Sunlit terrace

Corfu (Korkyra) is a Greek island in the Ionian Sea, of the Ionian Islands,and, including its small satellite islands, forms the margin of the northwestern frontier of Greece.The island is part of the Corfu regional unit, and is administered by three municipalities with the islands of Othonoi, Ereikoussa, and Mathraki.The principal city of the island (pop. 32,095) is also named Corfu.

 

The island is bound up with the history of Greece from the beginnings of Greek mythology, and is marked by numerous battles and conquests. Ancient Korkyra took part in the Battle of Sybota which was a catalyst for the Peloponnesian War, and, according to Thucydides, the largest naval battle between Greek city states until that time. Thucydides also reports that Korkyra was one of the three great naval powers of fifth century BC Greece, along with Athens and Corinth.Ruins of ancient Greek temples and other archaeological sites of the ancient city of Korkyra are found in Palaiopolis.

 

Medieval castles punctuating strategic locations across the island are a legacy of struggles in the Middle Ages against invasions by pirates and the Ottomans. Two of these castles enclose its capital, which is the only city in Greece to be surrounded in such a way. As a result, Corfu's capital has been officially declared a Kastropolis ("castle city") by the Greek government.From medieval times and into the 17th century, the island successfully repulsed the Ottomans during several sieges, was recognised as a bulwark of the European States against the Ottoman Empire and became one of the most fortified places in Europe. (Wikipedia)

 

 

I made this photo with a borrowed Minolta camera with a MD Rokkor 50 mm 1.7 lens. I think this lens is capable, but not as good as its reputation; there is often vignetting, even still visible sometimes at f 4. It produces sharp results, but the bokeh can be a bit harsh. As always, your comments are very welcome.

Seeing this beautiful image I immediately thought it was yours, bear your signature. I appreciate the simplicity, the purity of the lines, the rendering of the white lime plaster, typical of the Greek Islands. The beautiful black and white with all shades of gray subtracted the vivid color of the bungavillea, which would have distracted the eye. As always, I appreciate your interesting accompanying notes , ciao Giangiorgio

Hi Giangiorgio,

 

thank you so much for your beautiful comments, praise and continued support! I just had that Agfapan film in the camera I borrowed and only one camera at hand, so the bougainvillea's colors were not an issue. Thank you also for your statement this image bears my signature. The accompanying notes are almost purely from Wikipedia. Kind regards, Vincent

Giangiorgio, thanks to you, I have little else to say. The subject matter is presented as gentle in detail and in contrast. To me, the lighting ultimately accounts for the image's success. - - My best always, michel

The history is fascinating. Giangiorgio and Michael assess the image perfectly. Love the design and your play with light. Excellent work, Vincent.

Hi Michael,

your commens are greatly appreciated, even though they might not 'add' something. This is a study in composition and light, so there's little to add here as well. Thank you for your nice words and your appreciation! Kind regards, Vincent

Hi Wayne,

 

thanks for stopping by and your friendly comments! You are right, this is a composition (design) and light study. Kind regards, Vincent

Nice playing of lights and shadows, new and ancient, black and white, Vincent! My sincere compliments! Cheers! PDE