Month August 2022

Calakmul Campeche Mexico

Calakmul Structure 6 in Campeche, Mexico
The ancient Maya city of Calakmul and the surrounding protected tropical forests are located in the state of Campeche, Mexico. Calakmul ruins are renowned for their historical significance as a major Maya city and their ecological importance as a protected forest area. Calakmul was one of the most powerful and significant ancient Maya cities during the Classic period. It was a major center of political, economic, and religious activity within the Maya civilization. The city is known for its impressive architectural structures, including temples, pyramids, palaces, and ball courts. One of the most notable features of Calakmul is its monumental architecture, particularly Structure II, which is one of the tallest pyramids in the Maya world. The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, which surrounds the ancient city, is one of the largest protected tropical forest areas in Mexico. The reserve is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and plants. It’s considered a critical habitat for biodiversity in the region and plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of the ecosystem.

Saltaire Shipley England

Saltaire in Shipley, West Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Saltaire, a Victorian model village in West Yorkshire, UK, carries a rich history dating back to its founding in 1853 by Sir Titus Salt. Named after its founder and the nearby River Aire, Saltaire was conceived as a model community to provide improved living conditions for workers in the burgeoning textile industry. Today, the village remains an essential part of the European Route of Industrial Heritage. Sir Titus Salt, a renowned textile manufacturer, relocated his textile mill operations from Bradford to the Saltaire area in 1851. This transformational move allowed him to organize his workforce and position the textile mill adjacent to the Leeds and Liverpool Canal and the railway. Architects Francis Lockwood and William Mawson were commissioned for the project. Saltaire's inception coincided with other similar endeavors, like Edward Akroyd's work in Copley and Henry Ripley's project in Ripley Ville, albeit on a smaller scale. Here's an overview of Saltaire: