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Searching all stock for "largest":

Aircraft (4 files)

PMR-D10250
France, Paris, Le Bourget: CCCP-06173 Mil MI-26 (c/n 34001212096), the world's largest helicopter, at the 36th Salon International de l'Aeronautique et de l'Espace 1985.
Keywords: aeroplane, air transport, aircraft, airplane, aviation, helicopter, rotorcraft

PMR-D10248
France, Paris, Le Bourget: CCCP-82002 Antonov AN-124 (c/n 19530501003) the world's largest aircraft at the 36th Salon International de l'Aeronautique et de l'Espace 1985.
Keywords: aeroplane, air transport, aircraft, airplane, aviation, freighter

PMR-D9214
France, Paris, Le Bourget: CCCP-82060 Antonov AN-225 Mriya (c/n 01-01) with dorsal-mounted space shuttle "Buran" (Snowstorm) at the 1989 Salon Aeronautique Internationale. At this time the world's largest aircraft.
Keywords: aircraft, air transport, aviation, airplane, aeroplane, biggest aeroplane

PMR113K-16
USA, Oregon Tillamook: Tillamook Air Museum - N422AU, Aero Spacelines 377MG Mini Guppy (c/n 15937) in front of the 192-foot-high wooden balloon hangar, constructed by the US Navy in 1942. The building is the largest clear-span wooden construction in the world. It is 1072 feet long and the doors each weigh 30 tons.
Keywords: historical, history, aviation, aeroplane, airplane, aircraft, museum, veteran, vintage

Travel (521 files)

PMR102-10
Egypt, Cairo, Giza: the Great Pyramid of Cheops, the largest of the pyramids, one of the seven wonders of the ancient world; built about 2690 BC by 100,000 men in 20 years; height today: 450 feet.
Keywords: Egyptology, archeology, antiquity, historical, hieroglyphics, architecture, culture

PMR055-02
Rhodesia, Victoria Falls: three of the largest inhabitants of a crocodile farm (Crocodylus niloticus)
Keywords: reptiles, breeding, captivity, reptilia, carnivores

PMR-D11166
Turkey, Lycia, Fethiye: ancient rock tombs, carved out of the cliffs by Lycians. The largest, the Tomb of Amyntas (shown here), in the style of a Greek Ionic temple, with highly decorated sham stone door, dates back to the 4th century BC. All have been plundered and many used as dwellings in Byzantine times.
Keywords: archeology, architecture, burial chambers, culture, geology, heritage, historic, Mediterranean

PMR-D11163
Turkey, Lycia, Fethiye: this vault-shaped Lycian sarcophagus dated from the 4th century BC. Carved from local limestone, it is the largest example of its kind, and stands in its original position.
Keywords: antiquity, archeology, burial, culture, grave, heritage, historic

PMR-D9962
Portugal, Azores Islands, Sao Miguel, Furnas: fumirolas and hot springs are common in this active geothermal area. The "Caldeira de Pero Botelho", a 16th century nickname for the devil, is one of the largest and noisiest of these vents.
Keywords: volcanic, mud, steam, minerals

PMR-D9669
Iceland, Reykjavik: the impressive, plain Gothic nave of the Hallgrimskirkja (church), designed by state architect Gudjón Samúelsson, the largest church in the country. Building was begun just after WWII but only recently completed.
Keywords: capital city, concrete, vaulting, architecture

PMR-D9631
Iceland, Island of Heimaey: entrance to the harbour channel. It is the largest of the Westman Islands.
Keywords: picturesque, seascape, cliffs

PMR-D9630
Iceland, Island of Heimaey: view from the ferry. It is the largest of the Westman Islands.
Keywords: picturesque, seascape

PMR-D9629
Iceland, Island of Heimaey: view from the ferry. It is the largest of the Westman Islands.
Keywords: picturesque, seascape

PMR-D9017
Chile, Punta Arenas: the former Palace of Jose Montes Pello, who arrived from Spain in 1874, aged 19, and entered the cattle business, He bought land in Chile and Argentina and amassed one of the largest fortunes in the region. His residence was the work of architect Miguel Bonifetti and was completed in 1923, in the Italian neo-classical style.
Keywords: South America, mansion, luxurious, culture, architecture, Latin America, Andes, Patagonia, heritage, historic

PMR-D9000
Chile, Puerto Natales: Estancia Jeronima, one of the largest in the area, with accommodation for the workers.
Keywords: South America, Patagonia, Andes, Latin America, farm, homestead, tradition

PMR-D8831
Chile, El Maiten: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-east.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8830
Chile, El Maiten: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-east.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8829
Chile, El Maiten: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-east..
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8826
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-east.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8825
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-east with the snow-capped mountains of the Andes reflected in the waters.
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8824
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the suspension bridge in the south.
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8823
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. Puente General Carrera suspension bridge over the southern arm of the lake.
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8822
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-east with the San Valentin/San Clemente massiv reflected in the waters.
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8821
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south.
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8820
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the west, with an island in the foreground.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8818
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the camping site, with the Rotel bus.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise, Rolling Hotel

PMR-D8817
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. A sight-seeing boat, with the snow-covered Andes in the background..
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8790
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west, with flowers of a variety of wild lupin (Lupina) in the foreground
Keywords: South America, plants, botany, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8789
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8788
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west.
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8787
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8786
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8785
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8784
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west.
Keywords: South America, mountains, Latin America, scenery, Andes, Patagonia, lake, turquoise

PMR-D8783
Chile, Puerto Rio Tranquilo: Lago General Carrera is the largest lake in Chile and is shared with Argentina, where it has the name Lago Buenos Aires. Of glacial origin, it is surrounded by the Andes range. View from the south-west.
Keywords: South America, turquoise, lake, Patagonia, Andes, scenery, Latin America, mountains

PMR-D8622
Chile. Santiago: Costanera Center Torre 2 or Gran Torre Santiago, at 300 metres, is the second highest building in Latin America. Completed in 2013, it has 62 storeys and contains Latin America's largest shopping centre.
Keywords: South America, high-rise, skyscrapers, Latin America, offices

PMR-D8598
Chile. Santiago: the National Stock Exchange (Bolsa de Comercio), opened on 27th November 1893, is the third-largest in Latin America.
Keywords: South America, Latin America, architecture, bourse, financial, classical

PMR-D8571
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Schleissheim: Lustheim Palace, a garden villa built to plans of Enrico Zuccalli 1684-88 in Baroque style, contains one of the largest cellections of Meissen porcelaine in the world. It stands in the grounds of the Palace of Schleissheim.
Keywords: architecture, winter, snow, formal gardens, Schleißheimer Schloß, Baroque architecture, Schloss Schleissheim, park

PMR-D8574
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Schleissheim: Lustheim Palace, a garden villa built to plans of Enrico Zuccalli 1684-88 in Baroque style, contains one of the largest cellections of Meissen porcelaine in the world. It stands in the grounds of the Palace of Schleissheim.
Keywords: architecture, snow, formal gardens, Schleißheimer Schloß, Baroque architecture, Schloss Schleissheim, park, winter

PMR-D8573
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Schleissheim: Lustheim Palace, a garden villa built to plans of Enrico Zuccalli 1684-88 in Baroque style, contains one of the largest cellections of Meissen porcelaine in the world. It stands in the grounds of the Palace of Schleissheim.
Keywords: architecture, park, Schloss Schleissheim, Baroque architecture, Schleißheimer Schloß, formal gardens, snow, winter

PMR-D8355
Greece, Island of Naxos: Portara or lintel of the unfinished Temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia. Work was begun in 530 BC by the tyrant Lygdamis with the intention of making it the largest temple in Greece, but the plan proved too ambitious. View shortly after sunset.
Keywords: Greek Islands, ruin, archeology, culture, heritage, historic, architecture, Cyclades, island hopping, Hellas

PMR-D8354
Greece, Island of Naxos: Portara or lintel of the unfinished Temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia. Work was begun in 530 BC by the tyrant Lygdamis with the intention of making it the largest temple in Greece, but the plan proved too ambitious. View shortly after sunset.
Keywords: Greek Islands, ruin, archeology, culture, heritage, historic, architecture, Cyclades, island hopping, Hellas

PMR-D8350
Greece, Island of Naxos: Portara or lintel of the unfinished Temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia. Work was begun in 530 BC by the tyrant Lygdamis with the intention of making it the largest temple in Greece, but the plan proved too ambitious.
Keywords: Greek Islands, ruin, archeology, culture, heritage, historic, architecture, Cyclades, island hopping, Hellas

PMR-D8348
Greece, Island of Naxos: Portara or lintel of the unfinished Temple of Apollo on the islet of Palatia. Work was begun in 530 BC by the tyrant Lygdamis with the intention of making it the largest temple in Greece, but the plan proved too ambitious.
Keywords: Greek Islands, ruin, archeology, culture, heritage, historic, architecture, Cyclades, island hopping, Hellas

PMR-D8345
Greece, Island of Naxos: the town of Naxos (population 7,000+) is expanding to the north west. The island is the largest of the Cyclades.
Keywords: Greek Islands, culture, heritage, historic, architecture, Cyclades, island hopping, Hellas

PMR-D8263
Germany, Niedersachsen, Wolfenbüttel: Herzog August Bibliothek or Biblioteca Augusta is one of the world's most important libraries. Founded in1572, by the time of the 17th century it was the largest library north of the Alps. It contains over 900,000 books and 11,500 manuscripts which have survived the turbulent centuries intact. Famous librarians include Gottfried Wilhelm Leibnitz and Gotthold Ephraim Lessing.
Keywords: picturesque, volumes, collections, incunabula, literature, culture, architecture, heritage, historic

PMR-D8090
Norway, Telemark: Heddal Stave Church, the largest in the country, dates back to the early 13th century. It was restored in 1849-51 and again in the 1950s. Dragons' heads on the roof gables are intended to keep away evil spirits.
Keywords: picturesque, mythical, superstition, culture, historic, timber, wooden, Scandinavia, architecture

PMR-D8089
Norway, Telemark: Heddal Stave Church, the largest in the country, dates back to the early 13th century. It was restored in 1849-51 and again in the 1950s.
Keywords: picturesque, culture, historic, timber, wooden, Scandinavia, architecture

PMR-D8088
Norway, Telemark: Heddal Stave Church, the largest in the country, dates back to the early 13th century. It was restored in 1849-51 and again in the 1950s.
Keywords: picturesque, culture, historic, timber, wooden, Scandinavia, architecture

PMR-D8035
Norway, Oslo: Havnelageret office block on the quayside was the largest building in Scandinavia when it was completed in 1921. View from the roof of the Opera House.
Keywords: architecture, Scandinavia, capital city, culture, Langkaia, Neo-Baroque, Art Nouveau

PMR-D7987
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: the Cathedral of St. Killian, the 4th largest Romanesque cathedral in Germany. Begun in 1045, completely destroyed in 1945, and rebuilt 1966-67.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, culture, national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, Franconia, historic

PMR-D7976
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: the Cathedral of St. Killian, the 4th largest Romanesque cathedral in Germany. Begun in 1045, completely destroyed in 1945, and rebuilt 1966-67.
Keywords: architecture, Romantische Strasse, Romantic Road, historic, Franconia, mediaeval, picturesque, national heritage, culture

PMR000-04
Morocco, Marakech: (1962 picture, before restoration) the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, 77 metres high, is the largest and best known in the city. Built of local sandstone in the reign of Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184-1199), it replaced an identical mosque on an adjacent site, little of which remains.
Keywords: Africa, Marakesh, Islam, Muslim, Maghreb, culture, colourful, architecture, historic, national heritage

PMR-D7688
Germany, Saxony, Leipzig Zoological Gardens: a boat trip through "Gondwanaland", one of the largest indoor tropical rainforest projects (1.65 hectares) which contains many exotic free-flying birds and other creatures.
Keywords: nature, palm trees, ecology, biotope, wildlife

PMR-D7687
Germany, Saxony, Leipzig Zoological Gardens: a tree-top walkway through "Gondwanaland", one of the largest indoor tropical rainforest projects (1.65 hectares) which contains many exotic free-flying birds and other creatures.
Keywords: nature, palm trees, ecology, biotope, wildlife

PMR-D7686
Germany, Saxony, Leipzig Zoological Gardens: a boat trip through "Gondwanaland", one of the largest indoor tropical rainforest projects (1.65 hectares) which contains many exotic free-flying birds and other creatures.
Keywords: nature, palm trees, ecology, biotope, wildlife

PMR-D7685
Germany, Saxony, Leipzig Zoological Gardens: a boat trip through "Gondwanaland", one of the largest indoor tropical rainforest projects (1.65 hectares) which contains many exotic free-flying birds and other creatures.
Keywords: nature, palm trees, ecology, biotope, wildlife

PMR-D7639
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.
Keywords: Africa, national symbol, superlative, architecture, Maghreb, Islam, Muslim, culture, artistic

PMR-D7638
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.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7637
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.
Part of one of the polychrome panels bordering the ablutions basin.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7636
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.
The Royal Doors, of engraved bronze (from Russia), electrically operated, surrounded by inlaid arches.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

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-D7634
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.
The star-shaped fountain on the terrace.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7633
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.
The fluted ablutions basin with polychrome faience designs as backing.
Keywords: Africa, tiling, colourful, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7632
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.
An elegant horseshoe-shaped arch encloses the ablutions basin.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7631
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.
View of the arched galleries from the terrace.
Keywords: Africa, national symbol, superlative, architecture, Maghreb, Islam, Muslim, culture, artistic

PMR-D7630
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.
A closer look at the green tiles and ornamentation on the upper part of the minaret.
Keywords: Africa, national symbol, superlative, architecture, Maghreb, Islam, Muslim, culture, artistic

PMR-D7629
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.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7628
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.
One of the polychrome faience panels with geometrical motifs on the arched gallery.
Keywords: Africa, tiles, colourful, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7627
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.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7626
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.
Keywords: Africa, artistic, culture, Muslim, Islam, Maghreb, architecture, superlative, national symbol

PMR-D7565
Morocco, Marakech: the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, 77 metres high, is the largest and best known in the city. Built of local sandstone in the reign of Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184-1199), it replaced an identical mosque on an adjacent site, little of which remains.
Keywords: Africa, national heritage, historic, architecture, colourful, culture, Maghreb, Muslim, Islam, Marakesh

PMR-D7564
Morocco, Marakech: the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, 77 metres high, is the largest and best known in the city. Built of local sandstone in the reign of Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184-1199), it replaced an identical mosque on an adjacent site, little of which remains.
Keywords: Africa, Marakesh, Islam, Muslim, Maghreb, culture, colourful, architecture, historic, national heritage

PMR-D7563
Morocco, Marakech: the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, 77 metres high, is the largest and best known in the city. Built of local sandstone in the reign of Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184-1199), it replaced an identical mosque on an adjacent site, little of which remains.
Keywords: Africa, national heritage, historic, architecture, colourful, culture, Maghreb, Muslim, Islam, Marakesh

PMR-D7562
Morocco, Marakech: the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, 77 metres high, is the largest and best known in the city. Built of local sandstone in the reign of Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184-1199), it replaced an identical mosque on an adjacent site, little of which remains.
Keywords: Africa, national heritage, historic, architecture, colourful, culture, Maghreb, Muslim, Islam, Marakesh

PMR-D7561
Morocco, Marakech: the minaret of the Koutoubia Mosque, 77 metres high, is the largest and best known in the city. Built of local sandstone in the reign of Berber Almohad Caliph Yaqub al-Mansur (1184-1199), it replaced an identical mosque on an adjacent site, little of which remains. A jacaranda tree is flowering in the foreground.
Keywords: Africa, national heritage, historic, architecture, colourful, culture, Maghreb, Muslim, Islam, Marakesh

PMR-D6891
Germany, Saxony, Leipzig: two bronze mechanical figures strike the hours on three bells (two smaller, inside the largest) on the roof of the 12-storey Krochhochhaus, the first high-rise building in Leipzig, dating from 1927, built by Martin Samuel Kroch for his bank. Based on the "Torre dell'Orologio" in Venice. The block houses the Museum of Egyptology.
Keywords: historic, heritage, architecture, astrological, carillon, Omnia Vincit Labor

PMR-D6529
Ireland, Wicklow, Glendalough, a monastic settlement founded in the 5th century by Saint Kevin: the ruins of the Cathedral of St Peter and Paul, the largest of the churches at Glendalough, with its 10th century nave.
Keywords: historic, heritage, monument, culture, picturesque, architecture, mediaeval

PMR-D6262
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 from the ramparts, with the River Wörnitz and the old town of Harburg with its original stone bridge.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6261
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 from the ramparts, with the River Wörnitz and the old town of Harburg with its original stone bridge.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6260
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 from the ramparts, with the River Wörnitz, the town of Harburg, and the main road which tunnels through the hill below.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6259
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 from the south-west. View over the defenders' gallery of the surrounding countryside.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture

PMR-D6258
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 stucco figure of Pax (peace) faces the figure of Mars (war) at opposite ends of the great hall.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6257
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 stucco figure of Mars (war) faces the figure of Pax (peace) at opposite ends of the great hall.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

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-D6255
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 defenders' gallery, former bakery with its own tower and wellhouse.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6254
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 portcullis, White Tower, defenders' gallery and wellhouse.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6253
Germany, Bavaria, Swabia, Harburg: the castle of Harburg, dating back to before 1150, is one of the largest and best-preserved in southern Germany. A closer view of the defenders' gallery.
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-D6251
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 herb garden, the keep and Kastenhaus (grain store) from the defenders' gallery.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6250
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 White Tower and the gatekeeper's house, from the herb garden.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6249
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 gate with its portcullis, the defenders' gallery, the White Tower and the present-day restaurant.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6248
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 from the ramparts, with the River Wörnitz, the town of Harburg, and the main road which tunnels through the hill below.
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-D6246
Germany, Bavaria, Swabia, Harburg: the castle of Harburg, dating back to before 1150, is one of the largest and best-preserved in southern Germany. "Rote Stallung", the former stables.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6245
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 keep/watchtower, the oldest part of the fortress, with a bastion in the foreground.
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-D6243
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 from the south-west.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6242
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 from the south-west.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6241
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 from the south-west.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, culture, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse, architecture, fortress, fortification, defence

PMR-D6048
Oman, Muscat: the main prayer hall of the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque. The walls are clad in off-white Bianco P and dark grey Bardiglio marble. The Italian chandelier is the world's largest. The hand-woven carpet was produced in Iran and measures 60 x 70 metres, making it the world's second largest.
Keywords: oil wealth, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, architecture, sultanate, balance, proportion, symmetry, elegance, dome , cupola, artistic

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-D5319
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 ongoing reconstruction. Parade Portal, pishtak/iwan, dome and a minaret.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

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-D5298
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 ongoing reconstruction. View of one of three cupolas and side entrance.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5297
Uzbekistan, Samarkand: detail of ornament over the iwan of 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 ongoing reconstruction.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5296
Uzbekistan, Samarkand: facade and iwan of 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 ongoing reconstruction.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5295
Uzbekistan, Samarkand: facade and iwan of 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 ongoing reconstruction.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, culture, historic, heritage, Muslim, colourful, artistic, Sunni Islam, UNESCO

PMR-D5103
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant, spacious

PMR-D5102
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Terrace overlooking the main road.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant, spacious

PMR-D5101
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant, spacious

PMR-D5100
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant

PMR-D5099
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant

PMR-D5098
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Part of the colourful, carved wood ceiling.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant

PMR-D5097
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Part of the colourful, carved wood ceiling.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant

PMR-D5096
Tajikistan, Dushanbe, capital city: Teahouse Rochat/Rohat/Roxat on Rudaki Avenue, was built in the soviet era (1958) and was decorated in traditional style by Uzbek masters. The largest and best-known teahouse in the capital.
Keywords: Asian, Silk Road, picturesque, architecture, metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, street scene, restaurant

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-D2782
Cyprus, Khirokitia-Vouni (Choirokoitia) aceramic Neolithic site, a settlement dating from approximately 6800 BC, in process of ongoing excavation. The village comprises large numbers of circular dwellings built of stone, complemented with pisé and mudbrick.
The largest unit (chief's house ?) has additional internal supports for the roof.
Keywords: archeology, excavations, ruins, prehistoric, ancient, antiquity

PMR-D1176
People's Republic of China, Xining: refrigerated figures, modelled out of yak's butter, in Kumbum Monastery. The largest figure represents Guan Yin, goddess of mercy, here interpreted as a man.
Keywords: architecture, colourful, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, municipality, metropolis, Buddhist

PMR-D0932
Myanmar, Mandalay, Mingun: the Mingun Bell, cast in 1808 to go in the unfinished Mingun Paya, it weighs 90 tonnes, making it the largest HUNG AND UNCRACKED bell in the world.
Keywords: Buddhist, temples, picturesque, architecture, colourful, religious, Burma

PMR-D0926
Myanmar, Mandalay, Mingun: the hulk of Mingun Paya, started by King Bodawpaya in 1790 using a labour force of thousands of slaves. If it had been completed, it would have been 150 metres high (three times the present height) and the world's largest paya. It was abandoned in 1819 when the king died, and was later riven by the earthquake in 1838.
Keywords: Buddhist, temples, picturesque, architecture, colourful, religious, Burma

PMR-D0874
Myanmar, Mandalay: stupas at Kuthodaw Paya, each containing one of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire 15 books of the Tripitaka Buddhist scriptures ("the largest book in the world").
Keywords: Buddhist, Burma, religious, colourful, architecture, picturesque, temples

PMR-D0872
Myanmar, Mandalay: stupas at Kuthodaw Paya, each containing one of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire 15 books of the Tripitaka Buddhist scriptures ("the largest book in the world").
Keywords: Buddhist, Burma, religious, colourful, architecture, picturesque, temples

PMR-D0871
Myanmar, Mandalay: one of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire 15 books of the Tripitaka Buddhist scriptures ("the largest book in the world") at Kuthodaw Paya.
Keywords: Buddhist, Burma, religious, colourful, architecture, picturesque, temples

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-D0652
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 colourful floral faience panel with arabesques.
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-D0650
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: close-upof the floral semi-precious stone inlay in the marble columns of the galleries.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0649
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: floodlit mosaic flower in the middle of each four-column pillar.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0648
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: glass windows, engraved with floral patterns.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0647
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 along an aisle showing the four-column supporting pillars.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0646
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 mihrab facing Mecca.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0645
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 three, million-dollar, jewell-encrusted chandeliers.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0644
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 Great Hall of Prayer, with the world's largest one-piece carpet.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0643
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 three, million-dollar, jewell-encrusted chandeliers.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0642
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 crystal chandelier.
Keywords: Arab, Islam, Muslim, architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city

PMR-D0641
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 colourful floral faience panel with arabesques.
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-D0638
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.
Keywords: architecture, traditional, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR-D0611
Laos, Vientiane: monks' quarters at Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan Buddhist temple.
Keywords: capital city, architecture. picturesque, colourful, Lao people, temples, Buddhist, largest city, relaxed city, ex-Kingdom

PMR-D0601
Laos, Vientiane: Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park), 24 km. south of Vientiane, displays a plethora of giant Buddhist/Hindu deities formed in concrete, built by Luang Pu in 1958. In this construction one enters Hell's mouth and progresses through the earth to Heaven.
Keywords: capital city, ex-Kingdom, relaxed city, largest city, Buddhist, temples, Lao people, colourful, picturesque, architecture

PMR-D0590
Laos, Vientiane: statue of King Setthathitath, founder of Pha That Luang, founded by King Setthathitath in 1566. It is the largest and most important stupa in Laos and a natianal monument. The spire allegedly represents an elongated lotus bud.
Keywords: capital city, architecture, picturesque, colourful, Lao people, temples, Buddhist, ex-kingdom

PMR-D0589
Laos, Vientiane: statue of King Setthathitath, founder of Pha That Luang in 1566. It is the largest and most important stupa in Laos.
Keywords: capital city, architecture, picturesque, colourful, Lao people, temples, Buddhist, ex-kingdom

PMR-D0588
Laos, Vientiane: statue of King Setthathitath, founder of Pha That Luang in 1566 (visible behind). It is the largest and most important stupa in Laos.
Keywords: capital city, architecture, picturesque, colourful. Lao people, temples, Buddhist, ex-kingdom

PMR-D0563
Laos, Vientiane: aerial view of Vientiane and the River Mekong.
Keywords: capital city, architecture, picturesque, colourful, Lao people, temples, Buddhist, largest city, relaxed city, ex-Kingdom

PMR-D0269
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.

Engraved crystal windows in the Great Mosque.
Keywords: Arab state, precious, costly, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran

PMR-D0268
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.

Interior of the Great Mosque, showing the Mihrab.
Keywords: Arab state, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, costly, precious

PMR-D0267
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.

Interior of the Great Mosque, with bejewelled chandelier in the foreground.
Keywords: Arab state, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, costly, precious

PMR-D0266
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.

Interior of the Great Mosque, showing the enormous carpet.
Keywords: Arab state, precious, costly, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran

PMR-D0265
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.

The bejewelled chandelier from below.
Keywords: Arab state, precious, costly, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran

PMR-D0264
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.

Interior of the Great Mosque, with bejewelled chandelier in the foreground.
Keywords: Arab state, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, costly, precious

PMR364-08
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Schleissheim: the little Lustheim Palace in the grounds of Schleissheim Palace, was built by Enrico Zuccalli 1684-88 and now houses one of the largest collections of Meissen porcelain in the world.
Keywords: architecture, formal gardens, Schleißheimer Schloß, Schloss Schleissheim, park, Baroque , reflections

PMR364-05
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Schleissheim: the little Lustheim Palace in the grounds of Schleissheim Palace, was built by Enrico Zuccalli 1684-88 and now houses one of the largest collections of Meissen porcelain in the world.
Keywords: architecture, formal gardens, Schleißheimer Schloß, Schloss Schleissheim, park, Baroque

PMR344-12
India, New Delhi: Jami Masjid Mosque, built 1644-1658 by the Moghul Emperor Shah Jahan, is the largest mosque in India with a capacity of 25,000 worshippers.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, capital city, Islam, Muslim, minarets, domes

PMR323-12
USSR, Leningrad: St. Isaac's Cathedral, the world's 3rd largest domed church (after St. Peter's, Rome and St. Paul's, London). Built between 1818 and 1858 to a design of Auguste Ricard de Montferrand of red granite and grey marble.
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, picturesque, culture, historic, colourful, heritage, Orthodox, Classical, St. Petersburg

PMR320-01
USSR, Moscow: Tsar's Bell (Tsarsky Kolokol), the largest in the world, weighing 201.9 tonnes, cast in 1733-35 by Ivan Motorin but broken before it could be hung. It stands within the Kremlin walls.
Keywords: metropolis, culture, historic, heritage, monument, capital city, bronze, foundry, casting

PMR292-07
Turkey, Cappadocia, Göreme Valley, an area of bizarre volcanic rock formations, tunnelled out for dwellings since 1000 BC at least.
The largest "multi-storey apartment" contains dozens of dwellings. At the top, where the flag is flying, is a public viewing platform.
Keywords: UNESCO, world heritage, geology, colourful, picturesque, spectacular, barren, parched, erosion, phenomenon, landscape, fantastic, troglodytes, caves

PMR261-05
Germany, Rhineland Palatinate, Trier: Imperial Roman Baths (4th century), the largest outside Rome. These walls (partially rebuilt) formed the apse of the caldarium.
Keywords: architecture, metropolis, picturesque, culture, historic, national heritage, colourful, classical, Roman, Rheinland-Pfalz

PMR239-06
Germany. Lower Saxony: Walsrode Ornithological Park, the largest bird collection in the world, with over 5,000 specimens on display. Part of the 40-foot-high "free flight" bird enclosure, where a typical sandy beach is reproduced, with rocks and breaking waves.
Oystercatchers, Turnstones, Sandpipers, a Cattle Egret and an Inca Tern on view.
Keywords: living enclosures, zoological garden, avifauna, ornithology, cages, birdlife

PMR239-05
Germany. Lower Saxony: Walsrode Ornithological Park, the largest bird collection in the world, with over 5,000 specimens on display.
Part of the 40-foot-high "free flight" bird enclosure, where a typical sandy beach is reproduced, with rocks and breaking waves.
Keywords: living enclosures, zoological garden, avifauna, ornithology, cages, birdlife

PMR239-04
Germany. Lower Saxony: Walsrode Ornithological Park, the largest bird collection in the world, with over 5,000 specimens on display.
Rose-coloured flamingos reflected in the water.
Keywords: living enclosures, zoological garden, avifauna, ornithology, cages, birdlife

PMR239-03
Germany. Lower Saxony: Walsrode Ornithological Park, the largest bird collection in the world, with over 5,000 specimens on display.
One of the pelican enclosures; cormorants are nesting in baskets among the boughs which are arranged over the water surface.
Keywords: living enclosures, zoological garden, avifauna, ornithology, cages, birdlife

PMR239-02
Germany. Lower Saxony: Walsrode Ornithological Park, the largest bird collection in the world, with over 5,000 specimens on display.
One of the flamingo enclosures.
Keywords: living enclosures, zoological garden, avifauna, ornithology, cages, birdlife

PMR239-01
Germany. Lower Saxony: Walsrode Ornithological Park, the largest bird collection in the world, with over 5,000 specimens on display.
A carved wooden eagle, giant-size, near the entrance to the park.
Keywords: living enclosures, zoological garden, avifauna, ornithology, cages, birdlife

PMR237-06
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania. Here: the imposing entrance and Pirgul Belltower.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR237-05
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania. Here: the Baptistry, outside the main gate.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR237-04
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania. Here: a young Orthodox monk.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR237-02
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR237-01
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania. Here: three young novitiates.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR236-12
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania. Here: a sounding iron, beaten rythmically to call to prayers.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR236-11
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania. A 2-storey wing containing the monks' cells.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR236-10
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania. Here: the Pirgul Belltower, the oldest surviving building.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque, oxen cart

PMR236-09
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt Monastery: the church in the grounds was built by Stephen the Great in 1497 on the site of an older one. A repository for learning for centuries, with a valuable library, printing shop, museum and hundreds of sheep and cattle. The largest and oldest monastery in Romania.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, rustical, rural, landscape, picturesque

PMR230-05
Greece: Mistra, a Byzantine town founded by the Franks in 1249, straggles up the hillside to the protecting fortress on the peak. View over the Byzantine Church of Afendiko, built in 1310, the largest church in Mistra.
Keywords: historic, antiquity, culture, art, masonry, ruin, archeology, excavations, architecture, heritage, monument

PMR216-03
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Passau: St. Stephen's Cathedral from the cathedral square, with statue of King Maximilian I of Bavaria. The cathedral contains the world's largest organ (1985), with 17,300 pipes and 231 registers.
Keywords: picturesque, colourful, historic, heritage, mediaeval, River Danube, River Inn, River Ilz, confluence, architecture, bishopric, port, music

PMR-D4013
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: a corner of the production facilities with kiln chimney at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4012
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: the old firing kiln, since replaced with an electric one at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4011
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: large ceramic vase illustrated with flowers and birds motif in the showroom at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4010
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: large ceramic vase illustrated with deer motif in the showroom at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4009
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: ceramic plates with animal motifs (tiger, rabbit) in the showroom at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4008
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: painting the exquisite illustrations on a plate at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert, artist, painter

PMR-D4007
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: ceramic jars with animal motifs identified by artist's name in the showroom at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4006
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: painting the exquisite illustrations on a vase at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert, artist, painter

PMR-D4005
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: making ceramic rice bowls "sing" to test the quality at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4004
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: finishing hand-formed ceramic bowls at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4003
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: finishing hand-formed ceramic bowls at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4002
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: forming ceramic bowls on a potter's wheel at Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, culture, tourist attraction, ceramic factory, craft, artistic, craftsman, skilled, veteran, expert

PMR-D4001
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: "Son of the Revolution" statue outside the entrance to Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, picturesque, photogenic, culture, tourist attraction, sculpture, leader, peasant

PMR-D3956
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. A colourful shrine to a Chinese martial figure.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre

PMR-D3955
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. A gilded figure of Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy, with 1000 arms.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre, colourful

PMR-D3954
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. A grotto of fantastic shapes, at the end of the temple lake.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre

PMR-D3953
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. The statue of Sakyamuni, a present from the King of Thailand.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre

PMR-D3952
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. The colourful and highly decorated wooden building has been restored many times in its history.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre

PMR-D3951
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. Water pavilion in the temple lake, reached by stone bridges.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre, reflections

PMR-D3950
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. Reflections in the temple lake, with the wooded hillside beyond.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre

PMR-D3949
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. Water pavilion in the temple lake, reached by stone bridges.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre, reflections

PMR-D3948
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre

PMR-D3947
People's Republic of China, Yunnan Province, Kunming: Yuantong Buddhist Temple is the largest in the city and dates back over 1000 years. The impressive entrance to the grounds.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Asian, culture, heritage, picturesque, metropolitan, architecture, historic, street scene, religious centre

PMR-D3668
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: pagoda near the entrance to Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, picturesque, photogenic, culture, tourist attraction

PMR-D3667
People's Republic of China, Jiangxi Province, Jingdezhen: a large ceramic dragon in the pond near the entrance to Jingdezhen Ceramic Institute, the country's largest producer of fine china.
Keywords: Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, picturesque, photogenic, culture, tourist attraction, mythical beast

PMR-D3606
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: bonsai trees, part of a large collection in the walled garden.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage, miniature, dwarf

PMR-D3562
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: reflections of traditional pavilions in the lotus lake.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3561
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: bonsai trees, part of a large collection in the walled garden.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage, miniature, dwarf

PMR-D3560
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: bonsai trees, part of a large collection in the walled garden.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage, miniature, dwarf

PMR-D3559
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: traditional belvedere pavilion.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3558
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: belvedere pavilion overlooking lotus lake.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3557
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: belvedere pavilion surrounded by lotus plants.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3556
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: lotus-filled lake with pagoda in the background.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3555
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: bridge over a stream.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3554
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: colourful flowerbeds surround a pavilion.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3553
People's Republic of China, Jiangsu Province, Suzhou: Garden of the Humble Administrator (Zhuozheng Yuan), built in the Ming Dynasty (1509), the largest of the Suzhou gardens: lotus leaves reflected in a lake.
Keywords: architecture, Middle Kingdom, Han, Asian, horticulture, flora, dendrology, landscaping, picturesque, national heritage

PMR-D3283
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. View of the Upper (Old) Castle and its rock foundation.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3282
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. View of the Upper Castle.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

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-D3280
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. Lower Gate and Bergfried (Keep).
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3279
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. View over the rooftops of the town, with church tower in the foreground.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3278
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. View of the Lower (New) Castle over the rooftops of the town.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3277
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. View of the Lower (New) Castle over the rooftops of the town.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3276
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. View from the valley.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3273
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.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, heritage, mediaeval, architecture, Baroque, Saxon Switzerland, defence, fortifications

PMR-D3088
The Philippines, Samar Island, Calbayog: street map of the Philippines' 5th largest city.
Keywords: Samar Island, guide, street plan

PMR-D3087
The Philippines, Samar Island, Calbayog: street map of the Philippines' 5th largest city.
Keywords: Samar Island, guide, street plan

PMR-D3067
Bahrain, Manama: one of the stained glass windows in the dome of the Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, accommodating 7000 worshippers.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh

PMR-D3066
Bahrain, Manama: Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, accommodating 7000 worshippers - interior, with chandelier, made in Austria, surrounded by numerous handblown glass lamps from France. In the dome are 12 Iranian stained glass windows. The carpet was made in Scotland.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh

PMR-D3065
Bahrain, Manama: Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, accommodating 7000 worshippers - interior, with mihrab niche.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh

PMR-D3064
Bahrain, Manama: Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, accommodating 7000 worshippers - interior, with chandelier, made in Austria, surrounded by numerous handblown glass lamps from France. The carpet was made in Scotland.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh

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-D2921
Bahrain, Manama: Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, accommodating 7000 worshippers, was opened in 1988.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh, minarets, modern architecture

PMR-D2920
Bahrain, Manama: Al Fateh Grand Mosque, the largest in the country, accommodating 7000 worshippers, was opened in 1988.
Keywords: oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, Middle East, Gulf State, Sheikh, minarets, modern architecture

PMR-D1388
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 northern monastery buildings, largely reduced to ruins during the Cultural Revolution, hitherto one of the largest monasteries in Tibet.
Keywords: architecture, religion, colourful, Asian, Buddhist, temples, picturesque, historical, heritage

PMR189-12
Italy, Campania, Amalfi: the first Maritime Republic in Italy after the fall of the Roman Empire, Amalfi possessed one of the largest fleets of the area in the 11th century. Hotel Excelsior, overlooking Amalfi Harbour.
Keywords: picturesque, terraced, steep, rocky, historic, architecture, heritage, culture

PMR189-11
Italy, Campania, Amalfi: the first Maritime Republic in Italy after the fall of the Roman Empire, Amalfi possessed one of the largest fleets of the area in the 11th century. Capo Atrani and Capo d'Orso from the heights of the Pogerola road.
Keywords: picturesque, terraced, steep, rocky, historic, architecture, heritage, culture

PMR189-10
Italy, Campania, Amalfi: the first Maritime Republic in Italy after the fall of the Roman Empire, Amalfi possessed one of the largest fleets of the area in the 11th century. The former Via Genova (now renamed) with a fishmonger's "fresco" on ceramic tiles.
Keywords: picturesque, historic, architecture, heritage, culture, street scene, cliffs, rocky, narrow

PMR189-08
Italy, Campania, Amalfi: the first Maritime Republic in Italy after the fall of the Roman Empire, Amalfi possessed one of the largest fleets of the area in the 11th century. Wedding party ascending the steps of the Cathedral of St. Andrew, dating from the 11th century, but largely rebuilt in the 19th century.
Keywords: picturesque, terraced, steep, historic, architecture, heritage, culture, Romanesque

PMR189-06
Italy, Campania, Amalfi: the first Maritime Republic in Italy after the fall of the Roman Empire, Amalfi possessed one of the largest fleets of the area in the 11th century. View of the harbour and fishing boats
Keywords: picturesque, terraced, steep, rocky, historic, heritage, culture, quay, jetty

PMR187-01
Hungary, Esztergom: the Basilica, the largest church in Hungary, built between 1822 and 1869 by architects Packh, Luhnel and Hild. The building is over 100 metres high , with a 30-metre-wide cupola, and contains one of the largest altar paintings in the world.
Keywords: architecture, culture, historic , heritage, neo-classical, columns, dome

PMR158-05
U.S.A., California, Los Angeles: Queen Mary, permanently moored at Long Beach. At 81,237 gross tons, the largest passenger liner of her time. She now serves as a luxury hotel. View of the promenade deck and lifeboats, from the bridge.
Keywords: ocean liner, Cunard, historic, veteran

PMR158-04
U.S.A., California, Los Angeles: Queen Mary, permanently moored at Long Beach. At 81,237 gross tons, the largest passenger liner of her time. She now serves as a luxury hotel. View of the hotel entrance and "Londontowne Plaza". On the left is part of the dome housing Howard Hughes' "Spruce Goose" flying boat.
Keywords: ocean liner, Cunard, historic, veteran

PMR158-03
U.S.A., California, Los Angeles: Queen Mary, permanently moored at Long Beach. At 81,237 gross tons, the largest passenger liner of her time. She now serves as a luxury hotel. View from the Long Beach Downtown Marina.
Keywords: ocean liner, Cunard, historic, veteran, pleasure craft, moorings

PMR158-02
U.S.A., California, Los Angeles: Queen Mary, permanently moored at Long Beach. At 81,237 gross tons, the largest passenger liner of her time. She now serves as a luxury hotel.
Keywords: ocean liner, Cunard, historic, veteran

PMR158-01
U.S.A., California, Los Angeles: Queen Mary, permanently moored at Long Beach. At 81,237 gross tons, the largest passenger liner of her time. She now serves as a luxury hotel.
Keywords: ocean liner, Cunard, historic, veteran

PMR157-12
U.S.A., California, Los Angeles: Queen Mary, permanently moored at Long Beach. At 81,237 gross tons, the largest passenger liner of her time.
Keywords: show, sea life, demonstration, performance, whale, Orca, pool

PMR154-02
Germany, Rhineland Palatinate, Speyer: the cathedral, one of the largest Romanesque cathedrals in Germany, begun in 1027. View showing two of the four Romanesque towers.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, mediaeval, Rheinland-Pfalz, dwarf gallery

PMR154-01
Germany, Rhineland Palatinate, Speyer: west front of the cathedral, one of the largest Romanesque cathedrals in Germany, begun in 1027. The west front, by Heinrich Hubsch, was only completed in 1861.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, mediaeval, rose window, stone carving, Romanesque arch, Rheinland-Pfalz

PMR131-12
Germany, Bavaria, Upper Franconia: the Veste Coburg dates back to the 11th century and is one of Germany's largest castles, latterly the seat of the Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. The bust of Martin Luther looks down disapprovingly on a modern wedding couple posing by a cannon.
Keywords: national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, historic, fortress, defence, fortifications, architecture, marriage, bride

PMR131-11
Germany, Bavaria, Upper Franconia: the Veste Coburg dates back to the 11th century and is one of Germany's largest castles, latterly the seat of the Duke of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha. Chapel used by Martin Luther in 1530 (rebuilt in Gothic style in 1847). The end gable of the Ducal Residence Building (Furstenbau). Cannons on the battlements.
Keywords: national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, historic, fortress, defence, fortifications, architecture

PMR120-03
Germany, Bavaria, Wurzburg: the Cathedral, the 4th largest Romanesque cathedral in Germany. Begun in 1045, completely destroyed in 1945, and rebuilt 1966-67.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, picturesque, mediaeval, Würzburg, Franconia, historic, Romantic Road, Romantische Strasse

PMR-D2680
Iran, Ali Sadr: the caves at Ali Sadr are the biggest water caves in the world, with 11 kilometres of navigable waterways. Known to antiquity, but only rediscovered in 1963.
One of the largest stalagmites.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, speleology, caverns, underground, stalactites, stalagmites

PMR-D2657
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 largest room in the Haremlik is the salon, with glass roof and colonnades.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, culture, historic, heritage, fortifications, photogenic, minaret, landscape, cliffs

PMR-D2522
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. Closer view of one of the minarets on the south iwan.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2521
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. Striking domed ceiling with surrounding band of quranic inscriptions.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2520
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. Honeycomb lattice windows filter the light.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2519
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. The Taj al-Molk Dome, regarded as the finest brick-built dome in Persia, has survived dozens of earhquakes for more than 900 years.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2518
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. Prayer Hall, built during the Seljuk era.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2517
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. The iwan on the south side with Mongol era stalactite mouldings and two minarets. In front, the ablutions fountain, imitating the Kaaba at Mecca.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2516
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. The low-vaulted winter prayer hall.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2515
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. Stucco mihrab covered in Quranic inscriptions in the Room of Sultan Uljeitu, one of the greatest treasures of the mosque.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2514
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. The west iwan, built by the Seljuks and decorated by the Safavids, is topped by a "maazeneh" for calling the faithful to prayer.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

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-D2511
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. Ancient mihrab.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2510
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. One of the original domes.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2509
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. Part of the original, unadorned, prayer hall.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2508
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. Part of the original, unadorned, prayer hall.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2507
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. One of the original surviving domes.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, mosaics, UNESCO

PMR-D2504
Iran, Isfahan: Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the world's second largest, after Tiananmen, and was planned by Shah Abbas the Great in 1602 as the centre of his new capital. Originally used for polo games, now offering flower beds and reflecting pools. Horse-drawn carriage passing Lotfollah Mosque.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, frescoes, reflections, pool

PMR-D2503
Iran, Isfahan: Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the world's second largest, after Tiananmen, and was planned by Shah Abbas the Great in 1602 as the centre of his new capital. Originally used for polo games, now offering flower beds and reflecting pools. One of many horse-drawn carriages offering rides round the square.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, frescoes, reflections, pool

PMR-D2501
Iran, Isfahan: Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the world's second largest, after Tiananmen, and was planned by Shah Abbas the Great in 1602 as the centre of his new capital. Originally used for polo games, now offering flower beds and reflecting pools. Horse-drawn carriage awaiting custom.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, frescoes, reflections, pool

PMR-D2500
Iran, Isfahan: Naqsh-e Jahan Square is the world's second largest, after Tiananmen, and was planned by Shah Abbas the Great in 1602 as the centre of his new capital. Originally used for polo games, now offering flower beds and reflecting pools.
Keywords: Persia, Islam, Shi-ite, Muslim, mosque, religion, architecture, faience, tiling, minaret, arabesque, frescoes, reflections, pool

PMR147K-12
Qatar, Doha: entrance to the largest soukh, the Al Waqif complex.
Keywords: modern architecture, skyscrapers, oil wealth, emirate, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab state, air conditioning, luxurious, ultra-modern

PMR145K-36
Myanmar, Bagan: Ananda Pahto, dating from ca. 1100, "one of the largest, finest, best preserved and most revered temples in Bagan".
Keywords: Buddhist, Burma, religious, colourful, architecture, picturesque, temples

PMR145K-34
Myanmar, Bagan: Gaw Palin Pahto (60 metres high), one of the largest Bagan temples, generally regarded as the "crowning achievement of the late period", with flowering Bougainvillea in the foreground.
Keywords: Buddhist, temples, picturesque, architecture, colourful, religious, Burma

PMR145K-33
Myanmar, Bagan: Gaw Palin Pahto (60 metres high), one of the largest Bagan temples, generally regarded as the "crowning achievement of the late period".
Keywords: Buddhist, Burma, religious, colourful, architecture, picturesque, temples

PMR145K-29
Myanmar, Mandalay, Mingun: the hulk of Mingun Paya, started by King Bodawpaya in 1790 using a labour force of thousands of slaves. If it had been completed, it would have been 150 metres high (three times the present height) and the world's largest paya. It was abandoned in 1819 when the king died, and was later riven by the earthquake in 1838.
Keywords: Buddhist, temples, picturesque, architecture, colourful, religious, Burma

PMR145K-17
Myanmar, Mandalay: stupas at Kuthodaw Paya, each containing one of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire 15 books of the Tripitaka Buddhist scriptures ("the largest book in the world").
Keywords: Buddhist, temples, picturesque, architecture, colourful, religious, Burma

PMR145K-15
Myanmar, Mandalay: stupas at Kuthodaw Paya, each containing one of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire 15 books of the Tripitaka Buddhist scriptures ("the largest book in the world").
Keywords: Buddhist, Burma, religious, colourful, architecture, picturesque, temples

PMR689-07
Myanmar, Mandalay, Mingun: "tazaung" built to accommodate the Mingun Bell. Cast in 1808 to go in the unfinished Mingun Paya, it weighs 90 tonnes, making it the largest HUNG AND UNCRACKED bell in the world.
Keywords: Buddhist, temples, picturesque, architecture, colourful, religious, Burma

PMR688-09
Myanmar, Mandalay: stupas at Kuthodaw Paya, each containing one of 729 marble slabs inscribed with the entire 15 books of the Tripitaka Buddhist scriptures ("the largest book in the world").
Keywords: Buddhist, Burma, religious, colourful, architecture, picturesque, temples

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

PMR467-10
Romania, Wallachia, Bucharest: Ceausescu's "Palace of the People", reputed to be the largest building in the world after the Pentagon, contains over 7000 rooms and several assembly halls. It was built to house both houses of parliament, all principal government ministries, conference centres, as well as the president's own suite. Only the best craftmen were allowed to work on the project. The cost so far (1998) amounts to US$3.3 billion. Front view from the big fountain in the Boulevardul Unirii, approximately one kilometre away..
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, Bucuresti, capital city, metrolpolis, Dacia

PMR467-09
Romania, Wallachia, Bucharest: Ceausescu's "Palace of the People", reputed to be the largest building in the world after the Pentagon, contains over 7000 rooms and several assembly halls. It was built to house both houses of parliament, all principal government ministries, conference centres, as well as the president's own suite. Only the best craftmen were allowed to work on the project. The cost so far (1998) amounts to US$3.3 billion. Front view from the Boulevardul Unirii, with one of the fountains playing.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, Bucuresti, capital city, metrolpolis, Dacia

PMR467-08
Romania, Wallachia, Bucharest: Ceausescu's "Palace of the People", reputed to be the largest building in the world after the Pentagon, contains over 7000 rooms and several assembly halls. It was built to house both houses of parliament, all principal government ministries, conference centres, as well as the president's own suite. Only the best craftmen were allowed to work on the project. The cost so far (1998) amounts to US$3.3 billion. Front view from the Boulevardul Unirii.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, Bucuresti, capital city, metrolpolis, Dacia

PMR466-10
Romania, Wallachia, Bucharest: Ceausescu's "Palace of the People", reputed to be the largest building in the world after the Pentagon, contains over 7000 rooms and several assembly halls. It was built to house both houses of parliament, all principal government ministries, conference centres, as well as the president's own suite. Only the best craftmen were allowed to work on the project. The cost so far (1998) amounts to US$3.3 billion. Side view.
Keywords: architecture, Dacia, metrolpolis, capital city, Bucuresti, culture, historic, national heritage

PMR466-02
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

The new "Lucea Farul" Theatre.
Keywords: architecture, stage, drama centre, culture

PMR466-01
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

Evening shot of the Palace of Culture, built 1890-1926 in neo-Gothic style, originally an administrative building but now housing four museums.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, picturesque

PMR465-12
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

Strada Stefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great), the main thoroughfare of Iasi.
Keywords: architecture, road, traffic, street scene

PMR465-11
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

One of the new "mini shopping centres" comprising numbers of small, glass- fronted units.
Keywords: architecture, private enterprise, retail trade, shops

PMR465-10
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

East front of the Orthodox Cathedral ( Mitropolia Moldovei), building of which began in 1833, with completion only in 1886, seat of the Metropolitan.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, Orthodox, Christian, Neo-classical

PMR465-09
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

Gheorghe Asachi Primary School, named after the first Romanian school teacher, whose statue stands in front of the school.
Keywords: architecture, pedagogues, education, picturesque, culture, historic, national heritage

PMR465-08
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

St. Nicholas' Princely Church, founded by Stefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great) in 1491-2, but demolished and rebuilt by French architect Lecomte de Noüy 1888-1904. Each blind window contains a colourful fresco.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, Christian, Orthodox, picturesque, mediaeval

PMR465-07
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

White marble memorial cross, with St. Nicholas' Princely Church in the background.
Keywords: architecture, Orthodox, Christian, culture, historic, national heritage

PMR465-06
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

Equestrian statue of Stefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great) in front of the Palace of Culture.
Keywords: national heritage, memorial, monument, sculpture, culture, historic

PMR465-05
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

The Palace of Culture, built 1890-1926 in neo-Gothic style, was originally an administrative building but now houses four museums.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, picturesque

PMR465-04
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

Dosoftei House, dating from the late 17th century, formerly housed the printing press which brought out the works of Metropolitan Dosoftei.
Keywords: architecture, Neo-classical, picturesque, culture, historic, national heritage

PMR465-03
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

St. Nicholas' Princely Church, founded by Stefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great) in 1491-2, but demolished and rebuilt by French architect Lecomte de Noüy 1888-1904.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, Christian, Orthodox, picturesque, mediaeval

PMR465-02
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

New bust of Mihail Eminescu (1850-89), one of Romania's greatest poets, standing in the grounds of the Church of the Three Hierarchs.
Keywords: national heritage, celebrated, famous, author, monument, sculpture, statue, culture, historic

PMR465-01
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

Church of the Three Hierarchs, built in 1635-9 by Vasile Lupu, has been destroyed several times but always faithfully rebuilt, surviving the rest of the monastery. Detail of the intricate geometric ornamentation, mainly of oriental origin, which covers all the facades. This was gilded in the original church.
Keywords: architecture, Orthodox, Christian, culture, historic, national heritage

PMR464-12
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

Church of the Three Hierarchs, built in 1635-9 by Vasile Lupu, has been destroyed several times but always faithfully rebuilt, surviving the rest of the monastery. It is covered with fine, filligree carving.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic, culture, Christian, Orthodox

PMR464-11
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

The enormous Orthodox Cathedral ( Mitropolia Moldovei), built between 1833 and 1886, seat of the Metropolitan.
Keywords: architecture, Neo-classical, Christian, Orthodox

PMR464-10
Romania, Moldavia, Iasi (pronounced "Yash"): the capital of Moldavia and of Romania from 1859-62, and third largest city of Romania, is a rich cultural centre.

The National Theatre, built in 1894-6 to the design of Viennese architects Helmer and Fellner, with the statue of author and founder Vasile Alecsandri (1821-90) in front.
Keywords: architecture, culture, opera house, Neo-classical, drama centre, monument

PMR464-09
Romania, Moldavia, Varatec Monastery: the twin towers of the monastery church which is surrounded by a garden, tended by the nuns. With approximately 600 nuns it is one of the largest nunneries in Europe.
Keywords: architecture, Christian, Orthodox

PMR464-07
Romania, Moldavia, Agapia Monastery ("Agapia din Vale"): the church dates back to the 16th century but is presently (1998) undergoing extensive renovation. The monastery is onne of the largest Orthodox nunneries in Europe, with over 400 nuns in residence.
Keywords: mediaeval, Christian, Orthodox, architecture

PMR464-06
Romania, Moldavia, Agapia Monastery ("Agapia din Vale"): the church dates back to the 16th century but is presently (1998) undergoing extensive renovation. The monastery is one of the largest Orthodox nunneries in Europe, with over 400 nuns in residence. View of the compound and geranium-bedecked gallery where some of the nuns have their rooms.
Keywords: mediaeval, Christian, Orthodox, architecture

PMR464-05
Romania, Moldavia, Agapia Monastery ("Agapia din Vale"): the church dates back to the 16th century but is presently (1998) undergoing extensive renovation. The monastery is one of the largest Orthodox nunneries in Europe, with over 400 nuns in residence. View of the entrance gate and belltower, with some of the nuns's bungalows whose gardens are all full of colour.
Keywords: mediaeval, Christian, Orthodox, architecture

PMR464-02
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt: the mighty entrance gate and Pigul Belltower of Romania's largest and oldest monastery (Manastirea Neamt), which dates back to the 14th century, but was rebuilt by Stefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great) in 1497. These fortifications withstood countless attacks over the centuries and offered refuge for the local population.
Keywords: mediaeval, defence, fortifications, fortified, Christian, Orthodox, architecture

PMR464-01
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt: view inside the compound of Romania's largest and oldest monastery (Manastirea Neamt), which dates back to the 14th century, but was rebuilt by Stefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great) in 1497. Approximately 60 monks live in the rooms off the gallery.
Keywords: mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian, fortified, fortifications, defence

PMR463-12
Romania, Moldavia, Neamt: the monastery church of Romania's largest and oldest monastery (Manastirea Neamt), dates back to the 14th century, but was rebuilt by Stefan cel Mare (Stephen the Great) in 1497.
Keywords: mediaeval, defence, fortifications, fortified, Christian, Orthodox, architecture

PMR461-09
Romania, Southern Bucovina, Sucevita: view of the fortified monastery compound with the church in the centre, surrounded by the Carpathian hills. The largest and finest of the Bucovina monasteries and last to be built.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, painted monastery, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian

PMR461-08
Romania, Southern Bucovina, Sucevita: view of the fortified monastery compound with the church in the centre, surrounded by the Carpathian hills. The largest and finest of the Bucovina monasteries and last to be built.
Keywords: frescoes, fortifications, defence, colourful, painted monastery, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian

PMR461-06
Romania, Southern Bucovina, Sucevita: fresco-covered walls of the monastery church, founded in 1583-6, The frescoes were painted by the brothers Ion and Sofronie. The churcht was burnt down in 1831 and subsequently rebuilt and restored. The largest and finest of the Bucovina monasteries and last to be built.
Keywords: frescoes, colourful, painted monastery, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian

PMR461-05
Romania, Southern Bucovina, Sucevita: the monastery church, founded in 1583-6, with its fresco-covered walls. It was burnt down in 1831 and subsequently rebuilt and restored. The largest and finest of the Bucovina monasteries and last to be built.
Keywords: frescoes, colourful, painted monastery, mediaeval, architecture, Orthodox, Christian

PMR514-07
Italy, Campania, Pozzuoli: the Roman amphitheatre of Flavius, one of the largest in Italy, could accommodate 40,000 spectators. Begun under Nero and completed by Vespasian (69-79 AD).
Keywords: archeology, architecture, columns , culture, historic, Roman ruins, excavations, archeological

PMR513-12
Italy, Campania, Pozzuoli, crater of the volcano "Solfatara": the largest fumarola, Bocca Grande, Orange colour is algae.
Keywords: hot springs, ash, steam, landscape, fumerole, volcanic, volcano, eruption

PMR509-11
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Munich: the herbacious border provides a riot of colour in the Botanical Gardens, with the largest glasshouse in the background.
Keywords: München, plants, gardening, botanical, botany, colourful, flowers, flora and fauna

PMR505-11
Cyprus, (North), Salamis: tracing its origins back to the 12th century BC, Salamis was by far the most famous and important ancient city of Cyprus. It was settled early by people from Mycenae, as may be seen from the burial customs. Greeks, Romans and Byzantines came and went, leaving much of archeological interest. Around the 7th century AD the city was abandoned after a series of Arab attacks and the silting-up of the harbour. Here: one of about 150 "Royal Tombs" dating from the 8th and 7th centuries BC discovered in 1957. Note the well faced stonework. Behind, over-roofed, is the largest tomb, number 3, a tumulus.
Keywords: archeology, ancient civilisation, Greek ruins, Roman ruins, Myceneans, Mycenean ruins

PMR500-06
Cyprus (North), Lefkosa/ North Nicosia: Büyük Han, the largest remaining caravansarai from Ottoman times (1572), is in the process of restoration.
Keywords: Lefkosa, architecture, colonnaded galleries

PMR500-05
Cyprus (North), Lefkosa/ North Nicosia: Büyük Hamam, formerly a 14th century church, is now the largest public baths.
Keywords: Lefkosa, Byzantine architecture, street scene

PMR434-09
Poland, Gdansk: St. Mary's Cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Poland, can accommodate 25,000 worshippers. Consecrated in 1502, after 159 years in construction, the building survived WWII, but was burnt out in 1945.
Keywords: mediaeval, red brick, Danzig, architecture, national heritage, picturesque

PMR533-09
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:
five, out of a row of eight, juxtaposed "evans". They are thought to be dedicated to: Marn, the sun god (largest); Marten, the moon goddess; and Bar Marin, the trinity of gods of Hatra.
Keywords: architecture, natural heritage, archeology, archeological, historical, desert, ruined city, Mesopotamia

PMR533-08
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:
stone busts decorate the arches of the largest "evans".
Keywords: architecture, culture, artistic, stone carving, natural heritage, archeology, archeological, historical, desert, ruined city, Mesopotamia

PMR530-09
Iraq, Samarra: the spiral minaret of the Samarra Mosque, once the largest mosque in the world of Islam, rises 52 metres to a flat platform at the top.
Keywords: architecture, archeological, archeology, Mesopotamia, natural heritage, Islam, Muslim

PMR527-01
Iraq, Ctesiphon: the ruins of this city, 30 kilometres northwest of Baghdad, date back to the 2nd century BC, but include this enormous vaulted roof, or "evan", 37 metres high and 25.5 metres wide, built without scaffolding in the third century AD. It is the largest vault known to antiquity. View from the side, showing the leaning facade, saved by a buttress. The subsidence is due to the high water table in this area.
Keywords: architecture, Mesopotamia, historic, archeological, archeology, Muslim, Islam, natural heritage

PMR526-12
Iraq, Ctesiphon: the ruins of this city, 30 kilometres northwest of Baghdad, date back to the 2nd century BC, but include this enormous vaulted roof, or "evan", 37 metres high and 25.5 metres wide, built without scaffolding in the third century AD. It is the largest vault known to antiquity. The arch reflected in a pool of water.
Keywords: Muslim, archeological, archeology, historic, architecture, picturesque, natural heritage, Islam, Mesopotamia

PMR526-11
Iraq, Ctesiphon: the ruins of this city, 30 kilometres northwest of Baghdad, date back to the 2nd century BC, but include this enormous vaulted roof, or "evan", 37 metres high and 25.5 metres wide, built without scaffolding in the third century AD. It is the largest vault known to antiquity.
Keywords: architecture, Mesopotamia, natural heritage, Islam, Muslim, historic, Archeology, archeological

PMR526-03
Iraq: Aqar Quf, the city of Dur Kurigalzu of antiquity, believed to have been founded by the Cassites in the 16th century BC: the ziggurat with approach stairway, the upper part restored; it was the largest ziggurat in Mesopotamia.
Keywords: natural heritage, Mesopotamia, excavations, archeological, archeology, historic

PMR520-03
Italy, Sicily, Agrigento: temple of Olympian Zeus; half of a capital is one of the few remaining recognisable features of the largest Greek Temple in the world, started in 480 BC but never finished. The new town in the background.
Keywords: archeological, agave, Sicilia, excavations, archeology, historical, national heritage

PMR143K-10
England, Somerset, Wells: the cathedral, building of which began in 1175 and continued after its consecration in 1239. It has retained a large part of its Early English architecture in addition to the later Gothic. The first church was built here in 705, but the adjacent mineral "wells" were in use in Roman times.

Closer view of the central west front, which has the largest collection of carved figures in Europe. Begun in 1230, these were at first painted in bright colours.
Keywords: architecture, Gothic, heritage, mediaeval, Early English, mineral wells, spring water

PMR143K-09
England, Somerset, Wells: the cathedral, building of which began in 1175 and continued after its consecration in 1239. It has retained a large part of its Early English architecture in addition to the later Gothic. The first church was built here in 705, but the adjacent mineral "wells" were in use in Roman times.

The west front, which has the largest collection of carved figures in Europe. Begun in 1230, these were at first painted in bright colours.
Keywords: architecture, spring water, mineral wells, Early English, mediaeval, heritage, Gothic

PMR140K-06
Greece, Island of Leros: the fine harbourmaster's building overlooking the port of Lakki, erected by the Italians during the occupation in the 1930s. Lakki possesses one of the largest and most secure harbours in the whole of the Mediterranean, and was used by the Italians, British and Germans during WWII. With its future in mind, the Italians built a number of striking buildings in Lakki.
Keywords: Greek Isles, Greek Orthodox Church, yachts, colourful, picturesque, Ionian Islands, Dodecanese, Helenic, Hellas, island hopping

PMR137K-14
Mongolia, Övörkhangai Aimag (Province), Kharkhorin, formerly Karakorum: the Rotel bus, parked by the "world's largest ger" with its Chinese-style gateway.
Keywords: Mongol, Outer Mongolia, steppe, Genghis Khan, Chinggis Khaan, religious monuments, sharmanism

PMR136K-32
Mongolia, Övörkhangai Aimag (Province), Kharkhorin, formerly Karakorum: Rotel bus parked next to the "world's largest ger".
Keywords: Mongol, Outer Mongolia, steppe, Genghis Khan, Chinggis Khaan, religious monuments, sharmanism

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-17
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 Boddhisattva Avalokiteshvara Temple contains a 26.5-metre-high gilded staue of Migjid Janraisag, a bodhisattva (a monk who has voluntarily decided not to enter Nirvana, but to devote himself to saving other souls). The yellow building in the foreground is the Dechengalpa Datsan, rebuilt in 1992.
Keywords: Mongol, Chinggis Khaan, Genghis Khan, statue, monument, capital, steppe, Outer Mongolia

PMR135K-16
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 Boddhisattva Avalokiteshvara Temple contains a 26.5-metre-high gilded staue of Migjid Janraisag, a bodhisattva (a monk who has voluntarily decided not to enter Nirvana, but to devote himself to saving other souls). A mythical creature and a row of prayer wheels in the foreground.
Keywords: Mongol, Chinggis Khaan, Genghis Khan, statue, monument, capital, steppe, Outer Mongolia

PMR135K-15
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 Boddhisattva Avalokiteshvara Temple contains a 26.5-metre-high gilded staue of Migjid Janraisag, a bodhisattva (a monk who has voluntarily decided not to enter Nirvana, but to devote himself to saving other souls). A gilded stupa surrounded by prayer wheels in the foreground.
Keywords: Mongol, Chinggis Khaan, Genghis Khan, statue, monument, capital, steppe, Outer Mongolia

PMR135K-14
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 long row of brass prayer wheels behind the Golden Temple.
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

PMR135K-12
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 row of colourful shelters containing prayer wheels.
Keywords: Mongol, Outer Mongolia, steppe, capital, monument, statue, Genghis Khan, Chinggis Khaan

PMR133K-10
Cambodia: Lake Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, reaches its maximum size during the monsoon season, before shrinking radically during the rest of the year. It is a nature reserve and UNESCO designated Biosphere.

This picture: touring boats frequently go aground on the sandbanks of the Tonle Sap River.
Keywords: biosphere, natural heritage, wild life habitat, nature reserve, bird reserve, ecology

PMR133K-09
Cambodia: Lake Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, reaches its maximum size during the monsoon season, before shrinking radically during the rest of the year. It is a nature reserve and UNESCO designated Biosphere.

This picture: two young Khmer children in the family boat.
Keywords: biosphere, ecology, bird reserve, nature reserve, wild life habitat, natural heritage

PMR133K-08
Cambodia: Lake Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, reaches its maximum size during the monsoon season, before shrinking radically during the rest of the year. It is a nature reserve and UNESCO designated Biosphere.

This picture: a general view of the floating village - the water level can change up to 9 metres in a year.
Keywords: biosphere, ecology, bird reserve, nature reserve, wild life habitat, natural heritage

PMR133K-07
Cambodia: Lake Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, reaches its maximum size during the monsoon season, before shrinking radically during the rest of the year. It is a nature reserve and UNESCO designated Biosphere.

This picture: a crocodile farm on one of the floating islands in the lake.
Keywords: biosphere, natural heritage, wild life habitat, nature reserve, bird reserve, ecology

PMR133K-06
Cambodia: Lake Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, reaches its maximum size during the monsoon season, before shrinking radically during the rest of the year. It is a nature reserve and UNESCO designated Biosphere.

This picture: a floating provision store on the lake - the water level can change up to 9 metres in a year.
Keywords: biosphere, natural heritage, wild life habitat, nature reserve, bird reserve, ecology

PMR133K-05
Cambodia: Lake Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, reaches its maximum size during the monsoon season, before shrinking radically during the rest of the year. It is a nature reserve and UNESCO designated Biosphere.

This picture: a group of blue touring boats at the quay, waiting for customers.
Keywords: biosphere, natural heritage, wild life habitat, nature reserve, bird reserve, ecology

PMR133K-04
Cambodia: Lake Tonle Sap, the largest freshwater lake in South East Asia, reaches its maximum size during the monsoon season, before shrinking radically during the rest of the year. It is a nature reserve and UNESCO designated Biosphere.

This picture: a constant stream of touring boats leaves the quay on Tonle Sap River, heading for the lake.
Keywords: biosphere, natural heritage, wild life habitat, nature reserve, bird reserve, ecology

PMR132K-11
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: south-east view of Angkor Wat, the world's largest religious monument, built by King Suryavarman II.
Keywords: historic, shrine, Khmer, architecture, religion, Buddhist, Hindu, temples, picturesque, national heritage

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-06
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: hand-made polychrome ceramic tiled "Iznik" panel with a floral motif.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR121K-05
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: hand-made polychrome ceramic tiled "Iznik" panel with a floral motif.
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-03
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: closer view of the floral inlay work of 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

PMR120K-13
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.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR120K-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.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR120K-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.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR120K-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 facade and main entrance.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR120K-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.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR120K-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.
Keywords: Arab state, Arab, Muslim, Islam, desert city, minarets, muezzin, Koran, traditional architecture

PMR120K-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.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

PMR112K-17
Canada, Vancouver BC: view from Vancouver Lookout (177 metres) atop Harbour Centre Tower - view of False Creek, site of Expo '86, and BC Place, the world's largest air-supported stadium.
Keywords: modern architecture, skyscrapers, high-rise buildings, metropolis, panorama, cityscape, western seaboard

PMR099K-26
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Statue of Jorge Francisco Isidoro Luis Borges Acevedo (1899-1986), writer, poet, critic and librarian, in Plaza Urquiza. His work was translated into English and other major languages and was widely read. In 1961 he received the first International Publishers' prize, the Prix Formentor:
Keywords: architecture, street scene, monument, sculpture

PMR099K-25
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. A former casino, built in 1911 by architects Hughe and Colmegna, this building now houses the Legislature of Tucumán.
Keywords: architecture, street scene

PMR099K-24
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Post and Telecommunications building (Correos) on Calle 25 de Mayo.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, clocktower

PMR099K-23
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Statue of Hipolito Irigoyen, president of Argentina 1916-22 and 1928-30 standing before the Palacio de Tribunales.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, modern architecture, monument, sculpture

PMR099K-22
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Well in the gardens of the Casa Historica de Independencia, where an historic congress declared independence from Spain on 9th July 1816.
Keywords: architecture, national heritage, historic building, street scene

PMR099K-21
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Bronze plaque in the Casa Historica de Independencia comemmorating the historic congress which declared independence from Spain on 9th July 1816.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, historic building, national heritage, tableau

PMR099K-20
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Gardens of the Casa Historica de Independencia, where an historic congress declared independence from Spain on 9th July 1816.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, historic building, national heritage

PMR099K-19
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Renovated colonial-style buildings on the Plaza Independencia, with a fine Baroque door.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, plaza mayor

PMR099K-18
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. The cathedral, built in 1856, although a church has occupied this site since 1565. The architect was Pierre Etcheverry, a Basque. Here: a closer look at the dome (in Argentinian colours) and tympanum.
Keywords: architecture, plaza mayor, neo-classical, religious architecture, church, street scene

PMR099K-17
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. The cathedral, built in 1856, although a church has occupied this site since 1565. The architect was Pierre Etcheverry, a Basque.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, church, religious architecture, neo-classical, plaza mayor

PMR099K-16
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Statue of a female figure in the Plaza Independencia.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, monument, sculpture, plaza mayor

PMR099K-15
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Basilica de San Francisco on the Plaza Independencia.
Keywords: architecture, church, religious architecture, street scene, temple

PMR099K-14
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Government House (for the Province of Tucumán) on the Plaza Independencia.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, plaza mayor

PMR099K-13
Argentina: San Miguel de Tucumán, the largest city in northern Argentina, was founded in 1565 by Spanish Conquistador, Diego de Villarroel. Entrance to the Casa Historica de Independencia, where an historic congress declared independence from Spain on 9th July 1816.
Keywords: architecture, street scene, historic building, national heritage

PMR097K-22
Brazil, Iguassu Falls, a system of 275 waterfalls stretching for 2.7 kilometres between Brazil and Argentina. Part of the largest waterfall, Garganta del Diablo (Devil's Throat), which drops 82 metres, seen from the Argentinian side.
Keywords: tropical monsoon area, Iguazu Falls, Iguacu Falls

PMR095K-29
Libya, Ubari Lakes Area: Lake Gebraoun, the largest lake, still possesses a large expanse of water.
Keywords: Maghreb, Sahara Desert, sand dunes, palm trees, sand-dune landscape, barren, Mandara Lakes

PMR094K-27
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Sabratha, founded about 500 BC as a Phoenician trading post, later being Romanised after Carthage fell to the Romans in the Third Punic War in 146 BC. It reached its peak under the Emperor Septimius Severus in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, but was severely damaged in an earthquake in 365 AD. After the Arab conquest it lost all importance to Leptis Magna. Here: view of the restored theatre (second century AD) from the north, the largest theatre in Africa.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations

PMR094K-26
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Sabratha, founded about 500 BC as a Phoenician trading post, later being Romanised after Carthage fell to the Romans in the Third Punic War in 146 BC. It reached its peak under the Emperor Septimius Severus in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD, but was severely damaged in an earthquake in 365 AD. After the Arab conquest it lost all importance to Leptis Magna. Here: view of the restored theatre (second century AD) from the north, the largest theatre in Africa.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations

PMR055K-23
Malta, Mosta: The church with the fourth largest dome in Europe, built between 1833 and 1871.

PMR052K-16
Spain, Galicia, La Coruna: Playa del Orzan, the city's largest beach.

PMR028K-07
Australia, Western Australia: Aerial view of Lake Argyle, the largest man-made lake, first flooded in 1973, with dam in the foreground.
Keywords: reservoir, hydro-electric scheme, water power

PMR016K-07
Iraq, Samarra: View from the top of the spiral minaret (Malwiyah) of the Samarra Mosque, once the largest mosque in the world of Islam, which rises 52 metres to a flat platform on the top. Prominent is the golden dome of the Askari Shrine in Samarra.
Keywords: mosque, Islam, Mohammed, religion, Muslim

PMR016K-06
Iraq, Samarra: The spiral minaret (Al-Malwiyah = spiral shaped) of the Samarra Mosque, once the largest mosque in the world of Islam, rises 52 metres to a flat platform on the top.
Keywords: mosque, Islam, Mohammed, religion, Muslim

PMR012K-20
Turkey, Istanbul: Enormous jar, carved out of a single piece of stone, in the Aya Sofia, built on the orders of the Roman Emperor Justinian, and consecrated on 26th December 537. It has the second largest dome in the world. The mosaics were added in XI-XIII centuries.
Keywords: Hagia Sophia, Christianity, architecture, Historic building, Holy Place, Cathedral, Church, Constantinople, Byzantine, Byzanz

PMR012K-19
Turkey, Istanbul: Decorated capital of a column in the Aya Sofia, built on the orders of the Roman Emperor Justinian, and consecrated on 26th December 537 . It has the second largest dome in the world. The mosaics were added in XI-XIII centuries.
Keywords: Hagia Sophia, Constantinople, Church, Cathedral, Holy Place, Historic building, architecture, Christianity, Byzantine, Byzanz

PMR012K-18
Turkey, Istanbul: Byzantine mosaics in the Aya Sofia, built on the orders of the Roman Emperor Justinian, and consecrated on 26th December 537 . It has the second largest dome in the world. The mosaics were added in XI-XIII centuries. Illustrated here is Christ with his desciples (extensively damaged).
Keywords: Hagia Sophia, Constantinople, Church, Cathedral, Holy Place, Historic building, architecture, Christianity

PMR012K-17
Turkey, Istanbul: Byzantine mosaics in the Aya Sofia, built on the orders of the Roman Emperor Justinian, and consecrated on 26th December 537 . It has the second largest dome in the world. The mosaics were added in XI-XIII centuries. Illustrated here are Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos, the Virgin and Child, and Empress Zoe.
Keywords: Hagia Sophia, Constantinople, Church, Cathedral, Holy Place, Historic building, architecture, Christianity

PMR012K-16
Turkey, Istanbul: Byzantine mosaics in the Aya Sofia, built on the orders of the Roman Emperor Justinian, and consecrated on 26th December 537 . It has the second largest dome in the world. The mosaics were added in XI-XIII centuries. Illustrated here are Emperor Constantine IX Monomachos, Christ, and Empress Zoe.
Keywords: Hagia Sophia, Constantinople, Church, Cathedral, Holy Place, Historic building, architecture, Christianity

PMR008K-19
Romania, Bucharest: Ceausescu's "House of the People" ("Casa Poporului"), now known as the "Palace of Parliament" ("Palatul Parlamentului") is the second largest building in the world, in terms of surface area occupied, after the Pentagon in the USA. One sixth of the city of Bucharest was bulldozed to provide the space for it in 1984. Today it houses the Chamber of Deputies, Constitutional Court, and an international conference centre.and has 3100 furnished rooms, including 64 reception halls. Beneath the edifice is a nuclear bunker 20 metres deep. View of the main facade.
Keywords: architecture, superlatives

PMR043K-36
Russia, Karelia, Goritzi: Kirillo-Byelozerskii Monastery, founded in 1397, is the second largest in Russia. Only two monks are at present (2003) resident. The monastery contains an important collection of icons and freskos.

PMR043K-35
Russia, Karelia: Typical land- and seascape on the fringes of the Onega Sea, one of the largest inland seas in Europe.

PMR043K-19
Russia, St. Petersburg: The golden dome of St. Isaac's Cathedral towering over neighbouring buildings. It is claimed to be the third largest dome in the world.

PMR035K-16
Namibia, Keetmanshoop: One of the largest specimens in the "quiver tree forest" among the rocks of the "Giants' Playground".
Keywords: wild life, botany, succulents, flora, giant aloes

PMR069K-18
Turkey, Lycia, Fethiye: ancient rock tombs, carved out of the cliffs by Lycians. The largest, the Tomb of Amyntas, in the style of a Greek Ionic temple, dates back to the 4th century BC. All have been plundered and many used as dwellings in Byzantine times. Here: a group of smaller tombs, to the left of the Tomb of Amyntas.
Keywords: cities of antiquity, archeological excavations, burial chambers, Lycia

PMR069K-17
Turkey, Lycia, Fethiye: ancient rock tombs, carved out of the cliffs by Lycians. The largest, the Tomb of Amyntas (shown here), in the style of a Greek Ionic temple, with highly decorated sham stone door, dates back to the 4th century BC. All have been plundered and many used as dwellings in Byzantine times.
Keywords: cities of antiquity, Lycia, archeological excavations, burial chambers

PMR069K-15
Turkey, Lycia, Fethiye: ancient rock tombs, carved out of the cliffs by Lycians. The largest, the Tomb of Amyntas, in the style of a Greek Ionic temple, dates back to the 4th century BC. All have been plundered and many used as dwellings in Byzantine times. Here: view of the cliffs with their rock tombs, and the town of Fethiye spread out below. It stands on the site of the antique "Telmessos".
Keywords: cities of antiquity, archeological excavations, burial chambers, Lycia

PMR069K-02
Turkey, Lycia, Kaunos: The ancient Graeco-Roman city of Kaunos lay on the border of Lycia and Karia and its inhabitants made a living from boat-building and the export of salt, slaves and amber. The city finally died when the harbour silted up and strangled communications. Here: entry arch to the well-preserved, late Roman baths (Therme), which were among the largest in Asia Minor.
Keywords: Graeco-Roman remains, archeological excavations, Roman ruins, Greek ruins, antique cities, Lycia

PMR068K-23
Turkey: Marmaris goes back to almost 1000 BC when it was founded by Doric settlers with the name "Phiscus". Subsequently it fell under Lydian, Greek, and Roman rule until being absorbed into the Osman Empire in 1408. Now a leading holiday resort on the Turkish south coast, it can accommodate over 100,000 visitors at a time. Here: a line-up of some of the largest yachts which offer cruises to Antalya and back.
Keywords: tourist attraction, oriental, yachting, sailing, Turkish carpet centre, holiday resort, marina, Mediterranean resort, sunshine

PMR065K-08
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, colourful frescoes on the walls of the church verandah.

PMR065K-07
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, colourful frescoes on the walls of the church verandah.

PMR065K-06
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, colourful frescoes in the roof of the church verandah.

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.

PMR064K-02
Bulgaria, Teshel, Yagodinska peshtera: the narrow access road through the gorge, only recently finished, leads to Bulgaria's largest cave.

PMR064K-01
Bulgaria, Teshel: Yagodinska peshtera, an old Turkish bridge, near to the entrance to Bulgaria's largest cave.

PMR059K-36
Romania, Moldavia: Galati, Moldavia's main port and gateway to the Danube Delta, has also the largest steel works in the country. Here, the Palatul Justitiei (Law Courts).

PMR420-03
Germany, Lower Saxony, Estebrügge near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Thatched, half-timbered farmhouse, surrounded by lawns and pear trees.
Keywords: picturesque, heritage, historic, timber frame houses, half-timbered houses, architecture

PMR420-02
Germany, Lower Saxony, Estebrügge near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Thatched brick house with arched windows and columned portico.
Keywords: picturesque, heritage, historic, timber frame houses, half-timbered houses, architecture

PMR420-01
Germany, Lower Saxony, Estebrügge near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Typical thatched, half-timbered farmhouse, with TV dish-aerial.
Keywords: picturesque, heritage, historic, timber frame houses, half-timbered houses, architecture

PMR419-11
Germany, Lower Saxony, Steinkirchen near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Thatched farmhouse with ornamental yellow-brick frieze.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR419-08
Germany, Lower Saxony, Steinkirchen near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Modern brick church with adjacent timber belltower with pointed roof.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR419-07
Germany, Lower Saxony, Mittelkirchen near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Boats moored on the canal, adjacent to their owner's houses, between Mittelkirchen and Steinkirchen.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR419-06
Germany, Lower Saxony, Mittelkirchen near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Thatched farmhouse with inscriptions on the timber beams of the facade, built in 1717. The upper stories are used only for storage of agricultural produce.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR419-05
Germany, Lower Saxony, Mittelkirchen near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Typical house with tiled roof and ornamental brickwork, dated 1797.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR419-04
Germany, Lower Saxony, Mittelkirchen near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Typical brick church with wooden belltower.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR419-03
Germany, Lower Saxony, Jork near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Thatched, half-timbered house in the local style, offering holiday accommodation.
Keywords: picturesque, heritage, historic, timber frame houses, half-timbered houses, architecture

PMR419-02
Germany, Lower Saxony, Königreich near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Facade of the fruitgrower's thatched farmhouse offering apples and plums for sale.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR419-01
Germany, Lower Saxony, Königreich near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. Fruitgrower's thatched farmhouse offering apples and plums for sale.
Keywords: picturesque, architecture, half-timbered houses, timber frame houses, historic, heritage

PMR418-12
Germany, Lower Saxony, Estebrügge near Hamburg: "Altes Land" is an area bordering the River Elbe on the south west, and is one of the largest fruit-growing areas in Germany. It is also famous for its timber frame houses with ornamental brickwork. The "Estehof" public house in the local style.
Keywords: picturesque, heritage, historic, timber frame houses, half-timbered houses, architecture

PMR407-06
Germany, Upper Bavaria, Ismaning: the reservoir and fish ponds are a major bird sanctuary and RAMSAR site north of the Alps. One of the largest fish ponds with autumn herbiage and reflections.
Keywords: autumn colours, ecology, ornithology, ecological, ornithological

PMR395-06
Belgium, Tournai: a row of burgher-houses with step gables, overlooked by the belfry towers of Notre Dame Cathedral, the largest Romanesque cathedral in Belgium.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, heritage, historic, cityscape

PMR395-04
Belgium, Tournai: roof and towers of Notre Dame Cathedral, the largest Romanesque cathedral in Belgium, dominate the town.
Keywords: architecture, picturesque, heritage, historic, cityscape

PMR392-05
New Zealand, North Island, Rotorua, Waiotapu Thermal Area: "Frying Pan Lake", formed on 01.04.1917, is the world's largest hot spring, with a depth of 6 metres and an area of 38,000 sq. metres. The average temperature is 55 degrees C.
Keywords: antipodes, hot springs, eruption, volcano, volcanic, fumerole, geyser, Maori, landscape, picturesque

PMR391-12
New Zealand, North Island, Rotorua, Waiotapu Thermal Area: "Champagne Pool", the largest in the area, being 60 metres in diameter and 60 metres deep. Water temperature is 74 degrees C. and the bubbles are carbon dioxide.
Keywords: antipodes, hot springs, eruption, volcano, volcanic, fumerole, geyser, Maori, landscape, picturesque

PMR390-09
New Zealand, North Island, Waipoua Kauri Forest: "Tane Mahuta" ("Lord of the Forest"), the largest surviving Kauri tree, 56 metres high with a 14-metre-thick trunk, estimated to be 1,200 years old. Its volume of wood is about 245 cubic metres. The crown of Tane Mahutra is a veritable ecosystem on its own, full of epiphytes and home to numerous creatures.
Keywords: antipodes, picturesque, Maori, flora and fauna, biology, ecology, arboriculture

PMR390-08
New Zealand, North Island, Waipoua Kauri Forest: "Tane Mahuta" ("Lord of the Forest"), the largest surviving Kauri tree, 56 metres high with a 14-metre-thick trunk, estimated to be 1,200 years old. Its volume of wood is about 245 cubic metres. The crown of Tane Mahutra is a veritable ecosystem on its own, full of epiphytes and home to numerous creatures.
Keywords: antipodes, arboriculture, ecology, biology, flora and fauna, Maori, picturesque

PMR386-04
Australia, Queensland, Gladstone: Australia's fifth largest port, Gladstone exports principally coal and alumina from a natural harbour. View of the town and river, with road bridge raised to allow passage to a boat.
Keywords: shipping, docks, raw materials, coal handling, exports

PMR386-03
Australia, Queensland, Gladstone: Australia's fifth largest port, Gladstone exports principally coal and alumina from a natural harbour. View of the marina and river mouth from the park lookout, with Bougainvillea flowers in the foreground.
Keywords: shipping, docks, raw materials, coal handling, exports

PMR383-07
Australia, Queensland, Cairns: Michaelmas Cay on the Great Barrier Reef - rookery of Sooty Terns (Sterna fuscata) and Common Noddies (Anous stolidus), one of the largest in the southern hemisphere.
Keywords: semi-tropical, resort, diving centre, seaside, ornithology, birds

PMR379-05
Australia, Northern Territory: view from the air of Ayers Rock Resort, laid out round a circular service road. It is already one of the six largest towns in the Northern Territory.
Keywords: outback, wilderness, bush, nature, natural, geology, vegetation, savannah, ecology, biotope, tropical

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

PMR672-12
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: a peaceful wooded scene, with traditional boats on the moat of Angkor Thom, one of the largest cities built by the Khmer.
Keywords: historic, shrine, Khmer, architecture, religion, Buddhist, Hindu, temples, picturesque, national heritage

PMR672-11
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: head of one of the "asuras" (demons) tugging a "naga" (7-headed serpent) on the causeway leading to the south gate of the city of Angkor Thom, built by King Jayavarman VII and successors, from the late 12th century. Angkor Thom was one of the largest cities built by the Khmer.
Keywords: historic, national heritage, picturesque, temples, Hindu, Buddhist, religion, architecture, Khmer, shrine

PMR672-10
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: south gate to the city of Angkor Thom, built by King Jayavarman VII and successors, from the late 12th century, showing the 3-headed elephants and "face tower". Angkor Thom was one of the largest cities built by the Khmer.
Keywords: historic, national heritage, picturesque, temples, Hindu, Buddhist, religion, architecture, Khmer, shrine

PMR672-09
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 Keo, built by King Jayavarman V in the late 10th to early 11th centuries, has five massive towers, the largest, central one representing Mount Meru, the centre of the world and seat of the gods.
Keywords: historic, national heritage, picturesque, temples, Hindu, Buddhist, religion, architecture, Khmer, shrine

PMR622-06
Turkey, Lycia, Patara: Ancient rock tombs, carved out of the cliffs by Lycians. The largest, the Tomb of Amyntas, in the style of a Greek Ionic temple, dates back to the 4th century BC. All have been plundered and many used as dwellings in Byzantine times.
Keywords: Roman remains, Roman architecture, Graeco-Roman remains, archeological excavations, cities of antiquity

PMR621-09
Germany, Sachsen-Anhalt, Naumburg: Founded before 1000 AD, Naumburg has retained its historic centre. Here: the "Holzmarkt", originally a storage area for timber, with the former hostelry "Alte Post", built in 1580 in Renaissance style, and then one of the largest inns in the town.
Keywords: German architecture, historic town, picturesque, old buildings, gables

PMR616-10
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, the monastery church, renowned for its numerous colourful frescoes.
Keywords: Orthodox churches, Bulgarian architecture, religious buildings, Byzantine

PMR616-01
Bulgaria, Melnik: Sandstone cliffs are omnipresent in the town of Melnik in the Pirin Mountains, about 15 kilometres from the Turkish border. The town has been famous for its red wines and also tobacco for centuries. In 1900 the town had about 20,000 inhabitants; today just 245 live here. Here: Kordopuolos Kashta (House), built in 1754 (top) belonged to a famous wine merchant. It is reputed to have been the largest and most luxurious house in Bulgaria.
Keywords: Turkish-style houses, Bulgarian architecture

PMR614-03
Bulgaria: Batchkovo Monastery, in the Rodopi Mountains, was founded in the 12th century but several times rebuilt. It is the second largest and most important monastery in Bulgaria. View of the columned entry porch, decorated with frescoes, with the monastery church behind.
Keywords: religious building, Orthodox church, Byzantine style, monks, retreat

PMR614-02
Bulgaria: Batchkovo Monastery, in the Rodopi Mountains, was founded in the 12th century but several times rebuilt. It is the second largest and most important monastery in Bulgaria. View of the Byzantine-style church and colourful flower gardens.
Keywords: religious building, retreat, monks, Byzantine style, Orthodox church

PMR611-05
Bulgaria: Varna, one of Europe's oldest cities, was founded as a trading colony of Greek Miletus in 570 BC, but the area has been settled for at least seven millennia. Under the Greeks and Romans it was known as Odessos. Now a thriving holiday resort on the Black Sea with a population of over 350,000. Here: ruins of the Roman baths (Thermae) built during the second century AD, and said to be the fourth largest Roman baths in Europe.
Keywords: Roman ruins, archeological site, archeological excavations

PMR594-02
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. Pyramid of the Moon and its altar in the "Plaza de la Luna", from the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl.

PMR594-01
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. View from the Pyramid of the Moon along the "Street of the Dead", with the Pyramid of the Sun on the left. The end of the street is about 4 kilometres from this point.

PMR593-12
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. Reconstructed patio in the Palace of the Quetzalpapalotl (Quetzal-Butterfly), decorated with stylized Quetzal birds and/or owls, and butterflies.

PMR593-11
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants "Street of the Dead", with Pyramid of the Moon at the end, and rows of minor temples along the sides.

PMR593-10
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. Frontal view of the Pyramid of the Sun, with altar in the foreground. It was built over a trefoil-shaped cave, which may have had a supreme religious significance.

PMR593-09
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. Descending the steps of the Pyramid of the Sun, showing the altar platform at the base.

PMR593-08
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. View of the Pyramid of the Moon, from the summit of the Pyramid of the Sun.

PMR593-07
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. Pyramid of the Sun, the second largest after the Cholula Pyramid, base size identical to the Pyramid of Cheops in Egypt.

PMR593-06
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. Four-stepped pyramid in the Citadel, behind which the temple of Qutzalcoatl was uncovered in 1920.

PMR593-05
Mexico: Teotihuacan, probably the largest pre-Hispanic city in the Americas, covering about 156,000 square kilometres, with up to 200,000 inhabitants. Founded ca. 100 AD, flourished 300 to 650, abandoned by 750 AD. Identity of the builders is unknown. The Aztecs believed it was the work of giants. Restoration work taking place on the Temple of Quetzalcoatl with its four steps (Tablero-Talud System) and alternating heads of Tlaloc, the rain god, and Quetzalcoatl, the plumed serpent.

PMR593-01
Mexico: Cholula, site of the "Gran Piramide de Tepanapa", called "Tlachihaultepet" by the natives, which was already overgrownl by the time Cortes arrived in 1519 and is the largest (not the highest) man-made pyramid. It probably dates back to 1st century AD. View of the volcano Popocatepetl, with the town of Cholula in the middleground, from the base of the pyramid.

PMR592-12
Mexico: Cholula, site of the "Gran Piramide de Tepanapa", called "Tlachihaultepet" by the natives, which was already overgrownl by the time Cortes arrived in 1519 and is the largest (not the highest) man-made pyramid. It probably dates back to 1st century AD. View of the town of Cholula and some of its dozens of churches, from the pyramid.

PMR592-11
Mexico: Cholula, site of the "Gran Piramide de Tepanapa", called "Tlachihaultepet" by the natives, which was already overgrownl by the time Cortes arrived in 1519 and is the largest (not the highest) man-made pyramid. It probably dates back to 1st century AD. Belltowers of the church, built on the summit of the pyramid by Cortes, Nuestra Senora de los Remedios.

PMR592-10
Mexico: Cholula, site of the "Gran Piramide de Tepanapa", called "Tlachihaultepet" by the natives, which was already overgrownl by the time Cortes arrived in 1519 and is the largest (not the highest) man-made pyramid. It probably dates back to 1st century AD. Cross of the summit church, with the volcano Ixtaccihuatl's snow-covered peak in the distance.

PMR592-09
Mexico: Cholula, site of the "Gran Piramide de Tepanapa", called "Tlachihaultepet" by the natives, which was already overgrownl by the time Cortes arrived in 1519 and is the largest (not the highest) man-made pyramid. It probably dates back to 1st century AD. The town of Cholula with the volcano Popocatepetl (5452 metres) behind from the top of the pyramid.

PMR592-08
Mexico: Cholula, site of the "Gran Piramide de Tepanapa", called "Tlachihaultepet" by the natives, which was already overgrownl by the time Cortes arrived in 1519 and is the largest (not the highest) man-made pyramid. It probably dates back to 1st century AD. View of the town of Cholula and the volcano Ixtaccihuatl (5286 metres) from the top of the pyramid.

PMR592-04
Mexico: Puebla, a large industrial city, capital of the province of the same name, was founded by the Spanish on a "green field" site in 1531. Noted for its painted tiles and VW cars. One of the cathedral towers with angelic figures on the wrought iron railings. The cathedral, built 1588-1649, is the second largest in Mexico.

PMR590-03
Mexico: Uxmal, (in the Maya language = "thrice built"), the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. Blue-flowered shrub, with the "Soothsayer's Pyramid" in the background.
Keywords: Maya

PMR590-02
Mexico: Uxmal, (in the Maya language = "thrice built"), the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. Ball Court (juego de pelota), much smaller than Chichen Itza's, with lower target ring. On the same axis lies the entrance to the "Nunnery Quadrangle" in the background.
Keywords: Maya

PMR590-01
Mexico: Uxmal, (in the Maya language = "thrice built"), the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. The "Soothsayer's Pyramid", seen from a window of the "Palace of the Governor".
Keywords: Maya

PMR589-12
Mexico: Uxmal (in the Maya language = thrice built), the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. View of the "Nunnery Quadrangle" and the "Soothsayer's Pyramid" from the "Palace of the Governor".
Keywords: Maya

PMR589-11
Mexico: Uxmal, the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. " Palace of the Governor", 98 metres long and 12 metres wide, is regarded as the highest achievement of Uxmal's builders. The central building has two wings.
Keywords: Maya

PMR589-10
Mexico: Uxmal, the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. House of the Turtles (Casa de las Tortugas), the cornice of which is decorated with turtles, each different.
Keywords: Maya

PMR589-09
Mexico: Uxmal, the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. Part of the north building of the "Nunnery Quadrangle" - a complex arrangement of geometric elements.
Keywords: Maya

PMR589-08
Mexico: Uxmal, the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. Double-headed serpent bars on the east building of the "Nunnery Quadrangle" (Cuad. de las Monjas).
Keywords: Maya

PMR589-07
Mexico: Uxmal, the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. The main flight of steps of the "Soothsayer's Pyramid". Four previous pyramids lie within.
Keywords: Maya

PMR589-06
Mexico: Uxmal, the second largest Maya site, centre of the puuc area, flourished between VI and IX centuries AD. The "Soothsayer's Pyramid", 38 metres high, is one of the steepest sided Maya pyramids.
Keywords: Maya

PMR581-03
Russia, Uglich: The Cathedral of the Redeemer , the largest church in the Kremlin of Uglich, built in 1713.

PMR580-12
Russia, Goritzi: Ferapontus Tower and part of the fortified defence walls of the Kirillo-Byelozerski Monastery in Goritzi. Founded in 1397, the second largest in Russia.

PMR580-11
Russia, Goritzi: Granovitaya Tower, dating from the 16th century, with part of the fortified defence walls of the Kirillo-Byelozerski Monastery in Goritzi. Founded in 1397, the second largest in Russia.

PMR580-10
Russia, Goritzi: Church of St. Kirill, built in 1780, within the walls of the Kirillo-Byelozerski Monastery, founded in 1397, the second largest in Russia.

PMR580-09
Russia, Goritzi: Notice board with numbered plan of the Monastery of St Kirill on Lake Beloye (in English). The monastery was founded in 1397 and is the second largest in Russia.

PMR580-08
Russia, Goritzi: Monks' quarters in the Kirillo-Byelozerski Monastery, founded in 1397, the second largest in Russia. Only two monks were in residence in 2003.

PMR575-03
Romania, Neamt: The circular library building of Neamt Monastery, the oldest and largest in Romania.

PMR666-11
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 mausoleum of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the U.A.E.
Keywords: Arab state, traditional architecture, Koran, muezzin, minarets, desert city, Islam, Muslim, Arab

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

PMR650-08
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The magnificent Arch of Septimius Severus built in 203 AD in the emperor's native town, is in a state of continual reconstruction. View from the south, showing the restored stone reliefs on the inside of the arches.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR650-07
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Bronze statue of Emperor Septimius Severus, a native of Leptis Magna, who ruled the empire from 193 to 211 AD.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR650-06
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Roman mausoleum in front of the museum.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR650-05
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The magnificent Arch of Septimius Severus built in 203 AD in the emperor's native town, is in a state of continual reconstruction. View from the north-west, looking along the Decumanus.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR650-04
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A row of stone column bases, with the re-erected columns on the top of the theatre cavea in the background.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR650-03
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The theatre is one of the oldest in the Roman world, dating from 1-2 AD. The stage was backed by a forest of graceful, fluted columns and statues, with entrances left, right and centre, added by Antoninus Pius between 138 and 161 AD.
A closer look at the columns backing the stage, all carefully reassembled from broken fragments.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR650-02
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The theatre is one of the oldest in the Roman world, dating from 1-2 AD. The stage was backed by a forest of graceful, fluted columns and statues, with entrances left, right and centre, added by Antoninus Pius between 138 and 161 AD.
The left hand wing of the stage, with an inscription in Latin and Punic over the doorway.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR650-01
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

An impressive row of re-erected cipolin columns, mostly with capitals, part of the Post Scaenum Portico.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-12
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The theatre is one of the oldest in the Roman world, dating from 1-2 AD. The stage was backed by a forest of graceful, fluted columns and statues, with entrances left, right and centre, added by Antoninus Pius between 138 and 161 AD.
View from the top centre of the Cavea with the sea in the background. The VIPs sat on the first four rows, in front of the stone barrier.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-11
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The theatre is one of the oldest in the Roman world, dating from 1-2 AD. The stage was backed by a forest of graceful, fluted columns and statues, with entrances left, right and centre, added by Antoninus Pius between 138 and 161 AD.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-10
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Via Trionfale (Cardo) with the Arch of Trajan and the Arch of Tiberius.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-09
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The steps and remaining columns at the front of the Chalcidium, facing on to the Via Trionfale (Cardo). Inside was a colonnaded portico and temple to Augustus and Venus. Built in the first century AD by Augustus. The Arch of Trajan stands on the right.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-08
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

One of two octagonal market halls with stone counters for trading wares.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-07
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

A stone in the market, inscribed with linear measures:
top: Roman/Punic arm (51.5cm.)
middle: Roman/Alexandrine foot: (29.5cm.)
bottom: Greek/Ptolemaic arm (52.5cm.)
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR649-06
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Byzantine Gate on the Via Trionfale (Cardo) built by the Emperor Justinian in the 6th century AD.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-05
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ruins of the Temple of Liber Pater and the Temple of Roma and Augustus adjacent to the Old Forum.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-04
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Stele, standing in the Old Forum, originally with bronze inlaid lettering. An abbreviated translation in Punic appears at the bottom.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-03
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The remains of the Old Forum, enclosed by three temples on the left and a basilica on the right, with an Italian archeologist taking notes.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR649-02
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Adjacent to the north-eastern side of the Forum stood the Basilica of Septimius Severus, 92 metres long by 40 metres wide, the nave lined by red granite columns, some of which are presently lying in the Forum. Carved limestone column in the apse showing a Bachanalian figure mounted on a lion, which is standing on a vase.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR649-01
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Adjacent to the north-eastern side of the Forum stood the Basilica of Septimius Severus, 92 metres long by 40 metres wide, the nave lined by red granite columns, some of which are presently lying in the Forum. Carved limestone columns in the apse, with scenes ornamented with vines and bunches of grapes.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR648-12
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Adjacent to the north-eastern side of the Forum stood the Basilica of Septimius Severus, 92 metres long by 40 metres wide, the nave lined by red granite columns, some of which are presently lying in the Forum.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR648-11
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The New Forum of Septimius Severus, laid out during his reign (193-211 AD), originally surrounded by colonnaded porticoes, was ruined in the great earthquake of 365 AD.
One of the carved heads of Medusa which were mounted all round the interior of the Forum.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR648-10
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The New Forum of Septimius Severus, laid out during his reign (193-211 AD), originally surrounded by colonnaded porticoes, was ruined in the great earthquake of 365 AD.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR648-09
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The outer wall of the New Forum of Septimius Severus which he laid out between 193 and 211 AD to replace the old forum.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR648-08
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Laconica (sweat bath) with columned surround in the enormous Baths of Hadrian, opened around 130 AD, soon after the city was provided with running water. The building was commissioned by the Emperor Hadrian.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR648-07
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Natatio (swimming pool and entrance hall) in front of the enormous Baths of Hadrian, opened around 130 AD, soon after the city was provided with running water. The building was commissioned by the Emperor Hadrian. The Palaestra is visible in the background.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR648-06
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The wall of the Frigidarium (the largest hall) of the enormous Baths of Hadrian, opened around 130 AD, soon after the city was provided with running water. The building was commissioned by the Emperor Hadrian.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR648-05
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The columned Palaestra in front of the enormous Baths of Hadrian, opened around 130 AD, soon after the city was provided with running water. The building was commissioned by the Emperor Hadrian.
Keywords: Roman architecture, historical city, artistic, stone carving, archeological excavations, archeology, Maghreb, Punic architecture

PMR648-03
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The magnificent Arch of Septimius Severus built in 203 AD in the emperor's native town, is in a state of continual reconstruction. Details of the fluted Corinthian columns with pediment and the carved floral decoration.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR648-02
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The magnificent Arch of Septimius Severus built in 203 AD in the emperor's native town, is in a state of continual reconstruction. The Arch of Antoninus Pius is visible in the distance to the north-west along the Decumanus.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR648-01
Libya, Tripolitania: ruins of the ancient city of Leptis Magna. The city was founded by Phoenician colonists about 1100 BC but became part of the Roman Empire when Carthage fell in the Third Punic War, in 146 BC. It became the largest and most prosperous city in Roman Africa. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The amphitheatre was built on a hillside about 3 kilometres from the centre, in the first century AD, and held about 16,000 spectators.
Keywords: Roman architecture, Punic architecture, Maghreb, archeology, archeological excavations, stone carving, artistic, historical city

PMR641-10
Libya, Ubari Lakes Area: a swimmer cooling off in the water of Lake Gebraoun, the largest of the lakes.
Keywords: Maghreb, Mandara Lakes, barren, sand-dune landscape, palm trees, sand dunes, Sahara Desert

PMR641-09
Libya, Ubari Lakes Area: view of the full extent of Lake Gebraoun, the largest lake.
Keywords: Maghreb, Lake Gambaroune, Mandara Lakes, barren, sand-dune landscape, palm trees, sand dunes, Sahara Desert

PMR641-08
Libya, Ubari Lakes Area: vegetation and palm trees surround Lake Gebraoun, the largest of the lakes, with the sand dunes right behind.
Keywords: Maghreb, Lake Gambaroune, Mandara Lakes, barren, sand-dune landscape, palm trees, sand dunes, Sahara Desert

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All images © Copyright protected Peter Michael Rhodes 0049 89 321 1945
Travel Photographer Munich, Bavaria, DE