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  • “The mystical evening sun's rays peeking over the hills of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This image was captured as the hazy sun began to set behind the mountains and a light rain began. The combination of the low, brightly veiled evening sun with the mist of the rain displayed a spectacular prism effect that dazzled the senses and displayed a glorious light show above Assisi. The magnificent display lasted until dark and was one of the many mystical and blessed experiences of my perfect 24 hours in Assisi. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God.
    Il mistico serata raggi del sole cap..sisi
  • “Colorful Sunset Above the Papal Basilica of San Francesco di Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This image was created as the hazy sun began to set behind the mountains and a light rain began. The combination of the low, brightly veiled evening sun with the mist of the rain displayed a spectacular prism effect that dazzled the senses and displayed a glorious light show above Assisi. The magnificent display lasted until dark and was one of the many mystical and blessed experiences of my perfect 24 hours in Assisi. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God.
    Tramonto Colorato Sopra la Basilica ..sisi
  • “Front doors 24-26-28 along Via Roma Cortona”… <br />
<br />
Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside. No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona. This image was created on one of the main streets of Cortona with gradients reaching about 15% or more. This image is not distorted as Italian architects are famous for overcoming difficulties or seemingly impossible tasks. Here is an example of three front doorways along perhaps one of the steepest town streets I have ever encountered. I had to stand sideways to create this photograph to level out the image. Thanks be to God for the amazing beauty of the flowers, which give hope to the weary and exhausted climbers into the tiny town center. "From a high Tuscan hill, fifty miles from Florence between Arezzo and Perugia rises the equally ancient and noble city of Cortona. Before the city lays a vast and beautiful plain, it is flanked on either side by distant hills and valleys while behind it are towering yet fruitful mountains. Cortona has a picturesque aspect, quite a bit longer than wide, turned towards the midday sun.”… 17th-century quote. Apart from its artistic beauty, Cortona is a very important tourist destination because of its privileged geographical location. One can easily visit many interesting towns, which have appeal from a cultural and artistic point of view, like Florence, Siena, Perugia, Pienza, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Lake Trasimeno, Arezzo, Assisi, Gubbio, Orvieto, Spoleto, and many others.
    Porte anteriori 24-26-28 lungo Via R..tona
  • “Flowers and laundry - the charm of Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began…I finally found the parking garage by the hotel. I began my descent from Hotel Montemare, which also has a great family restaurant on a large terrace overlooking the bay.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  The alleyways seemed to slip downward between every building and many maintained unique views of the sea, Duomo, town, or mountains of Positano. Descending the endless steps, I caught a glimpse of the afternoon sun reflecting in the doors of a second story balcony with dozens of white linens hanging to dry.  Framing the balcony just above the coral colored awning … vibrant red flowers accented the contrast of the pastel domestic scene that is Italy at its finest.   Viva Italia!
    Fiori e lavanderia - il fascino di P..tano
  • “Faith, Hope, and Love – Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
Psalm 46: 2-8 “God is our refuge and our strength, an ever-present help in distress. Thus we do not fear, though earth be shaken and mountains quake to the depths of the sea, though its waters rage and foam and mountains totter at its surging. Streams of the river gladden the city of God, the holy dwelling of the Most High. God is in its midst; it shall not be shaken; God will help it at break of day. Though nations rage and kingdoms totter, he utters his voice and the earth melts. The LORD of hosts is with us; our stronghold is the God of Jacob.” <br />
<br />
2 Corinthians 4:8-10 “We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our body.”<br />
<br />
Romans 5:1-5 “Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access [by faith] to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us.”
    Fede, Speranza e Amore - Dipinto di ..etta
  • “The hazy evening sun illuminates the Papal Basilica of St. Francis”…<br />
<br />
This image was created as the hazy sun began to set behind the mountains and a light rain began. The combination of the low, brightly veiled evening sun with the mist of the rain displayed a spectacular prism effect that dazzled the senses and displayed a glorious light show above Assisi. The magnificent display lasted until dark and was one of the many mystical and blessed experiences of my perfect 24 hours in Assisi. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God.
    Il sole velato illumina sera della B..esco
  • “The Evening Veiled Sun Illuminates the Papal Basilica of San Francesco – BW”…<br />
<br />
This image was created as the hazy sun began to set behind the mountains and a light rain began. The combination of the low, brightly veiled evening sun with the mist of the rain displayed a spectacular prism effect that dazzled the senses and displayed a glorious light show above Assisi. The magnificent display lasted until dark and was one of the many mystical and blessed experiences of my perfect 24 hours in Assisi. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God.
    Il Sera Velato Sole Illumina della ..- BW
  • "Front doors 26-28 along Via Roma Cortona"...<br />
<br />
Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside.  No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona.  This image was created on one of the main streets of Cortona with gradients reaching about 15% or more.  This image is not distorted as Italian architects are famous for overcoming difficulties or seemingly impossible tasks. Here is an example of three front doorways along perhaps one of the steepest town streets I have ever encountered.  I actually had to stand sideways to create this photograph to level out the image. Thanks be to God for the amazing beauty of the flowers, which give hope to the weary and exhausted climbers into the tiny town center.  "From a high Tuscan hill, fifty miles from Florence between Arezzo and Perugia, rises the equally ancient and noble city of Cortona. Before the city lays a vast and beautiful plain, it is flanked on either side by distant hills and valleys while behind it are towering yet fruitful mountains. Cortona has a picturesque aspect, quite a bit longer than wide, turned towards the midday sun.”… 17th century quote.  A part from its artistic beauty, Cortona is a very important tourist destination because of its privileged geographical location. One can easily visit many interesting towns, which have appeal from a cultural and artistic point of view, like Florence, Siena, Perugia, Pienza, Montepulciano, Montalcino, Lake Trasimeno, Arezzo, Assisi, Gubbio, Orvieto, Spoleto and many others.
    Porte Anteriori 26-28 lungo Via Roma..tona
  • “Narrow passage to the Cathedral of Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began…I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  I began my descent from Hotel Montemare, which also has a great family restaurant on a large terrace overlooking the bay.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  The alleyways seemed to slip downward between every building and many maintained unique views of the sea, Duomo, town, or mountains of Positano.
    Stretto passaggio al Duomo di Positano
  • “Passage to the bay of Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began…I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  I began my descent from Hotel Montemare, which also has a great family restaurant on a large terrace overlooking the bay.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  The alleyways seemed to slip downward between every building and many maintained unique views of the sea, Duomo, town, or mountains of Positano.
    Passaggio alla baia di Positano
  • “The Light of Life - Convent of Cells Cortona - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…  <br />
<br />
Gospel Mt 17:1-9 Jesus took Peter, James, and his brother, John, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. And he was transfigured before them; his face shone like the sun and his clothes became white as light. And behold, Moses and Elijah appeared to them, conversing with him. Then Peter said to Jesus in reply, “Lord, it is good that we are here. If you wish, I will make three tents here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah.” While he was still speaking, behold, a bright cloud cast a shadow over them, then from the cloud came a voice that said, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to him. “When the disciples heard this, they fell prostrate and were very much afraid. But Jesus came and touched them, saying, “Rise, and do not be afraid.” And when the disciples raised their eyes, they saw no one else but Jesus alone. As they were coming down from the mountain, Jesus charged them, “Do not tell the vision to anyone until the Son of Man has been raised from the dead.” Ascending from a tiny cell within Le Celle, I noticed the radiant sunlight illuminating the ancient stone stairway. Considering the location, its 1000 years of age, and its Saintly founding fathers, one could not help feeling spiritually exalted as the bright light immersed my ascension to the top. I didn’t quite reach Heaven at the height of the mystic climb, but perhaps the illumination rendered a touch of hope to a weary and petitioning photo-artist.
    La Luce della Vita - Convento di Cel..etta
  • “Angelic Woman Resting Under the Sun at the Cathedral of San Rufino in Assisi”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the one consolation was the dramatic anticipation of the divine scenery emerging in the distance. Rising slowly up the Assisi hillside after a slow ascent to the highest peak, around the final corner awaited the Romanesque Duomo of Saint Rufino completed in the 12th century. In this church, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized among the many spiritual and historical missions of the Duomo. As I rose to the top and turned the corner, the low late evening sun shone brightly on the façade of the Duomo illuminating a singular woman resting in the sun by the side door. It had become damp and chilly outside, and the warm sun illuminated her angelic face so much so, I froze in my tracks and gazed in awe upon this ethereal vision. I honestly thought she might fade away as I lifted my camera for one quick photograph from about 40 yards away. Perhaps she heard the click of the camera shutter and opened her eyes because she smiled and walked away. I wished she would have stayed longer. At least I have this one photo; however, a photo will never be able to capture the true essence of this mystical and surreal moment in time.
    Donna Angelicata di Riposo Sotto il ..sisi
  • “Twilight ascent to Rocca Maggiore Assisi”… <br />
<br />
Gospel Mt 7:6, 12-14 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces. “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the Law and the Prophets. “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.” Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the reward was always greater than the physical agony endured. "My soul can find no staircase to Heaven unless it be through Earth's loveliness." - Michelangelo.
    Salita del crepuscolo fino a Rocca M..sisi
  • “Sunlight illuminates the Crucifixion on the main altar of the Cathedral of San Rufino in Assisi”…<br />
<br />
The first time I visited the Cathedral, I was laboriously working my way up the Assisi mountain top, of which the Cathedral of San Rufino is the last church. Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous. Although every building in Assisi celebrates Saint Francis, the city’s cathedral is dedicated to San Rufino. It's named for Assisi's patron saint, a former 3rd-century bishop, and martyr. After converting Assisi to Christianity, he was killed by drowning in a nearby river. The cathedral has been a very important aspect in the history of the Franciscan order. It was here that Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized. Hearing Francis preaching in this church in 1209, Saint Clare became deeply touched by his message and realized her calling. In 1228, here for the canonization of Saint Francis, Pope Gregory IX consecrated the high altar. A humorous story of the relics of Saint Rufino remaining in this ancient church before it was consecrated as a Cathedral is part of history. The townspeople fought for the saint’s body with the current Bishop Ugone, who wanted to move it to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. The citizens took a position against the move and started a real “tug of war” with the saint's coffin. The sixty Bishops’ men were beaten by only seven Assisi citizens. The victory was seen as miraculous, even by Ugone, who then decided to renovate the small Basilica, which eventually became the Cathedral for Assisi. The relics of St Rufino were removed from the crypt and translated to a new sarcophagus under the High Altar and newly-completed nave in 1586. The luminous window light on the side of the Crucifix surrounding Christ with Heaven’s brilliancy captured my abiding heart and unwavering soul.
    La luce del sole illumina la Crocifi..sisi
  • “Our Lady of Sorrows - Cathedral of San Rufino, Assisi”…<br />
<br />
The first time I visited the Cathedral, I was laboriously working my way up the Assisi mountain top, of which the Cathedral of San Rufino is the last church. Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiore at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous. Although every building in Assisi celebrates Saint Francis, the city’s cathedral is dedicated to San Rufino. It's named for Assisi's patron saint, a former 3rd-century bishop, and martyr. After converting Assisi to Christianity, he was killed by drowning in a nearby river. The cathedral has been a very important aspect of the history of the Franciscan order. It was here that Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized. Hearing Francis preaching in this church in 1209, Saint Clare became deeply touched by his message and realized her calling. In 1228, here for the canonization of Saint Francis, Pope Gregory IX consecrated the high altar. A humorous story of the relics of Saint Rufino remaining in this ancient church before it was consecrated as a Cathedral is part of history. The townspeople fought for the saint’s body with the current Bishop Ugone, who wanted to move it to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. The citizens took a position against the move and started a real “tug of war” with the saint's coffin. The sixty Bishops’ men were beaten by only seven Assisi citizens. The victory was seen as miraculous, even by Ugone, who then decided to renovate the small Basilica, which eventually became the Cathedral for Assisi. Altare dell’ Addolorata consists of this dramatic statue of the Madonna Addolorata from 1672. Upon lighting candles for friends and family, a Franciscan Sister unknowingly posed in reflection completing the reverent presentation.
    Madonna Addolorata - Duomo di San Ru..sisi
  • "Midnight at Piaggia di Porta San Pietro in Assisi"... <br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown. Traversing the narrow steps and Strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day-long journey. However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night. Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below. Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out. Drifting forward the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the distant midnight skies. One could not help but to acquiesce to its spiritual yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzanotte presso Piaggia di Porta S..sisi
  • “Night view through the arch of the Papal Basilica of San Francesco”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown. Traversing the narrow steps and Strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day-long journey. However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night. Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below. Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out. As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the midnight skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Vista notturna attraverso l'arco di ..esco
  • "Rainbow of God divides the sky between San Rufino and St. Clare of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
This image is perhaps the most blessed and miraculous of my Italian journey.  Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down.  Looking back over my shoulder, I was mesmerized at the appearance of a double rainbow from the heavens shining down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino, and the Basilica of Saint Clare. I was able to take a few horizontal and vertical images of the great length and depth of the rainbow just before the sun dropped down below the horizon...and, it slowly faded.  My Italian journey was now and forever blessed by the hand of God.
    Arcobaleno di Dio divide il cielo tr..sisi
  • "Dynamic view from the Bar San Lorenzo Garden of the Cathedral of San Rufino of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. Perfect areas abound with shaded tables and chairs and a hut for the main area of the tiny restaurant. The Italiani husband and wife smile graciously as they served up a lunch menu and drinks for the astounded patrons. It appeared to us Pilgrims that we stumbled on the most perfect plot of land in all of Assisi, and found ourselves blessed to sit and relax for moments as we could not help aiming our cameras at God’s pleasant surroundings. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and to a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Vista dinamica dal Bar Giardino San ..sisi
  • “Assisi serene afternoon view of the Cathedral of San Rufino and the Basilica of Santa Chiara from Rocco Maggiore above”…<br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick, and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Assisi sereno pomeriggio vista della..alto
  • “Ominous Skies Above the Papal Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This late afternoon image was captured while standing upon remnants atop the mountainside of Assisi viewing down to the resting Basilica of Saint Francis. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God. The Basilica, which was begun in 1228 honoring the life of Saint Francis, is probably the most exteriorly photographed church in the world, and it always seems eager to please. The Basilica poses graciously night or day and proudly extends a loving welcome not only to those who are blessed to be there but all those who witness its image created by God and the fortunate artist of capture.
    Cieli Infausto Sopra la Basilica Pap..sisi
  • “The mystical rainbow of God above the Cathedral of San Rufino Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This image is perhaps one of the most blessed and miraculous of my Italian journey. Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, I was mesmerized at the appearance of this first of eventually two rainbows shining down behind the Duomo of Saint Rufino. I was able to capture a few horizontal and vertical images of the rainbows just as the sun began its descent below the horizon. My Italian journey was truly blessed by the hand of God.
    Il mistico arcobaleno di Dio sopra l..sisi
  • “Panoramic view from the Bar Giardino San Lorenzo of the Cathedral of San Rufino of Assisi”… <br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. Perfect areas abound with shaded tables and chairs and a hut for the main area of the tiny restaurant. The Italiani husband and wife smile graciously as they served up a lunch menu and drinks for the astounded patrons. It appeared to us Pilgrims that we stumbled on the most perfect plot of land in all of Assisi, and found ourselves blessed to sit and relax for moments as we could not help aiming our cameras at God’s pleasant surroundings. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Vista panoramica della Cattedrale di..enzo
  • “Sunlight illuminates the Crucifixion of the main altar of the Cathedral of San Rufino in Assisi”…<br />
<br />
The first time I visited the Cathedral, I was laboriously working my way up the Assisi mountain top, of which the Cathedral of San Rufino is the last church. Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous. Although every building in Assisi celebrates Saint Francis, the city’s cathedral is dedicated to San Rufino. It's named for Assisi's patron saint, a former 3rd-century bishop, and martyr. After converting Assisi to Christianity, he was killed by drowning in a nearby river. The cathedral has been a very important aspect in the history of the Franciscan order. It was here that Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized. Hearing Francis preaching in this church in 1209, Saint Clare became deeply touched by his message and realized her calling. In 1228, here for the canonization of Saint Francis, Pope Gregory IX consecrated the high altar. A humorous story of the relics of Saint Rufino remaining in this ancient church before it was consecrated as a Cathedral is part of history. The townspeople fought for the saint’s body with the current Bishop Ugone, who wanted to move it to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. The citizens took a position against the move and started a real “tug of war” with the saint's coffin. The sixty Bishops’ men were beaten by only seven Assisi citizens. The victory was seen as miraculous, even by Ugone, who then decided to renovate the small Basilica, which eventually became the Cathedral for Assisi.  The relics of St Rufino were removed from the crypt and translated to a new sarcophagus under the High Altar and newly-completed nave in 1586. The luminous window light on the side of the Crucifix surrounding Christ with Heaven’s brilliancy captured my abiding heart and unwavering soul.
    La luce del sole illumina la Crocifi..sisi
  • “Leaves Frame Positano in the late afternoon sun”… <br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image. The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun. Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the Azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. The ancient church was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Foglie Cornice Positano nel sole del..ggio
  • “Sun illuminates the cross through door of the Convent of cells Cortona”… <br />
<br />
Known as Le Celle, this Franciscan hermitage is just five miles from Cortona at the foot of Mount Sant’ Egidio. In 1211, St. Francis along with a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the hermitage, and it has taken the name of Le Celle ever since. Inside the tiny cell belonging to St. Francis is a tiny window, the bed on which he slept, his desk, and a painting of the Madonna and Child where he prayed. The Hermitage invokes a peaceful atmosphere of spirituality and solitude, yet it is vibrant with religious life. Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. The convent is able to offer lodgings to those contemplating a vocational life. Just inside one of the doors to Le Celle, I noticed the sunlight shining delicately through the transom window gently illuminating the old wooden door and cross. This image epitomizes all the simplicities in which Saint Francis preached and lived. It represents his spartan structure with the rough-textured concrete walls, antique faded wooden door, the green trees in nature which he loved, and the mystic evening sun softening the aging appearance, and revealing his simple life of prayer and personal austerity.
    Sole croce illumina attraverso Porte..tona
  • "Most Holy Crucifix inside the Cathedral of San Rufino Assisi painting by Dino Carbetta"...<br />
<br />
The first time I visited the Cathedral, I was laboriously working my way up the Assisi mountain top, of which the Cathedral of San Rufino is the last church. Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous. Although every building in Assisi celebrates Saint Francis, the city’s cathedral is dedicated to San Rufino. It's named for Assisi's patron saint, a former 3rd-century bishop, and martyr. After converting Assisi to Christianity, he was killed by drowning in a nearby river. The cathedral has been a very important aspect in the history of the Franciscan order. It was here that Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized. Hearing Francis preaching in this church in 1209, Saint Clare became deeply touched by his message and realized her calling. In 1228, here for the canonization of Saint Francis, Pope Gregory IX consecrated the high altar. A humorous story of the relics of Saint Rufino remaining in this ancient church before it was consecrated as a Cathedral is part of history. The townspeople fought for the saint’s body with the current Bishop Ugone, who wanted to move it to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. The citizens took a position against the move and started a real “tug of war” with the saint's coffin. The sixty Bishops’ men were beaten by only seven Assisi citizens. The victory was seen as miraculous, even by Ugone, who then decided to renovate the small Basilica, which eventually became the Cathedral for Assisi. I was struck by the elegant beauty of the “Holy Crucifix” inside the chapel. The apparent artist was Don Doni in 1561. It is carried in the annual procession in Assisi each Good Friday. The face of Christ reveals His suffering, however, it also exudes His beatification and contentment of the fulfillment of Holy Prophesy.
    Santissimo Crocifisso all'interno de..etta
  • “St. Francis with the Stigmata - The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli Museum - Russet”…<br />
<br />
Portiuncula is a town and a parish situated about three-quarters of a mile from Assisi. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It was of this little church moved within the Basilica that St. Francis recognized his vocation in the year 1208, and it was where St. Francis spent most of his life. In 1211, the Benedictines gave him the little chapel of St. Mary of the Angels or the Portiuncula, which is a “little portion” of land. The first Franciscan convent was also formed nearby. The Portiuncula was also where St. Francis received the vows of St. Clare. St. Francis died here on October 3, 1226, and on his death-bed, he recommended the chapel to the faithful protection and care of his brothers. Two years before Saint Francis of Assisi died, and when he was 42 years old — one year after he had built the first crib in honor of Our Lord — he went off to a lonely mountain called Mount Alvernia, to prepare himself by forty days of fasting and prayer for the feast of Saint Michael, the greatest of God’s angels. On the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14, Saint Francis received in his hands, feet and side the Sacred Wounds from Our Lord’s own body. Never was a saint more beautifully loved than Saint Francis of Assisi. The wounds Jesus gave him stayed in his hands, feet, and side, and continually bled for two more years, until he died in 1226. This realistic image of St. Francis with the Stigmata on his hands was captured in the Basilica Museum, along with many other historical treasures from his life. Our 2019 Pilgrimage was fortunate to tour this very reverent and spiritual Basilica. It is one of the primary Pilgrimage locations in all of Italy and there seems to be a steady stream of visitors daily. I have also found this site for live daily Mass which you can enjoy day or night: https://www.facebook.com/fratiassisi/
    San Francesco con le stimmate - La B..gine
  • “Chapel of the Holy Crucifix inside the Cathedral of San Rufino Assisi”…<br />
<br />
The first time I visited the Cathedral, I was laboriously working my way up the Assisi mountain top, of which the Cathedral of San Rufino is the last church. Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous. Although every building in Assisi celebrates Saint Francis, the city’s cathedral is dedicated to San Rufino. It's named for Assisi's patron saint, a former 3rd-century bishop, and martyr. After converting Assisi to Christianity, he was killed by drowning in a nearby river. The cathedral has been a very important aspect in the history of the Franciscan order. It was here that Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized. Hearing Francis preaching in this church in 1209, Saint Clare became deeply touched by his message and realized her calling. In 1228, here for the canonization of Saint Francis, Pope Gregory IX consecrated the high altar. A humorous story of the relics of Saint Rufino remaining in this ancient church before it was consecrated as a Cathedral is part of history. The townspeople fought for the saint’s body with the current Bishop Ugone, who wanted to move it to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. The citizens took a position against the move and started a real “tug of war” with the saint's coffin. The sixty Bishops’ men were beaten by only seven Assisi citizens. The victory was seen as miraculous, even by Ugone, who then decided to renovate the small Basilica, which eventually became the Cathedral for Assisi.  I was struck by the elegant beauty of the “Holy Crucifix” inside the chapel. The apparent artist was Don Doni in 1561. It is carried in the annual procession in Assisi each Good Friday. The face of Christ reveals His suffering, however, it also exudes His beatification and contentment of the fulfillment of Holy Prophesy.
    Cappella del Santissimo Crocifisso a..sisi
  • “The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute Venice radiates in the distance on the Grand Canal”…<br />
 <br />
Gospel MT 14:22-33 “After the crowd had eaten their fill, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile, the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God." The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, commonly known as La Salute, is one of the largest, most iconic, and prominent churches of Venice. It stands in a prominent position at the junction between the Grand Canal and the Bacino di San Marco on the lagoon. In October 1630, the Venetian Senate decreed that if the city was delivered from the raging Bubonic Plague, which decimated one-third of the Venetian population, a new church would be constructed and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Basilica is an ornate, massive structure in its exterior; however, it is quite reverently quaint interiorly.
    La Basilica di Santa Maria della Sal..ande
  • "Madonna of the Angels - The Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels – Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Portiuncula is a town and a parish situated about three-quarters of a mile from Assisi. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It was of this little church moved within the Basilica that St. Francis recognized his vocation in the year 1208, and it was where St. Francis spent most of his life. In 1211, the Benedictines gave him the little chapel of St. Mary of the Angels or the Portiuncula, which is a “little portion” of land. The first Franciscan convent was also formed nearby. The Portiuncula was also where St. Francis received the vows of St. Clare. St. Francis died here on October 3, 1226, and on his death-bed, he recommended the chapel to the faithful protection and care of his brothers. Two years before Saint Francis of Assisi died, and when he was 42 years old — one year after he had built the first crib in honor of Our Lord — he went off to a lonely mountain called Mount Alvernia, to prepare himself by forty days of fasting and prayer for the feast of Saint Michael, the greatest of God’s angels. On the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14, Saint Francis received in his hands, feet and side the Sacred Wounds from Our Lord’s own body. Never was a saint more beautifully loved than Saint Francis of Assisi. The wounds Jesus gave him stayed in his hands, feet, and side, and continually bled for two more years, until he died in 1226. This realistic image of St. Francis with the Stigmata on his hands was captured in the Basilica Museum, along with many other historical treasures from his life. Our 2019 Pilgrimage was fortunate to tour this very reverent and spiritual Basilica. The gold-plated statue of the Madonna degli Angeli by the sculptor Colasanti and cast by Ferdinando Marinelli Artistic Foundry was put on top of the façade in 1930.
    Madonna degli Angeli - La Basilica d..sisi
  • "Blessed Mother Mary in the Cathedral of San Rufino of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Luke 1:46-48 And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed." Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the one consolation was the dramatic anticipation of the divine scenery emerging in the distance. Rising slowly up the Assisi hillside after a slow ascent to the highest peak, around the final corner awaited the Romanesque Duomo of Saint Rufino completed in the 12th century. In this church, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized among the many spiritual and historical missions of the Duomo.
    Beata Madre Maria all'interno della ..sisi
  • “The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute Venice radiates in the distance on the Grand Canal – Copious”… <br />
<br />
Gospel MT 14:22-33 “After the crowd had eaten their fill, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile, the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."<br />
The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, commonly known as La Salute, is one of the largest, most iconic, and prominent churches of Venice. It stands in a prominent position at the junction between the Grand Canal and the Bacino di San Marco on the lagoon. In October 1630, the Venetian Senate decreed that if the city was delivered from the raging Bubonic Plague, which decimated one-third of the Venetian population, a new church would be constructed and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Basilica is an ornate, massive structure in its exterior; however, it is quite reverently quaint interiorly.
    La Basilica di Santa Maria della Sal..iosa
  • “Panoramic view from the Bar Giardino San Lorenzo of the Cathedral of San Rufino of Assisi”… <br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. Perfect areas abound with shaded tables and chairs and a hut for the main area of the tiny restaurant. The Italiani husband and wife smile graciously as they served up a lunch menu and drinks for the astounded patrons. It appeared to us Pilgrims that we stumbled on the most perfect plot of land in all of Assisi, and found ourselves blessed to sit and relax for moments as we could not help aiming our cameras at God’s pleasant surroundings. After dozens of images exhausted, and nourishment for our hunger and thirst, a sad goodbye was extended to our hosts and to a touch of paradise. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Vista panoramica dal Bar Giardino Sa..sisi
  • “Red bricks lead to the Papal Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This late afternoon image was captured while standing upon remnants atop the mountainside of Assisi viewing down to the resting Basilica of Saint Francis. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God. The Basilica, which was begun in 1228 honoring the life of Saint Francis, is probably the most exteriorly photographed church in the world, and it always seems eager to please. The Basilica poses graciously night or day and proudly extends a loving welcome not only to those who are blessed to be there but all those who witness its image created by God and the fortunate artist of capture.
    Mattoni rossi piombo alla Basilica P..sisi
  • “Water flow from the Convent of Cells - Founded by San Francesco - Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Flusso d'acqua dal Convento Di celle..tona
  • "Most Holy Crucifix inside the Cathedral of San Rufino Assisi"...<br />
<br />
The first time I visited the Cathedral, I was laboriously working my way up the Assisi mountain top, of which the Cathedral of San Rufino is the last church. Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous. Although every building in Assisi celebrates Saint Francis, the city’s cathedral is dedicated to San Rufino. It's named for Assisi's patron saint, a former 3rd-century bishop, and martyr. After converting Assisi to Christianity, he was killed by drowning in a nearby river. The cathedral has been a very important aspect in the history of the Franciscan order. It was here that Saint Francis, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized. Hearing Francis preaching in this church in 1209, Saint Clare became deeply touched by his message and realized her calling. In 1228, here for the canonization of Saint Francis, Pope Gregory IX consecrated the high altar. A humorous story of the relics of Saint Rufino remaining in this ancient church before it was consecrated as a Cathedral is part of history. The townspeople fought for the saint’s body with the current Bishop Ugone, who wanted to move it to the Cathedral of Santa Maria Maggiore. The citizens took a position against the move and started a real “tug of war” with the saint's coffin. The sixty Bishops’ men were beaten by only seven Assisi citizens. The victory was seen as miraculous, even by Ugone, who then decided to renovate the small Basilica, which eventually became the Cathedral for Assisi. I was struck by the elegant beauty of the “Holy Crucifix” inside the chapel. The apparent artist was Don Doni in 1561. It is carried in the annual procession in Assisi each Good Friday. The face of Christ reveals His suffering, however, it also exudes His beatification and contentment of the fulfillment of Holy Prophesy.
    Santissimo Crocifisso all'interno de..sisi
  • “The Evening Sun shines on the Cross at the Convent le Celle Cortona - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins' simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Il Sole della Sera splende sulla Cro..etta
  • “St. Francis with the Stigmata - The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli Museum”… <br />
<br />
Portiuncula is a town and a parish situated about three-quarters of a mile from Assisi. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It was of this little church moved within the Basilica that St. Francis recognized his vocation in the year 1208, and it was where St. Francis spent most of his life. In 1211, the Benedictines gave him the little chapel of St. Mary of the Angels or the Portiuncula, which is a “little portion” of land. The first Franciscan convent was also formed nearby. The Portiuncula was also where St. Francis received the vows of St. Clare. St. Francis died here on October 3, 1226, and on his death-bed, he recommended the chapel to the faithful protection and care of his brothers. Two years before Saint Francis of Assisi died, and when he was 42 years old — one year after he had built the first crib in honor of Our Lord — he went off to a lonely mountain called Mount Alvernia, to prepare himself by forty days of fasting and prayer for the feast of Saint Michael, the greatest of God’s angels. On the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14, Saint Francis received in his hands, feet, and side the Sacred Wounds from Our Lord’s own body. Never was a saint more beautifully loved than Saint Francis of Assisi. The wounds Jesus gave him stayed in his hands, feet, and side, and continually bled for two more years, until he died in 1226. This realistic image of St. Francis with the Stigmata on his hands was captured in the Basilica Museum, along with many other historical treasures from his life. Our 2019 Pilgrimage was fortunate to tour this very reverent and spiritual Basilica. It is one of the primary Pilgrimage locations in all of Italy and there seems to be a steady stream of visitors daily. I have also found this site for live daily Mass which you can enjoy day or night: https://www.facebook.com/fratiassisi/
    San Francesco con le Stimmate - La B..useo
  • "Hotel Giotto sunset view of the Museum of San Pietro and the Crypt of San Vittorino – Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Upon my most recent Pilgrimage, I learned that taking a taxi to Rocco Maggiorie at the very top and working downward is much less strenuous and a more pleasant excursion. After morning Mass at Chiesa Nuova, and then to Portiuncula. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. Our Pilgrims took a break for lunch while fellow Pilgrim, Patrick and I headed for the mountain top of Assisi for panoramic views of the town below. The breathless spectacle peering down one side of the fortress is St. Francis Basilica, and the unparagoned ancient architecture on the opposite side and only way up and down, are Bellissimo landscapes of San Rufino and the Basilica di Santa Chiara. Shortly upon our descent, we found a spectacular hidden respite through the wall named: “Bar Giardino San Lorenzo,” where we stopped for lunch. This charming oasis on top of Assisi, was analogous to a floral garden paradise, with astounding views of the valley below and as far away as Siena. As we meandered and descended downward toward our elegant Hotel Giotto near St. Francis Basilica, the sun began to pose and exhibit its colorful illuminations. The balcony was a perfect resting spot to capture this dramatic vision. To date, I have only had the opportunity to visit Assisi twice in my lifetime, but I could not imagine a more perfect spiritual, aesthetically beautiful, and peaceful location in the world. We were off to our next incredible adjacency, the Cathedral of San Rufino.
    Hotel Giotto vista al tramonto del M..sisi
  • “The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute Venice radiates in the distance on the Grand Canal –   Vignette”… <br />
<br />
Gospel MT 14:22-33 “After the crowd had eaten their fill, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile, the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."<br />
The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, commonly known as La Salute, is one of the largest, most iconic, and prominent churches of Venice. It stands in a prominent position at the junction between the Grand Canal and the Bacino di San Marco on the lagoon. In October 1630, the Venetian Senate decreed that if the city was delivered from the raging Bubonic Plague, which decimated one-third of the Venetian population, a new church would be constructed and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Basilica is an ornate, massive structure in its exterior; however, it is quite reverently quaint interiorly.
    La Basilica di Santa Maria della Sal..ette
  • "Double rainbow of God shines Between San Rufino and St. Clare of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
This image is perhaps the most blessed and miraculous of my Italian journey.  Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down.  Looking back over my shoulder, I was mesmerized at the appearance of a double rainbow from the heavens shining down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino, and the Basilica of Saint Clare. I was able to take a few horizontal and vertical images of the great length and depth of the rainbow just before the sun dropped down below the horizon...and, it slowly faded.  My Italian journey was now and forever blessed by the hand of God.
    Doppio arcobaleno di Dio risplende T..sisi
  • “Midnight peace of the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown.  Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey.  However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night.  Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below.  Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out.  As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the midnight skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzanotte pace della Basilica Papal..sisi
  • “Blessed Madonna inside the Cathedral of San Rufino in Assisi - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
Luke 1:46-48 And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed." Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain was highlighted by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the one consolation was the dramatic anticipation of the divine scenery emerging in the distance. Rising slowly up the Assisi hillside after a slow ascent to the highest peak, around the final corner awaited the Romanesque Duomo of Saint Rufino completed in the 12th century. In this church, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized among the many spiritual and historical missions of the Duomo. “O Mary, you shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope. We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick. At the foot of the Cross, you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith. You, Salvation of the Faithful Peoples, know what we need. We are certain that you will provide, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee, joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial. Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the Father’s will and to do what Jesus tells us: He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us, through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen. We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God. Do not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test – and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.” Pope Francis.
    Beata Madonna all'interno della Catt..etta
  • “Madonna degli Angeli - The Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli Assisi - Painting by Dino Carbetta”…<br />
<br />
Portiuncula is a town and a parish situated about three-quarters of a mile from Assisi. The town has grown up around the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels. It was of this little church moved within the Basilica that St. Francis recognized his vocation in the year 1208, and it was where St. Francis spent most of his life. In 1211, the Benedictines gave him the little chapel of St. Mary of the Angels or the Portiuncula, which is a “little portion” of land. The first Franciscan convent was also formed nearby. The Portiuncula was also where St. Francis received the vows of St. Clare. St. Francis died here on October 3, 1226, and on his death-bed, he recommended the chapel to the faithful protection and care of his brothers. Two years before Saint Francis passed, and when he was 42 years old — one year after he had built the first crib in honor of Our Lord — he went off to a lonely mountain called Mount Alvernia, to prepare himself by forty days of fasting and prayer for the feast of Saint Michael, the greatest of God’s angels. On the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross on September 14, Saint Francis received in his hands, feet, and side the Sacred Wounds from Our Lord’s own body. Never was a saint more beautifully loved than Saint Francis of Assisi. The wounds Jesus gave him stayed in his hands, feet, and side, and continually bled for two more years, until he died in 1226. The gold-plated statue of the Madonna degli Angeli by the sculptor Colasanti and cast by Marinelli Artistic Foundry was put on top of the façade in 1930. Our 2019 Pilgrimage was fortunate to tour this very reverent and spiritual Basilica. When the sun reflects the golden exterior of Mother Mary, it makes her almost translucent. I tried to emulate this mystical effect with the same harmonic, and glorious radiance.
    Madonna degli Angeli - La Basilica d..etta
  • “The Basilica of Santa Maria della Salute Venice radiates in the distance on the Grand Canal- Ultramarine blue”…<br />
<br />
Gospel MT 14:22-33 “After the crowd had eaten their fill, Jesus made the disciples get into the boat and precede him to the other side, while he dismissed the crowds. After doing so, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When it was evening he was there alone. Meanwhile, the boat, already a few miles offshore, was being tossed about by the waves, for the wind was against it. During the fourth watch of the night, he came toward them, walking on the sea. When the disciples saw him walking on the sea they were terrified. "It is a ghost," they said, and they cried out in fear. At once Jesus spoke to them, "Take courage, it is I; do not be afraid." Peter said to him in reply, "Lord, if it is you, command me to come to you on the water." He said, "Come." Peter got out of the boat and began to walk on the water toward Jesus. But when he saw how strong the wind was he became frightened; and, beginning to sink, he cried out, "Lord, save me!" Immediately Jesus stretched out his hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?" After they got into the boat, the wind died down. Those who were in the boat did him homage, saying, "Truly, you are the Son of God."<br />
The Basilica di Santa Maria della Salute, commonly known as La Salute, is one of the largest, most iconic, and prominent churches of Venice. It stands in a prominent position at the junction between the Grand Canal and the Bacino di San Marco on the lagoon. In October 1630, the Venetian Senate decreed that if the city was delivered from the raging Bubonic Plague, which decimated one-third of the Venetian population, a new church would be constructed and dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The Basilica is an ornate, massive structure in its exterior; however, it is quite reverently quaint interiorly.
    La Basilica di Santa Maria della Sal..mare
  • “Twilight Illuminates the piano steps to the Cathedral of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
Gospel Mt 7:6, 12-14 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces. “Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the Law and the Prophets. “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.” Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the reward was always greater than the physical agony endured. "My soul can find no staircase to Heaven unless it be through Earth's loveliness." - Michelangelo.
    Crepuscolo Illumina al Pianoforte gr..sisi
  • "Midnight walk along Via Fontebella towards the Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi"... <br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown. Traversing the narrow steps and Strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day-long journey. However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night. Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below. Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out. At first glance of this reverent dwelling, I perceived it to be a religious structure. However, in the typical fashion of the Assisi surroundings, it was just a simple abode with a very mystical red brick sidewalk leading upward toward the light. Clichés abound as the warm light draws one near as if a moth to the flame. I didn’t follow the sidewalk but captured this image to ponder on a later date. Drifting forward the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the distant midnight skies. One could not help but to acquiesce to its spiritual yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzanotte passeggiata lungo Via Fon..sisi
  • “Midnight glow of the Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown.  Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey.  However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night.  Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below.  Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out.  As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the midnight skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzanotte bagliore della Basilica P..sisi
  • “Flowers adorn arch bridge in Cortona”… <br />
<br />
Entering Cortona, one realizes the charm and charisma of this hilltop village. With its steep streets, ruined Etruscan and Roman walls, narrow alleys, and medieval buildings, Cortona maintains ancient origins and has remained uniquely unchanged today. Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside. No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona. The tiny walled town of Cortona was probably not the most fortified with large amounts of photogenic attractions within its ramparts but professed to be the perfect central Tuscany location. Cortona was perhaps the most quaint and charming of towns during my Italian journey, and I was surprised to see the University of Georgia has maintained a campus there since 1970. If one has the legs and heart to traverse the steep grades of this ancient Tuscan village, Cortona offers great rewards and blessings under the Bellissimo Tuscan Sun. The warm ambiance of Cortona, in contrast with its grueling hills…one may find colorful, delicate, and enduring beauty.
    Fiori adornano arcata passerella in ..tona
  • “Never-ending steps of Cortona”…<br />
<br />
Entering Cortona, one realizes the charm and charisma of this hilltop village.  With its steep streets, ruined Etruscan and Roman walls, narrow alleys, and medieval buildings, Cortona maintains ancient origins and has remained uniquely unchanged today.  Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside.  No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona.  The tiny walled town of Cortona was probably not the most fortified with large amounts of photogenic attractions within its ramparts but professed to be the perfect central Tuscany location. Cortona was perhaps the most quaint and charming of towns during my Italian journey, and I was surprised to see the University of Georgia has maintained a campus there since 1970.  If one has the legs and heart to traverse the steep grades of this ancient Tuscan village, Cortona offers great rewards and blessings under the Bellissimo Tuscan Sun.  The warm ambiance of Cortona, in contrast with its grueling hills…one may find colorful, delicate, and enduring beauty.
    Non finisce mai passi di Cortona
  • "Sun shines on the Convent of cells - founded by San Francesco in Cortona"...<br />
<br />
Known as Le Celle, this Franciscan hermitage is just five miles from Cortona at the foot of Mount Sant’ Egidio. In 1211, St. Francis along with a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the hermitage, and it has taken the name of Le Celle ever since. Inside the tiny cell belonging to St. Francis is a tiny window, the bed on which he slept, his desk, and a painting of the Madonna and Child where he prayed. The Hermitage invokes a peaceful atmosphere of spirituality and solitude, yet it is vibrant with religious life. Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge, creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. The convent is able to offer lodgings to those contemplating a vocational life. Just inside one of the doors to Le Celle, I noticed the sunlight shining delicately through the transom window gently illuminating the old wooden door and cross. This image epitomizes all the simplicities in which Saint Francis preached and lived. It represents his spartan structure with the rough textured concrete walls, antique faded wooden door, the green trees in nature which he loved, and the mystic evening sun softening the aging appearance, and revealing his simple life of prayer and personal austerity.
    Sole splende sul Convento di celle -..tona
  • “Convent of Cells - Founded by St. Francis - Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Convento Delle Celle - Fondato da Sa..tona
  • “Water flow passage to the Convent of cells founded by Saint Francis – Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Acqua flusso di passaggio le Convent..tona
  • “The late afternoon sun shines on Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image. The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun. Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the Azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. The ancient church was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Tardo pomeriggio di sole brilla su P..tano
  • “Rising above the Basilica Piazza San Francesco – Assisi - BW”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore, was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the one consolation was the dramatic anticipation of the divine scenery emerging in the distance.
    L'aumento di sopra della piazza di B..- BW
  • "The carving of San Francesco admires the view of the Convent of Cortona cells"...<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    L'intaglio di San Francesco ammira i..tona
  • "Ancient doors to the Convent of cells - founded by San Francesco in Cortona"...<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Antiche porte al Convento di celle -..tona
  • "The guiding light of Santa Maria Maggiore and the New Church of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore, was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the reward was always greater than the physical agony endured. This image was captured as I followed the radiant winding road illuminated by the evening glimmer of the descending sun.
    La luce guida tra Santa Maria Maggio..sisi
  • “Heavens erupting with rainbows over the Cathedral of San Rufino Assisi”…<br />
<br />
This image is perhaps one of the most blessed and miraculous of my Italian journey.  Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down.  Looking back over my shoulder, I was mesmerized at the appearance of this first of eventually two rainbows shining down behind the Duomo of Saint Rufino. I was able to take a few horizontal and vertical images of the rainbows just as the sun began it's decent below the horizon. My Italian journey was truly blessed by the hand of God. This image is a vertical panorama combining two vertical and one horizontal image.
    Cieli in eruzione con arcobaleni sop..sisi
  • “Convent of the Cells - Founded by St. Francis in Cortona”…<br />
<br />
In the year 1211, St. Francis along with a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the now Franciscan Hermitage, and it has taken the name of Le Celle ever since. Originally, only a few small hermit’s cottages and peasant dwellings existed, including a small chapel that had been built during the Lombard invasions and dedicated to the Archangel Michael.  This is believed to be the place where, in May 1226, four months before his death, St. Francis dictated his Will. Following the death of Saint Francis that same year, Brother Elias of Cortona who was among the first to join St. Francis of Assisi in his newly founded Order of Friars Minor, withdrew permanently to the Le Celle Hermitage.  In 1239, Elias carried out a number of improvements and restoration works which ensured the hermitage became a permanent Franciscan property. Brother Elias is in fact considered responsible for having broken up the stone of the caves and created a chapel that was formerly used as a dormitory by the monks, and the small cell where St. Francis lived. The walls built under leadership of Brother Elias are rough but solid; the hermitage contains eight small rooms large enough for a bed, table and a chair – the essential furnishings prescribed by St. Francis himself for a Franciscan hermitage, where the prime importance was to lead a life given over to contemplation.  Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis.  I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona.  The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge, creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature.
    Convento delle Celle - Fondato da Sa..tona
  • "The light of the evening sun illuminates the flowers and the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano"...<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions.  As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church.  The hazy ambience was perfectly accentuating a glowing cross and the Majorca cupula of Santa Maria Assunta.
    La luce del sole di sera illumina i ..tano
  • “Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi, good evening!”…<br />
<br />
This evening image was created while standing upon remnants of the fortress atop Assisi viewing down to the resting Basilica of Saint Francis. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino, and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God.  This is one of the first images after gaining the top, right at the beginning of the heavenly skies erupting over the countryside.
    Basilica Papale di San Francesco d'A..era!
  • “The climb from the cell of St. Francis - Convent of Celle Cortona”…<br />
<br />
JOHN 8:12 – “I am the light of the world, says the Lord; whoever follows me will have the light of life.” Known as Le Celle, this Franciscan hermitage is just five miles from Cortona at the foot of Mount Sant’ Egidio. In 1211, St. Francis along with a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the hermitage, and it has taken the name of Le Celle ever since. Inside the tiny cell belonging to St. Francis is a tiny window, the bed on which he slept, his desk, and a painting of the Madonna and Child where he prayed. The Hermitage invokes a peaceful atmosphere of spirituality and solitude, yet it is vibrant with religious life. Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. The convent can offer lodgings to those contemplating a vocational life. Ascending from a tiny cell within Le Celle, I noticed the radiant sunlight illuminating the ancient stone stairway. Considering the location, its 1000 years of age, and its Saintly founding fathers, one could not help feeling spiritually exalted as the bright light immersed my ascension to the top. I didn’t quite reach Heaven at the height of the mystic climb, but perhaps the illumination rendered a touch of hope to a weary and petitioning photographer.
    La salita dalla cella di San Frances..tona
  • "Midnight snow glow of the Papal Basilica of San Francesco di Assisi - Stella"...<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown. Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey. However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night. Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below. Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out. As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the midnight skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzanotte neve bagliore della Basil..ella
  • "Blessed Madonna inside the Cathedral of San Rufino di Assisi"...<br />
<br />
Luke 1:46-48 And Mary said: “My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord; my spirit rejoices in God my savior. For he has looked upon his handmaid’s lowliness; behold, from now on will all ages call me blessed." Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the Fortress was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the one consolation was the dramatic anticipation of the divine scenery emerging in the distance. Rising slowly up the Assisi hillside after a slow ascent to the highest peak, around the final corner awaited the Romanesque Duomo of Saint Rufino completed in the 12th century. In this church, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized among the many spiritual and historical missions of the Duomo. “O Mary, you shine continuously on our journey as a sign of salvation and hope. We entrust ourselves to you, Health of the Sick. At the foot of the Cross, you participated in Jesus’ pain, with steadfast faith. You, Salvation of the Faithful Peoples, know what we need. We are certain that you will provide, so that, as you did at Cana of Galilee, joy and feasting might return after this moment of trial. Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform ourselves to the Father’s will and to do what Jesus tells us: He who took our sufferings upon Himself, and bore our sorrows to bring us, through the Cross, to the joy of the Resurrection. Amen. We seek refuge under your protection, O Holy Mother of God. Do not despise our pleas – we who are put to the test – and deliver us from every danger, O glorious and blessed Virgin.” Pope Francis
    Beata Madonna all'interno della Catt..sisi
  • "The sun shines on the Cross of Indulgences - Convent of cells founded by San Francesco in Cortona"...<br />
<br />
Known as Le Celle, this Franciscan hermitage is just five miles from Cortona at the foot of Mount Sant’ Egidio. In 1211, St. Francis along with a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the hermitage, and it has taken the name of Le Celle ever since. Inside the tiny cell belonging to St. Francis is a tiny window, the bed on which he slept, his desk, and a painting of the Madonna and Child where he prayed. The Hermitage invokes a peaceful atmosphere of spirituality and solitude, yet it is vibrant with religious life. Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge, creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. The convent is able to offer lodgings to those contemplating a vocational life. Just inside one of the doors to Le Celle, I noticed the sunlight shining delicately through the transom window gently illuminating the old wooden door and cross. This image epitomizes all the simplicities in which Saint Francis preached and lived. It represents his spartan structure with the rough textured concrete walls, antique faded wooden door, the green trees in nature which he loved, and the mystic evening sun softening the aging appearance, and revealing his simple life of prayer and personal austerity.
    Il sole splende sulla Croce delle In..tona
  • “Water dripping through the Convent of cells - founded by St. Francis Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Acqua gocciolare attraverso Convento..tona
  • "Welcome to the Convent of cells Founded by San Francesco Cortona"...<br />
<br />
In the year 1211, St. Francis along with a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the now Franciscan Hermitage, and it has taken the name of Le Celle ever since. Originally, only a few small hermit’s cottages and peasant dwellings existed, including a small chapel that had been built during the Lombard invasions and dedicated to the Archangel Michael.  This is believed to be the place where, in May 1226, four months before his death, St. Francis dictated his Will. Following the death of Saint Francis that same year, Brother Elias of Cortona who was among the first to join St. Francis of Assisi in his newly founded Order of Friars Minor, withdrew permanently to the Le Celle Hermitage.  In 1239, Elias carried out a number of improvements and restoration works which ensured the hermitage became a permanent Franciscan property. Brother Elias is in fact considered responsible for having broken up the stone of the caves and created a chapel that was formerly used as a dormitory by the monks, and the small cell where St. Francis lived. The walls built under leadership of Brother Elias are rough but solid; the hermitage contains eight small rooms large enough for a bed, table and a chair – the essential furnishings prescribed by St. Francis himself for a Franciscan hermitage, where the prime importance was to lead a life given over to contemplation.  Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis.  I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona.  The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge, creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature.
    Benvenuti al Convento di celle Fonda..tona
  • “Overview of the Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano”…<br />
<br />
This image is a combination of three horizontal images to create a panoramic view centered on the main focal point of Positano…the Church of Santa Maria Assunta.  After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions.  As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. The ancient church was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159.  Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Panoramica di Chiesa di Santa Maria ..tano
  • "Looking up to the Crucified Christ in the Cathedral of San Rufino in Assisi"...<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore, was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the one consolation was the dramatic anticipation of the divine scenery emerging in the distance. Rising slowly up the Assisi hillside after a slow ascent to the highest peak, around the final corner awaited the Romanesque Duomo of Saint Rufino completed in the 12th century. In this church, Saint Francis of Assisi, Saint Clare, and many of their original disciples were baptized among the many spiritual and historical missions of the Duomo.  Peering upward from the perspective of the Christian witnesses to the crucifixion, one cannot imagine His passion and pain. Yet, with great scrutiny… His pain more internal, and His vision external for all to see.
    Guardando verso l'alto a Crocifisso ..sisi
  • “Bell and Reflections at St. Francis Convent of Celle – Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Campana e Riflessioni presso San Fra..tona
  • “The veranda of the Hotel Giotto features the blue twilight of Assisi”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown.  Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey.  However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night.  Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below.  Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out.  As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the moonlit skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.  This image was created as the bellissimo blue hue of the night descended over the valley of Assisi displaying panoramic views of Spoleto and Perugia.  The highlight of the image is the Benedictine Abbey of St Peter which was consecrated in 1253.
    La veranda di Hotel Giotto Presenta ..sisi
  • “The spring moon shines down upon the Papal Basilica of St. Francis”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown.  Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey.  However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night.  Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below.  Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out.  As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the moonlit skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Il luna brilla molla dall'alto in ba..esco
  • “Crimson Crucifixion in the chapel of Church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi Coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. After circling the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image. The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun. Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large number of tourists and the bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious, and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the Azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. I found this Crucifix inside a small chapel of the ancient church which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Cremisi Crocifissione nella cappella..tano
  • "Crucifixion in the Church of Santa Maria Assunta chapel in Positano"... <br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image. The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun. Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. I found this Crucifix inside a small chapel of the ancient church which was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Crocifissione nella cappella di Chie..tano
  • “Midnight glow of the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi - Snow White”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown.  Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey.  However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night.  Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below.  Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out.  As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the midnight skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzanotte bagliore della Basilica P..neve
  • “Midnight peace of the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi - Snow White”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Frances, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown.  Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey.  However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night.  Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below.  Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out.  As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the midnight skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzanotte pace della Basilica Papal..neve
  • “Rising above the Basilica Piazza San Francesco – Assisi”…<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain and the fortress of Rocca Maggiore, was highlighted time after time by a vision of something more mystical and spiritual than the last. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. The climb to the top was fraught with a multitude of very steep and exhaustive staircases, but the one consolation was the dramatic anticipation of the divine scenery emerging in the distance.
    L'aumento di sopra della piazza di B..sisi
  • "Rainbow of God shines Between San Rufino and St. Clare of Assisi"...<br />
<br />
This image is perhaps one of the most blessed and miraculous of my Italian journey.  Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down.  Looking back over my shoulder, I was mesmerized at the appearance of a double rainbow from the heavens shining down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino, and the Basilica of Saint Clare. I was able to take this close-up horizontal image of the rainbow just before the sun dropped down below the horizon...and, it slowly faded.  My Italian journey was now and forever blessed by the hand of God.
    Arcobaleno di Dio risplende Tra San ..sisi
  • "Colorful overview of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano"...<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal. After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image. The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun. Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions. As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church. The Church of Santa Maria Assunta is a prominent aspect of Positano’s cultural, religious and architectural landscape. Strategically located in the center of town with the backdrop of the azzurro Mediterranean Sea, the church’s colorful majolica tiled cupola is one of the town’s iconic symbols. The ancient church was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary in 1159. Santa Maria keeps a blessed and watchful eye over Positano and welcomes all to this beautiful seaside village.
    Panoramica colorata di Santa Maria A..tano
  • "Ancient bridge to the Convent of cells - founded by San Francesco in Cortona"...<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Antico ponte al Convento di cellule ..tona
  • "Sunrise on the mountain at Hotel California in Positano"...<br />
<br />
There was only one occasion that I was really able to pre-plan taking photos at sunrise and that was during the last day of three in Positano. It takes much planning, logistics, and familiarity to figure the best locations and the proper angles and positions of the sun. My third morning was ideal and fortuitous as it began raining about 10:00 am which gave me perfect clouds for sunrise, finally ending with a very cold wind just in time for sunset. This image is one of the rare photos of a slumbering Positano in the dewing morning around 6:00 am at the end of May….the beginning of peak tourist season. By 8:00 am, this tiny seaside village is bustling with tourists and shop owners, and restaurateurs trying to satisfy every need. All in all, Positano was by far the plushest of all the locations I visited in Italy, and I was blessed to witness everything in full bloom.
    Alba sulla montagna all'albergo Albe..tano
  • “The last rays of the sun fall on the Papal Basilica of St. Francis”…<br />
<br />
This image is a horizontal view of the many mystical and blessed of my perfect 24 hours in Assisi. Upon arrival early that day I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner. Upon my final steps to the top at almost sunset, the clouds parted and the low sun brightened as a slight mist of rain came down. Looking back over my shoulder, the appearance of a rainbow shone down between the Duomo of Saint Rufino, and the Basilica of Saint Clare. After the first small rainbow dissipated...I moved about 200 yards to the opposite view facing the setting sun over the Basilica of St. Francis. I was fortunate to capture several dramatic images just before another rainbow appeared behind me...a spectacular and blessed show by the hand of God.
    L'ultima raggi del sole cadono sulla..esco
  • "Crescent moon above the Basilica Papale di San Francesco"...<br />
<br />
Upon arrival early that day in Assisi, I began taking photos the second I parked at Hotel Giotto just inside the walls in the foothills of Assisi. Perhaps Saint Francis arranged the dramatically perfect skies and coordinated every encounter. Beginning at the Basilica of Saint Francis, every second of the climb to the top of the mountain to the fortress Rocca Maggiore, a new surprise awaited around every corner.  Never stopping for lunch or dinner, I continued to photograph new images well past sundown.  Traversing the narrow steps and strada back down to the bottom of the mountaintop to my hotel, the walk seemed a bit less strenuous and I felt a sense of gratitude and completion of my day long journey.  However, the very quiet Assisi seemed to have fallen into a deep slumber in the early nighttime leaving all the restaurants closed for the night.  Pleading with the hotel manager, she desperately arranged a late dinner at one of the most iconic restaurants in Assisi, La Locanda Del Cardinale, which was built over an ancient Roman settlement dating from the first century B.C., with glass floors to view the mosaics below.  Walking back at midnight to the hotel, the peaceful Assisi continued to call out.  As the serene, quiet Basilica of Saint Francis stood majestically and glowed in the midnight skies, one could not help but to acquiesce to its mystical yearning for just a few more memorable portraits in the cool dew of the early morning air.
    Mezzaluna luna sopra Il Basilica Pap..esco
  • “Sunlight shines on the Convent of the Cells by St. Francis in Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Luce del sole splende sulla Convento..tona
  • “San Francesco enjoys Mass at the Convent of cells in Cortona”…<br />
<br />
In the year 1211, St. Francis and a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the now Franciscan Hermitage, and it has been called Le Celle ever since. Originally, only a few small hermit’s cottages and peasant dwellings existed, including a small chapel built during the Lombard invasions and dedicated to the Archangel Michael.  This is believed to be the place where, in May 1226, four months before his death, St. Francis dictated his Will. Following the death of Saint Francis that same year, Brother Elias of Cortona who was among the first to join St. Francis of Assisi in his newly founded Order of Friars Minor, withdrew permanently to the Le Celle Hermitage.  In 1239, Elias carried out a number of improvements and restoration works which ensured the hermitage became a permanent Franciscan property. Brother Elias is in fact considered responsible for having broken up the stone of the caves and created a chapel that was formerly used as a dormitory by the monks, and the small cell where St. Francis lived. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona.  The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge, creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.  This image is of the tiny chapel built into the rock of the cliffside. Notice the statue of Saint Francis in the window quietly observing the Mass.
    San Francesco gode Messa presso il C..tona
  • “St. Francis carving - Friary Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    San Francesco intaglio - Convento de..tona
  • "The evening sun shines on the cross at the Convent of Celle Cortona"...<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    Il sole della sera splende sulla cro..tona
  • “Descending sun illuminates the Convent of the Cells of Saint Francis in Cortona”…<br />
<br />
Known as Le Celle, this Franciscan hermitage is just five miles from Cortona at the foot of Mount Sant’ Egidio. In 1211, St. Francis along with a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the hermitage, and it has taken the name of Le Celle ever since.  Inside the tiny cell belonging to St. Francis is a tiny window, the bed on which he slept, his desk, and a painting of the Madonna and Child where he prayed.  The Hermitage invokes a peaceful atmosphere of spirituality and solitude, yet it is vibrant with religious life. Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis.  I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona.  The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge, creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. The convent is able to offer lodgings to those contemplating a vocational life.  Just inside one of the doors to Le Celle, I noticed the sunlight shining delicately through the transom window gently illuminating the old wooden door and cross.  This image epitomizes all the simplicities in which Saint Frances preached and lived.  It represents his spartan structure with the rough textured concrete walls, antique faded wooden door, the green trees in nature which he loved, and the mystic evening sun softening the aging appearance, and revealing his simple life of prayer and personal austerity.  As I departed the evening tranquility of Le Celle, turning one last time to ponder its beauty…the sun rays divided the clouds and winked at a very grateful photographer.
    Scendendo sole illumina il Convento ..tona
  • “Station of the Cross - Convent of Celle, founded by St. Francis Cortona”…<br />
<br />
Around the perimeter of the Convent one can find Stations of the Cross.  Here is a Station carved into the ancient stones with a simple rusted Cross for reflection and prayer. In the year 1211, St. Francis and a few of his followers built the first nine cells of the now Franciscan Hermitage, and it has been called Le Celle ever since. Originally, only a few small hermit’s cottages and peasant dwellings existed, including a small chapel built during the Lombard invasions and dedicated to the Archangel Michael.  This is believed to be the place where, in May 1226, four months before his death, St. Francis dictated his Will. Following the death of Saint Francis that same year, Brother Elias of Cortona who was among the first to join St. Francis of Assisi in his newly founded Order of Friars Minor, withdrew permanently to the Le Celle Hermitage.  In 1239, Elias carried out a number of improvements and restoration works which ensured the hermitage became a permanent Franciscan property. Brother Elias is in fact considered responsible for having broken up the stone of the caves and created a chapel that was formerly used as a dormitory by the monks, and the small cell where St. Francis lived. The walls built under leadership of Brother Elias are rough but solid; the hermitage contains eight small rooms large enough for a bed, table and a chair – the essential furnishings prescribed by St. Francis himself for a Franciscan hermitage, where the prime importance was to lead a life given over to contemplation.  Currently, the hermitage is inhabited by seven friars who continue to practice the teachings of St. Francis.  I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona.  The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge, creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature.
    Stazione della Croce - Convento di C..tona
  • “Haze of light in the late afternoon descends on the church of Santa Maria Assunta in Positano”…<br />
<br />
After an exhilarating drive along the high cliffs on the Amalfi coast from Sorrento down to Positano, I found myself in sensory overload with its beauty and photogenic appeal.  After circling around the entire village and its cliffside three times on Positano’s only street, which was a single lane winding down from the top and back up and over to where I began, I finally found the parking garage by the hotel, about 2/3rds up the facing village in this image.  The climb down the winding road and steep staircases made for quite a workout in the hot late May sun.  Reaching the beach and marina, I forgot about my exhaustion and could not capture enough of Positano’s plush beauty; however, the large amount of tourists and bright sun did not allow for ideal conditions.  As I made my way along the beach and shoreline, rays from the late afternoon sunlight coming over the mountain top blinded me as they illuminated the famous church.  The hazy ambience was perfectly accentuating a glowing cross and the Majorca cupula of Santa Maria Assunta.
    Caligine di luce nel tardo pomeriggi..tano
  • “The entrance to the Convent of Cells founded by St. Francis – Cortona”…<br />
<br />
St. Francis came to Cortona to preach in 1211, and here at the foot of Mount Sant’Egidio found the solitude he was looking for. A young nobleman who went on to become the Blessed Guido, one of his first followers, offered him the place as a prayer retreat. From that moment St. Francis and his followers stayed in this isolated spot on the way to and from Assisi and other places where they were preaching. There was no hermitage in St. Francis’s time, however, and the saint slept on the bare rock. After he died in 1226, the first stone “cells” were built and a small oratory. What we see today is the result of the XVI century construction work. Le Celle stood abandoned until 1537 when it was granted by the Bishop of Cortona to the recently founded Third Order of Franciscans, known as the Capuchins. The hermitage was considerably enlarged by the Capuchins, who in 1634 erected a new chapel to take the place of a more ancient one. This new chapel was consecrated to St Anthony of Padua and reflects the Capuchins simple, unpretentious architectural and decorative style. I found Le Celle to be one of the pleasant surprises in and around Cortona. The tiny cells built into the side of the mountain with a stream descending along the structural edge creates a surreal and picturesque vision of Saint Francis’ image of God and nature. Imagine the spiritual solitude as Saint Francis would take hermitage here for days of ecstatic meditation with only a loaf of bread, listening to his beloved waterfall beneath a small window.
    L'ingresso del Convento di Celle fon..tona
  • “The steep slope and patriotic houses of Cortona”…<br />
<br />
Entering Cortona, one realizes the charm and charisma of this hilltop village.  With its steep streets, ruined Etruscan and Roman walls, narrow alleys, and medieval buildings, Cortona maintains ancient origins and has remained uniquely unchanged today.  Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside.  No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona.  The tiny walled town of Cortona was probably not the most fortified with large amounts of photogenic attractions within its ramparts, but professed to be the perfect central Tuscany location. Cortona was perhaps the most quaint and charming of towns during my Italian journey, and I was surprised to see the University of Georgia has maintained a campus there since 1970.  If one has the legs and heart to traverse the steep grades of this ancient Tuscan village, Cortona offers great rewards and blessings under the bellissimo Tuscan Sun.  The warm ambiance of Cortona, in contrast with its grueling hills…one may find colorful, delicate, and enduring beauty.
    La ripida pendenza e le case patriot..tona
  • “The vibrant flowers and doors of Cortona”…<br />
<br />
Entering Cortona, one realizes the charm and charisma of this hilltop village. With its steep streets, ruined Etruscan and Roman walls, narrow alleys, and medieval buildings, Cortona maintains ancient origins and has remained uniquely unchanged today. Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside. No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona. The tiny walled town of Cortona was probably not the most fortified with large amounts of photogenic attractions within its ramparts, but professed to be the perfect central Tuscany location. Cortona was perhaps the most quaint and charming of towns during my Italian journey, and I was surprised to see the University of Georgia has maintained a campus there since 1970. If one has the legs and heart to traverse the steep grades of this ancient Tuscan village, Cortona offers great rewards and blessings under the bellissimo Tuscan Sun. The warm ambiance of Cortona, in contrast with its grueling hills…one may find colorful, delicate, and enduring beauty.
    I fiori vibrante e porte di Cortona
  • "Going down the old stairs in Cortona to find the modern"...<br />
<br />
Entering Cortona, one realizes the charm and charisma of this hilltop village. With its steep streets, ruined Etruscan and Roman walls, narrow alleys, and medieval buildings, Cortona maintains ancient origins and has remained uniquely unchanged today. Before embarking upon my one month journey in Italy, I prepared by walking, running, and exercising 3-4 hours a day to get in shape to hike the steep grades carrying a 25lb. camera bag over the strenuous terrain of the Italian countryside. No amount of training prepared me for the hot and humid climate, mountainous landscape, and steep grades throughout the country of Italy, and the extremely grueling le strade in Cortona. The tiny walled town of Cortona was probably not the most fortified with large amounts of photogenic attractions within its ramparts, but professed to be the perfect central Tuscany location. Cortona was perhaps the most quaint and charming of towns during my Italian journey, and I was surprised to see the University of Georgia has maintained a campus there since 1970. If one has the legs and heart to traverse the steep grades of this ancient Tuscan village, Cortona offers great rewards and blessings under the bellissimo Tuscan Sun. The warm ambiance of Cortona, in contrast with its grueling hills…one may find colorful, delicate, and enduring beauty.
    Scendendo giù per le antiche scale a..erno
  • “The Spirit of God descends like a Dove - Painting by Dino Carbetta – Azure”…<br />
<br />
Gospel Jn 20:19-23 “On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.” When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.”<br />
2 Corinthians 1:3-7 “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and God of all encouragement, who encourages us in our every affliction, so that we may be able to encourage those who are in any affliction with the encouragement with which we ourselves are encouraged by God. For as Christ’s sufferings overflow to us, so through Christ* does our encouragement also overflow. If we are afflicted, it is for your encouragement and salvation; if we are encouraged, it is for your encouragement, which enables you to endure the same sufferings that we suffer. Our hope for you is firm, for we know that as you share in the sufferings, you also share in the encouragement.”
    Lo Spirito di Dio scende come una Co..urro
  • “The boat of Saints Giacomo and Giovanni rests in the evening sun - Marina Grande Sorrento”…<br />
<br />
Mt. Chapter 4:20-22 “At once they left their nets and followed him. He walked along from there and saw two other brothers, James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They were in a boat, with their father Zebedee, mending their nets. He called them, and immediately they left their boat and their father and followed him.” Sunday afternoon in this tiny hallowed port on the Mediterranean was bustling, not with tourists, but with energetic and unassuming locals. The misty skies were vulnerable all day with the promise of rain, but the reluctant sun penetrated the clouds for a few fortuitous moments. God painted the skies for brief moments with luminous pastel elements of abstract color. We left after lunch only to humbly return perceiving the brilliant orange skies cascading down upon the piccolo village as a gift from Heaven. I am not an expert in, nor born in Marina Grande or Sorrento, but the Gulf of Naples is where my Grandfather and his family are from. It seems that every time I have set foot in this tiny village, the skies explode with color and welcome its former lineage home. Shortly after the last picture was captured, it was meal time with the entire Pilgrimage group. A perfect dinner at my favorite restaurant, Ristorante di “Zi'Ntonio Mare, was enjoyed by all!
    La barca dei Santi Giacomo e Giovann..ento
  • “Monumental Church of San Michele Arcangelo, Anacapri”…<br />
<br />
On the third morning in Sorrento, I departed on a high-speed ferry to the island of Capri. Although promoting high-speed, it still took over an hour to arrive at the very crowded Island. Capri is located off the coast of Naples and there must be a new Ferry full of tourists arriving every 20 minutes throughout the day. Famous for its Blue Grotto, which I did not venture to this trip, Capri is a picturesque Mediterranean retreat with high cliffs and ancient Roman villas. The highlight of my visit was the small and very crowded bus ride along the edge of the cliff to Anacapri. I was standing closest to the door on the right side of the bus during the ascent up the mountainside. All I could see was the rocky shore below and with every leaning left turn, prayed desperately I would make it to the top. Anacapri is a historic mountaintop town with commanding views of Capri and the sea below. This 4 image panorama was taken from the tiny balcony above the diminutive Church of St Michael the Archangel in Anacapri, located on Piazza San Nicola. The church was built in 1719, with an octagonal shape and of Baroque style. The church received a "monument" designation due to its notable majolica floor mosaic of creation with Adam and Eve. One must traverse the sacred tile floor on benches around the edges to protect the imagery.
    Chiesa Monumentale di San Michele Ar..apri
  • "Waiting for the visitation of St. Francis with Grace - Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi"<br />
<br />
The seventh morning of our Pilgrimage, we sorrowfully said goodbye to the majestic Sorrento and set out to find the spiritual mecca of Assisi. The excitement of Saint Francis' mountaintop walled village perked our eyes toward the bus windows. Hotel Giotto welcomed all!  An evening Mass with Fr. Peek in the PAX Chapel (a small underground sanctuary in Saint Francis Basilica) hosted our celebration. Mass was celebrated in honor of the wedding anniversary of Bill and Bardeen Dunphy from Atlanta, GA. I cannot say enough about the wonderful quality of people and Catholics in which I had the honor to accompany on our Pilgrimage. A small group of only 12, but mighty in character, affection, spirituality, and compassion. Bill and Bardeen epitomized this nature and shared their love will all our Pilgrims and those who witnessed our gatherings. We were also blessed by a humble, yet charismatic Priest, Fr. Kevin Peek. He seemed to know every other person in Italy, and subsequently, we all found new friends at dinner time. I cannot honestly conclude a more perfect Pilgrimage Priest than Father, and he was the epitome of a Spiritual guide. He not only celebrated Mass each morning in the most beautiful and prestigious Basilica’s in the world, he also led nighttime rosary walks through the Italian Strada, offered confession, interjected stories of the Saints, discussed all Italian epicurean delights with great enthusiasm, and spread the word and love of God to anyone who would listen.  After Mass, the sun once again glowed as it set behind Saint Francis Basilica. There is probably not a more exteriorly photographed church in the world, and it always seems eager to please. The Basilica poses graciously night or day and proudly extends a loving welcome not only to those who are blessed to be there but all those who witness its image created by God and the fortunate artist of capture.
    In attesa della visita di San France..sisi
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