Monthly Challenge | Travel | Photography

Ruins from Rockwood to Rome

Ruins of the World Both Near and Far

Back in 2018 — Rockwood — Author’s Photo

When I saw this month’s challenge, I was wondering if I had anything to add based on my recent experiences. Had I been anywhere exotic and fascinating that would enable me to make a decent contribution? I put it on hold for a while, and then recalled ruins that are quite close by, but still an interesting place that warrants a stop in Southern Ontario — the picturesque town of Rockwood. About an hour west of Ontario, Rockwood features a beautiful conservation area on the grand river. Amongst the limestone cliffs, deep blue water and hiking trails, you can also find the ruins of the Rockwood Woolen Mills, started in 1867 — also the year of Canada’s Confederation. I am glad I took a picture of the plaque — it has many interesting details on the business that existed for so many years in this small village.

Woolen Mills History in Rockwood — Photo by Author

Rockwood Ruins from Behind Bars 2022 — Photo by Author

Throughout the years, I have been to Rockwood many times, and it is always fun to walk among the ruins, and take in the history. Last year when I went, they were closed off unfortunately, so it gave me more time to stop and look at the sign and find out more behind the scenes information on these interesting 19th century walls that we now use for photo ops and backdrops against the bright sky. Another beautiful view of Rockwood awaited a short walk away, where I admired the beautiful blue water, gorgeous trees and Canada geese in relaxation mode.

Rockwood’s Beautiful Conservation Area — Photo by Author

After reviewing a few other articles for this monthly challenge, I recalled that another much grander site I have visited is the Roman Colosseum. I have had the occasion to visit twice, in 2015 and 2019. The first time was a wonderful experience — to see it for the first time, leaves one awestruck. The second time — we arrived as a tour group on a rainy day — and while the experience was a little rushed and crowded — what an amazing place to witness for a second time. I still find it fascinating that in the times of gladiators they held spectacles for audiences that averaged 65,000 people. The restoration of this ancient ampitheatre provides a bucket list experience for the masses.

Roman Colosseum — A Fascinating Site — Photo by Author

There were many great posts on this topic, here are a couple of that caught my attention.

I enjoyed Erie Astin’s in depth exploration of the various ruins in Rome

The Eye-Catching Chaos of Rome’s Ruins

A fanciful stroll through the crumbling Eternal City

medium.com

Great post by Ronald Smit gave me the idea to add more than one place to my post — and I also liked reading about Tulum again— an amazing place to see the Mayan Ruins — which I did years and years ago.

Rambling about Ruins

Imagining life long ago

medium.coI

This was an interesting monthly prompt, and I hope you enjoyed my brief read about a couple of polar opposite places where I experienced ruins of the world.