Typical wooden churches similar to this one here are found in the Maramureş region of Romania, in the north of the country. There are about 100 of them and some eight are listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. They are very distinctive in appearance, with a tall tower and steeply pitched roof.
From the back of the card:
Insights into the Romanian soul
So much toil and such deep faith shineThe older, historic region called Maramureş includes a part of western Ukraine. It is a valley completely surrounded by mountains and not easily accessible. As a result the area is relatively unspoilt and several protected natural parks have been set up.
So much sorrow under this church's shrine
Under the grassy earth is buried the horde
That awaits a holy sign from the Lord.
Thank you Dan, from World, Come to my Home!
I pity whoever had to work on that roof. One of the steepest I think I have ever seen but very interesting.
ReplyDeleteWhat is it about a place like this that is so inviting, for the living...? The beautiful silent nature growing around it? The stunning shapes and designs of the buildings, and headstones? Or simple the peace that can always be found venturing among the past lives of so many.....buried souls.... Very nice photo...opens so many thoughts.
ReplyDelete@Odie - If you find this roof steep, look here (the tallest wooden church in the world - 78m)http://www.treklens.com/gallery/photo541584.htm . But don't ask me how they build them. In Maramures (on both sides of the border between Romania and Ukraine) are just a few families who have kept the craft from father to son.
ReplyDelete@Karen - The postcard is part of a very successful series that is called "Insight into the Romanian Soul". I think that this title gives you some answers. Or not. :)
@Odie, I had never thought of working on it!
ReplyDelete@Karen, I know just how you feel. It is a wonderful image.
@Dan, thank you so much for the link - how amazing is that!