Photos

The Alps march across this image of Autumnal (early October) southern Europe. On either side of and above the Alps are the countries of (from left to right) France, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, and Slovenia, while below the Alps is Italy. The Mediterranean and Ligurian Seas sit to the west of Italy, while to the right is the Adriatic Sea. As the season progresses, snow begins to whiten the Alps. Image courtesy of NASA.

Predjama Castle in Slovenia, a large fortress built into a huge hillside cave.

A farm field in Slovenia near Lake Bled, with the Julian Alps in the background. The structure on the right is a rack for drying hay, a design unique to Slovenia.

Lake Bled in Slovenia, with the Church of the Assumption at the left on little Bled Island, Bled Castle atop the cliffs on the right, and the Julian Alps towering in the background. Small boats with strong oarsmen ferry visitors to the island - to the musical accompaniment of an accordion.

The central skyline of Ljubljana, capital of Slovenia, as seen from atop the castle tower overlooking the city.

Assumption Church situated on an island in picturesque Lake Bled.