statues – Snapping The Globe

Star Attractions

Palm Springs… The desert get away for Hollywood stars!

Many years ago, Palm Springs became the place for Hollywood’s rich and famous could escape to enjoy the warm dry climate and leave behind the gossip columnist watchful eyes. Only 107 miles from Los Angeles, it became a safe haven where numerous stars bought homes, including Douglas Fairbanks, Mary Pickford, Lillian Gish, John and Lionel Barrymore, Bing Crosby, Errol Flynn, Robert Wagner, Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope.

While today, the city still hosts many stars, it is now more popularly known as the Golf Capital of the World. You may see the occasional star, especially during the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival or while they seek nearby vacation hotspots, but the most reliable places to catch them is in the downtown area.

Okay, maybe not in the flesh, but they’re essence… In the forms of statues and stars!

Head over to the Palm Springs Art Museum to get a glimpse of Marilyn Monroe. The Forever Marilyn statue, designed by Seward Johnson, is a representation of one of the most famous images of Marilyn Monroe from the 1955 film The Seven Year Itch. Standing 26 feet tall and weighing 24,000 pounds, the statue was first displayed on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and was then moved to Palm Springs in 2012. Two years later, it was relocated to Hamilton, New Jersey at the Grounds For Sculpture an2015, then sent to Bendigo Australia sword guard gallery until 2017 and then to downtown Stamford Connecticut for an exhibit station honoring the works of Seward Johnson . In 2019, it finally returned to Palm Springs where it now remains a permanent fixture, seemingly mooning the art museum. Although it is caused quite a stir it attracts thousands of visitors, hoping to get an Instagram worthy photo while standing beneath her bellowing skirts.

A short distance away, on South Palm Canyon Drive, fans can visit the statue of the late singer (of Sonny and Cher fame), mayor and United States representative, Sonny Bono. Judging from the shiny nose (rubbed for luck) and legs (lots of sitting in his lap), thousands of visitors flock to pay their respects to the savvy businessman, entertainer, politician, and great mayor who worked hard to put the city back on the map and elevate its status.

While statues are great remembrances, downtown Palm Springs also has its own Walk of the Stars, much like Hollywood’s. Over 400 celebrity’s stars line Palm Canyon Drive, Museum Way and Tahquitz Canyon Way, including Liberace, Elizabeth Taylor, Elvis Presley, Sonny Bono, Frank Sinatra, Presidents of the United States, literary figures, pioneers, tribal leaders, humanitarians and hundreds more. Established in 1992, the first induction ceremony was held in February of that year and the most recent, February of this year.

If you are a fan of Hollywood’s elite and in Palm Springs, take a bit of time to check out these star attractions!

For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

Forever Marilyn

Address: Palm Springs Art Museum, 101 North Museum Drive, Palm Springs, California 92262
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free

Sonny Bono Statue

Address: 155 South Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, California 92262
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free

Palm Springs Walk of Stars

http://palmsprings.com
Address: Palm Canyon Drive, Tahquitz Canyon Way, Museum Drive, downtown Palm Springs
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free

The City of Presidents

While South Dakota is known for four specific Presidents, Washington, Lincoln, Roosevelt and Jefferson, carved into a mountainside, it had escaped my thorough attention to detail that Rapid City, being an extremely patriotic city, it is also known for its City of Presidents Sculpture Walk.

As I drove around the block, attempting to secure a parking spot near my hotel, I noticed many statues on each corner of Main and St. Joseph Streets. These life-size bronze statues are a tribute to our nation’s past presidents, a project which began in 2000 to honor the legacy of our leaders.

In 2000, President Abraham Lincoln was the first statue to be unveiled. Four statues a year were unveiled until 2010, when Presidents Arthur, Clinton and George W. Bush were completed.

Each of the forty-three sculptures is privately funded and placed in a pattern so as to maintain an orderly structure and eliminate any sense of favoritism or political gain. Although our 46th president is currently in office, you won’t see his likeness for a while as statues are unveiled every 4-8 years, depending on a president’s time in office and there are spots for eighty statues, so plenty of space to record our nation’s forthcoming history.

Numbers still not adding up? Grover Cleveland served twice as president, but wasn’t re-elected after his first term. He won the 1884 and 1892 elections, thus serving as the 22nd and 24th president and with the loss of the election by President Trump this past November, his statue should be in the works for an unveiling in the immediate future.

It is a lovely tribute and a great way to enjoy Rapid City’s downtown area.

Although I was headed to Mount Rushmore on my first day in town, I rose quite early on the next to take a closer look at these effigies. On this particular day, I made it through about half of the statues on St. Joseph Street, vowing to see the rest on the next.

I must admit, with the sun’s low angle due to the time of year, it was hard to get great photos of some of the statues, but at least they weren’t covered in snow…yet. That was reserved for the next day. Overnight, a light snowfall blanketed the city and the presidents! Although it was freezing…a glacial 15 degrees…I was determined to see all of the presidents that morning before leaving for the Badlands. I made a plan to walk down one side of Main Street, stopping on each corner, then crossing at Fourth Street to make it up the other side of Main. Each statue is a unique piece of artistry and represents something that the president was known for.

Gerald Ford, known for his affection for the family dog is depicted with his dog Liberty.

John F. Kennedy is shown holding hands with his son John Jr.

Calvin Coolidge is featured waving a Stetson hat next to a saddle; the original saddle was made for the President by Bud Duhamel of Rapid City.

John Tyler and his violin.

As I made my way back to St. Joseph Street, to see the statues I had missed the day before, I encountered some local Native American citizens who insisted I take their picture with President William Henry Harrison. They told me that they were contemplating adding a sign to the newspaper that Harry Truman was holding up, stating “Will Work For Food”! They thought it quite comical!

*Intersection of Sixth and St. Joseph Street*s, *George Washington, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, Andrew Johnson*

*Corner of Fifth and St. Joseph Streets, Richard Nixon, George W. Bush, Dwight D. Eisenhower, James A. Garfield*

*Corner of Fourth* *and St. Joseph Streets, Barack Obama, Grover Cleveland, Rutherford B. Hayes*

*Corner of Sixth and Main Streets, George H. Bush, John Adams*

*Corner of Fifth and Main Streets, Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Chester Arthur* *and Calvin Coolidge (pictured above)*

*Corner of Fourth and Main Streets, Ulysses S. Grant, William McKinley, James K. Polk, Benjamin Harrison*

*Corner of Seventh and Main Streets, Linden B. Johnson, John Quincy Adams, James Monroe*

*Corner of Eighth and Main Streets, Andrew Jackson, Martin Van Buren, William Howard Taft and John F. Kennedy (pictured above)*

*Corner of Ninth and Main Streets, James Buchanan, Abraham Lincoln, Teddy Roosevelt, Franklin Pierce*

*Corner of Ninth and St. Joseph Streets, Warren G. Harding, Zachary Taylor, Woodrow Wilson, Millard Filmore*

*Corner of Seventh and St. Joseph Streets, James Madison, Thomas Jefferson, William Jefferson Clinton* *and* *Gerald Ford (pictured above)*

*Corner of Eighth and St. Joseph Streets, Harry S. Truman, William Henry Harrison* *and John Tyler (pictured above)*

In addition to the President’s statues, you can find many famous statues throughout the city, two in particular that are located among the presidents in the downtown area with a Native American theme; Mitakauye Oyasin (All My Relatives) by Dale C. Lamphere and Hunkayapi (Tying on the Eagle Plume), by Dale C. Lamphere.

While in South Dakota, it is imperative that you make the trip out to see Mount Rushmore, but while in the Rapid City, don’t miss these amazing works of art and the downtown area which is a work of art in itself. Download the map of each of the presidential statue locations and visit the President’s Information Center for information, but challenge yourself to see how many you can recognize on your own!

For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

City of President’s Walking Tour

https://www.visitrapidcity.com/things-to-do/all-things/attractions/city-presidents#.VKYmuFQ_Dyw
Address: Main and St. Joseph Streets, between the blocks of Ninth and Fourth Streets
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free

Sanctuaries and Souvenirs

The early bird gets the worm…or a great breakfast!

Although I had checked many things off of my list of things to do in Havana, there was still a great deal more to see! As I sat in the dining room, enjoying my eggs, fruit and toast, I checked my map and thought more about the some of the things that were suggested by my seatmate on the flight to Havana.

Deciding to start at the Basilica and Convent of San Francis of Assisi, I thought that I would finally see more of the religious institutions that dot the predominately Catholic country.

Getting anywhere was slow going as I was continually distracted by the unique architecture that existed on each block. Passing the Museo Casa de Mexico Benito Juarez, I made a note to return later if there was time and then made a quick stop to admire the statue of Simon Bolivar, the Venezuelan military and political leader who led Venezuela, Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Panama to independence from the Spanish Empire.

*Casa de Benito Juarez* *and Simon Bolivar Statue*

Finally arriving in the Plaza de San Francisco de Asis, I first sought out two significant statues. The monument to the Polish composer, Frederic Chopin, sits on a bench, beckoning visitors to take a seat next to him and El Caballero, the bronze likeness of José María López Lledín, a man which much speculation once surrounded. An interesting story surrounds the latter. Originally from Spain, he was was said to have lost his family, arrested for a crime he did not commit and wandered the streets of Havana during the 1950s. He always carried a portfolio with his treasured pens, gifts and colored pieces of cards, which he bestowed on passersby. Over time, he became well known throughout the city and would often entertain with poetry recitals and storytelling. He died in 1985 and was buried in the Cemetery of Santiago de las Vegas. After the restoration of the plaza in the late 1990s, his remains were exhumed and placed in the Basilica Menor de San Francisco de Asis. His statue was erected in 2001 and was designed by sculptor José Villa Soberón, who also sculpted the John Lennon sculpture which can be found in the Parque Lennon in Vedado. His beard has been rubbed shiny and it is said that doing so gives good luck!

After a beard rubbing, I admired the lovely, wide open plaza and the beautiful buildings surrounding it, as well as the statue of Fray Junípero Serro with a Juaneño Indian boy, before entering the Basilica.

The original church that stood on this site was built by the Franciscans in 1591 but was damaged by severe storms in 1680 and 1692. A hurricane toppled its tower in 1694. Eventually, construction resulted in the church’s present Baroque stature in 1739, was named a basilica by the Pope and became the city’s premier house of worship. It eventually adjoined the adjacent Franciscan convent.

As I ventured inside, again I was a bit underwhelmed, as I had been with the Havana Cathedral. Its interior is in the shape of a Latin cross with domed ceilings, however, it lacked the grandeur that I thought would exist here. As I later learned, however, from 1762, the church no longer served the Catholic religion. From this time, the British had control over Havana and commandeered the basilica for Anglican services. Considered desecrated by the Protestants, Catholicism never existed within its walls again. Although the monks continued to occupy the convent, Queen Maria Cristina of Spain closed the building and transferred the members of the religious order. In 1907, the property was purchased by the government and sadly, became a warehouse.

Today, the church acts as one of Havana’s most outstanding concert halls and is home to the acclaimed all-female chamber orchestra, Camerata Romeu. As I wandered through the church, I was privy to some of the members performing during a rehearsal session.

Inside the crypt, the remains of many 17th and 18th century aristocrats can be found. The nave and the attached cloister also houses the Museum of Sacred Art which exhibits paintings by José Nicolás de la Escalera and Vicente Escobar, wooden images, early marriage registries and the armchairs and lectern used by Fidel Castro and Pope John Paul II during his 1998 visit. Though I enjoyed wandering through the church’s interior, it was the cloister with its fern-filled courtyards and countless rooms filled with religious artifacts that was most captivating.

The former church’s one hundred and thirty-seven foot tower, once the tallest in Havana (second tallest in Cuba), was previously crowned by a statue of St. Francis of Assisi, whose head was severed during a hurricane in 1846. Though the tower can be accessed by a somewhat rickety staircase (which I had planned to tackle for the beautiful views of the city), it was sadly not meant to be…the spire was closed due to maintenance.

Making my departure, I headed south on Oficios and immediately found myself staring at a train’s coach car, El Coche Mambi. Entering the car, I was greeted by an elderly woman, who explained (in Spanish) that visiting was by tour only. After paying her, she then led me through the car which was used by the Presidents on their tours of the country. Last used by Fidel Castro Ruz, the coach has been converted into a museum and preserved the same as when it was in use. Though my Spanish is basic, I mostly understood the history and what I was seeing as she led me through the coach and explained its contents. The president’s bedroom, the president’s wife’s bedroom, the kitchen, dining room and the president’s desk were quite interesting and beautifully displayed.

As I thanked the gracious senora for the short, yet insightful stopover, I ventured out, making my way to the waterside.

Headed toward the ferry terminal, I first encountered Our Lady of Kazan Orthodox Cathedral. Since I had deemed the day, “a church day”, I decided that my ferry to Regla could wait while I find if it was possible to see the church’s interior. Discovering unlocked doors, I peered inside, spying a woman performing some tasks. She did not seem disturbed by my presence, so I quietly entered and moved throughout the space, discovering each of the elements that make an orthodox church unique.

The church’s construction dates back to 2004 when Cuban leader Fidel Castro offered to build the cathedral as a monument to Russian and Cuban good-will. The cathedral was built in the Byzantine style with a central golden cupola surrounded by four smaller copper-colored ones. The pieces of the cupolas, as well as elements of decoration, including the floor covering and the church plate, were brought from Moscow and the interior has space for 500 congregants.

After my walk-thru was complete, I ventured back out into the sunshine, finally heading to the ferry terminal. My destination was the small town across the bay where the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Regla is located. Though I probably would have not done this without some coaxing, it was highly recommended by the tour guide that I sat beside on the airplane. After hearing how much I love visiting churches, he insisted that I take the ferry to see this church, which houses the black Madonna, a highly venerated statue of the Virgin Mary.

I was a bit nervous as I entered the ferry terminal. After having my bag searched, I unsuccessfully searched for a ticket counter. There were many people waiting and as a boat approached from the south, I assumed that this was the correct vessel. Lining up with both locals and tourists, I asked a gentleman if this was the boat to Regla and was told yes, only to glance up and discover that another boat had pulled up to the dock. Hmmm. I decided that I would go with my gut!

As I approached the lanchita on the right, I saw people paying the crew as they boarded. Thankfully, I had smaller change, even though I overpaid a bit…ticket price was only 10 centavos! Making my way across the boat to the open doorways, so that I could get some air while fighting for space among the masses, I again asked someone (who appeared to be a local) if I was on the boat to Regla. “Si Señora”, he replied and I breathed a sigh of relief.

As we pulled away from the dock, I realized that if I indeed was on the wrong boat, the other ferry crossed the bay to the Christ statue and that wouldn’t be such a bad thing. Our ferry motored off, getting further from the city and I spied the golden cupola of Our Lady of Kazan in the distance, reflecting the brilliant glow of the day. And…it looked like we were headed in the right direction!

Seven minutes later, we were pulling up to the dock in Regla and I decided to follow those who appeared to be tourists. From the looks of the area, it seemed like the church was the tourist destination of choice…maybe the only choice.

Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Regla was a short walk and I was met by many vendors sitting on the stone gates which surrounded the church, hoping to sell me a candle or an offering to the Virgin. The church, with its long colorful history, is extremely important to the believers of the Virgin. The statue, which was believed to have been carved by St. Augustine “the African” in the 5th century, was brought from Spain in 453. After surviving a storm in the Strait of Gibraltar, it became known as the patron of sailors.

A small hut was built on the site, to house a copy of the image in 1687 by a pilgrim named Manuel Antonio, but was destroyed by a hurricane only five years later. A more durable chapel was built a few years later and in 1714, Nuestra Señora de Regla was proclaimed patron of the Bahía de la Habana. In 1957, the image was crowned by the Cuban Cardinal in the Havana Cathedral. On September 7, the saint is celebrated when thousands of pilgrims descend on Regla and the image is paraded through the streets.

The church’s vaulted ceiling makes a grand statement above the lightness of the church’s color scheme which is trimmed in blue, a salute to its association with the sea. There are beautiful paintings which depict life on the ocean, carved stations of the cross, saint’s statues and a golden side altar. As you enter the church, however, it is the altar, directly in your line of vision, that houses La Santísima Virgen de Regla. Though I had to wait a short time, I was finally able to approach the altar and take pictures of the Black Madonna…truly awe inspiring.

The ferry ride back to Old Havana was a quick affair and I toyed with the idea of immediately jumping on the other ferry. I wanted to revisit the Christ Statue and Castillo Des Los Tres Reyes Del Morro and I also wanted to tour La Cabana. There were other things in Old Havana that I wanted to discover first, however, so off I went by land, towards the Almacenes San José Artisan’s Market.

Since I had done a bit of browsing on Obispo street, but not yet made any significant purchases, I was eager to see what I might find in this highly recommended establishment. Built in 1885, the Havana’s oldest depository is the home to the largest artisan’s market in the city. A short walk from the harbor, it is easily accessible to cruise ship arrivals and offers everything from clothes to paintings to toys and tobacco accessories. The sheer size of it was quite overwhelming and I was not sure where to turn. As everyone tried to garner my attention, I decided that I would try to find shirts for my sons and a nativity set for my collection. In a predominately Catholic country, it would seem that finding a nativity set would be an easy feat, however, it took at least a half an hour of talking to people, who then went to talk to people, in order to find one! And since I was pretty particular about the type of t-shirts that I was searching for, it was a similar procedure. It was quite exhausting, but I met some interesting people, learned some interesting local news and walked away with the purchases I had planned and then a couple of unplanned ones too!

With my heavy package, I decided that I would begin heading back to my Airbnb to drop them and have a quick bite to eat. Crossing the street, however, I spotted the Church of St. Francisco of Paula. What caught my attention was the tall trio of stained glass windows on the rear of the church. I decided that I should take a quick look from the inside to see their sunlit beauty.

What originally served as an important hospital for women and children during the end of the 17th century, was built with an adjoining church devoted to St. Francis of Paola, one of the founders of the Roman Catholic Order of the Minims. The buildings were destroyed by a hurricane in 1730, but rebuilt in the Baroque style that is seen today. When the Havana Central Railroad attempts to demolish the church was met by opposition, work was completed to have it listed as a National Monument in 1944. Sadly, however, the railroad was able to destroy the hospital.

The church that can be visited today is similar in style to other Havana churches, those of Santo Domingo, Guanabacoa and San Francisco de Asis and has been extensively restored. The stained glass windows, that lured me inside, act as the altarpiece and this church has the only organ that has been preserved in Cuba with its original pipes and machinery. The ashes of the great Cuban violinist Claudio José Brindis de Salas (1852-1911), considered one of the best violinists of his time, are preserved in the church and although the the belfry still exists, its original three bells, destroyed during the hurricane of 1730, were never restored.

My stomach was starting to rumble and my feet were starting to ache, but there was one more church I wanted to see before I shifted gears. A couple of blocks from St. Francis of Paola church was the Iglesia y Convento de la Merced.

Having seen a few churches in the city, I had been a bit underwhelmed. This one, however, did not disappoint. One of the most beautiful churches in Havana, it was built between 1865 and 1867 in the Baroque style and is the type to make you gasp as you lay your eyes on the interior. Decorated by Cuban artists, it contains murals and frescoes throughout with highlights of light blue on the ceiling and an elegant black and white marble floor. Beautiful statuary and intricately carved stations of the cross grace its heart and it was hard not to take a seat on the old carved pews to rest and pray for a few moments. The most intriguing part of the church, however, was the chapel on the left side of the church with a full grotto installed behind the altar. Though the church is suffering from exposure to the damp air and is in need of restoration, it is truly one that I was glad that I did not miss.

Finally, it was time to continue my journey back to my temporary home. It had been a busy morning and I needed to refresh and refuel. After my lunch, it would be time to change channels from churches to the forts that lay across the channel.

From prayers to protection…all in a day in Havana!

For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

Casa Benito Juarez

Address: 116, Obrapia, La Habana, Cuba
Hours: Sunday and Tuesday only, 0930-1430.
Admission: Unknown

Statue of Simon Bolivar

Address: Mercaderes, Obrapia, La Habana, Cuba
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free

Convento and Basilica Menor of San Francis of Assisi

Address: Plaza de San Francisco La Habana Vieja, Havana Cuba
Hours: 0930-1800, daily
Admission: Church and Museum, $2 CUC (about $2 US), Tower $1 CUC (about $1 US), Children under 12 years, free

El Coche Mambi

Address: Oficios y Churruca, Havana, Cuba
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 0930-1600. Closed Sunday.
Admission: By tour only, $2 CUC (about $2 US)

Our Lady of Kazan Orthodox Cathedral

Address: Avenida del Puerto Esquina Calles Sol y Santa Clara – La Habana Vieja, Havana 10100 Cuba
Hours: No posted opening times
Admission: free

Terminal de Ferris (Ferry Terminal)

Address: Avenue Del Puerto, La Habana, Cuba
Hours: 0400-midnight, daily.
Admission: 10 centavos (about 10 cents US)
Capacity is 90 persons and boats depart every 15 minutes

Iglesia de Nuestra Senora de Regla

Address: Avenue Marti, Regla, Cuba
Hours: 0800-1700, daily
Admission: free, donations accepted

Almacenes San José Artisan’s Market

Address: Avenida del Puerto corner of Calle Cuba
Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 1000-1800. Closed on Monday.
Admission: free

St. Francis of Paola

Address: 110 Leonor Pérez, Havana, Cuba
Hours: No posted opening times
Admission: free

Iglesia Y Convento de la Merced

Address: Calle de Cuba 806, Havana, Cuba
Hours: Hours listed are 0800-1200 and 1500-1700, Monday-Saturday and 0900-1300, Sunday, however, I ventured in after the noon hour, so church may or may not be closed. Mass times are 0900, Monday-Saturday and noon, Sunday
Admission: free

Hello Havana!

Stepping onto Obrapia Street, I first looked left and then right.

First instincts were to gauge how safe I felt in this new city. Heading back one block, I decided to walk along Obispo Street, which is only open to foot traffic. Walking along this pedestrian friendly thoroughfare, I noticed that it was very well kept and there were many shops, banks, parks, restaurants and a few museums.

Ducking into an artisan market, I browsed the unique souvenirs available and then made my way across the street to inspect a statue of Don Quixote by Leo D’Lazaro (1989), in the Parque de Obispo. There were many locals relaxing in the shade of the large, old trees and the smell of Cuban cuisine filled the air.

Taking a seat on one of the benches, I observed the passersby. Everyone was going about their business and there appeared to be many tourists in the area, making me feel more comfortable. I felt good about venturing further.

After taking a look at my map, I decided to walk westward toward the famous El Floridita bar, located at the Parque Francisco de Albear y Lara. Floridita is a historic fish restaurant and cocktail bar located across from the National Museum of Fine Arts of Havana. It is a hot tourist spot, perfect for people watching and known for having been one of the favorite hangouts of Ernest Hemingway. Though I never made it inside, I was told that there is a life size bronze statue of the writer and excellent daiquiris!

Interesting little tuk-tuks were parked all along the square, waiting for someone to hire them, and along with horse-drawn carriages, there were countless classic beauties driving through and parked inside the square. It was evident that the owners were quite proud of their vehicles and most posed alongside waiting for someone to hire them or just engage them in conversation. I watched as many a gentleman popped the hood, eager to share the immaculate condition of their automobiles.

Continuing on, I walked through the Parque Central among the tall, elegant palm trees lining the square and admired the statue of Jose Marti, poet, essayist, patriot and martyr, who became the symbol of Cuba’s struggle for independence from Spain.

*Parque Central and Jose Marti Monument*

Next on my walking tour was the Boulevard de San Rafael where I spotted the London Bar, Hotel Inglaterra and many old but intriguing buildings. Back to the corner of the boulevard and the Paseo di Marti, I stood in awe of the National Theater. True elegance reigned here, both on the exterior and the interior, as it is the home of the Cuban National Ballet. The Baroque exterior boasts some amazing white marble sculptures which are part of a group of ninety-seven by Giuseppe Moretti and Geneva Mercer and represent charity, education, music and theater. There were posters advertising upcoming performances and I wondered if I could somehow procure tickets for a memorable evening!

What I had spied from my balcony now stood before me…the National Capitol Building or El Capitolio. One of the most visited sites in Havana, the building dates back to the initiation of its construction in 1926 and is located in the exact center of Havana. Prior to the Cuban Revolution of 1959, Congress was housed in the building until it was abolished and disbanded. The building fell into disrepair and since 2013, the government of Cuba has undertaken a restoration project hoping to use the building once again for Cuba’s National Assembly.

Although its design looks much like the United States Capitol, it is a meter higher, a meter wider, a meter longer and much richer in detail. Until the 1950’s, it was the tallest building in the city and houses the world’s third largest indoor statue, located in the apse. La Republica or the Statue of the Republic stands at almost 92 meters high. There are also statues at the main entrance, flanking the fifty-two steps, by Angelo Zanelli, twelve ionic granite columns measuring forty-six feet tall and three large bronze doors with bas-reliefs also by Zanelli which allow access to the main hall. Though I would have loved to have toured the building, it was later in the day and I wasn’t sure it was open. There were other things that I wanted to see, so I hoped that I could squeeze the Capitol into one of my other activity-packed days.

Leisurely strolling along the Paseo di Marti, I admired the unique lamp posts, colorful buildings and the occasional classic car that drove by. Crossing the street near the Capitol, I entered the Parque de la Fraternidad or Fraternity Park with its multitude of busts of Latin and North American leaders. Once known as the Square of Mars and the site of military exercises, the park is now a busy meeting place and centered with a massive ceilba tree.

After making my way around the park I casually glanced down the street and noticed something that I was not expecting to see. A Chinese gate!

Yes, Havana has a Chinatown!

Though not very ornate in nature, it was surprising and probably one of the only places in the world that you will spot antique Fords and Chevrolets driving though its arch. Making my way only a short distance past the gate, I learned from my tour guide the next day, that there are actually some pretty good Chinese restaurants in this area.

There were many buildings in various states of repair or disrepair. As I walked along Cienfuegos Street, one of the most photographed areas in the city and known for its unique architectural elements, I remember thinking that some might think it is not a beautiful part of the city because not everything was new and shiny. I, however, thought the opposite. I loved every bit of peeling paint, every cracked pane of glass, trees growing off of the roofs, every colorful, but dirt-covered tile and every rusty piece of ironwork. This was a city with character.

Realizing that it was the beginning of the end of the day (a very long one, I might add), I decided to make my way back towards my hotel with the hopes of finding a nice little outdoor restaurant where I could have a nice cold beer and watch the world go by!

But first, as I made my way through Parque Cristo, admiring the monument in the center, I noticed something that I could not resist…a church, Iglesia Del Santo Cristo Del Buen Viaje. Since this was my first visit to a church in Havana, I wasn’t sure of the protocol for visitors, especially since this seemed like more of a neighborhood church. The woman at the door, however, greeted me warmly and allowed me to walk through freely and take photos. There were many beautiful stained glass windows and interesting statues but the ceiling was what gave this church its singularity. I learned that this church is one of the oldest in Havana, dating back to 1755 and once acted as the Cathedral of Havana…I picked a good one for my first!

*Iglesia Del Santo Cristo Del Buen Viaje*

Winding my way back to Obispo Street, I walked along with the crowds, admiring the architecture and every little thing that I could take in. Finally, locating a restaurant with outdoor seating, I grabbed a seat, ordered some food and ordered the beer that I had been thirsting for during my wanderings under the blazing Cuban sun. All the while, I relaxed and enjoyed the Cuban musical stylings of local musicians.

As I wandered back to my Airbnb, it was growing dark.

But, you know what? I never once glanced over my shoulder. I never worried about anyone hiding in some dark corner. In fact, I was awed by the gentlemen who stepped off the sidewalk to allow me to pass. I was awed by the hospitality of everyone I met and the pleasant greetings extended to me when they found out I was an American.

Now, why was I nervous about coming?

Sitting on my balcony that night, I watched the children play in the street below and the neighbors sitting on their stoops listening to music and talking until late. Though I could still hear the goings-on through my closed balcony door, once I crawled into bed, it really didn’t bother me.

It was Havana!

Hello Havana!

For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

El Floridita Bar and Restaurant

https://www.facebook.com/Bar-Floridita-639688816080211
Address: Obispo 557 Esquina a Monserrate esq. a Monserrate, Havana Vieja, Havana, 10100 Cuba
Hours: 1100-2400, daily

National Theater

Address: Plaza de la Revolucion Havana, Cuba
The theater has 4 ticket offices located on the south side (Avenida Paseo) of the facility. Their hours of operation are Monday through Friday from 1000-1200 and 1300-1400. When the shows take place on Saturdays, Sundays, Mondays or holidays, the ticket offices open from 1000 until just 30 minutes after the start of the presentation.

El Capitolio

Address: Paseo de Marti, Havana 10200
Hours: Monday to Saturday, 1030-2200 and Sunday 1030-1300

Iglesia Del Santo Cristo Del Buen Viaje

Address: Plaza del Cristo, La Habana Vieja, Havana, Cuba

Ten Thousand Buddhas

Ten thousand of anything is, well…a lot!

I love buddhas, so it was a given that we had to find this monastery that has so many.

But, actually…it doesn’t have ten thousand.

The Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery has thirteen thousand. Now that’s a lot!

A Buddhist temple located on Po Fook Hill at Pai Tau village in Sha Tin, the Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery is one of the most famous of Hong Kong’s temples and a popular tourist attraction. Though the name states that the monastery has 10,000 buddhas (many from the Tang dynasty), it is because in the Cantonese tradition, “ten thousand” simply represents a figurative term for an extremely large number.

In 1951, the Reverend Yuet Kai and his followers began the construction and groundbreaking of the temple with its completion six years later. Though the buildings were completed in 1957, it was another ten years before all of the miniature Buddha statues were completed. After Reverend Yuet Kai’s death, at 87 years of age, it was discovered that his body was still in perfect condition when exhumed eight months after his death. In accordance with his wishes, his body was embalmed with Chinese lacquer, painted with gold leaf, draped in robes and put on display seated in the lotus position in a glass case in front of the main altar in the monastery.

Though we were anxious to check out “The Diamond Indestructible Body of Yuexi” and the Nine-Story pagoda, well-known in Hong Kong, we were unprepared for waited for us on the path to the monastery.

After making our way past the Pai Tau village, we followed the directions to the beginning of the path to the monastery. Posted signs warned of “fake monks” known to hit on tourists for money. Thankfully, we only encountered local residents climbing the 431 steps to make offerings at the monastery.

Beginning our own climb, we were greeted with…surprise…the first of the 13,000 buddhas. The path is lined on both sides with 500 amazing life-size gilded Arhan statues, the Buddhist equivalent of saints who have achieved enlightenment, each unique and in a different pose. These statues were produced by artists from Yunnan and Guangdong provinces and modeled after the ones from a temple in Kunming, the hometown of the monastery’s founder, Yuet Kai.

The paint on some of the statues is chipped and peeling, having not had a recent makeover, however, I loved stopping to admire each of the statues and their unique characteristics. Honestly, my son thought we would never make it to the top, but finally, we achieved our goal.

The monastery, built on two levels on a bamboo forested hillside, overlooks Sha Tin and sits on almost twenty acres. Five temples, four pavilions, one veranda and a pagoda comprise the compound. Though officially designated a monastery, there are no actual monks that reside within the complex and laypersons are responsible for the day to day upkeep of the complex.

As we reached the top of the path, we were confronted with visiting lower level terrace or the upper terrace. Deciding on the lower level first, we discovered the The Ten Thousand Buddhas Hall (main temple), Avalokitesvara (Kwun Yam) Pavilion, Samantabhadra Pavilion, Manjusri Pavilion, 18-Arhat Gallery, Naga-puspa Hall and the Nine Story Pagoda.

Starting with the far end of the lower level, we admired the Nine Story Pagoda which is notorious for being selected in 2001 to represent the symbol of Hong Kong featured on the HK$100 banknote. Though I learned that usually the pagoda can be climbed, the internal spiral staircase was closed to visitors on the day we visited.

Another path at the rear of the property, near the pagoda, leads down to Sha Tin and is lined with more statues. We made our way down part of the trail, admiring the images, before heading back up to the lower level terrace to check out the Kwun Yam Pavilion. Located in the center of the terrace between the main hall and the pagoda, the gallery exhibits gold bodhisattvas on one side and the 18 Arhat Gallery of Arhan statues on the other. Other multicolored statues are scattered around the terrace.

Finally, we made our way to the main temple. Though a sign informs visitors of no photography, we were able to capture some of the beauty displayed in this temple, where the walls are lined with almost 13,000 miniature gold ceramic Buddha statues stacked on shelves. Each twelve inch statue displays a different pose and expression and contains an inscription bearing the name of its donor.

The embalmed body of Reverend Yuet Kai is prominently displayed in a glass case in the main hall and three large gilded Buddha statues are also presented to its rear.

Heading to the upper terrace, we encountered the Amitabha Hall, Avalotiskesvara (Kwun Yam) House, Cundi House, Ksitigarbha House, Jade Emperor Hall, Sprinkler Guanyin, YueXi Pavilion and Naga-puspa Court.

Most interesting to note within the pavilions and houses are the Horseback bodhisattva in the Avalotisvara (Kwun Yam) House and the massive gold Amitabha Buddha statue in the columbarium (Amitabha Hall). In the two story columbarium, gold framed drawers, each with a Buddha image are stacked around the hall and contain the ashes of the deceased.

Our visit culminated at the far eastern part of the terrace where the immense white statue of Kwun Yam stands in front of a waterfall and a pond with small, gold statues perched on the surrounding rocks. I loved this hillside part of the monastery, which brought me back to my visit to Marble Mountain in Vietnam.

A unique site featured in many films and television series, the Ten Thousand Buddha Monastery is one of the most interesting and historic places that we visited in Hong Kong. Though the monastery is in a bit of disrepair and construction continues to stabilize the upper hillside, the statues were most mesmerizing and the architecture quite interesting.

10,000 reasons to visit? Well, actually…13,000!

Check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

Ten Thousand Buddhas Monastery

Address: 221 Pai Tau Village, Sha Tin, New Territories
Hours: 0900-1700, daily. The monastery may close during heavy rain or when typhoon signal 8 or above is issued. Vegetarian Restaurant open 1030-1600, closed Thursdays.
Admission: free
Getting There: Take the MTR East Rail to Sha Tin Station. From station, take exit B and the ramp alongside the bus terminus. Go down to the street level and walk past Pai Tau Village to the junction with Pai Tau Street. Follow Pai Tau Street and take the first street on the right, Sheung Wo Che Road and follow this street alongside Sha Tin Government Offices. At the end of the road, is a yellow direction sign for the monastery. Follow the path to the staircase leading to the monastery.
Po Fook Hill Ancestral Halls lie at the end of Pai Tau Street and are often mistaken for the Ten Thousand Buddhas Temple. These halls are open to visitors (admission free) and served by a series of escalators and a funicular railway. Visitors may wish to take the opportunity to visit these halls which comprise temples, columbarium on several levels of the terraced hillside, a pagoda (entry not allowed) shrines and ponds.

Journey To The Big Buddha

Travel to Asia? It’s a long way, but a good business class seat and a pair of pajamas can help minimize the pain! Throw in a couple of movies and you are there before you know it!

When we first decided to go to Hong Kong, I must admit, I was a bit overwhelmed. It’s a long way and I was taking my youngest son with me. I know how difficult it is to adapt to a twelve hour time difference, but I wasn’t sure how he would react. Additionally, it’s a big city, halfway across the world, with so many things to do. How was I ever going to figure it all out so that he enjoyed his time there?

Though nervous, I decided to tackle the journey in steps, making it seem more manageable.

After the long journey, first stopping in Seattle, we finally landed in Hong Kong International Airport. That was the first step. Step two encompassed getting to the hotel. Check. (A taxi was relatively cheap and easy and deposited us at our door) Found something my picky son would actually eat. Step three complete. (McDonald’s was nearby in Langham Place Mall)

Final step…find things that we could enjoy together.

An early start, on our first morning, had us navigating the MTR (metro) to Lantau Island. I desperately wanted to visit something I had seen over the years depicted in pictures from Hong Kong…the Big Buddha!

Getting to the Big Buddha originally entailed taking a lengthy bus ride along winding mountain roads. In 2004, construction began on a cable car project developed to improve tourism to the area. The three and a half mile long bi-cable gondola lift system links Tung Chung and Ngong Ping, running across the southern shore of the Hong Kong International Airport Island and Nei Lak Shan with eight towers including the stations. Five of the towers are located within the country park.

After arriving at the Tung Chung station, we made our way out to the Ngong Ping 360 Cable Car station across the street. Taking our place in the line that had already begun to form, we eventually purchased a combo ticket offering round-trip transportation in the cable car, entrance to the Ngong Ping village and bus transportation from Ngong Ping to the Tai O fishing village.

Spectacular views were to be had from our cable car as we made our way across the water and hills to Ngong Ping village. Swinging into the final station, we exited our car and set foot in the culturally themed village. Though built in the old traditional style, it is brand new construction, something which often disappoints those seeking to experience some of Hong Kong’s architectural history.

Created at the top of the Ngong Ping plateau, the village was opened in 2005 and was designed and landscaped to reflect the cultural and spiritual integrity of the area. A diverse array of retail, dining and entertainment experiences await visitors including virtual reality experiences, the Bodhi Wishing Shrine and the Bodhi Tree (known as the Bo Tree), the “Tree of Awakening”. The Bo Tree is known as the tree under which Siddhartha meditated “Who am I and why am I here?”, eventually attaining Enlightenment and becoming Buddha.

Although we enjoyed the village and all that it had to offer, I must admit, after many years of taking my children to theme parks, I decided that Ngong Ping village exhibited a too much of a theme-park atmosphere. Glad that this was not all that we had come for, we were anxious to experience the Po Lin Monastery and the Tian Tan Buddha, both a short walk from the village.

The Big Buddha can be spied from the cable car while approaching Ngong Ping village as well as during your walk from the village. Nothing prepares you, however, for its magnitude, especially while gazing up at the effigy from the base of the hill.

The statue, standing 112 feet tall and weighing over 250 metric tons, was completed on December 29, 1993, the day that the Chinese reckon as the day of the Buddhas’s enlightenment. Constructed from 202 bronze pieces, the immense statue can be seen across the bay from as far away as Macau on a clear day.

Climbing the 268 steps up the hill to reach the Buddha is definitely a test of one’s physical fitness. Though I work out a couple of times a week, I found myself stopping occasionally to rest, reminding myself of the reward waiting at the top. As I languished in the shade of one of the many urns on the stairway, I found myself wondering what those who were unable to climb would do in order to appreciate the statue from a closer perspective. I later learned that the site also features a small winding road for vehicles to accommodate the handicapped.

With my final steps conquered, I stood peering up at the impressive Buddha (one of five large Buddha statues in China), right hand raised, representing the removal of affliction and left hand resting open in his lap in a gesture of generosity. Facing north, unique among the great Buddha statues (all others face south), I stared out at his view of surrounding landscape, remembering that the Buddha symbolizes the harmonious relationship between man and nature, people and faith.

The statue is named Tian Tan Buddha because its base is a model of the Altar of Heaven or Earthly Mount of Tian Tan, the Temple of Heaven in Beijing and as we made our way around, we admired the six smaller bronze statues known as “The Offering of the Six Devas” that are posed offering flowers, incense, lamp, ointment, fruit and music to the Buddha. These figures symbolize the Six Perfection of generosity, morality, patience, zeal, mediation and wisdom, all necessary for enlightenment.

Since we did not purchase an offering for the Buddha, we were not allowed to see the Buddha’s most esteemed element, the relic of Gautama Buddha, which consists of some of his alleged cremated remains. There are also three floors beneath the statue, the halls of the Universe, of Benevolent Merit and of Remembrance, which we were under the impression that we were not allowed to visit since we did not purchase admission at the base of the stairway. We did peek inside, however, pictures were strictly forbidden. The thought crossed my mind to make the long climb down and back up again, in order to have admission, but as time was limited, we decided against it.

Another amazing feature under the Buddha is a huge bell inscribed with images of Buddhas and is designed to ring every seven minutes, 108 times a day, symbolizing the release of 108 kinds of human vexations. I must admit, however, I did not know this fact during our visit and do not remember hearing the bell ring.

After admiring the view one more time (and taking a peek at my watch to make sure we were still on schedule), I prepared myself for the long climb down.

It was time for the Po Lin Monastery.

For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

Tian Tan Buddha (Big Buddha)

http://www.plm.org.hk/
Address: Ngong Ping Rd, Lantau Island, Hong Kong
Hours: 1000-1730, daily
Admission: Access to the outside of the Buddha is free of charge, but there is an admission fee to go inside the Buddha.
Getting There: Option 1: Take Lantau Bus No. 23 at the bus station outside Tung Chung MTR Station to Ngong Ping Bus Terminus (travel time: about 45 minutes). Option 2: Take Ngong Ping Cable Car at the Cable Car Station outside Tung Chung MTR Station (travel time: about 25 minutes); take an additional 10-minute walk to the Monastery. Option 3: Take First Ferry from Central Pier to Mui Wo, and take Lantau Bus No.2 to Ngong Ping Bus Terminus (travel time from Mui Wo to Ngong Ping: about 35 minutes). Option 4: Take Lantau Bus No. 21 at the bus stop in Tai O to Ngong Ping Bus Terminus (travel time: about 15 minutes). Option 5: Take a Lantau Island taxi.

To Pee or Not to Pee?

There are many things to do in the Belgian capital of Brussels…museums, historic buildings, parks, peeing statues…

Peeing statues? What?

Yes, there is a peeing statue. In fact there are three, but the most famous peeing statue, Mannekin Pis, is one of the most visited sites in Brussels. Go figure…a small naked boy urinating into a fountain’s basin brings thousands of tourists to a street corner in Brussels. He is so famous in fact, that he has his own wardrobe that is changed throughout the year with the changing accompanied by a brass band and much fanfare!

When I first visited Brussels, many years ago, one of the first things I did was to visit this statue. He was adorable and fascinating, however, you could not help but be quite shocked as to how small he actually was. So many people tell you that you absolutely “must” see the statue, that in your mind you envision him to be of epic proportions. Instead, he is a diminutive 24 inches. Everyone is right, however, you absolutely “must” go and find him!

On my past visit to the Belgian city, I decided to go out in search of Mannekin Pis’ female counterpart, Jeanneke Pis. I had heard of Jeanneke Pis, but had no idea where she was located. While relaying my plans to a friend, she surprised me with a question.

“Are you going to go find the dog, too?”

A peeing dog? In Brussels? Really? I had never heard of this one. I decided to add him to my to my sightseeing list for the day.

With vague instructions from my friend and a little help from Google, I headed out onto the streets of Brussels and found that Het Zinneke, the peeing dog, was located quite near my hotel. Although he is not actually a fountain like Mannekin and Jeanneke, he is still something of a tourist attraction with many people stopping to snap a picture or mimic his pose.

The statue, sometimes erroneously referred to as Zinneke Pis, was erected in 1998 and created by Tom Frantzen. Sadly, his position on the street level leaves him very vulnerable to vandals and street traffic. In August of 2015, he was struck by an automobile, but was later restored by the sculptor.

Many consider Het Zinneke to be a mascot of the city which is logical as his name in Brussels dialect means “someone of mixed origins”, absolutely a representation of the mixture of populations living in Brussels.

Moving on, I made my way to the Rue de L’Ecuyer. Checking my Google maps, the location showed as being in front of the Theatre Royal des Galeries. Walking back and forth, and then into the shopping arcade, I saw nothing. No crowd of gawkers, no statue.

After traipsing back and forth, several times, I finally ducked into a gallery and asked for help. For some reason, my map was showing Jeanneken Pis’ location directly on Rue de l’Ecuyer, however, although it is extremely close, it is behind a building on the Rue de l’Ecuyer, accessible by small alleyways. The friendly employees at the gallery began to explain to me how to find the statue, however, one of them, probably seizing the opportunity to duck out for a smoke break, offered to take me there. Walking down the Rue des Dominicains, we took a right onto Rue des Bouchers and then finally another right onto the Impasse de la Fidélité. There, by the famous Delirium Bar, Jeanneke resides in the alley, locked behind bars.

Though there were a handful of tourists admiring the statue, there were nowhere near the number that visit her brother and I was a bit dismayed to find her in a dark, damp alley that smelled of stale beer. Not a proper place for a little girl.

Commissioned in 1985 by Denis-Adrien Debouvrie and erected in 1987, Jeanneke Pis, like Mannekin Pis is constructed of bronze and depicts a little girl with a short pig-tailed hairstyle, squatting and urinating on a blue-grey limestone base. Protected by large, red steel bars, it is hard to get a good picture unless you poke your camera past the metal railings, however, once you’ve made the trek and actually found Jeanneke, you can reward yourself with one of the unique selections of beers at Delirium Bar across the alleyway.

My last stop that day, would conclude my Peeing Statue tour. Mannekin Pis. Since, I had visited the dog and his sister, of course, I would, once again, have to see the centuries old statue that started it all!

The current Mannekin Pis, standing at the intersection of Rue de l’Étuve/Stoffstraat and Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat, is not the original that was designed by Brussels sculptor, Hiëronymus Duquesnoy the Elder, and placed in this location in the early 1600’s. The original figure was repeatedly stolen and finally replaced with the current piece dating from 1965. The original restored version is kept at the Maison du Roi/Broodhuis on the Grand Place.

There are many stories behind the statue’s existence with the most famous being one about Duke Godfrey III of Leuven, a two year old lord. In 1142, his troops were battling the troops of the Berthouts and the lords of Grimbergen in Ransbeke. It is said that the troops put the infant lord in a basket, hung in a tree to encourage them. The young lord urinated on the troops of the Berthouts, who eventually lost the battle.

Once again, standing before the small effigy, I marveled at the massive crowd gathered before him. How could such a small statue, hold such a large place in the heart of Belgium? Well, he just does. Everyone loves Mannekin Pis.

So, if you are in Brussels and wondering what your first port of call should be, head down to the intersection of Rue de l’Étuve/Stoffstraat and Rue du Chêne/Eikstraat, fight the crowds and take a selfie with the iconic figure of Mannekin Pis. Go to one of the many souvenir shops and buy a chocolate Mannekin Pis and if you are lucky, you might see him in costume or be there on a day when he is connected to a keg of Belgian beer! Grab a cup of the brew and go find his sister, Jeanneke and his friend, Het Zenneke.

For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

Mannekin Pis

http://www.brussels.be/artdet.cfm/4328
Address: Lievevrouwbroersstraat 31, 1000 Brussels, Belgium
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free
Getting There: Take the left lane next to the Brussels Town Hall from the Grand Place and walk a few hundred meters southwest via Rue Charles Buls/Karel Bulsstraat. The statue is located at the junction of Rue de l’Étuve/Stoofstraat and Rue du Chêne/Eik.straat

Jeanneke Pis

http://www.jeannekepisofficial.com/
Address: Impasse de la Fidélité 10-12, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free
Getting There: From Rue de l’Ecuyer, head southwest on Rue des Dominicains. Take a right onto Rue des Bouchers and another right onto the Impasse de la Fidélité. From the Grand Place, head northeast onto Petite Rue des Bouchers. Take a left onto Rue des Bouchers and then a right onto the Impasse de la Fidélité.

Het Zinneke

Address: Rue des Chartreux 35, 1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
Hours: 24 hours, daily
Admission: free
Getting There: Northwest of the Grand Place, just off of Rue des Poissoniers, head west on Rue des Chartreux. Het Zinneke is on the right side a few blocks up the road.

Two Statues

When visiting Copenhagen, there are two statues that you must see.

The first, located on the side of Copenhagen City Hall Square, is the statue of Hans Christian Andersen, the famous Danish writer of plays, travelogues, novels, poems and what he is most remembered for…his fairy tales.

The bronze statue, made by Henry Luckow-Nielsen, was erected in its current spot in 1965 facing H.C. Andersen Boulevard. The statue, depicts the writer sitting with a book. Jump up in his lap and pretend that he is reading you one of his stories…The Emperor’s New Clothes, The Ugly Duckling, Thumbelina and the most famous of them all, The Little Mermaid.

And…speaking of the Little Mermaid…

Located on a rock at the water’s edge, this major attraction has drawn thousands of tourists to this area since 1913. A gift to the city by Carl Jacobsen of Carlsberg and designed by Edvard Eriksen, the statue lies along the Langelinie promenade but is much smaller than one would imagine. Despite its diminutive size, however, it represents the city, in the way that statues in other cities represent those…Statue of Liberty in New York, Manneken Pis in Brussels, Christ the Redeemer in Rio. On any given day, you can find bus loads of tourists milling about and taking turns having their picture taken with the Mermaid, thus making it the most photographed statue in Denmark, garnering 5 million photos per year.

For more pictures, check out Facebook, Snapping the Globe and Instagram, @snappingtheglobe.

Hans Christian Andersen Statue

http://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenhagen/statue-hc-andersen-city-hall-square-gdk825755
Address: Rådhuspladsen, 1550 København V
Admission: free
Hours: none

Little Mermaid Statue

http://www.visitcopenhagen.com/copenhagen/little-mermaid-gdk586951
Address: Langelinie, 2100 København Ø, Denmark
Admission: free
Hours: none