The text evokes a series of memories of places full of history, impressive through their art, but also through the feelings they leave in the soul. Besides a few places in Italy (Rome, Verona, Miramare) Venice is mentioned, with its special charm. Venice does not have anymore, as so many other cities do not longer have it, the greatness of the past, but does nnot seem dead or dying at all: you can hear the gondoliers, boatmen, the market traders talking passionately in their dialect. The author is fascinated by the similarity between the Grand Canal and the Bosphorus. Such moments, occasioned by the contemplation of such beauty, represents the expression of the journey as a way to yourself, even if it is not one around the world.

Constantinople, as witness of the beauty of the old Byzantine Empire, conquers through its treasures, particularly through the representative foundation of Emperor Justinian. Sophia does not awaken any admiration, if seen close, in the enclosure of the walls. Contemplated from the sea or from the shores of Chalcedon, it becomes, due to perspective, a masterpiece of proportions without aggressing the sight, because it emanates a calm and relaxed magnificence that brightens you up. Under its huge dome, where a mosaic image of the Theotokos can still be seen, the feeling of peace and serenity of mind deepens until happiness.

Keywords: Venice, Grand Canal, Bosphorus, Constantinople, Nicolae Iorga, the cathedral of St. Sophia

DAN CIACHIR