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Encroaching Shadows

Encroaching shadows on the mountains to the west of the monastery, with the Chapel of the Prophet Aaron visible on the left.

7 comments to Encroaching Shadows

  • GretchenJoanna

    That is quite beautiful, and dramatic.

  • Richard Saloom

    A very rugged scene. When I magnify the image, it looks like civilization is making its way into the wilderness.

    • Father Justin

      Above on the left, you can see the edge of a bedouin village. Below that, you can see the top of a crane from current construction projects that are designed to accommodate increased numbers of visitors in the future.

  • Richard Saloom

    Dear Father Justin,

    Are the areas around the religious sites protected from development in any way?

    With best regards,

    Richard

    • Father Justin

      The entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This does not preclude development, but all plans should be carried out with respect to the historical and scenic importance of the area. But any development makes us appreciate even more the photographs taken in the latter nineteenth century, when there was nothing here except the monastery. This timeless beauty is still here, and I try to capture that in my own photographs.

  • Richard Saloom

    Dear Father Justin,

    I really appreciate your efforts in photographing St. Catherine’s. The photos will be a time capsule for generations to come. What is the best means of preserving them for future viewing centuries from now?

    Sincerely yours,
    Richard

    • Father Justin

      I have archival copies of my photographs in TIFF format. This is the standard format for long term preservation. The viability of digital archives is an ongoing concern for many. I think of this especially when I open a tenth century manuscript, and the pages are fresh and clear, as if they had been written yesterday.

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