It has been some time since the iconic goldsmith mural of Vancouver was removed. Although, It was a shame to see the iconic mural of a medieval goldsmith spanning the east wall of the seven-storey office building at 555 West Georgia Street get taken down, This presents a couple opportunities for the wall. That being the addition of a new mural or remaking the original.
Now you might be wondering if you’re just hearing about this now, Why was it removed in the first place? The goldsmith mural was replaced by the concrete wall coating due to the office building deteriorating over time. In 2021, the buildings age was starting to really show, with multiple large areas peeling and falling from the building facade. Although, it was not really noticeable at first, The deterioration really started showing at a rapid pace within the 2 years leading into 2023 where you can see parts of the wall/mural peel and even fall off.
This led to a decision being made by the building management to remove the mural to apply the concrete wall coating in 2023. Mainly, because the wall holding the mural couldn’t be repaired in any way due to the age of the building and the fact the wall was crumbling on the inside for years.
Building Condition 2021 (Still Good)
Building Condition 2023 (Deteriorating)
It’s understandable why this happened however it’s still unfortunate that one of Vancouvers most iconic murals was removed. But, an interesting opportunity has now been presented on a new mural being on the new wall of the building. Although the the non-profit organization behind the Vancouver Mural Fest currently has no plans to paint a new mural this year as they stated:
“VMF would welcome a conversation with the building owners and other potential funders to place a new mural on this prominent location in downtown, and make this rumour a reality,”
However, they might paint something there later down the road should it be a new mural or a recreation of the old one?
In my personal opinion, I believe the old one should be recreated. The history behind the original mural which was based on a 1698 copper engraver and art dealer, Christopher Weigel. The goldsmith mural is something that always caught peoples eye in downtown Vancouver with it enticing those who see it to look into its history and learn more about it.
However, The creation of a new mural is something that could be interesting as well. I guess will have to wait and see what happens with the wall and if they Replace or Recreate the mural.
The Vancouver Olympic Cauldron, which became one of the most iconic symbols of the 2010 Winter Games, was not just a feat of engineering and design but also the result of a well-guarded, secretive project. This mammoth structure, now permanently displayed at Jack Poole Plaza, represented Canada on the global stage, and its creation required top-level planning, collaboration, and intense secrecy.
The project began years before the Games, with initial designs kept strictly confidential. The cauldron was commissioned by the Vancouver Organizing Committee (VANOC), and Canadian designer and artist Jeremy Railton led the team tasked with creating a concept worthy of the Games. VANOC wanted a cauldron that would be instantly memorable, echoing Canada’s natural beauty and its people’s resilience. Railton’s team envisioned four towering, crystal-like pillars rising in unison, a tribute to the mountains and icy landscapes of British Columbia. These pillars would converge at the top, symbolizing unity among Canadian provinces and territories.
The cauldron’s construction posed several challenges. Standing nearly 10 meters high, it had to be capable of withstanding high winds, rain, and potentially heavy snow while ensuring the flames remained lit regardless of the weather conditions. Additionally, the materials needed to reflect the Canadian aesthetic, with glass and steel being selected for their rugged yet refined qualities. Building the cauldron was entrusted to a team of engineers, metalworkers, and glass artisans who worked under tight deadlines and strict non-disclosure agreements. Each piece had to be precisely cut, reinforced, and meticulously inspected to ensure durability and aesthetic integrity.
VANOC’s commitment to secrecy added a layer of intrigue. With thousands of spectators and journalists eager to capture every detail, VANOC knew the cauldron’s design had to be kept under wraps until the opening ceremony. The cauldron was assembled in a secure facility, and only essential personnel had access to the build site. Security measures included restricted access, surveillance, and even night shifts to avoid attention.
When the moment arrived on February 12, 2010, the world watched as four Canadian athletes lit the cauldron. Its grandeur captured the Olympic spirit and Canadian pride, making it one of the most memorable moments of the Vancouver Games. Today, the cauldron stands as a lasting tribute to the teamwork, creativity, and secrecy that went into its creation—a proud symbol of a nation’s achievement and the magic of the Olympics.
“I think that ‘Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance’ was mentally taxing, if only because I had to go to a Christmas party shortly after I had wrapped photography in Romania at two in the morning as the Ghost Rider. The invitation had a Christmas ornament on it with Ghost Rider’s face on it as a tree.”
Nicolas Cage
Hey there! Let’s talk about Romania, this amazing country in Eastern Europe that’s just waiting to be explored. Romania has so much to offer, from its breathtaking landscapes to its rich history and vibrant culture. Ready for a journey through this beautiful land? Let’s dive in!
The Magnificent Carpathian Mountains
Picture this: rugged peaks, lush valleys, and endless adventures. That’s what you’ll find in the Carpathian Mountains, one of Romania’s most stunning features. In the summer, the mountains are alive with vibrant colors, perfect for hiking and exploring. You’ll discover hidden waterfalls, crystal-clear lakes, and some of the most awe-inspiring views you’ve ever seen.
And when winter arrives, the Carpathians transform into a snowy paradise. Skiers and snowboarders flock here to hit the slopes and enjoy the winter wonderland. With ski resorts for all levels, it’s the ultimate playground for snow lovers!
Discovering Transylvania’s History
Now, let’s head into Transylvania, the historic region nestled within the Carpathians. It’s famous for its medieval castles, like Bran Castle, which some people associate with Dracula. But Transylvania is more than just castles. Imagine wandering through charming towns like Sighișoara, with its cobblestone streets and colorful houses straight out of a storybook.
And don’t miss the villages of Maramureș, where time seems to stand still. You’ll see wooden churches, attend local festivals, and maybe even learn a traditional craft or two!
The Danube Delta: Nature’s Masterpiece
“My idea of heaven is a place where the Tyne meets the Delta, where folk music meets the blues.”
Mark Knopfler
From mountains to wetlands, Romania has it all. The Danube Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. Picture winding waterways, lush marshlands, and wildlife everywhere you look. Taking a boat ride through the delta is an experience you won’t forget, especially if you’re a birdwatcher. There are over 300 species of birds here, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise!
Exploring Romanian Cities
Okay, let’s switch gears and talk about Romania’s cities. Bucharest, the capital, is a bustling metropolis with a mix of old and new. You can visit the massive Palace of the Parliament, stroll through beautiful parks, and soak up the city’s energy.
But Bucharest is just the beginning. Cities like Cluj-Napoca and Timișoara have their own charm, with lively atmospheres and beautiful architecture.
Indulging in Romanian Cuisine and Culture
You know what’s really cool about Romanian culture? It’s those awesome folk traditions that have been around forever. They’ve stuck around because Romania has these tight-knit rural communities that have kept these traditions alive and kicking.
And get this: some of these traditions go way back, even before the Romans showed up! I’m talking about stuff like wood carving, ceramics, weaving, and embroidery. They’ve got these vibrant, colorful costumes, decorations for their homes, and dances that have been passed down through generations.
But the best part? The music. Romanian folk music is like nothing else. It’s so diverse and rich, with all these different styles and rhythms. It’s like a whole world of music in one country!
Now, let’s talk about food because Romanian cuisine is amazing!
Romanian cuisine is like a melting pot of flavors from different cultures, but it still has its own unique twist. It’s been influenced by Turkish, Balkan, Hungarian, and Central European cuisines, creating this delicious blend that’s all its own.
What’s really cool is how Romanian dishes change with the seasons and holidays. Since Romania has strong ties to the Eastern Orthodox Church, you’ll find all sorts of special dishes for different times of the year.
Think of a big pot of soup called ciorbă, which comes in all kinds of varieties. There’s meat and veggie soup, tripe soup (ciorbă de burtă), fish soup, all with this tangy, sour flavor that’s just delicious. They use things like lemon juice, sauerkraut juice, vinegar, or this traditional ingredient called borș to give it that sour kick.
And let’s not forget about țuică, which is like the national drink of Romania. It’s this super strong plum brandy that packs a punch!
Where do I come from?
The historic province of Dobruja. More exactly the ancient city of Tomis ( now Constanta).
So, you know how names can have interesting origins? Well, Dobruja, that region we’ve been talking about, might have a pretty cool backstory. Most scholars think it comes from the Turkish version of the name of a 14th-century Bulgarian ruler, despot Dobrotitsa. See, back then, the Turks often named places after early rulers. Like, nearby Moldavia was called Bogdan Iflak after Bogdan I. There are other ideas about where the name comes from, but this one seems to be the most popular.
As for the city I come from, things get even cooler.
So, here’s a fascinating story about the origins of the city of Constanța. According to Jordanes, who wrote about it after Cassiodorus, the city was supposedly founded by Queen Tomyris of the Massagetae. She was a pretty powerful queen, known for defeating Cyrus the Great. After her victory, she decided to build a city on the Moesian shore of the Black Sea, which she named Tomis after herself.
Later on, in 29 BC, the Romans took over the region from the Odrysian kingdom and called it Limes Scythicus, extending as far as the Danube.
Then, in AD 8, the famous Roman poet Ovid got sent there by Emperor Augustus. He wasn’t too happy about it and wrote about his miserable exile in poems like Tristia and Epistulae ex Ponto. He described Tomis as this remote, war-torn place at the edge of the empire.
Interestingly, a bunch of inscriptions found in and around Constanța prove that it’s built on the site of ancient Tomis. Some of these findings are even displayed in the British Museum in London. Cool, huh?
Here is a short story I made showcasing the lessons learned while growing up on my grandparents farm in Romania. This ancient tradition called ” The 7 Years from Home ” is something my family still abides by.
Romania is like a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its stunning landscapes, fascinating history, and welcoming people, it’s a place that will stay with you long after you’ve left. From the majestic Carpathian Mountains to the charming villages of Transylvania, there’s so much to explore.
Imagine hiking through lush forests, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and soaking in breathtaking views of rolling hills and valleys. Or wandering through medieval towns, where cobblestone streets lead to ancient castles and fortified churches. And let’s not forget about the Danube Delta, a haven for nature lovers with its winding waterways and diverse wildlife.
But Romania isn’t just about its natural beauty. Its rich history is woven into every corner, from the ancient ruins of Sarmizegetusa Regia to the grand architecture of Bucharest. And the people here are some of the warmest you’ll ever meet, eager to share their traditions and stories with visitors.
