UK Adventure

The layering of York

In cities the landscape is constantly changing as old buildings are adopted to new uses or replaced by modern structures.  As I walk down the streets of European cities I have learned to look up in order to spot the signs of change.  Sometimes in the variations in the color of stone work that gives it away or the holes left by missing signs. There is a story there waiting to be read as long as you know what to look for.

York has a thriving tourist trade as people flock to see the remains of it medieval walls and castles. The city walls have been remodeled to provide a walking path on top that would have defeated the walls original purpose. The cathedral as well as many of its sculptures had once been painted in a multitude of bright colors but have now faded away over time.

In London the medieval architecture has mostly given way to more modern structures. The towns wealth originally came from shipping. However, the warehouses that once held goods from all over the world are now home to banks and expensive houses. The Thames river is now used by pleasure crafts rather than barges.

 As I visit historical sites I am constantly reminded that what I see is only an interpretation of what has been. I view medieval York and the industrialization of London through a modern perspective. In order to truly understand the past, I have to slow down and learn to appreciate the layers.