Shirley Bormann, APSA, EPSA  

Last King of Romania Iron Gates by Shirley Bormann, APSA, EPSA

November 2024 - Last King of Romania Iron Gates

About the Image(s)

Taken on a Danube River cruise going upstream from Romania to Budapest. This photo depicts a humungus carving made in the Iron Gates area between Bulgaria on one side of the Danube and Romania on the other side. It is almost at the northern entrance to the Iron Gates gorge and commemorates the last Dacian King Decebalus who lived about 2000 yrs ago to honor the king who defended his country (present day Romania) against the encroaching Roman emperors. It was financed by a wealthy businessman who wanted to honor him so purchased property along the Danube to have this huge sculpture completed. It took 10 years for 12 sculptors to complete it.
Iphone 13 (didn't even bring my big camera-too heavy) this trip - October, 2024 at ISO 50, f/1.5 1/3000 second.

6 comments posted

Esther Steffens
I cropped this both below and above the bridge and like it both ways. However, it tells more of a story and makes it a travel image the way you present it. Thank you for the narration. In my opinion, this is very much a travel photo and an interesting one! The leaves in the background trees are beginning to change colors, showing us the time of year.   Posted: 11/18/2024 21:43:44
N. Sukumar   N. Sukumar
Impressive image, with the colossal statue set off against the background of fall colors. Thank you for the history - made me realize how completely ignorant I am of the history of Eastern Europe! I think the image can be improved by some curves and vibrance adjustment.   Posted: 11/22/2024 08:41:40
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Michael Smith   Michael Smith
I just returned from the Danube but on the part from Budapest toward Amsterdam, so the lower part must be on my list to complete the Danube. That is a very impressive carving and an interesting narrative to accompany it. I like Sukumar's adjustments, as it brings out the color and adds dimension and interest to the sky. I think the bridge keeps it a travel image.   Posted: 11/25/2024 10:10:22
Rich Krebs   Rich Krebs
Interesting story about the carving. I believe the colors needed some tweeking as noted. Have never been to the iron gates area and will never make it now.   Posted: 11/25/2024 12:53:45
David Stout   David Stout
I have seen several images of this statue and it certainly commands attention and is VERY imposing. I like Sukumar`s alterations but that bright item in the lower left irked me so I cropped a little more, on my screen your image appeared a little pale so I tweaked levels. A great location and well described Shirley.   Posted: 11/25/2024 14:59:49
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Judy Burr   Judy Burr
Thanks for the history lesson, Shirley. I wanted to make that trip, but no chance now. I agree with David and Sukumar's changes. It needs to have more contrast and be a bit darker. I have processed phone images on my PC with good results and shoot in raw on my phone. Glad you are still able to travel.   Posted: 11/26/2024 08:59:43

 

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