Sainte-Chapelle

Sainte-Chappelle is the slightly lesser known cathedral in Paris, that is very close to Notre Dame, and it contains some of the best stained glass windows in Europe. It's said its architecture is supposed to mimic Christ's crown of thorns represented by the spindly spires and protruding gargoyles. Like most medieval churches, pilgrims would travel far-and-wide to visit various holy sites and reliquaries. Sainte-Chappelle used to contain the actual crown of thorns placed on Jesus' head when he was crucified. The high windows filled with colored glass seems almost impossible. The church was built at the height of Gothic architecture and exalts the many complex mysteries and religious stories that were everywhere during medieval life. It was a pleasure visiting such a remarkable site that I had learned about back in undergrad. 

Pleasant Home

Oak Park has an outstanding plethora of cultural gems within such a small geographic radius. A lesser know landmark within the Village of Oak Park is Pleasant Home. Noted as an early example of America's prairie style homes it offers a fascinating insight into life over a hundred years ago and the innovations of technology within domestic life. Pleasant Home was originally owned by John Larson and was later purchased by the Mills family (the house is within Mills Park), and is situated within walking distance from Frank Lloyd Wright's Unity Temple and his home and studio. 

Most notably about the actual house is its elaborate hand carved architectural details, stained glass, and overall craftsmanship. I think that Pleasant Home is a real treasure to Oak Park and surrounding area and I'm really hope to get more involved in supporting it.