The Roman bridge of Salamanca (Puente romano de Salamanca), also known as Puente Mayor del Tormes, is a Roman bridge crossing the Tormes River on the banks of the city of Salamanca, in Castile and León, Spain.
The importance of the bridge as a symbol of the city can be seen in the first quartering of city's coat of arms (along with its stone bull-verraco). It has been known traditionally as puente mayor and as puente prinçipal (main bridge) which gives access to the southern part of the city.
The bridge is actually a construction of two bridges separated by a central fortification: the old bridge which extends along the portion near the city is of Roman origin, and the new bridge. Of the twenty-six arches, only the first fifteen date from Roman times.
The date of the construction of the bridge is not precisely known, but is among the mandates of the Emperors Augustus (27 B. C.-14 D. C.) and Vespasian (69-79).
There was a popular belief that the bridge was first built by Heracles and ...
Planning a trip to Russia in 2026 starts with checking your nationality’s visa requirements early, as most travelers need either an electronic visa for short stays up to 30 days or a traditional tourist visa obtained through a consulate or visa center, often requiring an invitation letter from a registered agency and proof of travel insurance. Some countries enjoy visa-free entry for limited periods, while others must apply well in advance—always verify the latest details on official Russian government sites since rules can shift.
Decide on the best timing based on your preferences: summer from June to August brings pleasant weather, long daylight hours especially during St. Petersburg’s famous White Nights, and lively festivals, though it is the peak season with higher crowds and prices. Shoulder seasons in late spring or early autumn offer milder temperatures and fewer visitors for a more relaxed experience, while winter delivers magical snowy landscapes ideal for cultural events but ...
Exploring Khlong San district on the western bank of the Chao Phraya River offers a refreshing contrast to the more crowded tourist spots across the water, revealing a quieter, more layered side of Bangkok where history lingers in the streets and architecture.
Once a vital trading hub during the Rattanakosin era, this neighborhood retains an intimate, lived-in feel that invites unhurried wandering along its riverfront and narrow sois. The historic section unfolds gently as you move away from the modern developments near Khlong San Pier, where older communities and landmarks tell stories of Chinese settlers, royal connections, and defensive fortifications from centuries past.
The area’s heritage shines through in its charming buildings, many of which blend Chinese, Thai, and colonial influences in understated yet captivating ways. Graceful shophouses with weathered facades and wooden details line some of the quieter lanes, their upper floors often featuring intricate latticework or faded pastel tones ...
Wat Sam Phraya, formally known as Wat Sam Phraya Worawihan, is a serene third-class royal temple located in the Wat Sam Phraya subdistrict of Phra Nakhon district, Bangkok, near the Chao Phraya River in the historic Bang Khun Phrom area.
Its origins trace back to the Ayutthaya period, when it was known as Wat Sak or Wat Bang Khun Phrom. In the early Rattanakosin era during the reign of King Rama I, Luang Wisut Yothamart dedicated land and houses originally belonging to his deceased brother Khun Phrom to establish the temple as a memorial.
The temple later fell into disrepair but underwent extensive renovation in the reign of King Rama III. Three noble brothers of Phraya rank—Phraya Raja Supawadee (Khun Thong), Phraya Rachikul (Thong), and Phraya Thep Worachun (Thong Pak)—restored it and offered it to the king. In 1823, Rama III elevated it to royal temple status and bestowed the name Wat Sam Phraya, meaning “Temple of the Three Lords,” in honor of these three benefactors.
The temple ...
