Today, I’m showcasing some doors and details from my archives that feature the enchanting beauty and intricate details of the Amalfi Cathedral (St. Andrew’s Cathedral), its architecture, and a rich history. This cathedral, one of the standout attractions of the Amalfi Coast and among Italy’s most magnificent churches, sits in Piazza del Duomo at the heart of Amalfi. The beautiful Roman Catholic Cathedral is dedicated to the Apostle Saint Andrew, whose remains were brought to Amalfi from Constantinople in 1206 and are interred in the Crypt. In addition to being the patron saint of Scotland and Russia, Saint Andrew is also revered as the patron saint of Amalfi.
Click images to enlarge them.
I, for some reason, found it suitable for the season as I am listening to Christmas songs at the same time. Dan’s Thursday Doors
For this week for Dan’s Thursday Doors, I sought AI’s feedback on my image, which inspired me to explore my creative choices. I edited the image in three ways to highlight the importance of color in conveying meaning and emotional resonance, noting how the shift from warm to cool tones alters interpretation. And I just like editing images 😀
This photo, captured by Ritva Sillanmäki, can symbolize several ideas, primarily centered around transition, choice, and new opportunities, as doors are a common subject in art for these themes.
Potential Symbolism:
Transition and Change: Doorways represent the passage from one place or state of being to another, such as leaving one phase of life behind and moving on to the next.
Original image.
Opportunity and Invitation: An open door, like the ones in the image, generally conveys a sense of welcome, encouragement, and a new beginning.
An open doorway symbolizing transition and new opportunities, illuminated by warm, inviting light.
Choice and Decision: The presence of multiple doors could symbolize a corridor of choices, or the act of making a decision itself—whether to go through a specific door, stay put, or explore a new path.
An open doorway in teal and browns
Boundaries and Connection: Doors serve as a boundary between the outside world and an inner sanctuary, a connection between different worlds, or a point of protection and welcoming.
An open doorway in blues and dark browns
Artistic Interpretation: As a photographer known for exploring emotions and unique perspectives, Sillanmäki’s work often aims to encourage the viewer to reflect and make their own discoveries within the image. The personal meaning of the photograph ultimately rests with the viewer’s interpretation of the scene and their own experiences.
I have so many doors and lovely buildings from Riga that I have not shared. So I decided to look at them with new eyes and with much better editing skills than I had back then. While wandering through the charming streets, I was struck by the unique architecture that embodies the rich history of the city. I took a trip to Riga with my sister in 2012, so these most likely do not look the same today as they did then, but all the same, they look charming to me. Each building tells a story, and the intricate designs and vibrant colors evoke a sense of nostalgia. I can’t help but admire how these lovely structures reflect the character and culture of Riga, serving as a beautiful reminder of our journey together.
Charming streets of Riga showcasing historical buildings and architectural details.
Charming entrance with wooden doors and decorative baskets, illuminated by soft sunlight.
This is a fictional story inspired by this this photograph. For Dans Thursday Doors as he likes stories.
Miriam, the old writer, got her best ideas not from the outside world but from the cozy little sanctuary she created in her study. Her window, framed in pale green and fitted with six panes, was like her own personal lookout, showcasing the seasons as they slowly changed. Right now, that lookout was all lit up by the late afternoon sun dipping down behind the trees, throwing long shadows over the lawn.
Looking through the glass, she spotted the back of this big, white house with dark trim, kinda hidden by all the green leaves of summer. She knew every little thing about that place—the way the afternoon sun hit the peeling paint on the porch, the twisted branches of the old oak tree standing watch next to it, and that stone path leading up to the front door. She’d come up with all sorts of stories about the people she imagined living there, crafting a new tale every day, always a new mystery to figure out.
A view from an artist’s study window, featuring a collection of wire sculptures on the sill and a glimpse of a grand house framed by lush greenery.
But she always found herself staring at the windowsill. There, a bunch of funky wire and found-object sculptures hung out like they owned the place. The coolest one, a figure with a big open head and a rusty metal body, was totally her fave. She named it “The Listener.” To her, it wasn’t just some art piece; it was like her muse, her creative buddy, just hanging out while she worked. She’d chat with it about plot twists and character issues, and in the silence of the room, she could almost picture it nodding along, its big head soaking up her ideas like a satellite dish.
So today, the listener was totally quiet. Miriam had been going back and forth with this super annoying protagonist for weeks, a character who just wouldn’t spill her real motivations. The story was basically stuck, like a boat without a sail. She tapped her finger on the chilly glass, the sound cutting through the silence like a little punctuation mark.
Suddenly, a strong burst of wind slammed the old wooden doors on the right side of the window, which were flung wide open and creaked like they were complaining. Outside, the small world was waking up. The trees swayed, their leaves rustling like distant applause. The back of the big house shimmered a bit in the shifting light.
Miriam glanced over at the listener. The afternoon sun hit the wire head just right, making it seem like the figure was really tuned in, not to her, but to everything happening outside. She had been digging for answers in her own thoughts and quiet little bubble. But then it hit her—the real answer was right out there, in the breeze, in the leaves rustling, in all the hidden lives around her. She grabbed her notebook, with her pen already ready to jot down the whispers of the wind. The story was about to kick off again.
I wanted to share something rustic with shadows for Becky’s November Shadows and Dan’s Doors. I chose this beautiful scene of an open brown door that leads into a rustic building. It’s surrounded by lush greenery and a winding pathway that really invites you in. The door, with its weathered wooden frame, feels so warm as color brown suggests.
An inviting doorway with the rustic charm of traditional architecture, with a glimpse of a well-maintained outdoor space. Please be kind and wipe your feet on the rag rugs before entering 😀
The trees and branches around it, when the sunlight filters through the leaves, cast lovely shadows on the ground, giving it a nice atmosphere. It really beckons you to step through the threshold into the building.
An inviting open door leading into a rustic building. Would you like to step in?
A pathway leading to a rustic wooden door framed by lush greenery.
An inviting entrance to a rustic cabin, framed by lush greenery.
I’m still hanging out in the deserted barn in Veklahti, Kirkkonummi, which has been charred for years. Over the weekend, I found out that it’s a protected structure and that a film crew was on site—apparently shooting a war movie. This information was shared with me, though I haven’t verified it myself, but my source is trustworthy! 😀
A dimly lit hallway in a dilapidated building, featuring a doorway illuminated in the background.
The place is a photographer’s dream, and I have SO many shots to share! The views are absolutely stunning, with every angle offering something unique to capture. I really like these images, both in black and white and color, as they evoke different moods and feelings. I enjoy how the light streams in, illuminating the scene while shadows adds depth to each shot. Also, all the junk scattered around lets one’s imagination run wild, inspiring countless stories in one’s mind. There’s endless possibilities here that truly fuels creativity. Do you agree with me?
A dimly lit, cluttered hallway leading to a door, illustrating decay and neglect.
A view of nature gently framed by the entrance of a timeworn building. I hope you appreciate the beautiful contrast between the vibrant outdoors and the wear of the structure, as it tells a story of both beauty and decay. This image highlights the poignant difference between the enchanting allure of nature and the fading remnants of human craftsmanship, observed through the threshold of a once-proud building. It captures a heartfelt moment where the colors of the natural world embraces the history of human creation, inviting us to value both the thriving beauty and the whispers of time. This scene was shared with Thursday Doors.
A weathered doorway frames a view of vibrant nature, illustrating the contrast between decay and the beauty of the outdoors.
I took these during summer, and I have previously posted several shots of the Oodi Helsinki Central Library, but these are not them. You mainly see the reflection of the Parliament House in Helsinki. It is good to visit the archives; there are so many photos that I’ve not posted for one reason or another. If you are interested in the building the link offers lots of information.
The closer you look the more clear you can see this week’s image for Thursday Doors
the Oodi Library’s unique architecture.
Reflection of the Parliament House on the glass facade of Oodi Library in Helsinki.
Reflections of people and “Parliament House captured in the glass facade with a door
A view of Helsinki’s Parliament House framed through the architectural design of the Oodi Library.
View from the OODi Library in Helsinki, showcasing the Parliament House through the glass façade.
A view from inside the Oodi Library in Helsinki, showcasing the modern architecture and Music Hall on the other side of outdoor space.Musiikkitalo is the result of a joint endeavour by the Sibelius Academy, the Finnish Radio Symphony Orchestra and Helsinki Philharmonic Orchestra. First opened to the public in August 2011, the building enjoys a prime location in central Helsinki, opposite Eduskunta, the Finnish Parliament. This is a shot from the back of the building as seen from Oodi.
A striking view of the Oodi Helsinki Central Library’s architectural design featuring a curved wooden ceiling and reflective glass facade.
Just this one image, hope it creates a warm, comfy, and inviting mood to brighten up your day, filling you with positivity and joy. As you take a moment to absorb its mood, allow it to envelop you in a sense of tranquility and bliss, reminding you of the simple pleasures in life that bring warmth to your soul. Too much 😀 ?
A sunlit hallway showcasing elegant doors and a chandelier, inviting you into the upstairs of Villa Rullud
Se Cathedral Church in Goa, India, is an impressive building known for its grand size and rich history, making it one of the largest churches in Asia. It was built to honor the well-respected Portuguese general Afonso de Albuquerque for his key role in taking Goa from Muslim rule in 1510, which was a big moment in the area’s history. The church’s architecture beautifully combines Manueline, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, showcasing intricate details that highlight the craftsmanship of that time. Construction began in 1562 and wrapped up in 1619, showing the significant effort that went into this grand project. Today, it stands not just as an architectural marvel but also as the cathedral for the Archbishop of Goa, making it an important hub for the local Catholic community.
I have an overload of photos here, but believe me not I have another same amount that I am not sharing. Details a different views of the same place. Click the galleries to enlarge the photos if so inclined
View from inside Se Cathedral in Goa, showcasing the majestic entrance and a statue in the courtyard.
I took my son to the dentist yesterday, bracing myself for what was about to unfold. I was originally supposed to drop him off and pick him up after the surgery to remove his wisdom tooth, but instead, I was ordered back to sit with him during the premedication process, as they insisted he should not be alone. Despite him being 30 years old, the staff felt it was essential for him to have some support during this time. So much for y morning coffee in a nice cafe. I had tried to avoid this scenario, especially considering the multitude of viruses going around at the moment. Nonetheless, I did as instructed, drove back center and walked to the waiting area, and settled in to be with him. Since I was required to be there with seemingly nothing useful to occupy my time, I decided to make the most of the situation by taking a few shots from the health center with my phone. The light of the waiting area and the glass ceiling and the sterile efficiency of the dental area inspired me, providing a contrast that made for interesting photographs. I even took the opportunity to edit them right there on my phone, to enhance the images as I waited for the surgery to commence.
Entrance to room H13 at the health center, showcasing a modern design.
The health center lobby had a a high glass ceiling and stylish pendant lighting and it showed us the lovely blue sky.
The lobby with spacious interiors and large windows, highlighting a well-lit environment. The influenssa vaccinations are about to begin so there seems to be stalls placed for them in the lobby.
Empty waiting chairs at a health center, I waited for a moment when they were empty before taking the shot. I had a few minute window to do it.
I tried to focus more on the windows and seating areas.
These two almost same shots are from our trip to Australia, the doors are from the area known as The Rocks in Sydney. This historic neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets and charming colonial buildings.
A vibrant alleyway featuring a blue door and yellow walls, leading to a glimpse of greenery at the end.A narrow passageway leading to a bright exit.
This is the most exotic sight by the lake Tampaja in Northern Kirkkonummi, the tilted sauna. This weeks post for Dans Thursday Doors, photos are from y archives – we still have green leaves on the trees.
A partially submerged log sauna with a bright yellow and blue door leaning precariously in a lake surrounded by trees.Scenic view of a lakeside sauna 😀A rustic log Sauna partially submerged in a lake, surrounded by trees and cloudy skies.
We visited Lehmonkärki resort during our vacation, and this charming door led to the sauna and spa area, which looked like a delightful retreat from daily hustle. The door, adorned with intricate woodwork, stood out beautifully against the natural backdrop. I really liked the door, as it had a note on it saying “no phones beyond this door,” a simple yet effective rule to ensure everyone could enjoy peace and solitude while relaxing.
The sauna area includes four unique saunas: USVA (steam sauna),SAVU(traditional smoke sauna warmed by alder wood), TERVA (a cozy, wood-burning sauna infused with the aroma of tar), and AISTI (a picturesque sauna offering views of Lake Päijänne).
A modern door leading to the sauna and spa area , framed by lush greenery and a scenic lakeside view.Scenic view of Lehmonkärki resort featuring a spa area by the lake and the restaurant behind it.
Joenniemen kartano (the Manor) designed by architect Jarl Eklund, was completed in 1935 as the representative home of Gösta and Ruth Serlachius on the shores of Lake Melasjärvi. The building represents Classicism and is influenced by English manor architecture. The interior features clean-lined functionalism from the 1930s. Sculptor Hannes Autere designed the wooden furniture of the wine house and carved the wooden reliefs that decorate the space, as I wrote in my previous post. Hannes Autere also made the wooden carvings that adorn the main door and window frames of the manor.
This week’s Thursday Doors features a beautifully carved wooden wine cellar door at Serlaclius Museum, showcasing intricate reliefs by Hannes Autere. The interior highlights a decorated room, complete with a musician mural and detailed windows that emphasize the artistic celebration of wine enjoyment. Thursday Doors
A beautifully carved wooden wine cellar door featuring intricate reliefs of Hannes Autere at Serlachius Museum
Details from the wine cellar at the cellar.
A beautifully decorated room with a musician mural and intricate windows, showcasing artistic details about the joys of enjoying wine.
Thursday Doors July 3, 2025 Visiting the Tuhannen Tuskan Cafe , translates to “a thousand pains” or “a thousand sorrows” The cafe in Loviisa is often referred to in a more casual way, such as the Cafe of a Thousand Pains.
A rustic wooden door with a decorative wreath, showcasing traditional architecture.
The whitewashed houses in Ravello are way more than just pretty sights; they capture the fun vibe and rich history of this lovely little Italian town. Perched high above the Amalfi Coast, these gorgeous buildings shine bright in the warm Mediterranean sun, their sunny exteriors popping against the lush greenery all around. Strolling through the narrow cobblestone streets, you’re hit with the sweet smell of blooming bougainvillea and can hear the cheerful sounds life round you. What makes Ravello special isn’t just the stunning scenery; it’s also the friendly locals who take pride in their whitewashed homes, inviting everyone to dive into the unique charm of this peaceful coastal gem. These were taken in summer 2016.
The Cameo Factory showcases intricate jewelry and artisan craftsmanship in a charming town of Ravello in Italy.
Art gallery entrance featuring colorful ceramics and paintings.
A bustling square in Ravello, showcasing charming whitewashed houses and vibrant greenery under the sunny Mediterranean sky.The architecture of Ravello’s church set against a clear blue sky, surrounded by lively cafes
I am continuing my houses and doors and windows for Dans Thursday Doors. Looking back I am sad that we only had time to stay for two days.
I don’t know the name of this house, but I like how it’s framed by the tree.The historic mansion constructed in 1873, once the center of Savannah’s elite social life and depicted in ‘Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.’ the Hamilton-Turner house
Constructed in 1873 by notable local entrepreneur and alderman Samuel Pugh Hamilton, who was referred to as “The Lord of Lafayette Square,” this private mansion emerged as a centerpiece for Savannah’s social activities, its magnificent architecture and interiors adding a sense of opulence to the numerous gatherings of the elite. When it became the first residence in Savannah to harness electricity, residents flocked to witness the enchanting glow of electric light shining through its windows. Over a century later, John Berendt’s book “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil” highlighted the lively parties hosted by Joe Odom, who once oversaw the estate. Years afterward, the Inn made a memorable appearance in the film adaptation of the same title directed by Clint Eastwood, featuring stars Kevin Spacey and John Cusack.
An example of the ornate ironwork found in Savannah.No name, but nice shutters and door and a blurry ironworks
Grand house in Savannah – The Mercer-Williams House
The Mercer-Williams House was meticulously designed for General Hugh W. Mercer, who was the great-grandfather of celebrated songwriter Johnny Mercer, adding a unique layer of cultural significance to the residence. The ambitious construction began in 1860, showcasing architectural aspirations of the time, but it was subsequently interrupted by the tumultuous events of the Civil War, which not only halted progress but also left its imprint on the history of the structure. After several years of delay and considerable upheaval, the house was eventually completed in 1868, following General Mercer’s decision to sell the unfinished structure to John R. Wilder, an influential local businessman. Thus, in a twist of fate, no Mercer ever actually lived in the house that bears their name, creating a fascinating narrative about legacy and ownership. In Savannah, the majority of historic homes echo this tradition, often using the name of the home’s original family alongside that of the most prominent family, establishing a rich tapestry of historical narratives that delight visitors and residents alike, inviting them to explore the stories that shaped the city. This is what I found out about his house when I googled it.
Savannah – the Kehoe house at the corner of the street is supposed to be haunted.
The Kehoe House is an exquisitely restored 1892 Renaissance Revival mansion in Savannah’s Historic District. The Kehoe House was built in 1892 by William Kehoe, a successful iron foundry owner. The home’s architectural style is Queen Anne Revival. Its exterior stairway, balustrades, window treatments, fluted columns and capitals, fences and gates are all cast iron, a tribute to the iron foundry’s excellence in pattern making and casting.
These are for Thursday Doors, as I was revisiting my images from Savannah. Surprisingly I have so many doors and buildings to share from that visit. I will start with these two houses. I have previously posted them, but there is a good chance you have missed those posts.
I had some difficulty with what to post, as there are so many subjects to choose from, each with its own charm and allure. After much deliberation, I finally decided to showcase this full hay barn located somewhere in Southern Australia, nestled among sprawling fields that seem to go on forever. It ended up being my choice for this week’s Monochrome Madness, as the rustic looks and textures of the barn beautifully captured the essence of monochrome photography, making it stand out against the vast expanse of the landscape. Its weathered wooden beams and create a fascinating contrast that invites the viewer to appreciate the art found in simplicity.
Additionally, I’m also sure there is a door hidden somewhere within the structure, which makes this fitting as it also qualifies for Thursday Doors. The sight of the barn evokes a sense of nostalgia, even though it is life in the present, and I can only assume there are some animals, most likely cows or sheep, given the sheer number we have seen while driving the rural roads, in need of the hay stored inside, which contributes to the cycle of life on the farm. The barn stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of those who have tend to the land, reminding us of the vital role these structures play in agricultural life.
I experienced the A 30-minute ride in one of the Singapore Flyer’s glass capsules, it offers 360-degree views. In a gray and rainy day I saw the iconic and historical sights from Marina Bay to the Singapore River, such as Raffles Place and Merlion Park
Doors of Singapore flyer
Photos linked Thursday Doors, Press the badge to access it.
Ritva Sillanmäki Photography 