Founded in AD 604 as church dedicated to Paul the Apostle. Original Gothic cathedral was 585 feet long and 100 feet wide. Destroyed by lightning in 1561 and Parliamentary forces in 1642-1651
Exedra is a semicircular architectural recess with semi-dome crown. Originally referred to stoa rooms with curved stone benches. Hellenistic exedras often supported bronze sculptures in sacred places. Roman exedra became popular in 1st century AD Domus Aurea
Founded in 1543 as Santiago de los Caballeros, Guatemala's third capital. Moved to Panchoy Valley after 1541 volcanic lahar destroyed original capital. Became UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 for Baroque architecture. Population peaked at 65,000 in 1770s, declined to 34,685 by 2007
The Zwinger is a Baroque palace complex in Dresden, Germany. Built in 1709 as an orangery and festival area by architect Pöppelmann. Originally planned as forecourt for new castle between it and Elbe. Completed in 1728 with richly decorated pavilions and galleries
Founded in 744 by Saint Sturm as Benedictine monastery under Boniface's rule. Received support from Carolingian rulers and leading families. Became independent under Papal See in 751. Main church rebuilt between 790-819 based on St. Peter's Basilica
Dresden is the capital of Saxony and fourth largest city in Germany. The city has 790,000 inhabitants in urban area and 1.34 million in metropolitan area. Located on both banks of Elbe River, with highest point at 384 meters. Known as "Elbflorenz" (Florence on the Elbe) for its Baroque architecture