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The Many Mysteries Of Petra Jordan

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Petra Jordan

The City That Was Lost For Centuries

This article is being converted into a more well rounded guide of the historical site, and more information will be added over time.

The Many Mysteries Of Petra Jordan is a showcase of Petra the city that was lost in the cliff of the rock and hidden for years. Even today, without a guide, the way in is a mystery, and easy to defend. Her greatness is not questioned, but what is her destiny? Does she have a role to play at the end of time? Will she hide the remnant of Israel? Why has she been so well preserved? While much of the city is still being discovered, that which has been dug out to date is beautiful beyond belief. Welcome to the lost city, where history, ancient stories, and archaeology come together.

Petra is a jewel of Jordan and all the Middle East. When you look at it, you can not help but wonder how it was built. The carving is magnificent. The city planning is perfect. There is a water and sewer system, and everything a city needs. There are caves that are hidden, and others that are more open. It is literally built into the rock, all hand carved. It was built to last, and it is not in a state of decay, despite weather, time, earthquakes, and nature. It has been hidden for years, so few beyond the Bedouins have seen it over the years. Only in the last century or so, has it become a well-known destination for travelers. So come along with us, as we explore Petra, the city that was lost for centuries.

The Long Narrow Spectacular Siq

The Siq, also known as the Siqit, is a long narrow and winding gorge that has little light shining into int0. It winds for almost one mile and will take about 45 minutes or longer to walk into the city if you take time to enjoy the walk and see the unique and wonderful entrance. To the left, you will see where water was brought into the city from a spring that was several miles away. On the right, the water channel has been washed away at the beginning, but you can see it later on in your walk into Petra proper.  Also, close to the beginning, you will see the remains of a type of arch that went across the entrance of the Siq.

Along the way, you will see niches for the gods of the Nabataean people, cisterns, and lookouts. This is one of only two ways in and out of the city and was considered the main entrance. There are places that are not more than 10 feet wide. In fact, you can almost touch both sides as you walk into this spectacular and elaborate ruin. The Siq ends when you come to a clearing in front of the Treasury or Khazneh. No one is certain what it was used for, though many think it was a library of some kind. Whatever it was, it makes a dramatic statement after the narrow dim walk into the city.

As you enter the plaza entrance to the Siq, you will have many offers of transportation through the Siq. The carts move slow enough for you not to miss anything and the drivers will stop for you to take pictures. Pointing to your camera will usually be all the communication necessary for your driver to understand you want to stop for a picture. The cart and buggy rides are usually drawn by donkeys or small horses and are quite inexpensive. This small amount goes a long way toward helping the Bedouins make a livable wage in this harsh and remote desert land.

The Treasury Or Khazneh of Petra Jordan

As you come into this ancient Nabataean city of Petra, this elaborate Treasury is the first monument you will lay your eyes on. As you step out of the Siq and look up, the enormity and magnificence of this spectacular monument begin to sink in. It is several stories tall, all hand carved, and beautifully restored. The Treasury leaves you with a sense of awe, as you behold her beauty. As you step inside this monument, you are overwhelmed with the quality of this ancient workmanship. It is almost impossible to convey the wonder and awe that you feel as you stand in front of this magnificent monument.

Exploring Passage Ways And Caves

After leaving the Treasury, we come to the Street of Facades. This is an area that is full of both simple and gigantic tombs with large impressive facades. These false fronts are very tall and intriguing, making an impressive facade for the more important members of this society. As you move along the street, you will see many simpler and smaller caves for the more humble residents. Even the smaller tombs had much detail. This is an area that has not been restored, and many of the tombs are still filled with sand from numerous floods through the centuries. As you continue down this Street of Facades, you will come to the heart of Petra.

If you have allowed enough time to explore the caves, it is a marvelous opportunity for adventure. You will be able to discover the many works of nature, God’s creation, and the unique abilities of the Nabataeans. These ancient caves are just one part of the mystery surrounding Petra.

Living In The Mountains Of Edom

Cut into the side of the Edom Mountains lived an ancient people known as the Edomites. The Edomites were an ancient civilization that descended from Esau. We can read about the generations of Esau in Genesis chapter 36. What an amazing experience it must have been for Esau, the brother of Jacob, to have lived in these amazing mountains. Though there still is a great mystery as to what happened to the  Horites, who were conquered by the Edomites, and later the Edomites who were conquered by the Nabataeans around the year 400 BC. What happened to their land, and their capital city, Petra? Who began to build in these amazing sandstone mountains? Today, we give all the credit to the Nabataaeans for this spectacular city, but with most of Petra still buried, much is waiting to be discovered. The mystery of Petra will continue for many generations to come.

The earthquake of 363 AD

We do know, that there was a large earthquake in 363 AD that destroyed around half of Petra and the surrounding cities built into the rock of the mountains. Historians, Biblical scholars, and archaeologists have searched the ruins, and ancient manuscripts, that have been discovered to date, for a clue, but the only clue seems to be written in Ezekiel 35 of the Bible. Ezekiel 35:15 gives a very strong statement about this ancient land and the Edomites disappearance. But even it is silent about the Nabataeans. So for now, we are left to wonder! Together, these many scholars from different fields seek to uncover what happened to the Nabataeans, a civilization of people so advanced to have built a capital city so elaborate. To this day, this great mystery continues.

Stunning Waves Of Color In The Sandstone Of Petra

The colors of Petra are breathtaking with bright colors that swirl in the sandstone, intermingling with soft shades that sparkle in the sunlight. As unique and spectacular as the architecture is, sometimes the colors fill your heart with an amazing sense of anticipation. As the sun shines and causes the colors to spiral in the light, the sandstone becomes spectacular and almost seems to dance. Jordan is a safe county, with magnificent deserts, amazing historical sites, extremely friendly people, and adventure for everyone. Surrounding Petra is one of the world’s most amazing deserts, the Wadi Rum.

Pillars Of The Great Temple

Pillars of the Great Temple is one of the major architectural components of metropolitan Petra. As amazing as this Great Temple is, what is seen here only represents about 15% of this magnificent and unique Temple. Many more clues to Temple life still remain deep beneath the surface. This means that there is still many more clues to discover in the 85% that remains of this Temple and was buried by earthquakes. As archaeologists continue to dig and discover more of this amazing Great Temple, much still remains for the next set of eyes.
As you begin your Temple discovery, be sure to take plenty of water, sunscreen, and protection from the harsh sunlight. The walk up the stairs can seem almost endless. For those who prefer not to climb stairs, there are camels that will carry you to the top for a small fee. The camels are sure-footed and will take you safely to the top on a very steep canyon path. At times you travel what seems a little close to the edge, where the path narrows, but the camels know where to put their feet. As you climb up the path, signs of the Great Temple emerge. This is a major climb, no matter how you choose to ascend the Temple area, and it is filled with adventure.

Camel Driver Waiting With His Camels

The Bedouins wait to see who needs to have a ride to the top. They are extremely friendly, the camels are well cared for and the fees are reasonable. Some people opt to walk and climb to the top and experience the descent on the back of a camel. Both methods are unique and will be filled with fun memories.

The Temenos Gate And The Nabatean Life Of The Bedouins In Petra

The architectural wonders of the Temenos Gate, a very large three arched monumental doorway, are beyond your expectations. With beautiful decorations on the inside and out in several different styles of architecture, this door explores some of the best designs of the Hellenistic Roman culture and of course the Nabataean. There are carvings, sculptures, and ornate niches with statues throughout, giving honor and respect to their gods. As you go through the gate, you see the remains of a staircase, a tub, and even some bases of statues. On one there is an inscription to the Nabataean King, Aretas IV. This monumental doorway, or gate, was designed to separate the mundane life of a city from the religious devotion of a devout people, worshiping their gods.
All the business activities, banking, selling and buying, stayed on one side of the gate. When you entered through the gate, all everyday worries were to stay in the business part of the city. You had just entered a devout and quiet area, where you could spend time with the gods. As you continued, your first view was that of a wide open space that was used for different religious ceremonies. This stood in front of the Temple Oasr Al Bint.

The Castle Of The Daughter Of Pharaoh Or Qasr al-Bint al-Faroun In Petra Jordan

The temple’s modern name, “Qasr al-Bint al-Faroun,” means “The Castle of the Daughter of Pharaoh.” If you continue down past the Temenos Gate, you will find this ancient and magnificent temple. Qasr al-Bint al-Faroun is among the few free-standing buildings in this ancient city. It was built around 30 BCE to worship Nabataean gods by the Nabateans. It was a temple of major importance and was dedicated to the service of the Nabataean gods.
The name, “The Castle Of The Daughter Of Pharaoh,” ties in closely with a local legend. The legend has it that the Pharaoh of Egypt, at the time of the Exodus from Egypt, pursued the Hebrews until he got tired. Then he and his court eventually settled down in Petra. Though it is one of many fun local stories told by the Bedouins, it is not historically correct. These stories remain with us till this day and are an entertaining part of the folklore surrounding Petra.
Some of the features of Qasr al-Bint al-Faroun are mind-blowing. There is a spectacular marble staircase, many columns, and a platform for worship. Many examples of the ornate features of the temple can be seen at the Petra Visitors Center. In the center was the adyton, or the Holy of Holies where the first thing that is seen is the sacrificial altar. Throughout the temple, the main room has images of the Nabataean deities or gods. This is thought to be the main area where the people worshiped and made their sacrifices. It’s a location in the center of the worship district, and it being on the ground floor, means it was considered especially sacred.

Beyond The City Are Steep And Rugged Canyons

Beyond the rugged desert canyons and sandstone cliffs is the ancient treasure of Petra. Notice how rugged the surrounding area is. All this can be seen on the edge of a harsh but beautiful desert. These canyons have helped keep Petra hidden and surrounded with mystery for centuries. The entire region is very hot and harsh. While walking in the desert and around the mountain canyons is a desirable treat, make sure you have plenty of water and wear sun protection.
Don’t be surprised if you see a goat-haired tent in the desert. These are the homes of the nomadic Bedouins and most likely you will be invited for tea. You also might run across tea in Petra itself. It is an experience that you will not want to miss out on.

Time For Tea In The Desert

Traditional sweet and spicy Bedouin Tea, also known as Marmaraya, in Petra is a delight.   It is a black tea mixed with local spices including marmaraya and habuck. It is served with tons of sugar, so it is quite sweet. One of the herbs in the tea is related to the sage plant, which regulates body temperature. Most would agree you feel cooler after a cup of this special tea.
One thought on a Petra adventure is to have plenty of time. There is so much to see and explore, that even one whole day will not let you see and experience everything. Most people take one or even two days just for Petra. Jordan is a safe and pleasant land for tourists to visit and explore. If you are happy, they are happy. What more can you ask for?

The Many Mysteries Of Petra Jordan and the experiences of the ancient Nabataeans peoples.

The Many Mysteries Of Petra In Jordan

Places to stay close by Petra

https://exploretraveler.com/young-bedouins-culture-desert/
 

Denali National Park and Preserve In Alaska

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Welcome to Denali National Park

Welcome to Denali National Park Alaska and Reserve In Alaska

Denali State Park Alaska is a small piece of Alaskan Paradise. It’s the tallest peak is Mt.McKinley. Mt. McKinley is revered by the Tanaina Indians. “Kesugi” is an Indian word in the Tanaina dialect which means “The Ancient One.” It is interesting that Denali in the Tanana dialect means “The High One.” Denali is the original name for Mt. McKinley. Mt. McKinley is 20,320 feet high and is the highest mountain peak in North America.

“HISTORY

Although generations of Athabascans had wandered through what is now the park, the first permanent settlement was established in 1905, when a gold miners’ rush gave birth to the town of Kantishna. A year later, naturalist and noted hunter Charles Sheldon was stunned by the beauty of the land and horrified at the reckless abandon of the miners and big-game hunters. Sheldon returned in 1907 and traveled the area with guide Harry Karstens in an effort to set up boundaries for a proposed national park. Sheldon was successful as the area was established as Mount McKinley National Park in 1917 with Karstens serving as the park’s first superintendent. It was designated an international biosphere reserve in 1976. As a result of the 1980 Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, the park was enlarged to more than 6 million acres and renamed Denali National Park and Preserve. In 2015 President Barack Obama officially renamed Mt. McKinley to Denali, its Athabascan given name meaning “the Tall One.” Denali now comprises an area slightly larger than the state of Massachusetts and is ranked as one of Alaska’s top attractions.” (8. Travel Alaska)

Denali State Park Alaska is over 325 acres of State Park. It is located in Alaska, America’s most northern state. On one side it borders the Matanuska-Susitna Borough. The borough is on the east side of the Denali (Old Name Mckinley National Reserve)Park and does allow people to see the Denali mountain from several viewpoints.

Mount Denali

There are three of Alaska’s finest log cabins available for nightly rental. The park is open all during the year. It can be reserved and paid for through the Matanuska-Susitna Area Headquarters in Wasilla. It can also be reserved at The  Information Center in Anchorage, Alaska.

Denali National Park Map

The first cabin is a log cabin with a sod roof. It can be reached during the summer by car. The second log cabin has an awesome view of Mt. McKinley, Alaska’s highest mountain. It is accessible by car during the summer, but the last leg of the journey is a 1/2 mile walk to the cabin itself. It can also be reached in the summer by canoe or kayak. The third cabin is only 70 yards from the second. It has a fantastic view of Kesugi Ridge. All of the cabins sleep 6 people. Winter access varies with current weather conditions for all the cabins.

Camping is also available at the Byers Lake Campground. Canoe and Kayak rentals are available from the Denali Southside River Guides. Firewood can be bought from the camp host. The lake does not allow any motorized boats or aircraft in the area.

All of these photographs and videos are from our numerous excursions to the park and we encourage you the reader to share and to use them. We only ask that you give us a link back to this site so we can continue to share our stories and adventures about this wonderful place for many years to come.

Mountains and trees of Denali National Park

Denali State Park Information and Reservations

“The towering granite spires and snowy summits of Denali National Park and Preserve straddles 160 miles of the Alaska Range and display so much elevation they are often lost in the clouds. Dominating this skyline is North America’s highest peak; Denali ascends majestically to 20,310 feet and is one of the most awe-inspiring sights in Alaska. Approximately 400,000 intrepid travelers journey to Denali National Park and Preserve each year, primarily between late May and early September.”(8. Travel Alaska)

There are several ways to contact the park or to arrange reservations if your planning on using the facilities. Remember the park does have an entry fee but if you have one of the access passes make sure to let them know so they can record your visit. This helps them to estimate the number of visitors and money is allocated to improve different areas of the park based on this information.

Mat-Su Area Headquarters in Wasilla at 907-745-3975

Public Information Center in Anchorage at 907-269-8400

Denali National Park and Preserve (On the Parks Highway)

Address: Trapper Creek, AK 99683 Phone: (907) 745-3975

Denali Southside River Guides at 907-733-7238

Located along Alaska Route 3, it is approximately 240 miles north of Anchorage. It is approximately 187 miles south of Fairbanks, Healy is 74 miles to the north. Denali State Park Alaska is waiting for the outdoor enthusiast and adventurists in spirit. If you travel through Canada on the Alaska Highway, a passport is required. Come enjoy Alaska’s Denali and all she has to offer and be prepared for the weather and wildlife. Come prepared and plan well for this awesome experience and vacation for those who love nature.

Alaska Railroad Denali Star Station

Denali National Park Denali Star Train Depot

Another mode of transportation used by people from around the world is the Alaska railroad. Visitors can embark from Wittier, Anchorage airport or from Fairbanks and stip right inside the park. Various resorts, hotels, and others have the ability to pick you up and to take you where you need to go.

Directly from the Alaska Railroad website, we have this piece of useful information. and links to various information you the reader might need.”Given the long history of the Alaska Railroad and Denali National Park, it’s no wonder that Denali is so accessible for train travelers. Upon arrival to the Denali Depot, passengers are met by shuttle buses from Denali hotels and lodges (see our recommendations below). The many activities on offer to explore the Park – Denali flightseeing, river rafting, tundra golf and more – also provide complimentary shuttle services.”(11. Alaska Railroad Denali Station)

Alaska Railroad train travel on the Denali Star with a stop at the Denali depot station.

The DENALI STAR TRAIN has a route from Anchorage > Wasilla > Talkeetna > Denali > Fairbanks and then goes back in reverse order, has Daily service mid-May to mid-September. If you can afford the upgrade we recommend the Gold Star upgrade where you have special seating and viewing arrangements along with food and beverages available at an extra charge.

Denali National Park Denali Star Train Depot
Denali Highway Alaska

The Denali Highway

The Alaska Denali highways provide a unique opportunity to view Alaska’s nature in it’s prime with little interference from Man. The highway is maintained but if you are coming by rental car you should also take some precautions. First, make sure the tires look good and have your windshield wiper fluid full because you’re going to have a lot of window dust. Second Alaska can be unforgiving and roads being damaged, washout or closed for construction can happen. So with this being said it’s a good idea to have food, water, and some basic camping gear on hand. Also if your planning to go up into the farthest points of the road or the preserve make sure your gas take is topped off. Also, consider having some emergency gas on hand just in case. As you drive along you will see many different types of animals and it’s critical that you never feed these animals or touch them in any way. By doing so they will associate humans with food and for bears, this means the Rangers will have to put them down.

“This sparsely-traveled, mostly gravel highway offers a taste of wild Alaska and wide-open vistas of mountains, glaciers, tundra, forests, lakes, and rivers. The 133-mile road connects Paxson Lodge on the Richardson Highway with the Cantwell junction on the Parks Highway. Only the first 21 miles west of the Richardson Highway and 3 miles east of Cantwell Junction is paved. The road climbs to elevations over 4000 feet offering birders relatively easy access to alpine habitats. Posted trailheads on the eastern portion of the road mark good starting points for off-road travel and wildlife viewing. Several canoe routes are also accessible from the highway. Tangle Lakes at the headwaters of the Delta River is a popular launching area for canoeists. Most of the land along the highway is publicly owned. The federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM) maintains some trails and camping facilities along the way. The highway is generally open from mid-May to October 1. Do not take a vehicle on the road outside of these dates as snowdrifts can block your way and leave you stranded. Carry extra food, water, and camping equipment as well as a spare tire and jack while driving on this road. Be prepared as help may not be readily available.” (1 Alaska Department ofFish and Game)

Very few people who visit Alaska fully grasp the size and diversity the state has to offer and this guide will help you to be better prepared and to travel the Denali highway. It is road trips such as these help to bind us together and to bring us closer to nature.

Mountain and grass plains of Denali National Park

Touches Of Yesterday In The High Tundra At Denali National Public Grounds and Preserve

One of the marvelous delights is to just wander throughout the park.  On one such trek, the team came upon this old and well-used outhouse of days gone by. Even though many outhouses are still in use, this one had seen better days. For those in need of its services, it is a blessing in the middle of nowhere. Before this park was monitored people still used it for hunting and trapping even if it might not have been legal at the time. Today the park is very monitored and controlled by the federal national park system and employees. Also, the University of Alaska system has a close relationship with the park and the employees you maintain it all year.

 Autumn in Denali National Park and Reserve in Alaska has a tremendous amount to offer and just driving down the main road can give you almost 100 miles of nature to see. We have gone here many different times of the year and the animal activity changes with the seasons. Lately, we have been seeing many more caribou and the bird wildlife seems to be much more active as well. Autumn is a special time for Alaska as the animals prepare for winter and become very active.

While traveling through the park on an autumn day, this beautiful view presented itself. The surrounding hills had a fresh layer of snow. Snow begins to fall in the early to mid-autumn, as much of the park is very high. Once the first snowfall arrives, it is only a matter of time till the hills will be completely covered by this magnificent white stuff. Every corner and around each and every hill is a special treat for nature lovers like and for those who are looking for another photo opportunity.

The caribou you see at the end of the above video was found on the main park road going into the park at about mile 15. There was one main male who seemed to be looking out for this small group and he kept raising his head to smell us upwind of him. We waiting for some time until we started moving the vehicle forward so we could pass. What you cannot see from this small video is that we encountered three separate groups just along the main road alone and another out on the old ice by a hiking trail. They are active at different times of the year and will move around the park into different areas at different seasons. In the fall they will all group together and begin a migration to where they can eat in their winter grasslands.

The Denali National Park Food Experience

Come early and have your appetite ready, as this is a great place to eat Salmon. There are many kinds of local fish and other meats served, but the salmon is out of this world. While in Denali, a stop at this restaurant is a must and there are several others to choose from as well. Also, there a big lodge just in front of the park that has a more upscale restaurant if that is something you want. Healy also has a few “hole in the walls” and Roses (currently Open 2019) has a hardy breakfast and good coffee.

Alaska Salmon Bake

Along the main road of the park, there are numerous parking areas, and this allows you to get off the beaten path and to explore the many other small walking trails. In the spring the wildlife comes alive and the plants and trees have a fresh green look to them that is very beautiful. Pull off areas are along the main road for various photo opportunities so make sure to park off the road safely.

The spring thaw of the River and mountains Denali National Park

Springtime in Alaska is called the spring break up and that is when the ice within the numerous rivers melt and becoming raging rivers again. Many different springs shoot out of the ground and nature activity rises as the park is a crisp green.

Animals of Denali

The park is home to birds and various mammals to include a Caribou herd who roam the plains of the National Park free from hunting.

“Denali’s abundant and diverse wildlife are just as famous as its tallest mountain, Denali, which towers above the landscape at 20,310’ tall. In truth, although the park’s namesake is a mountain, Denali was the first national park created to protect wildlife. Now, this park is home to 39 species of mammals, 169 species of birds, and 1 lonely species of amphibian.” (5 National Park Service Denali)

Caribou

Caribou grazing in the tundra within Denali National Park in Alaska.

The Denali Caribou weigh in between 175–400 lbs, these caribou are much smaller than moose, and their brown cream coats can be a very rich color during the summer. The racks of these caribou are very distinctive and oversized as compared to the rest of their bodies. Both the male and female caribou grow antlers with the males’ antlers being larger Pregnant females keep their antlers, with males and other females shedding theirs in the winter or early spring. (4 Alaska Department of Fish and Game)

Spruce Grouse

Wild Grouse Spruce Birding within the Denali National Park within Alaska.

Spruce grouse, or (Chanachites canadensis), is often known as the spruce hens or the spruce chickens. They live in the forest as lower level dwellers and are throughout the Denali area park and surrounding areas of the state. Here in Denali Park, they can be identified with their brown-tipped tail.  They are dark, fatter looking birds and can be hard to spot unless they moving around.  Many times you could be walking beside them so always make sure to look carefully as you hike around the park. (3 Denali Education Center)

Willow Ptarmigan

Willow Ptarmigan of Denali National Park

Alaska’s state bird is the willow ptarmigan or (Lagopus lagopus), a very sociable bird that is common in the grasslands across Alaska’s regions statewide. In 1955 Alaska leadership of the Territory were drafting the constitution for statehood asked Alaska school children and they chose the willow ptarmigan as a symbol or state bird of the future Great State. It became the official state bird of the state when Alaska was made the 49th state in 1960. (2)

The willow ptarmigan has built-in camouflage as protection against predators and changes its plumage from light brown in the summer, and to snow white in winter. Another distinctive feature, its feathered feet, helps this sedentary bird negotiate the frozen ground. The willow ptarmigan is the largest of three “Arctic grouse” found in Alaska, which also includes the rock and the white-tailed ptarmigan.(2)

“Ptarmigan are sociable in winter and usually feed and roost close together in the snow. In spring, they travel to their breeding grounds in flocks of several thousand. These flocks disperse in summer as the male’s elbow for foraging room on the tundra. Unlike other grouse, the male willow ptarmigan often takes responsibility for the young, defending them against predators.” (1 Alaska Department of Fish and Game)

“The willow ptarmigan occupies a broad range throughout Canada, Scandinavia, Finland, and Russia and is closely related to the famous red grouse of Scotland.” (2)

Moose Denali National Park Alaska

The Alaska Moose is a very large animal and is unique in its size to Alaska and some of the Yukon territory.

“Moose (Alces alces) are the largest members of the deer family, and Alaska moose is the largest of all. They may appear gangly and awkward, but these imposing creatures can run at speeds of up to 35 mph and swim at 6 mph for up to two hours. A large bull can weigh up to 1,600 pounds and stand over seven feet tall at the shoulder. During the breeding season or “rut,” males joust with one another by bringing their massive antlers together and pushing. Cows with calves can be fiercely protective.” (7. Alaska Department of Fish and Game)

Grizzly bear munching on roots and grasses in Tanana Valley State Forest Alaska

The park with its rich resources has many Grizzly bears that will roam around the park looking for food. Normally they are safe to look at from a distance but it’s important to not feed them and do not have food for them to smell.

“Brown bears (also known as grizzlies) and black bears are common across many areas of Alaska. They are closely related to each other and to the polar bear, which is classified as a marine mammal. A brown bear (Ursus arctos) is usually larger than a black bear (Ursus americanus), has a more prominent hump on its shoulder, less prominent ears, and longer, straighter front claws. Longer claws are useful for digging roots or excavating small burrowing animals. Black bears’ shorter claws are more efficient for climbing trees.” (6. Alaska Department of Fish and Game)

River and mountains of Denali National Park

The Denali Park and Preserve aim to preserve this piece of Alaska for people around the world to enjoy and to remain a safe habitat for the animals to roam free. Alaska is by far the last frontier of the United States and it’s National Parks help to keep our footprint here within the country in better balance. How we preserve and use these lands will speak volumes to the following generation to come.

Denali State Park Alaska

Murie Science and Learning Center

Murie Science and Learning Center front office and entrance.

Adventures and education can go well together at this center for excellence have a lot to offer both young and old. Information about the park, it’s animals and the people who work in the animal sciences are there to educate and inform you. As stated by the center in their own words “each summer the Murie Science and Learning Center becomes a springboard for unique and intimate park experiences in Denali. These multi-day field courses are coordinated by Alaska Geographic and led by distinguished scientists, authors, and naturalists.” (9. Murie Science and Learning Center)

Murie Science and Learning Center

“Research and discovery in the subarctic and arctic

The Murie Science and Learning Center promotes science and stewardship on behalf of national parks in Alaska. Murie is part of a national effort to increase scientific literacy by showcasing research from living laboratories like Denali National Park and Preserve.

The center also serves as Denali’s winter visitor center. The center is run by the National Park Service in partnership with Alaska Geographic and other organizations. It is open from 9:30 am—5 pm in winter (from late September through May 14th, closed for major holidays); and for advertised events only from May 15 through late September 2018.” (9. Murie Science and Learning Center)

Inside there are employees of the park available to assist you with information and to direct you to various exhibits or materials. There is a very nice seating area to stay warm after or before your next hike within this family-friendly environment. If needed there are also restrooms inside for your convenience as well.

Murie Science and Learning Center Warm and comfy resting

Trace Fossils

Even though today it is our focus to be on the current animal population it’s important to not lose focus on the distant past and to learn everything the remote past of the park has to offer. Ichnofossils, also known as trace fossils are on display here at the center and can educate yourself on this unique science about the park that few even realize have been found there. Here is an excerpt below directly from the center in reference to this photograph.

Denali Theropod Track on display at the Murie Science and Learning Center.

“First fossil footprint
During a geology field camp in 2005, Dr. Paul McCarthy from the University of Alaska Fairbanks Department of Geology and Geophysics rested his hand on an outcrop of the Cantwell Formation and spoke to a small group of students about how similar-aged rocks commonly preserve dinosaur tracks in other places. When he suggested that the group should keep an eye out for fossils, student Susi Tomsich pointed near the professor’s hand and asked, “Like that one?” That original theropod track is now on display at the Murie Science and Learning Center in Denali. ” (10. First fossil footprint)

Murie Science Center Theropod Tracks
Murie Science Center Animal Skeleton

National Park Service Denali

If important to understand more about the National Park Serve here at the park and we are going to take a few minutes here to tell you about what they are doing here at the park.

In conclusion if you still need additional look at the bottom of this article and you will find a list of keywords and search terms that will lead you to additional information. Also they are lited in the order of importance and by the amount information available per term.

Some of this content is displayed via Google Local Connect here – > Denali

References:

  1. Alaska Fish and Game Denali Highway http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm%3Fadfg%3Dviewinglocations.denalihighway
  2. Alaska Fish and Game Ptarmigan https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=birdviewing.iconicbirds&species=willowptarmigan
  3. https://www.denali.org/denalis-natural-history/spruce-grouse/
  4. ADFG Denali Caribou https://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=viewing.landmammals&species=caribou#anchor
  5. National Park Service Denali https://www.nps.gov/dena/learn/nature/wildlife.htm
  6. ADFG Brown Bears http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=viewing.landmammals&species=bears#anchor
  7. ADFG Moose http://www.adfg.alaska.gov/index.cfm?adfg=viewing.landmammals&species=moose#anchor
  8. Travel Alaska https://www.travelalaska.com/Destinations/Parks-and-Public-Lands/Denali-National-Park-and-Preserve.aspx
  9. Murie Science and Learning Center https://www.nps.gov/rlc/murie/index.htm
  10. First fossil footprint https://www.nps.gov/dena/learn/nature/trace-fossils.htm
  11. Alaska Railroad Denali Station https://www.alaskarailroad.com/travel-planning/destinations/denali-national-park


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The Magnificent Church Of The Holy Sepulcher In Jerusalem Israel

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 Light Shines In The Darkness At The Church Of The Holy Sepulcher In Jerusalem Israel

What a magnificent sight to see with light shining into the dark church at the very location of the crucifixion of Jesus, The interior of the church is very poorly lite, but coming into the dome were broad rays of light. It is here that His death, burial, and resurrection took place. The church is designed and built over the crucifixion site and the place of His burial and resurrection.  The Church Of The Holy Sepulcher site has been recognized since early in the 4th century as the place where Jesus was crucified, buried, and rose from the dead. It is believed that it was here that the Light pierced the darkness.

As a traveler, one can not help but notice the amazing difference in the lighting. It brings you back to that time when the light indeed pierced the darkness. If you are a traveler interested in the local history or culture of the area, or a pilgrim wanting to experience contact with the light, this is a must-see while in Jerusalem.

 “And the light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it.”

(KJV John 1:5)

The Inner Beauty Of The Dome

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is also known among the Eastern Orthodox Believers as the Church of the Resurrection. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is one of several historical churches within the Christian Quarter. This is a major landmark located  inside the walled Old City of Jerusalem.  This beautiful building, can be found in the Christian sector of the Old City and is a valuable addition to your itinerary. Christian pilgrims around the world consider it one of the holiest places on earth. The building was built so as to include both Golgotha, the place where Jesus was crucified, and the sepulcher where He was buried and rose again from the dead. This has been a very important destination for the faithful dating clear back to the 4th century. What a marvelous site to behold, one that includes both the cross of His crucifixion and the tomb of His burial.

The dome is beautifully done with many paintings from the eighteen hundreds and some from earlier restorations. It is considered the greatest collection of twelfth-century Crusader artwork in the Middle East. It is generally considered an important destination for visitors to Israel and those who are interested in Middle Eastern art, history, and faith. The spectacular workmanship represents many different renovations. This Basilica was destroyed and rebuilt so many times throughout history. Each time it was rebuilt, some of the antiquities from the preceding church were used in the newer renovation or construction.

Another thing to remember is that it has not always been smooth sailing for this extraordinary church. “Subsequent centuries were not altogether kind to the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. It suffered from damage, desecration, and neglect, and attempts at repair (a significant renovation was conducted by the Franciscans in 1555) often did more damage than good. In recent times, a fire (1808) and an earthquake (1927) did extensive damage.

Not until 1959 did the three major communities (Latins, Greeks, Armenians) agree on a major renovation plan. The guiding principle was that only elements incapable of fulfilling their structural function would be replaced.

The exterior facade of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, on the east side of the church, was built by the Crusaders sometime before 1180.” (Taken from: http://justfunfacts.com/interesting-facts-about-the-church-of-the-holy-sepulchre/)

The Holy Basilica Dome Showing The Nitches And Amazing Detail

This spectacular dome not only is full of artistic touches, but it acclaimed to be at the very center of the earth.

“Pilgrims and Crusaders believed the site to be the literal center of the earth, based on various biblical references.  In Crusader times the actual centre point was determined as the triporticus area, later the domed crossing of the Crusader Church of the Holy Sepulchre.  Visitors to the church can then be said to be “at the naval, or centrepoint, of the earth.” ( The Art of one of Christendom’s Holiest Sites by John Stringer)

Another View Of This Elaborate Dome

Notice all the carved niches and the hanging gold incense holders. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher has some of the most ornate fixtures of any basilica in the East. Pictures of saints and holy men line the walls. The lamps and ornamental additions to the dome are all solid gold. Throughout the dome and elsewhere in The Church of the Holy Sepulcher you will find some of the finest art of the Crusader era.

The Church Of The Holy Sepulchre is believed to be the location of the empty burial tomb of Jesus. This is considered by many to be the holiest Christian site in Jerusalem. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is considered to have one of the largest collections of 12th Century Art done by the Crusaders in the Middle East. Tourists, travelers, and pilgrims consider this a must see for all who show interest in historical art and faith. Much of the history of the area and warfare over the centuries, is depicted in various pieces of artwork.

 A Priest Administers The Sacred Incense

The Church Of The Holy Sepulcher is a continued place of meditation and prayer, day and night. Pilgrims come from the world over for the opportunity to pray and experience deep meditation at this Holy site. Priests keep a thick smoke from the incense coming from the altar day and night. This is one of the holiest  sites for so many pilgrims the world over.

The use of incense dates back to the time of the second temple and the Jewish use of incense. It is thought by many that it represents the prayers of the faithful ascending to heaven.  Incense is also used in rites of purification within the Catholic, Eastern, and Orthodox Churches.

Taking a walk through this Basilica requires careful movement among the many pilgrims. At many times of the year, the pilgrims are almost wall to wall. As you near the altar, the thick incense drifts through the air from the gentle movement of the incense vessels by the priest. The Church Of The Holy Sepulcher is one of the most amazing experiences in the Old City of Jerusalem.  The old city is also referred to as the walled city, because of the walls which surrounded this ancient city.

 Climbing The Steps To Calvary

Once this was a hill you climbed, but now it is a protected site. As you climb the stone steps that lead to the top where Jesus was crucified, you can not help but be in a somber mood. Crucifixion was a brutal way to die. According to accounts in all the Gospels of the New Testament, Jesus was brought to the “Place of the Skull” to die by Crucifixion. He was crucified between two thieves, criminals, but his only charge was claiming to be the “King of the Jews.”

This climb up to Calvary is on the major route for Christian pilgrims of many faiths. The Church Of The Holy Sepulcher is the Holiest site in the Old City of Jerusalem. The church protects both the place of the Crucifixion and the place of the resurrection.

Nail Driven Through The Ankle Bone Discovered In Jerusalem From The 1st Century A.D. 

This discovery brings to the pilgrim’s mind and emotions all the horror of the crucifixion. You can not help but feel the pain and agony as you look at this nail through an ankle bone. Crucifixion was the most humiliating of all possible executions. The condemned person was made to be as vulnerable as could be, and usually, they were hung totally naked. Sometimes they could even hang for days just barely alive. This must have been one of the world’s worst form of execution.

In the Forbes Magazine, December 8th, 2015 issue, Khristina Killgrove gives a glance into the significance of this find. She writes: “The Romans practiced crucifixion – literally, “fixed to a cross” – for nearly a millennium. It was a public, painful, and slow form of execution, and used as a way to deter future crimes and humiliate the dying person. Since it was done to thousands of people and involved nails, you’d probably assume we have skeletal evidence of crucifixion.  But there’s only one, single bony example of Roman crucifixion, and even that is still heavily debated by experts.”

The Rock Of Golgotha Where Jesus Was Crucified 

The rock of Golgotha is believed to be the very place where Jesus Christ was crucified. This place is now protected as a part of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in the Old City of Jerusalem, Israel. This holy site is venerated as Golgotha, also called the Hill of Calvary, is the place where Jesus was crucified with a thief on each side. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is also believed by most archaeologists as the place where Jesus was buried in the Sepulcher. According to the biblical accounts, the crucifixion site and the place of his tomb were close.

                                                    JOHN 19:41-42

“41 Now in the place where he was crucified there was a garden; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never man yet laid.

42 There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews’ preparation day; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.”

Though there is some controversy about this site, the Encyclopaedia Britannica has an interesting way of putting some of the pieces together.

“This site has been continuously recognized since the 4th century as the place where Jesus died, was buried, and rose from the dead. Indeed, the Rock of Calvary, where the Crucifixion is believed to have occurred, is encased in glass at the lavish Altar of the Crucifixion and is the most-visited area within the church. Whether it is the actual location, however, has been hotly debated. It cannot be determined that Christians during the first three centuries CE could or did preserve an authentic tradition as to where these events occurred. Members of the Christian church in Jerusalem fled to Pella about 66 CE, and Jerusalem was destroyed in 70 CE. Wars, destruction, and confusion during the following centuries possibly prevented preservation of exact information. Another question involves the course of the second north wall of ancient Jerusalem. Some archaeological remains on the east and south sides of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre are widely interpreted to mark the course of the second wall. If so, the site of the church lay just outside the city wall in the time of Jesus, and this could be the actual place of his Crucifixion and burial. No rival site is supported by any real evidence.” (Encyclopaedia Britannica)

The Stone Of anointing

The Stone of Anointing was the stone where the body of Jesus was laid after being removed from the crucifix and it was here that his body was prepared for burial. This is another one of the holy sites at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem, Israel. As was the Jewish custom of the time, he was anointed with oils and spices, then he was wrapped in shrouds. This was the common way that all bodies were prepared for burial during this time by the Jews.

“The Stone of the Anointing remains a very holy pilgrimage site for Christians today. Pilgrims queue to either kiss the stone or rub it with oil or rosewater and then wipe it with a cloth. Priests burn incense around the stone and sometimes people place their own crosses on it in order to transfer the unction or anointing.”( History of the The Stone of the Anointing is taken from the website: (https://www.thesalvationgarden.org/the-stone-of-the-anointing/.)”

“Rosewater is used to anoint the Stone of the Anointing because it is a perfume that has traditional use in a number of religions. For example, during Muslim burials rosewater is sprinkled into a grave before burial. Rosewater has in the past been used for the embalming of bodies as it has properties that are good for the skin.”( History of the The Stone of the Anointing is taken from the website: https://www.thesalvationgarden.org/the-stone-of-the-anointing/.)”

“Over hundreds of years, there have been stories of miracles and cures experienced by people who have visited and anointed the Stone of the Anointing. The atmosphere in the Church of the Sepulchre is one of reverence and worship. This is clearly one of the holiest places and somewhere that each and every one of us should consider visiting during our lifetimes.” ( History of the The Stone of the Anointing is taken from the website: https://www.thesalvationgarden.org/the-stone-of-the-anointing/.)”

Syrian Orthodox Chapel In The Church Of The Holy Sepulcher

The Syrian Orthodox Chapel of the Jacobite sect is located just behind the tomb where Jesus was buried. Due to the poverty of the Syrian Orthodox Church, little repairs or restoration has been done to the chapel area. The chapel is located within the church walls of the Constantine Church, all of which are a part of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem today. The walls and altar sustained major fire damage over the years and no repairs have been made. To the south of the chapel, you will find many typical Jewish tombs of the 1st century. According to tradition, the tombs of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are found in this area. It was Arimathea who took down the body of Jesus from the cross and saw to the proper burial.

                             “Luke 23:50-56 King James Version (KJV)

50 And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a counselor; and he was a good man, and a just:

51 (The same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them;) he was of Arimathaea, a city of the Jews: who also himself waited for the kingdom of God.

52 This man went unto Pilate and begged the body of Jesus.

53 And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid it in a sepulcher that was hewn in stone, wherein never man before was laid.

54 And that day was the preparation, and the sabbath drew on.

55 And the women also, which came with him from Galilee, followed after, and beheld the sepulcher, and how his body was laid.

56 And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments, and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.” 

Interior Of The Tomb Of Joseph Of Arimathea

Inside the Syrian Orthodox Chapel of Saint Joseph of Arimathea and Saint Nicodemus is a very plain rock hewed cave where Jesus was laid to rest. It is here that the women returned on the First Day of the week to find Jesus was not where he had been placed. Instead, the rock which covered the entrance was rolled aside and Jesus was no longer there.

                         “Matthew 28:1-7 King James Version (KJV)

28 At the end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulcher.

2 And, behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat upon it.

3 His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

4 And for fear of him, the keepers did shake and became as dead men.

5 And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear not ye: for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.

6 He is not here: for he is risen, as he said. Come, see the place where the Lord lay.

7 And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you.” (1. Matthew 28: 1-7 KJV)

The National Geographic Magazine October 31, 2016 issue in the article: “Unsealing of Christ’s Reputed Tomb Turns Up New Revelations” by Kristin Romey gives fresh insight into the condition of the tomb today.

“JERUSALEM Researchers have continued their investigation into the site where the body of Jesus Christ is traditionally believed to have been buried, and their preliminary findings appear to confirm that portions of the tomb are still present today, having survived centuries of damage, destruction, and reconstruction of the surrounding Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem’s Old City.

The most venerated site in the Christian world, the tomb today consists of a limestone shelf or burial bed that was hewn from the wall of a cave. Since at least 1555, and most likely centuries earlier, the burial bed has been covered in marble cladding, allegedly to prevent eager pilgrims from removing bits of the original rock as souvenirs.

When the marble cladding was first removed on the night of October 26, an initial inspection by the conservation team from the National Technical University of Athens showed only a layer of fill material underneath. However, as researchers continued their nonstop work over the course of 60 hours, another marble slab with a cross carved into its surface was exposed. By the night of October 28, just hours before the tomb was to be resealed, the original limestone burial bed was revealed intact.”

Scaffolding On A Large Unmarked Wall

Possibly a large stone is contained in the scaffolding on this large unmarked wall that might have been part of an earlier altar. This may have been a part of an archaeology project headed by the Greek Orthodox, under whose control that section of the building remains. Any work, that might have been done, seems to have halted. This project possibly dates back into the 1960s, when there was a major project started that was never completed.

There are often unknown digs that go on in different areas of the Church of the Holy Sepulcher due to the shared status of the building and the distrust that can sometimes be seen. The Greek Orthodox, Roman Catholics, Coptic’s, Syrians, and Armenians, all share guardianship of this beautiful piece of history. The Ethiopians have a monastery on the roof and control that area. Two Muslim families keep the keys to the massive Crusader doors. This enables all to have complete access when desired.

The Ladder Window

The mystery of the Ladder Window is one that is centuries old. In fact, the ladder has been there so long, that people no longer even know how it got there or what it was used for. Over the centuries there have been many suggestions put forth, but all are just an attempt to solve an unsolvable mystery.

One that many people have offered is that it was left behind by a careless mason, or window washer. With a building of this size, that certainly is a very real possibility. But then, there is the suggestion of it having been used in order to supply food to the Armenian monks who were locked in the church by the Turks. No matter the reason for the original ladder, it did come in handy for the monks wishing to use the cornice as a balcony to get fresh air and sunshine. By not leaving the church, they were able to bypass paying the Ottoman tax to re-enter through the door.

The ladder appears in an engraving of the church that was done in 1728 and is mentioned in the work of Sultan Abdul Hamid I in 1757. No matter when it was originally left in that position, it is immovable and it is part of the Status Quo. It must permanently remain in its position on the ledge over the entrance to the Church of the Holy Sepulcher. Regardless of when the original ladder was left in this position, it is impossible to think that this is the original ladder that was left behind.  Being that it has weathered the elements of Mother Nature since the early 18th century, it would have had to have been replaced at least once. The ladder, window,  and the historical cornice are all included as part of the possession of the Armenian Orthodox Church and must so remain.

The Magnificent Church Of The Holy Sepulcher In Jerusalem Israel

Any time of the year is the perfect time to visit the Holy Land. There is always more to see and do than the time you have. If you enjoy history, you will enjoy all the museums and archaeological sites. There is a vast number of ruins to explore and conquer. A trip to Israel also pairs nicely with a side trip to Jordan. You can easily spend a whole day discovering Petra.

For the Christian believer, the highlight of a spring trip would be to join in with the local Christian Churches as they celebrate the Resurrection Of Jesus. Information on the events being held during Holy Week can be found by calling a local Cathedral. The Church of the Holy Sepulcher is very involved in the different Holy Week events. Each of the many denominations, your travel guide, and even your motel can suggest many places to go during this special week.

Those of the Jewish faith will delight in the events surrounding the Passover. A quick call to any of the Chabad Houses will give you all the information needed. Chabad also has a special seder service throughout the Holy Land for those who are traveling, and lack local contacts.

Regardless of your reason or interests, there is never a moment without something to see or do.  Jerusalem is an amazing city that you will want to spend as much time as possible. Why not make this the year, you celebrate the events surrounding Easter or Passover in the holy city of Jerusalem, Israel?

                                               GENERAL INFORMATION

Special Holy Week Events

 

“Palm Sunday procession on the Mount of Olives

Join the popular reenactment of Jesus’ Triumphal Entry into Jerusalem. Participants gather at the Church of Bethpage and begin at 2:30 pm to descend the Mount of Olives, singing hymns and bearing palm fronds.

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre

The Armenians, Copts and Syrians make three rounds around the rotunda in the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. The Palm Procession starts at 7:00 am, and the daily procession begins at 5:00 pm.” (The Official Jerusalem Travel Site)
Holy Thursday Events

“The washing of the feet is a tradition in imitation of Jesus washing his disciples’ feet.

Church of the Holy Sepulchre

8:00 am — Pontifical Mass (Supper of the Lord & Mass of the Chrism), Procession of the Blessed Sacrament

In and around the Old City

3:10 pm — Pilgrimage from St. Savior’s Church (from the entrance from St. Francis Street) to the Cenacle, St. James and St. Mark followed by service with the Washing of the Feet

9:00 pm — Holy Hour in different languages at the Garden of Gethsemane on the Mount of Olives followed by private prayer in silence.” (The Official Jerusalem Travel Site)

Good Friday
“7:15 am — Celebration of the Passion of Christ on Calvary in the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre

12:15 pm — Procession of the Way of the Cross at the Via Dolorosa with the Franciscan Fathers

8:10 pm — “Funeral Procession” in the Basilica of the Holy Sepulchre

The Garden Tomb

For Protestants, there is a Good Friday meditative service (English) at the Garden Tomb.”

Holy Saturday

The Church of the Holy Sepulcher

6:30 am — Easter Vigil

3:30 pm: Entry and solemn procession

6:00 pm — Solemn Vespers the Holy Tomb

11:30 am (Sunday) — Pontifical celebration of the Liturgy of the Hours at the Altar of Mary Magdalene, presided by the Custos of the Holy Land

Late Saturday night is the Holy Fire ceremony. Thousands await the miraculous lighting of the Patriarch’s candle from within the tomb. Caution is advised since the crowds tend to be tight and there has been violence in recent years.” (The Official Jerusalem Travel Site)

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre Easter Service

10:00 am — Entry of the Latin Patriarch, H.B. Fuad Twal

10:30 am — Pontifical mass and procession

5:00 pm — Daily Procession

The Garden Tomb

Sunrise services in English
Resurrection service in English

8:00 am — Jerusalem Holy Sepulcher: Daily Solemn Mass

10:00 am — Emmaus Qubeibeh: Pontifical Mass & Blessing of bread presided by the Custos

2:30 pm — Emmaus Qubeibeh: Vespers & Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament

5:00 pm — Jerusalem Holy Sepulcher: Daily Procession

MORE SERVICES AND EVENTS

Get the complete schedule for Easter services at both Catholic and Protestant institutions throughout the city by visiting the Christian Information Website.” (The Official Jerusalem Travel Site)

                                             Directions And Information

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre is located in East Jerusalem in between the Jaffa Gate and the Damascus Gate.

Telephone……02/ 627-3314

Visiting Hours: Winter hours

: 4:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Summer hours are: 4:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

Church Of The Holy Sepulcher

References:

  1. King James Bible
  2. The Art of one of Christendom’s Holiest Sites by John Stringer
  3. Forbes Magazine, December 8th, 2015 issue.”This Bone Is The Only skeletal Evidence For Crucifixion In The Ancient World “by Khristina Killgrove.
  4. Encyclopaedia Britannica, “The Church of the Holy Sepulchre “
  5. History of the The Stone of the Anointing is taken from the website: https://www.thesalvationgarden.org/the-stone-of-the-anointing/.
  6. http://justfunfacts.com/interesting-facts-about-the-church-of-the-holy-sepulchre/
  7. The National Geographic Magazine October 31, 2016 issue in the article: “Unsealing of Christ’s Reputed Tomb Turns Up New Revelations” by Kristin Romey
  8. The Official Jerusalem Travel Site  —– https://www.itraveljerusalem.com/article/easter-in-jerusalem/

https://exploretraveler.com/church-saint-john-baptist-birth-place-john-baptist/

https://exploretraveler.com/garden-gethsemane-treasures/

Mangoes: Baby Green Mangoes From Taiwan

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Baby Green Mangoes

Mangoes: Baby Green Mangoes From Taiwan

Mangoes are a special treat from the tropics.  The Baby Green Mango is special and makes an awesome snack. There are over 1,000 different varieties of Mango and they are all alkaline in the body. They are one of the power foods of the tropics! They are delicious! One cup of mango chunks provides over 76% of the daily vitamin C requirement for the body and is a great immune booster.  It provides 26% of the daily vitamin A requirement. It is a powerful antioxidant and has enzymes that protect the red blood cells. It has both potassium and magnesium, which help to balance out the salt intake in the body. These humble fruits are one of the most important super fruits that come to us from Southeast Asia and India. One of the many delightful varieties is the small Baby Green Mangoes produced in Taiwan.

Baby Green Mangoes were brought to Taiwan by the Dutch in the early 16th century. They quickly became a favorite and are often processed into snacks which the Taiwanese love.  They are also used for juicing, in salads, and soups.   Unripe and extremely sour mangoes are desirable, as most households prepare mango pickles which last for more than a year. Ripe mangoes are also highly valued due to their sweet taste. They are eaten after meals or in the evenings. Mangoes are a favorite dessert in Taiwan. Here are two Taiwan favorites for using small green mangoes.

MANGO PICKLE RECIPE

1: Rinse and wipe the mangoes well with a kitchen towel. chop the mangoes and add them in a bowl.

2: Add (I usually get the spices at the small Indian Market. The English name is first and the Indian name follows.)

  • fenugreek seeds/methi
  • fennel seeds/saunf
  • mustard seeds/sarson (optional)
  • nigella seeds/kalonji
  • salt

3: Coat the mango chunks evenly with the spices in a bowl and cover with cheesecloth. Leave 3-4 days in the sun. If cloudy you may need 5-6 days.

4: When the mango and the spices are well-integrated, put in a clean jar and fill to one inch above the fruit with mustard oil. If you like your pickles spicy, use room temperature. If you prefer milder pickles, heat the oil and then pour over the mango and spices. The mango pickles will keep for up to a year without refrigeration, however, they never last that long.

 

TROPICAL RED LENTIL AND RAW GREEN MANGO SOUP

Ingredients
1.5 cups red lentils
1 raw green mango chopped
1 cup coconut milk ( Most like to use 2 cups)
1 large carrot chopped
2 celery sticks chopped
1/2 onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
a small piece of ginger minced
1 tsp cumin powder
1 tsp red cayenne pepper
touch of turmeric
salt to taste
some chopped cilantro to garnish
some coconut flakes to garnish
1-2 tbsp oil
4-5 cups of broth or water

Heat a large pot or dutch oven. Add oil and onions, garlic and ginger. Fry lightly for 5 minutes until the onions are translucent. Add chopped mangoes, carrots and celery and fry lightly for another minute or two. Add coconut milk, 4-5 cups of  broth or water, turmeric, cumin, salt and cayenne pepper and bring to a boil. Add the lentils. Reduce flame, cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are done. Garnish with some chopped cilantro, coconut flakes and a dash of cayenne pepper. Serve warm. (Recipe comes from  Fly N Cook Vegetarian Soups)

This is a fantastic soup for a cold winter day. Enjoy a touch of the tropic today! It is delicious! Next time you are in Taiwan sample all the many soups, salads, and snacks that begin with the Baby Green Mango. For more ideas on using the mango check out the government mango page at http://www.taiwan.gov.tw/cht/action/mango/eng/mango/mango06.html

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Enjoy Your Baby Green Mangoes Today!

Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels

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Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels

Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels

Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels are bright, colorful, and unique. One of the most intriguing things at Meiji Shrine in Shibuya‬ is the many Sake Barrels.  They are referred to as kazaridaru in Japanese. These barrels are a decorative display giving honor to the gods.  Traditionally, the people of Japan have always had a connection between the gods and the Sake they produce.  Each year many barrels of Sake are donated. The Sake is used for religious festivals and the barrels form a unique display outside the shrine. In the physical, the barrels are empty. In the Spiritual, their significance is major. Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels are a gift to the gods.

Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels sind hell, bunt und einzigartig. Eines der faszinierendsten Dinge im Meiji Jingu Shrine sind die vielen Sake Barrels.  Sie werden auf Japanisch als Kazaridaru bezeichnet. Diese Fässer sind eine dekorative Darstellung, die den Göttern Ehre macht.  Traditionell hatten die Menschen in Japan immer eine Verbindung zwischen den Göttern und dem Sake, den sie produzieren.  Jedes Jahr werden viele Fässer von Sake gespendet. Der Sake wird für religiöse Feste genutzt und die Fässer bilden eine einzigartige Schau außerhalb des Heiligtums. Im physischen, die Fässer sind leer. Im Spirituellen ist ihre Bedeutung von großer Bedeutung. Meiji Jingu Schrein Sake Barrels sind ein Geschenk an die Götter.

Saki in Japan

In Japan, Sake has always been an avenue to bring the people and their gods together. In some of the older religious texts, the word for Sake is miki. When written it is formed by using the symbol for wine and god. The people celebrate festivals at the Meiji Jingu Shrine and they are given Sake or Rice Wine to drink. With this drink brings happiness! The people are gathered a little closer to the gods.  Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels become a spiritual connection. They become a symbol of happiness, prosperity, and success.

In Japan war Sake immer ein Weg, um die Menschen und ihre Götter zusammenzubringen. In einigen der älteren religiösen Texte ist das Wort für Sake miki. Wenn es geschrieben wird, wird es durch die Verwendung des Symbols für Wein und Gott gebildet. Die Menschen feiern Feste im Meiji Jingu-Schrein und sie bekommen Sake oder Reiswein zum Trinken. Mit diesem Getränk bringt Glück! Die Menschen sind ein Stück näher an den Göttern versammelt.  Meiji Jingu Schrein Sake Barrels werden zu einer spirituellen Verbindung. Sie werden zum Symbol für Glück, Wohlstand und Erfolg.

Japanese rice wine

In these modern times, Miki or O-Miki is reserved for the Rice Wine used in Shinto rites and festivals. What a beautiful way of bringing the Shinto gods together with the people. This is a time of great reverence! It is a happy time! It is a time of prayer. Sipping a cup of Sake brings you together with the gods. This is a time of unity! The Shrines conduct rites asking for the prosperity of the brewers of Sake. The brewers donate the grog or Sake that the Shrines need for its many celebrations and festivals.

In dieser modernen Zeit ist Miki oder O-Miki für den Reiswein reserviert, der in Shinto Riten und Festivals verwendet wird. Was für eine schöne Art und Weise, die Shinto-Götter mit den Menschen zusammenzubringen. Dies ist eine Zeit großer Ehrfurcht! Es ist eine glückliche Zeit! Es ist eine Zeit des Gebets. Ein Kelch Sake bringt dich mit den Göttern zusammen. Dies ist eine Zeit der Einheit! Die Heiligtümer führen Riten durch, die nach dem Wohlstand der Brauer von Sake fragen. Die Brauer spenden den Grog oder Sake, den die Schreiner für ihre vielen Feste und Feste brauchen.

What do the barrels mean?

The empty barrel is a powerful symbol uniting the brewers of Sake with their gods. It is wasteful and not prudent to send more Sake than what is needed, so they send the right amount of Sake and many empty barrels. With well over 1,000 brewers of Sake in Japan, a brewer generally provides one bottle and/or an empty barrel for the display that each shrine has. The most important part is the gesture. Asking for or giving more Sake than what will be used would be considered wasteful. Waste goes against the traditional values of Japan and the Shinto gods!

Das leere Fass ist ein mächtiges Symbol, das die Brauer von Sake mit ihren Göttern vereint. Es wäre verschwenderisch und nicht umsichtig, mehr Sake zu schicken, als nötig ist, also schicken sie die richtige Menge Sake und viele leere Fässer. Mit weit über 1.000 Brotzüchtern von Sake in Japan stellt ein Brauer in der Regel eine Flasche und/oder ein leeres Fass für das Display zur Verfügung, das jeder Schrein hat. Der wichtigste Teil ist die Geste. Das Nachfragen oder Geben von mehr Sake als das, was verwendet wird, würde als verschwenderisch angesehen werden. Die Verschwendung geht gegen die traditionellen Werte Japans und der Shinto-Götter!

Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels

Great place to see a unique side of Japan

Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels are bright!  They are colorful!  Very unique! They are a standard decoration at every shrine in Japan. You do not even need to be part of a shrine to get one for your home. These Sake barrels are called Komodaru. Komo is the straw that has been woven around the posts. You can even buy one for your home altar. The important part is the symbolism.  Every Japanese desire to keep the gods pleased with them. Sake barrels are the link between them and their gods. It is a heart connection. Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels are a must for every Japanese home altar!

Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels sind hell!  Sie sind bunt! Sehr einzigartig! Sie sind eine Standarddekoration an jedem Schrein in Japan. Sie müssen nicht einmal Teil eines Schreins sein, um einen für Ihr Zuhause zu bekommen. Diese Sake-Fässer werden Komodaru genannt. Komo ist der Strohhalm, der um die Pfosten geweht wurde. Sie können sogar einen für Ihren Heimataltar kaufen. Der wichtige Teil ist die Symbolik.  Jeder Japaner will die Götter zufrieden halten. Sake-Fässer sind das Bindeglied zwischen ihnen und ihren Göttern. Es ist eine Herzverbindung. Meiji Jingu Shrine Sake Barrels sind ein Muss für jeden japanischen Heimataltar!

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This was published on Steemit@exploretraveler with permission

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25 Travel Tips That Can Save Your Life!

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By John Gentry Travel Channel to travel the world

Travel Tips that could save your life is an ongoing project that will grow over time, and we hope everyone is able to enjoy themselves better while traveling since they will be better prepared. Enjoy these simple but easy-to-understand tips and make your next trip an adventure of a lifetime.

1. Never pass up a good toilet because the next one may be a squat only.


2. Always get cash after customs at your destination airport. Euros and USD may be an exception. Don’t risk breaking local customs regulations.

3. Always carry diarrhea medicine.

Mysterious Chinese herbs in the traditional medicine shops of Hong Kong

4. Always look up three words before you travel; thank you, yes, and no.

5. Always have tissue packages on hand for the bathroom and eating use.

6. Certain medicine needs to be considered. Tylenol, Panadol, and any needed prescription drugs.

7. Learn and study body language. Most expressions are international.

8. Use modern technology like Twitter to keep you updated on certain travel areas. US Department of State and the CDC have an alert service.

9. Water usage should be increased to offset times when good clean water is not available.

10. Learn some basics in English, German, Mandarin, and Russian, these languages can sometimes be used in emergencies.



11. Study the basic history of a region before going there.

12. Learn the taboos of the area you are traveling to. Remember it is their country, not yours.

13. Don’t assume the water is clean to drink just because locals drink it. They have built up immunities you don’t have.


Travel Tips International Travel


14. Traveling causes the body to lose sleep. This will lower your immune system so make sure to schedule recovery time.

15. Make sure to schedule a time to re-stock your travel pharmacy on the road.

16. Ziplock bags can solve a lot of problems so take several.

17. Understand and get certified in basic life-saving first aid.



18. Use large backpacks to travel that way you can never have to check in your bag. This will ensure you always have what you need when you need it.



19. Don’t take basic hygiene for granted ensure you have it planned for and have what you need to stay healthy.

20. When traveling in crowded unorganized cities try to memorize key locations or landmarks. These can be used to find your way later when needed.

21. Always look and find locals who have language skills that you can use to help gather the information that is key to your trip. Young people know some English and older people could know other languages. People and questions are your best resource for information.

22. Don’t assume your cellphone will work. Print out what you need ahead of time.

23. Carry old fashion maps.



24. Get a cellphone app that can translate languages. Make sure it can work without wifi or cellphone service.

25. Buy digital offline mapping software for your mobile phone or other devices.

26. Consider GPS

27. You are only as good as your weakest link. So consider others in your travel party and ensure they stay healthy or you could pay the price later on. We hope you enjoyed these 25 Travel Tips That Can Save Your Life! Happy Travels, ExploreTraveler.com

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Taiwan Travel Tips

A‌ ‌Guide‌ ‌for‌ ‌Backpacking‌ ‌in‌ ‌the‌ ‌Wild‌

 

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Knafeh Recipe A Cheese Butter Pastry Delight

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Knafeh Is A Cheese Pastry Delight

Knafeh is the richest and creamiest; it is a sweet and cheesy delicacy. Just when it seems it could not be better, it is topped with a crunchy topping and soaked in sweet syrup. It is totally seductive! It is delicious! There is no other dessert that seduces the Middle East like Kanafeh. You will find it in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Israel, Palestinian Authority, Turkey, Greece, and Egypt. So many countries can’t be wrong. Kanafeh is the best dairy desert in the Middle East.

So many spellings, but the same luxurious dessert. In one place it may be spelled Kanafeh or Kunefe. Yet in another, it is Kadayif or Konafeh. And just when you are sure there can be no more, you will see Konafah, Knafah, Kunafeh, Kanafeh, and Knafe. So many spellings for the same special dessert. It is an amazing and scrumptious dessert called Kanafeh!

You can not visit any part of this region without falling in love with this dessert. This is a recipe easily made at home and we hope this inspires you to create this delicious dessert.

Knafeh Recipe

By Pali’s Favorites on August 18, 2011
 (Found on WWW.FOOD.com)
  • Prep Time: 20 mins
  • Total Time: 1 hr
  • Yield: 1 tray

About This Recipe

“You can’t go to Palestine and not eat knafeh every night! A very delicious dessert that is easy to make :) A Syrian sweet cheese is normally used with this, some people use ricotta cheese but it changes the taste and consistency of this dish, but it can be used. I make my own cheese and do not add salt to it so I can use it with this recipe, but store-bought sweet cheese works just fine :)”

Ingredients

  • 1 lb shredded phyllo dough ( knafeh dough) [**Can be found in the Kosher section of most large markets and in Kosher Jewish stores and delicatessens. ]
  • 2 lbs sweet cheese
  • 1 -1 1/2 cup rendered butter  [** Also called Ghee and can be bought in most major markets and International Markets. ]
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tablespoon orange blossom water [** I make this and can when the Orange tree. blossoms. ]
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts
  • 1 teaspoon kanafeh food coloring [** I usually use regular food color.]
  • 1/4 cup pistachios, chopped
  • 2 cups thin syrup ( attar) [**  I make a standard thin syrup with equal parts water and sugar. ]

Directions

  1. Mix cheese, sugar, and orange blossom water together.
  2. Chop knafeh dough with a sharp knife. Mix with 1 3/4 cups hot butter over low fire for 15 minutes, or until dough absorbs all the butter.
  3. Mix 1/4 cup butter, kanafeh coloring, and spread in a 17×12 inch pan. Sprinkle pine nuts evenly.
  4. Spread 2/3 of the dough in the pan over the nuts and press well. Spread the cheese mixture over dough evenly. Cover with the rest of the dough and press well.
  5. Bake at 400 degrees in a preheated oven for 30 minutes. (Place on the lower rack).
  6. Add thin attar. Flip the tray over in another tray of the same size. Return to the oven and bake for 10 more minutes.
  7. Garnish with pistachios and serve hot!

**  My notes

Pictures of different types and styles of Kanafeh:  https://www.pinterest.com/recipes/knafeh-pastry/

Furthermore this is a rather standard recipe and can be made with little effort and once you have tasted this awesome dessert, you will just have to have it. Make it in the kitchen or take a trip to the Middle East for the “real thing.” You can literally eat your way through the Middle East. Traveling throughout the Middle East is a food adventure in the making. Make this the year you taste the real Middle Eastern Kanafeh.

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Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge Taitung, Taiwan

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Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung, Taiwan

             台湾台東の三仙台ドラゴンブリッジ

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge is a long footbridge connecting the main island of Taiwan with Sanxiantai Island. Sanxiantai means “Platform of the three immortals.” Sanxiantai Island has three extremely large rocks on the island. It is these rocks that have spawned the many legends about three Chinese saints. Lu Dong Bin, the most widely known among the group of deities known as the Eight Immortals is said to have lived during the Tang Dynasty (AD750). Li TieGuai is said to have lived during the Western Zhou period and is best known for his meditation practices. He Xian Gu was said to have lived during the 7th century AD. According to the Taoist legends she encountered the Immortal Lu Dong Bin who gave her a peach and told her, “You shall become an immortal if you eat it”.

三仙台ドラゴンブリッジは、台湾本島と三仙台島を結ぶ長い歩道橋です。 Sanxiantaiは「3つの不滅のプラットフォーム」を意味します。Sanxiantai島には島に3つの非常に大きな岩があります。三人の中国人聖人についての多くの伝説を生み出したのはこれらの岩石です。 8人の不滅として知られている神々のグループの中で最も広く知られている陸洞箱は、唐時代（AD750）の間に住んでいたと言われています。李TieGuaiは、周周西部時代に住んでいたと言われており、彼の瞑想の実践で最もよく知られています。彼は西安区は7世紀に住んでいたと言われていました。道教の伝説によれば、彼女は彼女に桃を与えた不死のLu Dong Binに出会い、「あなたがそれを食べるならあなたは不滅になるであろう」と言った。

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan

Sanxiantai Dragon bridge in Taitung, Taiwan

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge is a beautiful walk of good luck to Sanxiantai Island in Taiwan.

三仙台ドラゴンブリッジは、台湾の三仙台島への美しい散歩道です。

Sanxiantai Island has a very unique shape. The area is best known for its long footbridge that connects the eastern coast of the main Island of Taiwan with the outer Island of Sanxiantai. The Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge was completed in 1987. Before this time the Island of Sanxiantai could only be reached during low tide. Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge has 8 segments that are designed in the shape of waves and resembles a prostrate sea dragon. Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge has become a famous landmark on Taiwan’s East Coast.

三仙台島は非常にユニークな形をしています。この地域は台湾本島の東海岸と外灘の三仙台を結ぶ長い歩道橋で最もよく知られています。三仙台ドラゴンブリッジは1987年に完成しました。この時期以前は、三仙台島は干潮時にしか到達できませんでした。 Sanxiantai Dragon Bridgeには、波の形をした8つのセグメントがあり、前立腺の海の龍に似ています。三仙台龍橋は台湾の東海岸で有名なランドマークとなっています。

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area

Sanxiantai Dragon bridge in Taitung, Taiwan

Coral rock and reefs Sanxiantai Island tail in distance

コーラル・ロックとサンゴ礁 Sanxiantai 島の尾の距離

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area

Rugged coral reefs and volcanic rock along the beaches of Taitung County TaiwanScrew pine（Pandanus fascicularis）

の地元の熟した完熟果実その果実は時々ハラ果実として知られています。あなたがこの地域を歩くときの地元の植物。

While at the Scenic Area you might enjoy spending a few minutes at the pebble beach, before walking across this eight-arch bridge. Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge is a healthy walk, so plan on enjoying the beach, upon your arrival, resting up for the rest of your island adventure.

After taking your short rest on the beach of Sanxiantai Island, you can then trek along the many trails of the island. The main trail takes about 2 hours to walk at a moderate walking speed, taking time to sightsee along the way. If you are planning on making this trek, remember to wear proper shoes, not beach flip flops! The many rocks are fascinating and there is a beautiful lighthouse on the other side of the island. Enjoy the many protected areas of rock and native palms that live and flourish on Sanxiantai. And, remember to save a little energy for the walk back across the bridge to the Scenic Area.

風光明媚なエリアにいる間、あなたはこの8アーチ橋を渡って歩く前に、小石のビーチで数分を過ごすのを楽しむかもしれません。 Sanxiantai Dragon Bridgeは健康的な散歩ですので、ご到着時にビーチを楽しんだり、島の冒険の残り時間を休んでください。 Sanxiantai島のビーチで少し休んだ後は、島の多くの遊歩道を散策できます。メイントレイルは中程度の歩行速度で歩くのに約2時間かかり、途中で観光客に時間がかかります。このトレッキングを計画している場合は、ビーチサンダルではなく、適切な靴を履いてください。たくさんの岩が魅力的で、島の反対側には美しい灯台があります。 Sanxiantaiで暮らし、繁栄する、保護された岩石やヤシの木の保護地域をお楽しみください。そして、橋を渡って風光明媚なエリアに戻る散歩のために少しエネルギーを節約することを忘れないでください。

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area

Local wild Ripe fruit of the Screw pine (Pandanus fascicularis) The fruit is sometimes known as hala fruit. The local plant as you walk through in this area. Screw pine（Pandanus fascicularis）

の地元の熟した完熟果実その果実は時々ハラ果実として知られています。あなたがこの地域を歩くときの地元の植物。

Visiting the unique architecture of this bridge and the area in which it stands provides a culture opportunity. Taiwan does have a strong Chinese culture but with a unique aboriginal culture as well. The combination of ideas and religion are though out this area and the dragon bridge gives us an example of this cultural fusion taking place in Taiwan. Once you get done make sure to head back to the mainland for some wonderful seafood dishes that you can only get in this area.

この橋のユニークな建築物やそれが建っている地域を訪れることは文化の機会を提供します。台湾は強い中国文化を持っていますが、独自の先住民文化も持っています。アイデアと宗教の組み合わせはこの分野ではありませんが、ドラゴンブリッジは台湾で行われているこの文化的融合の例です。あなたが終わったら、あなただけがこの地域で得ることができるいくつかの素晴らしいシーフード料理のために本土に戻っていることを確認してください。

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area Food

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area Food

Eat Special Aboriginal Meals close by

先住民の特別食を間近で食べる

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area Food

Hot and Spicy Chili Crab

ホットスパイシーチリクラブ

The area is also full of stories, and Sanxiantai is rich in strong ecological heritage and is the best habitat for local maritime birds. There are rock herons that inhabit the area in the summer with many opportunities to spot them in the morning.

There is plenty of fish in the nearby waters that are abundant within this area. Local seafood on shore always has a fresh catch and vendors are ready to fix you a local flavored meal. It is also a famous fishing ground and protected fishery for the Taiwan fishing enthusiasts. “Coastal plants such as Lintou, Baishuimu, and Bindoudou can be found around on the island. They are important research areas for studying coastal plant ecology, and the area is listed as a nature reserve. From the southern tip of the island to the waters of Keiji, there are beautiful coral reefs with tropical fish, and Taiwan’s endemic species “Taiwan silk coral” that live under the sea. Sanxiantai is a beautiful location along the Huadong coastline and a great place to relax and to enjoy nature.” (1. 台東觀光旅遊網)

この地域は物語でいっぱいです、そして、Sanxiantaiは強い生態学的遺産に富んでいて、そして地元の海の鳥のための最高の生息地です。夏の間はその地域に生息するロックヘロンが目にする機会が多くあります。この地域に豊富にある近くの水域にはたくさんの魚がいます。岸辺の地元の魚介類は常に新鮮な獲物があり、仕入先はあなたに地元の風味のある食事を提供する準備ができています。台湾の釣り愛好家のための有名な漁場であり保護された漁場でもあります。 「島内にはLintou、Baishuimu、Bindoudouなどの沿岸植物があります。これらは沿岸植物の生態を研究するための重要な研究地域であり、この地域は自然保護区として指定されています。島の南端から水域まで京成には、熱帯魚のいる美しいサンゴ礁と、海の下に生息する台湾固有種の「台湾シルクサンゴ」があります。 （1.台東觀光旅遊網）

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area Fishing

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area Fishing

 Local fish and fisherman (Tuna)

地元の魚と漁師 (マグロ)

Local Native Folklore

地元先住民の民俗

As per the information from over at Kuriositas, we have the local folklore, and can better understand why the bridge was even created. Kuriositas
の上からの情報によると、我々は地元の民間伝承を持っていて、そして橋がなぜ作られさえしたかをよりよく理解することができます。

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area 

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan

“Sansiantai is, as you might imagine, is saturated in folklore. The three enormous rocks making up the island’s most conspicuous feature long ago gave rise to a native myth that three of China’s Eight Immortals once chose the island for a place to rest.  Even the name of the island translates to the Terrace of the Three Immortals. Lu, Tung-pin, Iron Crutch Li, and He, Xian-gu were the names of these great sages.  After they had taken their rest they left three footprints.  These are the three massive rocks that dominate the small uninhabited island. The island was once connected by a neck of land to the rest of Taiwan but over the millennia this wore away” (2 Kuriositas)

「あなたが想像するように、Sansiantaiは民間伝承で飽和しています。ずっと前に島の最も顕著な特徴を構成する3つの巨大な岩は中国の8つのImmortalsのうちの3つが休む場所のために一度島を選んだというネイティブの神話を引き起こしました。島の名前は三不滅隊のテラスと言い換えられます、呂、桐pin、鉄の松葉李、そして彼、西安区はこれらの偉大な賢人の名前で、彼らが休んだ後、彼らは3つの足跡を残しました。この島はかつて台湾の他の地域と首を結ぶところでつながっていましたが、これは千年の間かけ離れたものでした」（2 Kuriositas）

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung Taiwan Area

Mountains in the bay.

湾の山々。

I hope to see you soon at the Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge. Please check out our website for other articles on the eastern coast of Taiwan.

Sanxiantai Dragon Bridge in Taitung, Taiwan 

References:

  1. 台東觀光旅遊網 . “三仙台風景區.” 台東観光サイト, tour.taitung.gov.tw/zh-tw/attraction/details/333.
  2. Kuriositas. “Sansiantai: Dragon Bridge to the Island of the Three Immortals.” Kuriositas, www.kuriositas.com/2013/06/sansiantai-dragon-bridge-to-island-of.html.

Jhaorih Hot Springs Taiwan 温泉台湾

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Skagway Alaska Gateway To The North

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Skagway Alaska Gateway To The North

Welcome to Skagway Alaska, the gateway to the Klondike and beyond. Skagway is yesterday alive and well! In Skagway, you will hear the old honky-tonk pianos and the cries of the prospectors. Gold has been found! Nothing much has changed in Skagway, Alaska; it is yesterday at its best! Come celebrate with us! Dance to the old honky-tonk piano! Kick up your heels!  Immerse yourself in the history of the Klondike! Enjoy everything nature has to show you. Skagway is the northernmost town in Southeast Alaska. Skagway sits on the side of a beautiful glacier. Nothing is prettier under the sun.

Skagway Proper

Branch out from here and visit other areas, like Whitehorse in the Yukon, Canada. Skagway is delightful! Skagway is living history! It is fun! Above all, it’s a must-see when you come to Alaska. Check the site below for listings of events and accommodations. We’ll see you in Skagway.
http://skagway.com/

Travel Tour Highlights

One of the highlights of the area is the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. The park was created in 1976 and commemorates all the many hopeful prospectors who flooded the area in the late 1800’s. The visitors center is very informative and the hiking trails are awesome. If you feel ambitious, you can hike the famous Chilkoot Trail. This is a 3-5 day hike and not for beginning hikers. The trail is well maintained by the Park Service and is in good condition. You can access the park website below.

http://www.nps.gov/klgo/index.htm

Skagway is one of the most exciting port of calls for the cruise ships that go up the Inside Passage to Alaska. For example, you can take this cruise out of either Seattle, USA or Vancouver, Canada with other connections. This is one cruise that I have done twice and no two trips are the same. They are an adventure waiting to happen! You can reserve your cruise on the website below.

http://www.alaskacruises.com/cruises/alaska-inside-passage-cruises.html

Other options are the ferry system that travels up the coast. Book your car, the walk-on, your bike, or even your RV. Similarly, it’s much like booking a train, for instance, you can purchase a sleeping berth also. Furthermore, the ferry ships are smaller than cruise ships and seem to be closer to the shoreline allowing different views. This offers more unique photo opportunities and allows you to see different wildlife.

http://www.alaskaferryvacations.com/index.html

There are many fantastic day tours available. Some are as little as one day and others can be ten days. Whatever you desire to see and do, Skagway, Alaska is your jumping off point.

http://www.alaskatravel.com/skagway/

http://frontierexcursions.com/index.html

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Published on steemit.com@exploretraveler Feb. 18,2017 at:

https://steemit.com/travel/@exploretraveler/5hovoh-skagway-alaska-gateway-to-the-north

Taiwan Rock Monkeys of Formosa Island

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Baby Formosan Rock Macaque

Taiwan Monkeys of Formosa Live In A Protected Habitat

Taiwan Monkeys (Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Monkeys) are the only monkey native to Taiwan. Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Monkeys are also known as Formosan Rock Macaque and Taiwanese Macaque. They live in the mountainous regions of northeastern and southwestern Taiwan. At one time it is believed that they may have lived nearer the sea coast. They likely were pushed back into the hills due to lack of vegetation and increased human activity. At times they can still be seen near the sea coast of Taiwan. They are generally found between 300 and 12,000 feet. They primarily prefer areas of mixed hardwood forests as well as bamboo and grasslands.

Some of the 22 known species of Macaques lack tails and they are often referred to as apes. These are true monkeys and have no relationship to the true apes. Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Monkeys generally are around 22-24 inches long and have moderately long tails of 17-18 inches. Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Monkey is brown or gray in color. One of the unique features of this monkey is the special pouches found in the cheeks. These pouches allow them to look for food and hoard it in their cheeks until they have returned to a safe location.

Taiwan Monkey Lifestyle and Interaction

Taiwan’s Monkeys have a very complex social chain and hierarchy. When a monkey of a lower level in this social structure has eaten berries or other morsels of food, they are stored in the pouch. If there are none left for a higher level monkey, then he may remove the berries from the lower level monkey’s pouch.

Formosan Rock Monkeys give birth to only one offspring per pregnancy. The gestation period is generally around 165 days. The Formosan Rock Monkey mates during the winter and gives birth in late spring or early summer. The younger females give birth every other year. The older females, those over the age of 9, give birth yearly. Most of the Formosan Rock Monkey’s nurse their offspring for approximately one year. The offspring usually are independent by the second year. Often permanent relationships are seen between the offspring and their mother.

Taiwan Monkeys (Formosa Rock Monkeys) are native to Taiwan. One of the most famous places to see this pesky monkey in his natural habitat is Shoushan National Nature Park in Kaohsiung. Below please find a link to the web site offering more information and travel guidelines. This web site is in Chinese with an English option at the top. Click on the word English and it will take you to the English version.

http://snnp.cpami.gov.tw/chinese/index.phpSpend the day, or take a half-day tour, but enjoy the warm welcome you will get from the Taiwan Monkeys of Formosa.

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Taiwan Monkeys

Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Monkeys