Sibiu - Beneath the Alder Trees

Just 10 minutes away from the famous and bustling Grand Square of the former European Capital of Culture, 

there is a beautiful green grove, which although is called ‘park’, it is rather a real forest arranged in the middle of town.

With a surface of 22 hectares, the ‘Sub Arini’ (Beneath the Alder Trees) Park, 

one of the largest and oldest parks in Romania, was established in 1856. 

Engineer Wolfgang Seifried was responsible for the development and management of works. 

In the following year the making of the two main alleys began, 

along the former channel of the Swimming school and of the Sevis brook. 

At the same time the planting of the perimeter was done, with different species of trees: pine, linden and, of course, alder.

Since 1979, the park becomes a real botanical garden, 

the main alleys being paved, and massive works of planting and landscaping being executed.

Sibiu - The Citadel Park

This is the first park in Sibiu. 

The Promenade was arranged for the first time in 1791, 

filling the space previously occupied by moats and lakes outside the southern wall of the city. 

Later was called "The Disabled Promenade." 

Current arrangement of the park, like an alley along the remaining fortified walls, dates from 1928.

Sibiu - Three Houses

"A little happy house is the strongest castle in this whole universe!"

Mehmet Murat Ildan 

France, Loire Valley - Château d'Azay-le-Rideau IV (The Town)

When you’ve finished your visit and want a break, 

the town of Azay-le-Rideau is on the doorstep of the castle and is well worth a stop. 

It is a pretty typical sleepy Loire village.

France, Loire Valley - Château d'Azay-le-Rideau III

The Azay-le-Rideau Castle interior is synonymous with an Italian Renaissance one, with richly carved decoration. 

Traces of the Flemish Renaissance still remain, 

which are visible through 16th and 17th century tapestries, displayed in several places throughout the castle. 

The interior is made up of several drawing rooms and stately rooms, 

with the majority redecorated in the 19th century Neo-Renaissance style.

France, Loire Valley - Château d'Azay-le-Rideau II

Unfinished for many years, the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau has a distinctive L-shaped design,

 as the architect's quadrilateral design was never completed. 

Although a small chateau, 

Azay-le-Rideau makes up for its lack of stature in the sheer beauty of this tranquil setting. 

The elegant, ornate architecture is reflected in the water of the mirror lakes 

and the landscaped gardens of the 19th century make it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the serene view.