San Jose

My visit to San Jose surprised me. Parts of it reminded me of Canberra as much of it is a new city, The downtown was rebuilt after the 1989 earthquake, not that Canberra has really had quakes outside of Parliament.

 These first pics are of the magnificent City Hall (Council Chambers). The domed building in the centre is truly a marvel - all glass and metal with light piercing its way through its entirety. The courtyard has gentle fountains that invite a soothing atmosphere.

Around the corner of course is St Joseph's Cathedral. Yes, I went hunting http://www.stjosephcathedral.org/  This is the fifth church on this site (earthquakes will do that too!) This is an Italian Renaissance church which replaced the original adobe churches. It was consecrated in 1877 (but has been restored of course...once again...the earthquakes!) This is the oldest parish church in California. (Double click the pics to increase size).

This cathedral has two beautiful quotes that I need to leave on my pages:

"The Cathedral is the Palace of Christ the King. It is the School of Christ the Teacher, and the Temple of Christ the priest. " P. Paul V1

and...

"Above all, a city needs a soul if is to become a true home for human beings. You, the people, must give it this soul". P. John Paul 11

The pic left is a tiny pic of the hundreds of Christmas trees that brighten the inner city gardens once a year. (Fake snow!!!)

This page is dedicated to enliven all our souls.