Dusty Buildings

Pena Palace (Sintra, Portugal)

+ A product of the Romanticism period of 19th century architecture, this palace is among the best examples of such in the world.

Blending Romasque and Neo-Manueline elements, as well as some Moorish flourishes, the final product is one of the Seven Wonders of Portugal and an architectural love letter to the country and its people.

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Against Heresies (Book Review)

Against Heresies by Irenaeus of Lyon

+ This 2nd century book is one of the earliest books of Christian theology and apologetics. The author was taught by Polycarp who was taught by John the Apostle. As a result, it is considered an important work in understanding the Church and its beliefs in its earliest days. It is also arguably the best surviving work that describes Gnosticism, from a contemporary.

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Dusty Feasts

The Feast Day of St. John of Rila (19 October), who was also known as Saint Ivan of Rila and as Ivan Rilski, celebrates the 9th and 10th century Bulgarian Hermit , revered as a saint even while he was still alive. He was famous for performing miracles and was known as a “wonderworker” in his lifetime. Those miracles include healing the sick, casting out demons, and providing food miraculously to those in need. Many of the legends of him involve wild animals and birds approaching him.

He is a patron saint of Bulgaria.

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Dusty Art

The Martyrdom of St. Denis by Léon Joseph Florentin Bonnat, is one of the most famous depictions of this event, blending the details of the legend with a sense of what might be best described as horror.

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Dusty Feasts

The Feast Day of St. Denis of Paris (9 October) celebrates a 3rd century bishop and martyr who is remembered in legend for picking his head up after his decapitation and then preaching a sermon.

+ Includes a feast day recipe for St. Denis Tartlets

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