Ancient city gates – those gigantic entryways, patiently clocking the footfalls of generations – hold a special fascination for me.
Set into heavy fortifications or floating on water, these gates were more than mere access points. Most were hubs of trade, places where city edicts were read out and hangings executed.
Some were symbolic and exclusive, based on cultural perceptions of purity. The right to cross those thresholds was determined by social standing or royal privilege.
But they were all, without exception, works of art. Declarations of the wealth and importance of the city state.
So they fascinate me, thrill me with the anticipation of discovering what lies beyond…….even if all that remains is just a frame, or a pile of stones.
Come walk with me through these portals to the past.
Commoners were not allowed on the island for the longest time, and were expected to pass through the Otorii to worship at the shrine, whose floating structures ensured, these people stepped through a transitional threshold – between land and sky – thus safeguarding the sanctity of the sacred island from ‘defilement’!
Related articles:
Jake’s Sunday Post: Entrance
Crossing Thresholds
The Grand Gate On The Sea
Madhu … I nominated this post for the Best Moment Award. The rules and my comments can be found on my blog: http://earth-rider.com/2013/06/20/thank-you-thank-you/ In the future, if it’s OK with you, I’m going to follow your example on recognizing awards. I procrastinate far too long and your solution is terrific.
Honoured to receive an award from you Judy….thanks once again.
You are most welcome to use the awards showcase page format. I borrowed the idea from someone too 🙂
Thank you, Madhu. I do love to pass on an award, but it became so daunting that I just kept putting it off. Your awards page is a thoughtful way to showcase awards.
Loved it. After looking at these beautiful architectural works, I just wonder about how it was back when they were built. Nice writing! 🙂