Three Years Ago Today

Three years ago today, we were in Vienna.

We explored Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, although we did not visit the crypt or climb the tower.

We did not see Saint Stephen’s at its best. Much of the building was encased in scaffolding, and portions of the exterior had been power-washed and portions had not.

Andrew said the exterior looked better before the restoration project began. Apparently to persons who have known Saint Stephen’s over the years, it is jarring to see white stone, since the original stone had been blackened by soot for over 500 years, with the result that Saint Stephen’s had become accepted as a beautiful black structure sporting a remarkable roof crafted from colorful patterned tiles.

A white stone base makes Saint Stephen’s look foreign to all but newcomers.