtyards in the Tosh Khauli (Kohna Ark) where the Amir would watch special presentations.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5206
Uzbekistan, Province Khorezm, Khiva, a walled, desert city founded about the beginning of the millennium: ancient carved wooden door leading onto the courtyard in the Kohna Ark.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5160
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: facade and iwan of the madrasa in the courtyard of Po-i-Kalyan Mosque complex, with flanking blue tiled domes of the Mir-i-Arab madrasa behind.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5158
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: facade and iwan of the madrasa in the courtyard of Po-i-Kalyan Mosque complex, with the Kalyan Tower adjacent.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5147
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: facade and iwan of the Po-i-Kalyan Mosque, completed in 1514 and surmounted by a large blue tiled dome. View through archway on the opposite side of the courtyard.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5146
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: facade and iwan of the Po-i-Kalyan Mosque, completed in 1514 and surmounted by a large blue tiled dome. In the courtyard stands the ablutions kiosk.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5145
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: upper part of the facade and iwan of the Po-i-Kalyan Mosque, completed in 1514 and surmounted by a large blue tiled dome, photographed through an arch on the opposite side of the courtyard.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5144
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: facade and iwan on the east side of the courtyard of Po-i-Kalyan Mosque.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5143
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: facade and iwan of the Po-i-Kalyan Mosque, completed in 1514 and surmounted by a large blue tiled dome. In the courtyard stands the ablutions kiosk.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5142
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: courtyard of the Po-i-Kalyan Mosque, completed in 1514 and surmounted by a large blue tiled dome.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5140
Uzbekistan, Bukhara: Kalyan Mosque, facade and iwan of the Main Entrance Pishtaq. from the main courtyard.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

$PMR-D5002 People's Republic of China, Xinjiang Province, Kashgar, the Uighur capital, centre of regional trade and culture for two millennia: courtyard of a house in Old Kashgar, which has shrunk to a fraction of its previous size due to new development by the authorities. Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, Uighur, oasis-city, ancient, heritage, historic, tradition, cosmopolitan, adobe$

PMR-D4916
People's Republic of China, Xinjiang Province, Kuqa: courtyard of a typical Uighur house.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, Silk Road, culture, heritage, architecture, tradition

PMR-D4639
Cambodia, Phnom Penh: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly Svey Prey High School which was taken over by the Khmer Rouge regime and used as Security Prison 21. More than 17,000 people were held here for torture and later murdered in the "killing fields". The courtyard contains 14 anonymous graves - bodies found after liberation.
Keywords: capital city, Khmer, kingdom, Indo-China, orient, Buddhist, metropolis, Pol Pot, inhumanity, cruelty, victims, barbarity

PMR-D4638
Cambodia, Phnom Penh: Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, formerly Svey Prey High School which was taken over by the Khmer Rouge regime and used as Security Prison 21. More than 17,000 people were held here for torture and later murdered in the "killing fields". The courtyard contains 14 anonymous graves - bodies found after liberation.
Keywords: capital city, Khmer, kingdom, Indo-China, orient, Buddhist, metropolis, Pol Pot, inhumanity, cruelty, victims, barbarity

PMR-D4613
Cambodia, Phnom Penh: National Museum of Cambodia, built 1917-20. The gallery surrounding the courtyard also houses interesting exhibits.
Keywords: capital city, Khmer, kingdom, Indo-China, orient, Buddhist, metropolis, picturesque, colourful, traditional, Khmer art, historic, heritage, exhibits

PMR-D4606
Cambodia, Phnom Penh: National Museum of Cambodia, built 1917-20. View of the garden in the central courtyard with its graceful pavilion.
Keywords: capital city, Khmer, kingdom, Indo-China, orient, Buddhist, metropolis, picturesque, colourful, traditional, Khmer art, historic, heritage, exhibits

PMR-D4605
Cambodia, Phnom Penh: National Museum of Cambodia, built 1917-20. View of the garden in the central courtyard with its graceful pavilion.
Keywords: capital city, Khmer, kingdom, Indo-China, orient, Buddhist, metropolis, picturesque, colourful, traditional, Khmer art, historic, heritage, exhibits

PMR616-09
Bulgaria, Rila: Rilski Monastery, 1100 metres high in the Rila Mountains, is the largest and most important monastery in Bulgaria. Built on the site of the hermit, Ivan Rilski's retreat in the 10th century, it has been rebuilt a number of times. Here, part of the monastery courtyard, surrounded by galleries three storeys high. Bulgaria, Rila: Rilski Monastery, 1100 metres high in the Rila Mountains, is the largest and most important monastery in Bulgaria. Built on the site of the hermit, Ivan Rilski's retreat in the 10th century, it has been rebuilt a number of times. Here, part of the monastery courtyard, surrounded by galleries three storeys high.
Keywords: Orthodox churches, Bulgarian architecture, religious buildings

PMR-D4070
Germany, Bavaria, Bayreuth: fountain courtyard in the the Old Castle dating from 1715 in the grounds of the Eremitage, the brainchild of Margravine Wilhelmina.
Keywords: picturesque, park, architecture, grotto, historic, heritage, Baroque

PMR-D2837
Greece, Island of Rhodes: taverna in a courtyard in the old town.
Keywords: Mediterranean, island, holiday resort, picturesque, historic, mediaeval, architecture, Byzantine, Rhodos, Rodos, UNESCO, Knights of St. John, Crusaders, Knights Hospitaller

PMR-D2832
Greece, Island of Rhodes: part of the loggia in the inner courtyard of the Palace of the Grand Master, built by the Knights of St. John in the 14th century on the site of an earlier Byzantine citadel. Largely rebuilt during the Italian occupation.
Keywords: Mediterranean, island, holiday resort, picturesque, historic, mediaeval, architecture, Byzantine, Rhodos, Rodos, UNESCO, Knights of St. John, Crusaders, Knights Hospitaller

PMR-D2794
Greece, Island of Rhodes: the arcaded courtyard of the "New" Hospital, which now houses the Archeological Museum.
Keywords: Mediterranean, island, holiday resort, picturesque, historic, mediaeval, architecture, Byzantine, Rhodos, Rodos, UNESCO, Knights of St. John, Crusaders, Knights Hospitaller

PMR-D2793
Greece, Island of Rhodes: the arcaded courtyard of the "New" Hospital, which now houses the Archeological Museum. A pile of Turkish cannonballs in the foreground.
Keywords: Mediterranean, island, holiday resort, picturesque, historic, mediaeval, architecture, Byzantine, Rhodos, Rodos, UNESCO, Knights of St. John, Crusaders, Knights Hospitaller

PMR-D1180
People's Republic of China, Xining: devout follower prostrating herself in the courtyard of Kumbum Monastery, where Tsongkapa is said to have been born.
Keywords: architecture, colourful, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, municipality, metropolis, Buddhist

PMR-D1175
People's Republic of China, Xining: courtyard and temple of Kumbum Buddhist Monastery, where Tsongkapa is alleged to have been born, a short distance from the city.
Keywords: architecture, colourful, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, municipality, metropolis, Buddhist

PMR-D0888
Myanmar, Mandalay: the courtyard of Mahamudi Paya, containing the revered Mahamudi Buddha, which has acquired a 15cm. thick covering of gold leaf over the years.
Keywords: Buddhist, temples, picturesque, architecture, colourful, religious, Burma

PMR-D0655
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: the main prayer hall with its cupola, from the main entrance across the courtyard.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0654
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: view across the courtyard of the main prayer hall and a corner minaret from the gallery.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0653
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: view across the courtyard of the main prayer hall and a corner minaret from the gallery.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0651
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: view of a corner minaret across the marble inlaid courtyard.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0640
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: columned galleries with cupolas surround the courtyard on four sides.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0639
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: the marble courtyard and a minaret, from the arcade.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, desert city

PMR-D0434
Greece, Island of Kos: restored courtyard of the Casa Romana.
Keywords: Dodecanese, Greek Islands, Hellas, harbour, yachts, fishing boats, pleasure boats, moorings, island hopping

PMR-D0430
Greece, Island of Kos: restored Roman courtyard with water supply.
Keywords: Dodecanese, historic, architecture, Greek Islands, Hellas, harbour, yachts, fishing boats, pleasure boats, moorings, island hopping

PMR-D0409
Greece, Island of Patmos: the Monastery of St. John the Theologian - courtyard from above and carillon.
Keywords: Dodecanese, Greek Islands, Hellas, harbour, yachts, fishing boats, pleasure boats, moorings, island hopping

PMR-D0408
Greece, Island of Patmos: cobbled courtyard in the Monastery of St. John the Theologian.
Keywords: Dodecanese, Greek Islands, Hellas, harbour, yachts, fishing boats, pleasure boats, moorings, island hopping

PMR-D0300
Germany, Berlin: Courtyard in the "Hackesche Höfe".
Keywords: architecture, Art Deco, Jugendstil, pedestrian zone, revitalised, renovated, fashionable

PMR-D0299
Germany, Berlin: Courtyard in the "Hackesche Höfe".
Keywords: architecture, pedestrian zone, revitalised, renovated, fashionable

PMR-D0228
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Benediktbeuren: Baroque wing of the monastery from across a snowy courtyard.
Keywords: picturesque, snow, cold, winter, Catholic, religious, Benedictine, architecture

PMR-D0204
Bolivia, La Paz: courtyard of the Museo Nacional de Arte.
Keywords: architecture, art gallery, museums

PMR365-11
Germany, Bavaria, Burghausen: the castle, which dates back to 1025 or even earlier, was constantly extended, and now comprises an inner courtyard and 5 outer courtyards, straggling along a ridge for 1051 metres, making it the longest castle in the world. The Christopher Gate to the castle, in the fifth courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, gables, fortifications, defence, mediaeval

PMR365-10
Germany, Bavaria, Burghausen: the castle, which dates back to 1025 or even earlier, was constantly extended, and now comprises an inner courtyard and 5 outer courtyards, straggling along a ridge for 1051 metres, making it the longest castle in the world. Clocktower with sundial, and wellhouse, in the fifth courtyard of the castle.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, gables, fortifications, defence, mediaeval

PMR365-06
Germany, Bavaria, Burghausen: the castle, which dates back to 1025 or even earlier, was constantly extended, and now comprises an inner courtyard and 5 outer courtyards, straggling along a ridge for 1051 metres, making it the longest castle in the world. Lake Wöhr, which occupies the former course of the River Salzach, from the roof of the Palas.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, gables, fortifications, defence, mediaeval

PMR365-05
Germany, Bavaria, Burghausen: the castle, which dates back to 1025 or even earlier, was constantly extended, and now comprises an inner courtyard and 5 outer courtyards, straggling along a ridge for 1051 metres, making it the longest castle in the world. Eggenberg Tower and curtain wall spanning Lake Wöhr, from the roof of the "Palas".
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, gables, fortifications, defence, mediaeval

PMR365-04
Germany, Bavaria, Burghausen: the castle, which dates back to 1025 or even earlier, was constantly extended, and now comprises an inner courtyard and 5 outer courtyards, straggling along a ridge for 1051 metres, making it the longest castle in the world. View along the castle ridge from the roof of the "Palas" or Duke's Quarters.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, gables, fortifications, defence, mediaeval

PMR365-03
Germany, Bavaria, Burghausen: the castle, which dates back to 1025 or even earlier, was constantly extended, and now comprises an inner courtyard and 5 outer courtyards, straggling along a ridge for 1051 metres, making it the longest castle in the world. The first and principal courtyard, with the "Kemnate" or living quarters on the left.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, gables, fortifications, defence, mediaeval

PMR365-02
Germany, Bavaria, Burghausen: the castle, which dates back to 1025 or even earlier, was constantly extended, and now comprises an inner courtyard and 5 outer courtyards, straggling along a ridge for 1051 metres, making it the longest castle in the world. Stephan's Tower and the main entrance.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, gables, fortifications, defence, mediaeval

PMR346-12
India, Rajasthan, Jaipur: the inner courtyard of the Palace of the Winds.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, colourful, heritage

PMR346-10
India, Rajasthan, Amber/Amer: a seller of herbs and spices in a courtyard of the Fortress-Palace makes an attractive display of his wares.
Keywords: picturesque, culture, colourful, trader, stall

PMR346-09
India, Rajasthan, Amber/Amer: tourist bazaar in a courtyard of the Fortress-Palace.
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, picturesque, culture, historic, colourful, mediaeval, medieval, heritage, imposing, gables, timber-frame, half timbered, wattle and daub, München, capital city

PMR344-10
India, New Delhi: inside the Red Fort (Lal Qila), built 1638-1648 by the Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan: part of the richly carved marble courtyard of the Pearl Mosque.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, capital city, Islam, Muslim, domes

PMR332-06
Denmark, Helsingor (Elsinore): inner courtyard of Kronborg Fortress, built in the 1630s on the site of the original "Krogen" Fortress from 1420.
Keywords: architecture, culture, historic, mediaeval, medieval, heritage, imposing

PMR329-03
Finland, Turku (in Swedish: Abo): Finland's oldest town, and capital city until Helsinki took its place in 1812. Turku Castle dates back to 1280, but has been expanded a number of times. View of the inner courtyard. It now houses the town's historical museum.
Keywords: architecture, culture, historic, mediaeval, medieval, heritage, red-brick, cobblestones

PMR315-03
Germany, Bavaria, Franconia, Eichstätt: the spacious courtyard of the Rebdorf Monastery with the church towers in the background.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage

PMR311-10
France, Alsace, Riquewihr, a well preserved mediaeval village on the edge of the Vosges: open air restaurant in a leafy, secluded courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, colourful, medieval, heritage, dining

PMR311-08
France, Alsace, Riquewihr, a well preserved mediaeval village on the edge of the Vosges: courtyard off the main street.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, colourful, medieval, timber-frame, half-timbered, lathe and plaster, heritage, cobblestones

PMR294-11
Turkey, Edirne: Selim Mosque, built 1569-75 by the architect Sinan in the reign of Selim II.
View of the courtyard and ablutions fountain.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, minarets, architecture, Mohammed, culture, historic, heritage

PMR260-04
Germany, Rhineland Palatinate, Trier: courtyard of the Simeonstift, surrounded by 11th century two-storey cloisters.
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, picturesque, culture, historic, national heritage, colourful, mediaeval, medieval, Rheinland-Pfalz, Romanesque

PMR255-09
France, Alsace-Lorraine, Strasbourg: Cour du Corbeau, courtyard of an inn, virtually unchanged since the 16th century.
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, picturesque, culture, historic, national heritage, colourful, mediaeval, medieval, timber-frame, half-timbered, lathe and plaster

PMR231-03
Greece: Mistra, a Byzantine town founded by the Franks in 1249, straggles up the hillside to the protecting fortress on the peak. Courtyard of the Pantanassia Monastery, which is still active (1986).
Keywords: historic, antiquity, culture, art, masonry, archeology, excavations, architecture, heritage, monument

PMR227-02
Greece, Athens: remains of the courtyard of the Roman Agora, with the Propylaeum on the far side.
Keywords: historic, antiquity, culture, art, Greek, masonry, ruin, archeology, excavations, architecture, classical, heritage, monument, capital city

PMR217-05
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Ammerang: Renaissance courtyard in Schloss Amerang, the oldest surviving courtyard surrounded by three storeys ofarched galleries, and a popular venue for concerts.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, culture, music, concert, palace, castle

PMR211-05
Israel, Akko: caravanserai Khan al-Umdan with watering place for camels in the centre of the courtyard. The clocktower (sans clock!) was added in 1906.
Keywords: Acre, galleries, arches, architecture, historic, security

PMR-D3656
People's Republic of China, Anhui Province: the village of Hongcun dates from the Song Dynasty and was founded by members of the Wang clan: courtyard with gardens adjoining a traditional house.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, picturesque, national heritage, photogenic, culture, UNESCO site, tourist attraction, historic

PMR-D3648
People's Republic of China, Anhui Province: the village of Hongcun dates from the Song Dynasty and was founded by members of the Wang clan: courtyard at thr rear of a meeting hall.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, picturesque, national heritage, photogenic, culture, UNESCO site, tourist attraction, historic

PMR-D3574
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Wuzhen, a historic village with wooden buildings dating from the Ming and Qing Dynasties, made prosperous by its former silk trade: figure of the god "Guan" in the courtyard of a Buddhist temple.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, picturesque, national heritage, Venice of the East, ancient, photogenic, statue, sculpture, religion

PMR-D3462
Germany, Saxony, Colditz Castle: the outer courtyard, now used for hotel guest rooms and YHA hostel.
Keywords: historic, World War II, prison camps, NAZI Germany

PMR-D3461
Germany, Saxony, Colditz Castle: the former prisoners' courtyard, now part of the museum relating to prisoners of OFLAG IV-C.
Keywords: historic, World War II, prison camps, NAZI Germany

PMR-D3428
Germany, Saxony-Anhalt, Magdeburg: Romanesque cloisters of the Kloster Unser Lieben Frauen (Monastery of Our Lady), dating from 1129-1200, with the Tonsure Chapel protruding into the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, mediaeval, picturesque, culture, historic, national heritage, stone carving

PMR-D3329
Germany, Swiss Saxony (Sächsische Schweiz): the mighty Neues Zeughaus (New Armoury) (1816) through which a ramp leads from the entrance gate into the courtyard.
Keywords: picturesque, heritage, Swiss Saxony, sandstone, defence, fortifications, historic, architecture, Baroque

PMR-D3281
Germany, Saxony (Sächsische Schweiz), Hohnstein: Burg Hohnstein (Castle) dates back to the 12th century and has been held alternately by Bohemian and Saxon nobility whilst being constantly expanded. It now houses one of the largest youth hostels. Upper Courtyard with Keep in the background.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3074
Bahrain, Muharraq: Beit Sheikh Isa bin Ali, a traditional upper-class house built about 1800, and recently refurbished and opened to the public. Seat of the emir in the 19th century.

The main courtyard with entrances to living rooms, from the roof.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh, dwelling, living style, architecture, artistic

PMR-D3063
Bahrain, Manama: Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, accommodating 7000 worshippers - the main courtyard, paved with marble.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh

PMR-D1558
Nepal, Kathmandu: (from right) Basantapur Tower, Kirtipur Tower and Bhaktapur Tower, from Nasal Chowk (Courtyard) in the King's Palace, with the coronation dais to the right.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1557
Nepal, Kathmandu: coronation dais in Nasal Chowk (Courtyard) of the King's Palace, with Pancha Mukhi Hanuman Tower behind.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1556
Nepal, Kathmandu: corner of Lohan Chowk (Courtyard), with Bhaktapur Tower, in the King's Palace.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1554
Nepal, Kathmandu: Kumari Chowk (Courtyard) of the Kumari Bahal, where the "Living Goddess" resides.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1464
People's Republic of China, Tibet: the courtyard of Shegar/Shekar Chode Monastery (1269) with prayer pole and view of the Dzong on its pinnacle in the background.
Keywords: architecture, mountains, Shekar, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1387
People's Republic of China, Tibet: dating from 1268, Sakya Monastery is surrounded by high defence walls with towers at each corner. Sakya was the capital of Tibet from 1268 to 1354, thanks to an alliance with the Mongol Khans. View of the outer courtyard from the high defence walls.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1386
People's Republic of China, Tibet: dating from 1268, Sakya Monastery is surrounded by high defence walls with towers at each corner. Sakya was the capital of Tibet from 1268 to 1354, thanks to an alliance with the Mongol Khans. View of the colourfully decorated inner courtyard with well.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1384
People's Republic of China, Tibet: dating from 1268, Sakya Monastery is surrounded by high defence walls with towers at each corner. Sakya was the capital of Tibet from 1268 to 1354, thanks to an alliance with the Mongol Khans. View of the outer courtyard with incense burner.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1343
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Gyantse: courtyard of Pelkor Chode Monastery, with incense burner.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1305
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: at Sera Monastery student monks engage in al fresco debates from 15.30 to 16.00 daily in the debating courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1304
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: at Sera Monastery student monks engage in al fresco debates from 15.30 to 16.00 daily in the debating courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1303
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: at Sera Monastery student monks engage in al fresco debates from 15.30 to 16.00 daily in the debating courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1277
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: the Jokhang, dating from the 7th century, contains the most revered Budda image in all Tibet, the Jowo Sakymuni.
Here: the upper storey and golden roof, from the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1273
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: the Jokhang, dating from the 7th century, contains the most revered Budda image in all Tibet, the Jowo Sakymuni.
Here: the central courtyard, seen from the roof.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1271
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: the Jokhang, dating from the 7th century, contains the most revered Budda image in all Tibet, the Jowo Sakymuni.
Here: the central courtyard, with golden figures on the roof holding strings of bells.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1264
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: Potala Palace, built on the orders of the 5th Dalai Lama 1645-9, succeeding Drepong Monastery as his residence. His death in 1682 was concealed until the Red Palace was completed.
Here: the White Palace from the courtyard (Deyang Shar), the living quarters of the Dalai Lamas.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1263
People's Republic of China, Tibet, Lhasa: Potala Palace, built on the orders of the 5th Dalai Lama 1645-9, succeeding Drepong Monastery as his residence. His death in 1682 was concealed until the Red Palace was completed.
Here: the White Palace from the courtyard (Deyang Shar), the living quarters of the Dalai Lamas.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1232
People's Republic of China, Tibet: Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet, founded in the late 8th century in the reign of King Trisong Detsen, is laid out in the form of a mandala, representing the Buddhist cosmos.
This picture: monks sweeping the courtyard in front of the gold-roofed Utse, a daily task.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1231
People's Republic of China, Tibet: Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet, founded in the late 8th century in the reign of King Trisong Detsen, is laid out in the form of a mandala, representing the Buddhist cosmos.
This picture: monks sweeping the courtyard in front of the gold-roofed Utse, a daily task.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR-D1230
People's Republic of China, Tibet: Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet, founded in the late 8th century in the reign of King Trisong Detsen, is laid out in the form of a mandala, representing the Buddhist cosmos.
This picture: monks sweeping the courtyard, a daily task.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR-D1229
People's Republic of China, Tibet: Samye Monastery, the first Buddhist monastery in Tibet, founded in the late 8th century in the reign of King Trisong Detsen, is laid out in the form of a mandala, representing the Buddhist cosmos. The courtyard in front of the gold-roofed Utse, with incense burner and prayer poles.
Keywords: architecture, heritage, historical, picturesque, temples, Buddhist, Asian, colourful, religion

PMR180-08
Germany, Baden Wurttemberg, Michelstadt in the Oden Forest: courtyard with half timbered houses formerly comprising the local stores (Stadtische Kellerei)
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, traditional, Odenwald

PMR180-03
Germany, Baden Wurttemberg, Freiburg im Breisgau in the Black Forest: Renaissance courtyard in the "New" Town Hall, dating from the 16th century.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, architecture, Black Forest, Schwarzwald, traditional

PMR154-05
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Murnau Open Air Ethnological Museum: 16th/17th century dwelling house from Tyrlbrunn, as occupied in the 18th century. Formerly part of a four-sided court. View of the courtyard pump and kitchen garden, planted with herbs regularly grown since at least the 9th century.
Keywords: alpine, picturesque, dwellings, homes, houses, traditional, historic

PMR-D2658
Turkey, Dogubayazit, Anatolia: Ishak Pasha Palace was begun in 1685 by Cholak Abdi Pasha and completed in 1784 by his son, a Kurdish chieftain, also named Ishak. The architecture is a mixture of Seljuk, Ottoman, Georgian, Persian and Armenian styles.
The mosque, seen from the inner courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, fortifications, photogenic, minaret, landscape, cliffs

PMR-D2650
Turkey, Dogubayazit, Anatolia: Ishak Pasha Palace was begun in 1685 by Cholak Abdi Pasha and completed in 1784 by his son, a Kurdish chieftain, also named Ishak. The architecture is a mixture of Seljuk, Ottoman, Georgian, Persian and Armenian styles.
The mosque, seen from the inner courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, fortifications, photogenic, minaret, landscape, cliffs

PMR-D2585
Iran, Qazvin: Imamzadeh-ye Hossein commemorates a son of the 8th Imam Reza who died aged two in 821 AD and is buried here. It dates from the 16th century but the facade is from the Qajar era. Pictured is the gatehouse, adorned with six ornamental minarets, from the fountain courtyard.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaic

PMR-D2553
Iran, Qom: Hazrat-e Masumeh is the burial place of Fatemah, sister of the 8th Imam Reza and is the spiritual centre of Qom, which itself is the spiritual centre of Iran. The shrine was begun by Shah Abbas I and completed by other Safavid shahs. Non-Muslims are not allowed in the shrine itself. Golden dome and minarets from the courtyard.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics

PMR-D2552
Iran, Qom: Hazrat-e Masumeh is the burial place of Fatemah, sister of the 8th Imam Reza and is the spiritual centre of Qom, which itself is the spiritual centre of Iran. The shrine was begun by Shah Abbas I and completed by other Safavid shahs. Non-Muslims are not allowed in the shrine itself. Golden dome and minarets from the courtyard.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics

PMR-D2513
Iran, Isfahan: Masjed-e Jameh (Jameh Mosque) dates back to around 771 AD and contains later additions from the Mongols, Seljuks, Muzzafarids, Timurids and Safavids. The largest mosque in Iran. Modern mosaic of Ayatolla Ali Khamenei in the courtyard.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2512
Iran, Isfahan: Masjed-e Jameh (Jameh Mosque) dates back to around 771 AD and contains later additions from the Mongols, Seljuks, Muzzafarids, Timurids and Safavids. The largest mosque in Iran. Modern mosaic of Ayatolla Ruhollah Khomeini in the courtyard.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2335
Iran, Sanandaj: a room facing the courtyard in the Asef Mansion, a Qajar building which is now a museum of Kurdish life.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion

PMR-D2021
Scotland, Edinburgh: statue of Alexander restraining Bucephalus in the courtyard of the neo-classical City Chambers.
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, capital city, picturesque, culture, historic, national heritage

PMR687-02
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: view into the courtyard through the domed and arcaded gallery.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR687-01
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: the tiled and arcaded gallery from outside the courtyard, with blue-tiled reflecting pool.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR474-04
Spain, Catelonia, Girona: numerous plants and trees are grown on the balconies and in the courtyards of the old town.
Keywords: dwellings, flora, horticulture, gardening, picturesque

PMR513-01
Italy, Lombardy, Milan: main courtyard and circular defence tower of Castello Sforzesco, built under Galeazzo Visconti in 1386.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, metropolis, mediaeval

PMR504-11
Cyprus (North): St. Hilarion Castle, "a picture-book castle for elf-kings" (Rose Macaulay). Named after a seventh-century hermit, the almost impregnable site has been a monastery, a fortress and a royal palace, occupied by Crusaders, Lusignans, Byzantines, Venetians and lastly used as a Turkish retreat from EOKA attacks in 1964. Here: the upper enceinte or courtyard may have been planted with useful herbs in Byzantine times.
Keywords: rocky pinnacle, fortifications, ruined castle, commanding view, crag

PMR499-11
Turkey, Istanbul: courtyard of the Sultanahmet (Blue) Mosque, completed in 1617 by the architect Mehmet Aga.
Keywords: architecture, historic, Constantinople, Muslim, Byzantine, Islam, natural heritage

PMR536-10
Syria, Damascus: courtyard of the Umayyad Mosque (built 705-15 AD) from the eastern arcade, showing the inlaid marble floor.
Keywords: architecture, colourful, artistic, national heritage, Muslim, Islam, picturesque, culture, capital city, historical, metropolis

PMR536-09
Syria, Damascus: courtyard of the Umayyad Mosque (built 705-15 AD) with roofed fountain for ablutions in the centre, flanked by two columns, Al-Sa'at (clock) and Al-Mal (money).
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, historical, capital city, culture, picturesque, Islam, Muslim, national heritage, artistic

PMR536-08
Syria, Damascus: the famous former treasury (Kubbat al-khazina) of the Umayyad Mosque (built 705-15 AD), standing on 8 antique columns in the courtyard, and dating from 788 AD (the mosaics have been much restored). Behind, the AL-Arous (Brides') Minaret, from the 11th century.
Keywords: architecture, artistic, national heritage, Muslim, Islam, picturesque, culture, capital city, historical, metropolis

PMR535-11
Syria, Palmyra: gate, through which sacrificial animals entered the courtyard of the Baal Temple which was consecrated in 32 AD.
Keywords: architecture, Roman, archeology, archeological, historical, desert, ruined city, national heritage, columns

PMR534-04 (2)
Iraq, Baghdad: Medrese Al-Mustansariya, the principal school/university in the Abbasid era. Built under Caliph Al-Mustansir Billah (1226-1242), it provided lecture halls, library, refectory, baths, student accommodation, hospital with pharmacy, and mosque. The curriculum included Arabic, Theology, Astronomy, Mathematics, Pharmacy, Medicine, and especially, Koran studies.
View of the courtyard and colourful minaret from the first-floor gallery.
Keywords: architecture, madrassa, madrasa, centre of studies, education, Mesopotamia, Muslim, Islam, natural heritage

PMR534-04 (1)
Iraq, Baghdad: Medrese Al-Mustansariya, the principal school/university in the Abbasid era. Built under Caliph Al-Mustansir Billah (1226-1242), it provided lecture halls, library, refectory, baths, student accommodation, hospital with pharmacy, and mosque. The curriculum included Arabic, Theology, Astronomy, Mathematics, Pharmacy, Medicine, and especially, Koran studies.
View of the courtyard and colourful minaret from the entrance.
Keywords: architecture, madrassa, madrasa, centre of studies, education, Mesopotamia, Muslim, Islam, natural heritage

PMR533-07
Iraq, Hatra: a great Arab city, founded in the 3rd century BC after the fall of the Assyrian empire in 612 BC and Babylon in 539 BC. The buildings combine elements of Hellenistic/Roman and Syrian architecture:
view from the temple courtyard, with loose stones for reintegration in the foreground.
Keywords: architecture, natural heritage, archeology, archeological, historical, desert, ruined city, Mesopotamia

PMR532-07
Iraq, Mosul: Mar Mathi (St. Matthew's) Monastery, on the summit of Mount Maqloub, part of the mountains of Kurdistan. The Syrian Orthodox monastery was founded in the 4th century. View of the arcaded galleries with monks' cells surrounding the courtyard.
Keywords: Mesopotamia, culture, architecture, Christian, natural heritage

PMR530-12
Iraq, Samarra: Askari Shiite Shrine, where the 10th and 11th Imams, Ali Al-Hadi and his son, are buried under a huge golden dome; the main entrance and two minarets, from the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, coloured tiles, mosaics, Mesopotamia, natural heritage, Islam, Muslim

PMR530-08
Iraq, Fortress/palace of Al-Ukhaidar: standing alone in the western desert, 48 kilometres south-west of kerbela, little is known of the builders, although thought to date from the early 8th century AD. However it stands on an important desert trade route. The entire building has recently been extensively renovated.
One of the courtyards, surrounded by arcades.
Keywords: architecture, fortifications, defence, Muslim, Islam, natural heritage, Mesopotamia, picturesque, archeology, archeological

PMR530-07
Iraq, Fortress/palace of Al-Ukhaidar: standing alone in the western desert, 48 kilometres south-west of kerbela, little is known of the builders, although thought to date from the early 8th century AD. However it stands on an important desert trade route. The entire building has recently been extensively renovated.
Courtyard from the outer wall parapet; single storey buildings provide accommodation, the state rooms being at the rear.
Keywords: architecture, fortifications, defence, Muslim, Islam, natural heritage, Mesopotamia, picturesque, archeology, archeological

PMR530-01
Iraq, Kerbela: shrine of Shiite Imam Al Hussein, grandson of the Prophet, who, with his brother Abbas, was killed and martyred in a battle nearby:
entrance to the shrine, from the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, coloured tiles, mosaics, picturesque, natural heritage, colourful, Islam, Muslim

PMR529-04
Iraq, Babylon ("Bab El" = "Gate of the Gods"): probably dating from the third millennium BC, capital of southern Mesopotamia under Hammurabi (1792-1750 BC), later the greatest city of its day under Nebuchadnezzar II (604-562 BC):
reconstructed gates and successive courtyards of the palace of Nebuchadnezzar II.
Keywords: architecture, natural heritage, colourful, Islam, Muslim, Mesopotamia

PMR528-10
Iraq, Najaf: mausoleum of the Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib, nephew of the Prophet:
two storeys of exquisitely decorated alcoves for the use of pilgrims, surround the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, coloured tiles, mosque, mosaics, Muslim, Islam, colourful, natural heritage, picturesque, historic, Mesopotamia

PMR528-09
Iraq, Najaf: mausoleum of the Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib, nephew of the Prophet:
entrance arch, viewed from the inner courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, coloured tiles, mosque, mosaics, Muslim, Islam, colourful, natural heritage, picturesque, historic, Mesopotamia

PMR526-09
Iraq: Khadimain Shrine, near Baghdad, was founded in 1515; two Shiite Imams, Musa Al-Khadim and Mohamed Al-Jawad, are buried here: one of the alcoves with colourfully ornate tiling, which surround the courtyard, for the accommodation of pilgrims.
Keywords: architecture, Mesopotamia, mosque, mosaics, Muslim, Islam, colourful, natural heritage, picturesque

PMR526-08
Iraq: Khadimain Shrine, near Baghdad, was founded in 1515; two Shiite Imams, Musa Al-Khadim and Mohamed Al-Jawad, are buried here: pilgrims in the courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, Mesopotamia, mosque, mosaics, Muslim, Islam, colourful, natural heritage, picturesque

PMR526-05
Iraq: Khadimain Shrine, near Baghdad, was founded in 1515; two Shiite Imams, Musa Al-Khadim and Mohamed Al-Jawad, are buried here: the entrance gateway, from the inner courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, mosque, mosaics, Muslim, Islam, colourful, natural heritage, picturesque, historic, Mesopotamia

PMR143K-24
Laos, Vientiane: Wat Si Saket temple, built 1819-24 by Chao Anou, is Vientiane's oldest surviving temple. View of the cloisters where are displayed many of the 6400 Buddha figures in the temple, from the courtyard.
Keywords: Buddhist, temple, colourful, monument, national heritage, picturesque, architecture

PMR139K-16
Greece, Island of Patmos: view of the town of Skala from the Monastery of St. John the Theologian, founded in 1088 near to the cave where St. John of Patmos had a series of visions which he recorded at length. Here, a roof courtyard, with monks' cells in the background.
Keywords: Greek Isles, whitewashed walls, island hopping, Hellas, Helenic, Dodecanese, Ionian Islands, picturesque, colourful, yachts, Greek Orthodox Church

PMR137K-07
Mongolia, Övörkhangai Aimag (Province), Kharkhorin, formerly Karakorum: Erdene Zuu Khiid (Monastery) is Mongolia's oldest monastery, founded in 1586 by Altai Khaan. It contained up to 100 temples within its walls as well as numerous gers. Perhaps 1000 monks were in residence at its peak. With the exception of three temples, the monastery was laid waste in the Stalinist purges of 1937, and the monks dispersed or killed. Since 1990 it has resumed its religious role.
This picture: the courtyard in front of the three original temples.
Keywords: Mongol, Buddhism, Buddhist, sharmanism, religious monuments, Chinggis Khaan, Genghis Khan, steppe, Outer Mongolia

PMR135K-18
Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Gandantegchinlen Khiid ("Great Place of Complete Joy"), one of Mongolia's largest and most important Buddhist monasteries. Started in 1838, it suffered under the Stalinist purges of 1937, when most other monasteries were completely demolished, but survived to resume its original purpose in 1990. It now has more than 600 monks.

This picture: a little Mongolian girl with the pigeons in the central courtyard.
Keywords: Mongol, Chinggis Khaan, Genghis Khan, statue, monument, capital, steppe, Outer Mongolia

PMR135K-13
Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar, Gandantegchinlen Khiid ("Great Place of Complete Joy"), one of Mongolia's largest and most important Buddhist monasteries. Started in 1838, it suffered under the Stalinist purges of 1937, when most other monasteries were completely demolished, but survived to resume its original purpose in 1990. It now has more than 600 monks.

This picture: the central, cobbled courtyard has its resident population of pigeons.
Keywords: Mongol, Outer Mongolia, steppe, capital, monument, statue, Genghis Khan, Chinggis Khaan

PMR132K-26
Cambodia, Siem Reap: the Khmer temples were built as the Khmer civilization flowered, from the 8th to the 14th centuries AD in what is now Cambodia and Thailand. The architectural style closely resembles that of India at the same period, but Hindu gods are often joined, or even replaced, by figures of Buddha. Angkor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This picture: Ta Prohm ("Jungle Temple"), built by King Jayavarman VII in 12th-13th centuries, has been left in its natural ("as found") state as an example for visitors; silk-cotton trees growing on a low building in an open courtyard.
Keywords: historic, shrine, Khmer, architecture, religion, Buddhist, Hindu, temples, picturesque, national heritage

PMR124K-35
Germany, Thuringia, Gotha: courtyard and east wing of Friedenstein Palace, built between 1643-54 (early Baroque).
Keywords: East Germany, national heritage, historic, architecture, Baroque, picturesque

PMR121K-09
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: view of the courtyard through marble columns inlaid with semi-precious stones with gold capitals.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR121K-08
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: a blue-tiled reflecting pool surrounds the outer courtyard columns.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR121K-07
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: rear gallery of the courtyard, with its twin corner minarets,107 metres high.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR121K-04
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: gallery on one side of the courtyard, with endless rows of marble columns, inlaid with semi-precious stones.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR121K-02
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: the courtyard, with surrounding marble columns inlaid with semi-precious stones, and Moorish arches.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR121K-01
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: the main courtyard (17,000 square metres) is inlaid with floral designs.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR118K-23
Jordan: Umm Qais, in the north of the country, dates back to the 7th century BC, and was formerly called "Gadara" (cf. the "Gadarene Swine" of the Bible). Courtyard in Beit Russan, a former Ottoman residence, now a museum with a fine sarcophagus on display.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Gadara, ruined city, excavations, archeology, classical architecture, national heritage, archeological site

PMR118K-19
Jordan: Umm Qais, in the north of the country, dates back to the 7th century BC, and was formerly called "Gadara" (cf. the "Gadarene Swine" of the Bible). Colonnaded courtyard on the terrace, with basalt, marble and limestone Corinthian columns.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Gadara, ruined city, excavations, archeology, classical architecture, national heritage, archeological site

PMR114K-08
Cyprus, Palea Paphos (Old Paphos): the 13th century Lusignian manor "La Cavocle". A reconstructed wing, intended for a museum, and part of the courtyard.
Keywords: archeological excavations, Lusignian, architecture, mediaeval

PMR114K-07
Cyprus, Palea Paphos (Old Paphos): courtyard and entrance of the 13th century Lusignian manor "La Cavocle".
Keywords: archeological excavations, Lusignian, architecture, mediaeval

PMR113K-34
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Harburg: Harburg Castle, former home of the Swabian branch of the Hohenstaufens. Inner courtyard with princely living quarters, dating from the mid-12th century.
Keywords: architecture, Gothic architecture, picturesque, national heritage, historic, mediaeval, Schwaben

PMR113K-33
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Harburg: Harburg Castle, former home of the Swabian branch of the Hohenstaufens. Inner courtyard with the chapel and defence gallery along the curtain wall.
Keywords: architecture, Schwaben, mediaeval, historic, national heritage, picturesque, Gothic architecture

PMR108K-29
Germany, Saxony: Baroque Palace of Rammenau, built 1721-37 by Christoph Knöffel, showing the courtyard and entry lodge.
Keywords: East Germany, national heritage, historic, architecture, Baroque, picturesque

PMR095K-07
Libya: a ruined Roman fort standing on a hill at Gariyat. A mud-walled oven in the courtyard.
Keywords: Roman architecture, castle, fortifications, fortress, Maghreb, Byzantine architecture

PMR093K-15
Germany, Bavaria, Nuremberg: half timbered Secretarial Building dating from 1564, in the Imperial Castle courtyard.
Keywords: Nürnberg, historic town, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR088K-13
Croatia, Dalmatia, Dubrovnik: Romanesque columns and courtyard in the cloister of the Franciscan Monastery.
Keywords: picturesque, Yugoslavia, port, historic city, bastions, ramparts, impregnable, fortifications, fortress, national heritage, mediaeval

PMR085K-33
Germany, Thuringia, Eisenach: The Wartburg Fortress, an indissoluble part of German history, dating back to the 12th century. Here the Minnesänger (troubadours) took part in the famous jousts, recalled in Wagner's opera Tannhäuser. Here Martin Luther studied before translating the New Testament. It was the seat of the dukes of Saxe-Eisenach until 1741 when it was ceded to the house of Saxe-Weimar. The castle is perched on a rocky spur overlooking the town of Eisenach.
Here: a historic well with highly ornate cast iron yoke, in the outer courtyard.
Keywords: picturesque, national heritage, architecture, historic castle, mediaeval

PMR085K-32
Germany, Thuringia, Eisenach: The Wartburg Fortress, an indissoluble part of German history, dating back to the 12th century. Here the Minnesänger (troubadours) took part in the famous jousts, recalled in Wagner's opera Tannhäuser. Here Martin Luther studied before translating the New Testament. It was the seat of the dukes of Saxe-Eisenach until 1741 when it was ceded to the house of Saxe-Weimar. The castle is perched on a rocky spur overlooking the town of Eisenach.
Here: a historic well with highly ornate cast iron yoke, in the outer courtyard.
Keywords: picturesque, mediaeval, historic castle, architecture, national heritage

PMR084K-20
Czech Republic, Prague: Loretto Church (Loreta), built in 1626, contains the Casa Santa (House of Mary) in its courtyard.
Keywords: Czech capital, Catholic, architecture, metropolis, national heritage, historic

PMR084K-01
Cyprus (North), Nicosia: Büyük Han, an Ottoman caravanserai dating from 1572, the only one to have survived in Cyprus. It is now used as a market for local artisans to sell their wares. Here, the courtyard vaulting seen from the entrance.
Keywords: Lefkosia, galleries, arches, architecture, heritage, historic, albergo, inn, Turkish

PMR083K-36
Cyprus (North), Nicosia: Büyük Han, an Ottoman caravanserai dating from 1572, the only one to have survived in Cyprus. It is now used as a market for local artisans to sell their wares. Here, one of the upper galleries with the courtyard below, and a Bougainvillea in a pot.
Keywords: Lefkosia, galleries, arches, architecture, heritage, historic, albergo, inn, Turkish

PMR083K-35
Cyprus (North), Nicosia: Büyük Han, an Ottoman caravanserai dating from 1572, the only one to have survived in Cyprus. It is now used as a market for local artisans to sell their wares. Here, a corner of the courtyard with flowering plants in pots.
Keywords: Lefkosia, Turkish, inn, albergo, historic, heritage, architecture, arches, galleries

PMR083K-33
Cyprus (North), Nicosia: Büyük Han, an Ottoman caravanserai dating from 1572, the only one to have survived in Cyprus. It is now used as a market for local artisans to sell their wares. Here, the courtyard with ablutions kiosk in the centre.
Keywords: Lefkosia, Turkish, inn, albergo, historic, heritage, architecture, arches, galleries

PMR082K-17
Cyprus, Omodhos: Plant-filled inner courtyard of a typical house, with balconies.
Keywords: photogenic, village, traditional village, heritage, visitor attraction, picturesque

PMR080K-35
Tunisia, Monastir: Mausoleum of the first president of Tunisia, Habib Bourguiba, born in Monastir, who died on 6th April 2000, aged 96. He was in office from 1957 to 1987. The mausoleum was built in 1963. Courtyard and portico, showing some of the faience decoration.
Keywords: Islamic, arches, columns, cupola, dome, architecture, Maghreb, historic, heritage, Mohamed, Muslim, picturesque

PMR080K-19
Tunisia, Matmata: The Jerbalia Berbers have lived in underground dwellings since the 11th century. These normally comprise a central courtyard, open to the sky, with rooms leading off on all sides. The majority now live in normal houses. Here:" Marhaba/Bienvenue/Welcome", written, Hollywood-style, on the mountainside.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Mohammedan, Maghreb, historic, heritage, picturesque, archeology, troglodyte

PMR080K-18
Tunisia, Matmata: The Jerbalia Berbers have lived in underground dwellings since the 11th century. These normally comprise a central courtyard, open to the sky, with rooms leading off on all sides. The majority now live in normal houses. Here: simpler dwellings are created by burrowing into the soft cliffside.
Keywords: Islam, troglodyte, archeology, picturesque, heritage, historic, Maghreb, Mohammedan, Muslim

PMR080K-17
Tunisia, Matmata: The Jerbalia Berbers have lived in underground dwellings since the 11th century. These normally comprise a central courtyard, open to the sky, with rooms leading off on all sides. The majority now live in normal houses. View from ground level.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Mohammedan, Maghreb, historic, heritage, picturesque, archeology, troglodyte

PMR080K-16
Tunisia, Matmata: The Jerbalia Berbers have lived in underground dwellings since the 11th century. These normally comprise a central courtyard, open to the sky, with rooms leading off on all sides. The majority now live in normal houses. Here: corn being milled between two stones in the courtyard.
Keywords: Islam, troglodyte, archeology, picturesque, heritage, historic, Maghreb, Mohammedan, Muslim

PMR080K-10
Tunisia: Kairouan, the fourth holiest place in Islam, after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem: Zaouia Sidi Sahab, burial place of Mohammed's companion, Sidi Sahab, built between 1629 and 1692, also known as the "Barber's Mosque": view of the arches and columns of the inner courtyard, showing the extent of the faience tiling.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Mohammedan, Maghreb, historic, heritage, picturesque

PMR080K-09
Tunisia: Kairouan, the fourth holiest place in Islam, after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem: Zaouia Sidi Sahab, burial place of Mohammed's companion, Sidi Sahab, built between 1629 and 1692, also known as the "Barber's Mosque": view of the ornate faience tiling on the portico of the inner courtyard (19th century Osman period).
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Mohammedan, Maghreb, historic, heritage, picturesque

PMR080K-08
Tunisia: Kairouan, the fourth holiest place in Islam, after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem: Zaouia Sidi Sahab, burial place of Mohammed's companion, Sidi Sahab, built between 1629 and 1692, also known as the "Barber's Mosque": view of the porticoed courtyard.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Mohammedan, Maghreb, historic, heritage, picturesque

PMR080K-01
Tunisia: Kairouan, the fourth holiest place in Islam, after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem: Sidi Oqba Mosque, founded in 672, the oldest in North Africa and model for later mosques throughout the Maghreb. UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site. View of the courtyard, portico and minaret.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Mohammedan, Maghreb, historic, heritage, picturesque

PMR079K-34
Tunisia, Sousse: inner courtyard of the Ribat, a fortified "monastery" for the soldiers of Islam, which dates back to about 800 AD.
Keywords: Islam, crenellations, courtyard, castle, fort, Muslim, Mohammedan, Maghreb, historic, heritage, picturesque

PMR0084K-19
Czech Republic, Prague: Loretto Church (Loreta), built in 1626, contains the Casa Santa (House of Mary) in its courtyard.
Keywords: Czech capital, Catholic, architecture, metropolis, national heritage, historic

PMR053K-09
Spain, New Castile: El Escorial - built for Philip II in 1563-84 as an enormous monastery-palace by the architect Juan de Herrera, to commemorate the Spanish defeat of the French at St. Quentin in 1557. Here, the Kings' Courtyard and facade with the twin towers of the Basilica.

PMR024K-15
Singapore: Courtyard with "rajagopuram" and sacred white cows on perimeter wall of the Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple in South Bridge Road.
Keywords: gopuram, religion, Krishna

PMR020K-03
Romania, Transylvania: Bran Castle, associated with the Count Dracula stories of Bram Stoker, perhaps based on the historical figure of Vlad Tepes ("Vlad the Impaler"), although the latter did not live in Transylvania and may never have visited it. The castle was built shortly after 1377 to protect trade routes and levy tolls. View of the central courtyard with well and surrounding galleries.
Keywords: horror stories, horror films, vampire bats, blood suckers, Gothic horror, spooky castles

PMR019K-22
Czech Republic: Cesky Krumlov, a mediaeval town built in a loop of the River Vltava (Moldau): walls of the inner courtyard of the castle, decorated with sgraffito.
Keywords: Czechoslovakia, architecture

PMR017K-13
Syria, Damascus: Former treasury (Kubbat al-khazina) of the Umayyad Mosque, standing on 8 antique columns in the courtyard. Closer view of the mosaics, dating from 788 AD, but frequently restored.
Keywords: middle east, religion, Mohamed, Islam, muslim

PMR016K-04
Iraq, Kerbela, Fortress/Palace of Al-Ukhaidar: standing alone in the western desert, 48 kilometres south-west of Kerbela, little is known of the builders, although it is thought to date from the early 8th century AD. However it stands on an important desert trade route. The former mosque, giving onto an inner courtyard.
Keywords: mosque, Islam, Mohammed, religion, Muslim

PMR016K-03
Iraq, Kerbela, Fortress/Palace of Al-Ukhaidar: standing alone in the western desert, 48 kilometres south-west of Kerbela, little is known of the builders, although it is thought to date from the early 8th century AD. However it stands on an important desert trade route. One of the galleries alongside the courtyard.
Keywords: mosque, Islam, Mohammed, religion, Muslim

PMR016K-02
Iraq, Kerbela, Fortress/Palace of Al-Ukhaidar: standing alone in the western desert, 48 kilometres south-west of Kerbela, little is known of the builders, although it is thought to date from the early 8th century AD. However it stands on an important desert trade route. View of the courtyard from the roof.
Keywords: mosque, Islam, Mohammed, religion, Muslim

PMR016K-01
Iraq, Kerbela: Shrine of the Shiite Imam Al Hussein, grandson of the Prophet, who, with his brother Abbas, was killed and martyred in a battle nearby. Entrance to the shrine, from the courtyard.
Keywords: mosque, faience, Muslim, religion, Mohammed, Islam

PMR043K-08
Germany, Baden-Wurttemberg, Tubingen: Glockenspiel (carillon) on a roof in the courtyard by the Old Aula.

PMR043K-07
Germany, Baden-Wurttemberg, Tubingen: Fountain in the courtyard by the Old Aula, with gabled facades towering in the background.

PMR043K-06
Germany, Baden-Wurttemberg, Tubingen: Half-timbered gable with clock in the corner of the courtyard of Hohentübingen Castle.

PMR042K-22
Cyprus, Tala: Monastery of Ayiou Neofytou, founded by hermit Neofytou who lived alone in the caves in the cliff behind the monastery around 1200 AD. Here, the katholikon (church) of the monastery with its sunken garden in the courtyard.
Keywords: Orthodox monasteries

PMR042K-13
Cyprus, Kalopanagiotis: Courtyard of the monastery of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis, dating in part from the 11th century.
Keywords: Orthodox monasteries, mediaeval

PMR042K-11
Cyprus: Kykkou Monastery, fabulously wealthy and one of the most celebrated in the Orthodox world. Repeatedly burnt down since its foundation in the 12th century, the present building dates from the late 19th century. EOKA terrorists made use of its facilities during the emergencies. Here, view of the courtyard and its well, from the gallery.

PMR036K-26
Namibia: Romantic Duwisib Castle, built in 1907 by Hansheinrich von Wolf, as a "farmhouse". Here, the shady courtyard behind the crenellated walls.

PMR033K-31
England, Warwickshire, Knowle: 15th century Baddesley Clinton Manor House (National Trust) showing courtyard garden with Ferrer's arms in flowers (7 lozenges) and the venerable wistaria.
Keywords: stately homes, architecture, mansions, Elizabethan manor house, moated manor house, famous gardens

PMR033K-30
England, Warwickshire, Knowle: 15th century Baddesley Clinton Manor House (National Trust) showing gateway and windows of the great parlour and venerable wistaria in flower, from the courtyard.
Keywords: stately homes, architecture, mansions, Elizabethan manor house, moated manor house, famous gardens

PMR074K-11
Spain, Lanzarote; "Monumento al Campesino" ("Monument to the Farmers"), planned and designed by César Manrique. Here: the doorway leading to the dazzling white courtyard.
Keywords: Canary Islands, sunshine, holidays, leisure, volcanic

PMR067K-29
Germany, Nordrhein-Westphalen, Brühl: Schloss Augustusburg was built between 1725 and 1768 by J.K. Schlaun and Francois de Cuvilliés for the Elector Clement-Augustus, Archbishop of Cologne, who was a scion of the Bavarian Wittelsbach family. The palace contains a fine rococo staircase attributed to Balthasar Neumann. Here: the east facade and entrance to the courtyard.
Keywords: North Rhine- Westphalia, French style gardens, formal gardens, parks, palace gardens, country houses, German heritage, German architecture, Nordrhein-Westfalen

PMR065K-05
Bulgaria, Rila: Rilski Monastery, 1100 metres high in the Rila Mountains, is the largest and most important monastery in Bulgaria. Built on the site of the hermit, Ivan Rilski's retreat in the 10th century, it has been rebuilt a number of times. Here, part of the monastery courtyard, surrounded by galleries three storeys high.

PMR063K-30
Bulgaria: Batchkovo Monastery, in the Rodopi Mountains: Sveti Nikola Church in the south courtyard.

PMR063K-09
Bulgaria, Arbanassi, near Veliko Tarnovo: courtyard of the nunnery, "Sveta Bogoroditsa".

PMR424-08
Germany, Saxony, Dresden: arcades in the equestrian courtyard of the castle.
Keywords: city, rebuilding, River Elbe, Rococo, metropolis, architecture, Baroque

PMR424-07
Germany, Saxony, Dresden: the Fountain Courtyard in the Zwinger, with fine Baroque facade.
Keywords: city, rebuilding, River Elbe, Rococo, metropolis, architecture, Baroque

PMR424-06
Germany, Saxony, Dresden: newly laid-out courtyard and fountains, inside the Zwinger, with the spire of the castle tower behind.
Keywords: city, Baroque, architecture, metropolis, Rococo, River Elbe, rebuilding

PMR424-05
Germany, Saxony, Dresden: newly laid-out courtyard and fountains, inside the Zwinger.
Keywords: city, Baroque, architecture, metropolis, Rococo, River Elbe, rebuilding

PMR418-01
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Munich: the arcaded, Renaissance courtyard of the former Royal Bavarian Mint, built 1563-67 as a part of the royal court, and taken over for the Royal Mint in 1809. Newly renovated and opened to the public.
Keywords: München, heritage, historic, architecture

PMR417-07
Slovakia, Kezmarok (formerly Kesmark): courtyard and well of Kezmarok Castle, with the castle chapel.
Keywords: Czechoslovakia, Kesmark, heritage, historic

PMR416-12
Slovakia, Kezmarok (formerly Kesmark): facade of the chapel from the inner courtyard of Kezmarok Castle.
Keywords: historic, heritage, Czechoslovakia, fortifications, defence, towers, mediaeval, church

PMR404-12
Germany, Rhineland Palatinate, Mosel Valley: part of a backyard in Münstermaifeld, adjoining a small pottery.
Keywords: picturesque, doorway, colourful, quaint, courtyard, flowery, sunny spot

PMR404-08
Germany, Rhineland Palatinate: a sunny corner of Wiltberger Schloss (castle) in Alken.
Keywords: historic place, Moselle Valley, picturesque, sun-enjoyment, sun-worship, flowery, courtyard, national heritage

PMR400-02
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Augsburg: 16th century Rotes Tor (Red Gate) from the central courtyard.
Keywords: architecture, Augustus Caesar, mediaeval, tower, fortifications

PMR369-02
Thailand, Bangkok: the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Keo: courtyard of the Amarinda Coronation Palace with potted plants and a small pavilion for meditation and prayer.
Keywords: Buddhist, far east, orient, Siam, picturesque, temples

PMR368-09
Thailand, Bangkok: the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Keo: a pair of fierce giants guarding a gate look on as Thai schoolgirls cross the courtyard to their classroom.
Keywords: Buddhist, far east, orient, Siam, picturesque, temples

PMR368-08
Thailand, Bangkok: the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Keo: ornate temple-roofs seen from a courtyard where "naga" snakes lurk on the corners of the roofs.
Keywords: Buddhist, far east, orient, Siam, picturesque, temples

PMR367-07
Thailand, Bangkok: the Grand Palace, Wat Phra Keo: one of six gateways guarded by pairs of giant sentries or "yaks", with a group of Buddhist monks crossing the courtyard.
Keywords: Buddhist, far east, orient, Siam, picturesque, temples

PMR544-9
Sinaia: Peles Castle, built between 1873 and 1883 for King Carol I, a Hohenzoller, who wished to be reminded of his native land in southern Germany. Here: the courtyard with fountain and frescoes of hunting scenes.
Keywords: noble residence

PMR544-6
Bran Castle, built shortly after 1377 to protect trade routes and levy tolls, now exclusively associated with the "Count Dracula" stories of Bram Stoker which were perhaps based on Vlad Tepes ("Vlad the Impaler") the bloodthirsty Prince of Wallachia (born 1431), although the latter did not live in Transylvania. Here: a group of visitors round the well in the main courtyard.
Keywords: Count Dracula, Transylvania, Vampire, Gothic Horror Stories, Bram Stoker, Blood-sucking, Gothic Castle, Spooky, Eerie, Frightening, Bloddthirsty, ghoulish, demonic, devilish, weird, vampirish

PMR686-12
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: one of the four minarets seen from an arcaded gallery across the courtyard.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR686-11
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: the courtyard and largest dome, over the entrance to the main hall of prayer.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR686-10
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: view of the courtyard, from the arcaded gallery, with semi-precious stone inlays on the columns.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR544-12
The courtyard of Sinaia Monastery, endowed by Mihail Cantacuzino in 1695, The town grew up around the monastery.
Keywords: monastery, worship, self dedication, isolation, seclusion

PMR672-04
Cambodia, Siem Reap: the Khmer temples were built as the Khmer civilization flowered, from the 8th to the 14th centuries AD in what is now Cambodia and Thailand. The architectural style closely resembles that of India at the same period, but Hindu gods are often joined, or even replaced, by figures of Buddha. Angkor is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This picture: Angkor Wat, built by King Suryavarman II between 1113 and 1150, showing the steps leading to the upper level, where the four basins occupy the courtyard, with the central tower in the background.
Keywords: historic, national heritage, picturesque, temples, Hindu, Buddhist, religion, architecture, Khmer, shrine

PMR634-10
Germany, Thuringia, Eisenach: the Wartburg, embedded in German conciousness for almost 1000 years through connections with Martin Luther and Wagner's Tannhäuser, evolved in different periods, the half timbered part dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. A UNESCO World Heritage site. Here: view of the black and white timber framed outer courtyard, with an old cannon in the foreground.
Keywords: historic town, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR634-09
Germany, Thuringia, Eisenach: the Wartburg, embedded in German conciousness for almost 1000 years through connections with Martin Luther and Wagner's Tannhäuser, evolved in different periods, the half timbered part dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. A UNESCO World Heritage site. Here: view of the timber framed buildings in the outer courtyard with ornamental cast-iron well yoke.
Keywords: historic town, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage

PMR630-02
Tunisia: Kairouan, the fourth holiest place in Islam, after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem: courtyard and minaret of Sidi Oqba Mosque, dating from the eighth century, the oldest in north Africa, and model for later mosques throughout the Mahgreb. The minaret, 35 metres high, built in 724-8, the oldest part of the mosque, was formerly a watch tower. UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
Keywords: Muslim, Mohamed, historic, heritage, Islam, architecture, Maghreb

PMR630-01
Tunisia: Kairouan, the fourth holiest place in Islam, after Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem: courtyard and minaret of Sidi Oqba Mosque, dating from the eighth century, the oldest in north Africa, and model for later mosques throughout the Mahgreb. View through an arch. UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
Keywords: Muslim, Maghreb, architecture, Islam, heritage, historic, Mohamed

PMR629-12
Tunisia, Sousse: view of the courtyard of the "Great Mosque", built in 851 AD, with the wall of the medina and the harbour in the background, and fountain in the foreground.
Keywords: Islam, Muslim, Mohamed, heritage, historic

PMR353-11
Belgium, Bruges: shady courtyard of the Beguinage, founded in 1245, now occupied by sisters of the Benedictine Order.
Keywords: Brügge, historic, mediaeval, heritage, architecture, tradition

PMR625-01
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Mittenwald: Picturesque alpine houses with frescoes, clustered round a courtyard with geranium-bedecked fountain and wooden horse-trough.

PMR621-05
Germany, Thuringia, Weimar: Schloss Belvedere, 4 kilometres southeast of Weimar, houses a music school and plays host to summer concerts.
The courtyard of the orangery displays a large collection of tropical trees and shrubs.
Keywords: German heritage, formal gardens, palace gardens, flowerbeds, parks, gardens

PMR601-12
Spain, Toledo: Renaissance courtyard of the Hopital Tavera, erected in 1541 by the eponymous cardinal, now home to the Museo Duque de Lerma, with several El Greco paintings among its exhibits.
Keywords: Renaissance architecture, courtyard

PMR598-02
Cyprus, Nicosia/Lefkosa: courtyard of the Hadjiyeorgakis Kornesios mansion, former home of the eponymous dragoman at the end of the 18th century; at present home of the Cyprus Ethnological Museum.

PMR597-09
Austia, Styria: Admont Benedictine Abbey, founded in the 11th century, but reconstructed after a fire in 1865: courtyard of the abbey, with the snow-covered mountains of the Gesäuse in the background.

PMR578-08
Germany, Baden-Wurttemberg, Tubingen: Fine wooden gallery along one side of the inner courtyard of Hohentübingen Castle.

PMR577-02
Cyprus, Kalopanagiotis: Courtyard of the monastery of Agios Ioannis Lampadistis at Kalopanagiotis, dating in part from the 11th century. Within are well preserved frescoes from 13-15th centuries.

PMR666-10
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: a corner of the courtyard, paved with white marble and inlaid with floral patterns.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR666-09
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: the courtyard and the largest dome, over the main hall of prayer.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR666-08
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: gallery on one side of the courtyard, with its countless marble columns inlaid with semi-precious stones in floral patterns, supporting Moorish arches.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR666-07
United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, completed in 2007, cost $545m. and combines Mughal, Moorish and Arab architecture. It was inspired by the Badshahi Mosque in Lahore and Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. It has 82 domes and can accommodate 40,000 worshippers. The main hall of prayer contains the world's largest chandelier (over 9 tonnes in weight) and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, and can accommodate over 7,000 worshippers.

This picture: view of one of the four minarets and the courtyard, from the arcaded gallery.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR660-07
Canada, Vancouver BC: Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden - Tai Hu Rocks, fantastically shaped stones from Lake Tai in China. Note the intricate courtyard patterns of pebbles and stones.
Keywords: Oriental Garden, pagoda

PMR647-07
Libya, Fezzan, Murzuq: formerly a prosperous trading town as capital of the chiefs of the Awlad Muhammad tribe for some hundreds of years, Murzuq lost its influence with the opening of sea trade and end of their rule in 1813.
A series of arches leading to a courtyard with the mosque and minaret of mud bricks.
Keywords: Maghreb, Berber architecture, mud brick buildings, barren, sand-dune landscape, sand dunes, Sahara Desert

PMR643-11
Libya, Fezzan: Ghat, an oasis town and permanent Tuareg settlement on the Algerian border going back to Garamantian times (1st century BC). View of the courtyard from the roof of a house in the medina, with the Jebel Acacus Mountains in the distance.
Keywords: Maghreb, barren, sand-dune landscape, sand dunes, Sahara Desert, mud brick buildings, adobe, Tuareg architecture, historical oasis town

PMR643-10
Libya, Fezzan: Ghat, an oasis town and permanent Tuareg settlement on the Algerian border going back to Garamantian times (1st century BC). A courtyard in the medina with the top of the minaret of the nearby mosque visible.
Keywords: Maghreb, historical oasis town, Tuareg architecture, adobe, mud brick buildings, Sahara Desert, sand dunes, sand-dune landscape, barren