The Great Clock With the invention of clocks in the Medieval Ages, many cities hung clocks in public areas. Le Gros Horloge or "The Great Clock" in Rouen, France was built in the fourteenth century on the archway over a gate in the ancient Roman walls and rang the bells of the nearby Gothic belfry. The city installed a face on the clock in 1409, with just one hour hand to tell the time and a globe showing the phases of the moon. It was later rebuilt in 1527-1529. On the underside of the arch are depictions of sheep showing the importance of the wool trade in Rouen and the Paschal Lamb, which has been part of Rouen's coat of arms since the 14th century.
Inside the London Eye If you ever find yourself as a tourist in London, you must surely take a ride on the London Eye. We were fortunate to take our ride right at sunset. It was a gorgeous time of day, but it did make it difficult to shoot anything facing west. Since the ride is constantly moving, HDR shots can be difficult. Looking out across the Thames was especially breathtaking, with many of the historic London sites in easy view. In this image, you can see Westminster Palace, and just behind it to the right, Westminster Abbey. The bubble you ride in can distort the image slightly, plus the reflections inside are horrific. Then add everyone else wanting to take the same picture from the same spot inside this bubble and it makes for a fun time.