Historic, and architectural splendour

Our member Ms R. Saha, has long felt Ireland to be a holy land, a land rich in culture and natural beauty. She shares some beautiful photos of her recent visit to the ‘Emerald Isle’, Scotland and England.

Ireland has always been close to my heart. When I finally travelled there in April 2023, I was struck not only by its greenery but also by how indelibly history had woven itself into the landscape: astonishing forts, ancient monuments, and beautiful cathedrals populated the country. I visited St Patrick’s Cathedral and Dublin Castle and found both to be breathtaking and awe-inspiring. I saw the Irish people's love for the arts in the amateur musical, dance, and storytelling events being held all around Dublin. From Ireland, we travelled to Scotland. In delightful Edinburgh, we felt we were transported back in time. We strolled along its cobblestone streets and climbed up Castlehill to the dreamlike Edinburgh castle. Next, we travelled southwards to England, and visited William Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon, a pilgrimage for lovers of literature.
I had the opportunity to visit the father of Indian Renaissance Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s grave at the new Arnos Vale Cemetery, in East Bristol. From Bristol we travelled to the city of Bath in Somerset. Originally dedicated to the goddess Sulis by the Celtic people. The natural hot springs of the city was later appropriated to the worship of the goddess Minerva under the Roman rule. The architecture and sculptures in and around these Roman baths are spectacular. Finally, we travelled to the plains of Salisbury to see the Stonehenge, a prehistoric megalithic structure. Built more than 5,000 years ago, the history of this place is enshrouded in mystery.