Showing all posts tagged postcards

In Blogging and the Web, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

The Pont de l’Archevêché

Author sreisaatPosted on 5 Comments

Apologies for my absence from the weekly postcard blog post and missing Sunday Stamps and Thursday Postcard Hunt! I was away on a work trip and couldn’t keep up with my usual posting schedule. But I’m back now and ready to share this fascinating vintage postcard, which I inherited from a fellow expat who recently returned to his home country.

The Pont de l”Archevêché and Notre Dame. Postmarked in 1930. This vintage postcard offers a window into the past, capturing the Pont de l’Archevêché in its early years.

The Pont de l’Archevêché, or the Archbishop’s Bridge, is a stunning structure that spans the Seine River. Built in the 18th century, it’s one of the oldest bridges in Paris. Some parts, like the parapets or railings, have been replaced over the years with stronger and safer ones than what were originally constructed out of cast iron.

The Pont de l’Archevêché is the narrowest road bridge in Paris and features a central arch and two smaller supporting arches, spanning the Seine River. This design allowed for boats to pass underneath without obstruction. The bridge’s Baroque architectural style contrasts the nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its pointed arches and ornate details. 

The bridge’s significance to France extends beyond its architectural beauty. It’s named after the nearby archbishop’s palace, which was a center of religious and political power in medieval Paris. The Pont de l’Archevêché has played a vital role in connecting the Left Bank and the Right Bank of the Seine, facilitating trade and commerce for centuries.

Today, the Pont de l’Archevêché remains a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Paris’ rich history. Its elegant design and historical significance make it a must-see for visitors to the City of Lights. The bridge is now known for its charming tradition of lovelocks, where couples attach padlocks to the railings as a symbol of their eternal love. While the practice is seen as romantic by tourists, many locals believe that the padlocks clutter the bridges, detract from their aesthetic appeal, and can even pose a safety hazard.

In Blogging and the Web, Cambodia life, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

From Taiwan to Tunisia: Bowls and Tunics

Author sreisaatPosted on 8 Comments

This week’s theme over Thursday Postcard Hunt is “crafts, fabric art, and textiles”, and I have two to share this week that I hope align with the theme.

My first postcard takes us to the vibrant island of Taiwan, where indigenous artisans craft stunning porcelain rice and noodle bowls. These handmade pieces, adorned with intricate designs, are not only functional but also beautiful works of art.

The designs on these bowls often reflect the cultural heritage of different Taiwanese indigenous groups. Each stroke of paint tells a story, showcasing the unique artistry and traditions of these communities.

Our second postcard transports us to the North African country of Tunisia, where traditional women’s clothing is a display of the nation’s rich cultural heritage.

This traditional attire is worn by women in Ksouf Essen City, located in the Sahel region, as well as in the cities of Mahdia, Monastir, Sousse, and Sfax. Each region has its own unique style, though they all share similarities. This postcard features the black version, but there’s also a more luxurious and beautiful red-purple variant.

Tunisian women’s attire is known for its vibrant colors, intricate embroidery, and distinctive styles. Common garments include the farmla (waistcoat), jebba and kadrûn (dress), takrita (scarf), quofiya (cap), kmâm (“handles”), and qmajja (tunic). A key feature of Tunisian traditional clothing is the bent cut tunic, which has an asymmetrical hemline that creates a visually striking silhouette. The garments are often adorned with intricate embroidery, particularly on the neckline, cuffs, and hem.

The fabrics used for Tunisian traditional clothing vary depending on the occasion and region. Wool, cotton, and silk are common choices. These garments are often accessorized with ornate jewelry, including money wires and other decorative elements.

Once all these garments are put together it creates a lovely and very colourful costume! Wedding attire in Tunisia is even more elaborate, featuring even more intricate embroidery and luxurious fabrics. While these stunning ensembles are undoubtedly beautiful, one can’t help but wonder about their weight!

In Blogging and the Web, Expat Life, Geek Talk, hobby, Sreisaatv2

Thursday Postcards Hunt: El Ángel, the Pride of Mexico

Author sreisaatPosted on 5 Comments

This week’s postcard is from Mexico! It’s the first of many I got from my awesome friend Luisito. Even though he lives in Caracas, Venezuela, we’ve been super close for years. He’s a real postcard enthusiast and sent me a whole bunch from his travels in Mexico, Hong Kong, and France.

The postcard features the iconic Angel of Independence, right in the heart of Mexico City. It’s officially called the Column of Independence – Columna de la Independencia – but everyone just calls it El Ángel. This towering monument stands in the middle of a busy roundabout and is a symbol of Mexico’s fight for freedom. It was built to celebrate 100 years since Mexico’s War of Independence started in a neoclassical design similar to famous monuments in Europe. At the very top, there’s a golden statue of the Greek goddess of victory, Nike, symbolizing Mexico’s triumph over Spanish colonial rule.

In later years, the base of the monument was transformed into a mausoleum honoring Mexico’s brave heroes who fought for independence. Their remains are enshrined within, serving as a permanent tribute to their sacrifice. The column’s base also bears the names of key figures in the war, immortalizing their contributions to the nation.

El Ángel is more than just a striking monument; it’s a powerful symbol of Mexican identity and unity. As a focal point for national celebrations, protests, and gatherings, it has become a beloved gathering place where Mexicans come together to express their pride and patriotism.