The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Situated within the campus of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is a remarkable religious and architectural masterpiece. This grand Roman Catholic church ranks among the largest and most prominent in the United States. Visiting this splendid site is a sensory delight for the eyes, body, and mind, offering a captivating blend of aesthetics and spirituality.

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Construction of the basilica began in 1920, and it has been a work in progress ever since. The basilica is renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate design. It combines various architectural styles, including Romanesque, Byzantine, and Gothic elements, making it a unique and visually captivating structure. Its towering dome and intricate mosaics are particularly notable. The interior of the basilica is adorned with over 80,000 square feet of vibrant and intricate mosaic art, making it one of the largest collections of mosaics in the world. These mosaics depict scenes from the Bible, the history of the Catholic Church in the United States, and the life of the Virgin Mary. The National Shrine serves as a place of worship for Catholics and welcomes visitors of all faiths. It's a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors annually who come to admire its architecture, art, and religious significance. Crypt Church: Beneath the main church, there is a smaller, more intimate space known as the Crypt Church. This space is often used for daily Mass and smaller gatherings. It also houses several side chapels and additional religious artwork.

Glenstone Museum II

Glenstone is a private contemporary art museum located in Potomac, Maryland, USA. Founded by Emily Wei Rales and Mitchell Rales, it opened its doors to the public in 2006 but underwent significant expansion and renovation, culminating in a major reopening in 2018. The museum's mission is to integrate art, architecture, and landscape into a seamless and immersive experience for visitors.

One of Glenstone's unique features is its extensive outdoor sculpture garden, which showcases a wide range of contemporary sculptures in a beautiful natural setting. The museum's grounds cover approximately 230 acres, and they are carefully landscaped to create a harmonious environment for both art and nature.

Glenstone offers nearly 300 acres of landscape integrated with the architecture and art. The landscape includes paths, trails, streams, meadows, forests and outdoor sculptures throughout the grounds which showcases a wide range of contemporary sculptures in a beautiful natural setting. The museum's grounds are carefully landscaped to create a harmonious environment for both art and nature.

I have first visited this place in February, here are the photos taken from second visit in September when the grounds are decorated with colorful wildflowers and grasses; clouds hang higher in the blue sky! It was truly a special experience to enjoy art, architecture and landscape all in one place!

The Winery at Bull Run, Pearmund Cellars

"Virginia is for Wine Lovers" is not just a catchy slogan; it's a testament to the thriving wine culture that has taken root in the state of Virginia. Nestled amid the picturesque landscapes of the Shenandoah Valley, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and the rolling hills of Central Virginia, Virginia's wine country has emerged as a prominent destination for oenophiles and enthusiasts alike. The Winery at Bull Run, Pearmund Cellars are two examples of such fine wineries that is less than one hour away from downtown Washington, DC that we visited this summer.  

The Winery at Bull Run.

 

Pearmund Cellars

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Virginia's winemaking history dates back to the early 17th century when settlers first attempted to cultivate grapes in the New World. Over the centuries, this endeavor has evolved into a flourishing industry that consistently produces award-winning wines. Here are a few key highlights that define Virginia's status as a wine lover's paradise: 

 - Virginia's diverse climate and topography provide an ideal environment for growing a wide range of grape varietals. You can find everything from classic Bordeaux and Burgundian varieties to more unique grapes like Viognier and Petit Verdot. 

 - Scenic Vineyards: The state's wineries are often set against breathtaking backdrops, making wine tasting a multisensory experience. Rolling vine-covered hills, historic estates, and charming tasting rooms contribute to the overall ambiance. 

 - Tasting Experiences: Virginia wineries are known for their warm hospitality and inviting tasting experiences. Visitors can tour vineyards, meet winemakers, and sample an array of wines, often accompanied by locally sourced cheeses and gourmet snacks. 

 - Wine Trails: Virginia boasts several wine trails and regions, including the Northern Virginia Wine Trail and the Monticello Wine Trail. These trails allow wine lovers to explore clusters of wineries and enjoy the beauty of the countryside. - Award-Winning Wines: Virginia wines have garnered national and international acclaim, winning prestigious awards for their quality and craftsmanship. The state's winemakers continually push the boundaries of what's possible in American winemaking.