Saint Simeon, a photo from Halab, North

Photographer's Note

The main entrance view of Saint Simeon basilica.

In the 5th century AD, shepherd Saint Simeon ended up in the land north of Aleppo. Looking for the meaning of life and following a revelation he had in a dream, he ended up in a monastery. Not satisfied, he made pillars and sat on them, for years.
He died after having spent some 36 years on top of pillars. By this time, he had become a famous person and drew pilgrims from as far away as northern Europe.

After his death, a basilica was constructed with the last and highest pillar at the centre. It had the shape of a cross, which can still easily be seen when walking through the ruins.
At the time, it was the largest basilica in the world.

You can see another photo from St. Simeon here

jpages, laluna oznaczył to zdjęcie jeko użyteczne

Critiques | Translate

jverkamman (2291) 2005-05-02 16:03

Very nice composition.
Good color and contrast.

jpages (1670) 2005-05-07 13:49

Hi Kevork, you chose a very good POV to take the shot. I like you include the big stones in the foreground, and the trees in both sides,
and with the people walking inside the basilica, we can appreciate better its great dimensions.
I like a lot this kind of ancient places, in my last travel to Morocco, I visited the Roman ruins of Volubilis, near Fez, it has also a big destroyed basilica. It was a pleasure to see it! Thanks for showing us this beautiful ancient place.
Best regards.

hisam (90) 2005-07-16 16:39

Hi Kevork
this is an excellent shot. I look forward to see your new picture