Dublin

The sign says: "Please do not leave beer kegs here, they will be removed."

Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral)

I went to the Cologne Cathedral today:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cologne_Cathedral

The history around it is fascinating. In the 2nd world war, the entire area around it was flattened, while it, though hit by some bombs did not collapse. You can still see the black marks from the soot and smoke of the explosions. I have always wanted to see this cathedral because it is supposedly one of the best examples of gothic architecture in northern Europe. I'm not sure what to say about it yet. I found its size and detail overwhelming. But perhaps this is the best proof that it is an archtype of gothic decor and architecture.

Montpellier, France

I just visited a friend in Montpellier, France. The city center dates back to just before the turn of the first millenium but like many cities in Europe it has layers both in the city center and as it expands outwards that go all the way up to the present. I loved the architecture. It was a complete change from Germany. Besides the city, I got out to the Mediterranean and also a very cool Wetlands area.

City Center

City Center

City Center

City Center

The Porte du Peyrou: modeled after the triumphal arch in Paris

Park, City Center

City Center

Aqueduct

Aqueduct

Aqueduct

Park, City Center

Park, City Center

The Porte du Peyrou

City Center

City Center

City Center

City Center

Wetlands and thing

Wetlands

Wetlands

Wetlands

Wetlands

Wetlands

Meat, Supermarket

Mallard Duck, Wetlands

Wetlands

That is the Mediterranean Sea. Directly across is Africa. That was very surreal to realise.