Castell de la Suda Lleida
The Castell de la Suda, also known as the Castell del Rei, is a historic fortress located in the Turó de la Seu Vella, Lleida, Spain. Its existence is documented since 882, during the Moorish occupation of Lleida. The castle was built as a strategic stronghold to control the plain of Lleida and served as a residence for the kings of the Crown of Aragon during the 13th century.
Location and Context
The Castell de la Suda is situated within the monumental complex of La Seu Vella, behind the ancient cathedral of Lleida. It is part of the historic Turó de la Seu Vella hill, which was also the site of the medieval noble quarter.
Architecture and History
The castle’s architecture reflects its Andalusian origins, with later modifications during the Gothic and Renaissance periods. Today, only the southern part of the castle remains, having undergone restoration to integrate it into the La Seu Vella complex.
The name “Suda” refers to the Andalusian fortress built ...
One of the many Thai traditions that have survived from the Ayutthaya era, dating back about 600 years. The boat races started as a means to prepare and boost the morale of the kingdom’s soldiers, as a way to develop their courage and strength by rowing. In the days of the Ayutthaya kingdom every Thai man was considered vital to the country’s defense. At that stage of history aggressive neighbors could start a war at any time.
Boats used during the festival are carefully chosen and made from trees that reflect the beliefs of a particular area. The boats are also rowed by the best trained and most fit of rowing crews.
During the months where water levels are at their highest points many areas in Thailand will host long boat racing festivals. They can be found in all regions of Thailand from August through November.
In this video we get a chance to see the races in Phimai. Events like this are a great way to experience Thai culture.
Traditional Long Boat Racing in Thailand - Phimai ...
Pak Khlong Talat Mai Flower Market represents the modern evolution of Bangkok’s iconic flower trade, relocated to a larger, more organized facility to accommodate growing demand and urban development. Situated in the western part of the city, it serves as the primary wholesale and retail destination for fresh blooms, garlands, and related goods, maintaining the vibrant spirit of its historic roots while embracing contemporary logistics.
Originating as a floating market along the Chao Phraya River during King Rama I’s reign (early 18th century), the original Pak Khlong Talat site in central Phra Nakhon District transitioned from fish trading (19th century) to produce and flowers around 60 years ago. As Bangkok expanded, produce wholesaling shifted to outer markets like Talat Thai. In 2016, a city cleanup initiative moved street vendors indoors at the original location. By 2019, the market fully relocated to its current “Mai” (new) site—a bigger, modern warehouse-style complex—to handle...
Wat Chomphuwek วัดชมภูเวก also spelled Wat Chumpoo Wek is a Thai Buddhist temple in the Mahā Nikāya sect, located in Nonthaburi Province, central Thailand. It is considered one of the oldest and most prominent temples in Nonthaburi. It is over 350 years old as well having some amazing historic murals painted on the inside of the ancient halls. The architecture of the buildings is some of the most beautiful you will see from this period.
Wat Chomphuwek is a monastery that was believed to have been built by a Mon monk named Poh Phu Si Chomphu พ่อปู่ศรีชมภู in the late Ayutthaya period corresponding to the reign of King Narai the Great around the year 1682. Originally, it was called Wat Chomphuwiwek วัดชมภูวิเวก but later people just called it Wat Chomphuwek.
Its name means "Lonely Temple of Chomphu", or may translate as "High Temple of Chomphu" because it is located on a small hill.
The wall in the old ordination hall is ...
