Kloster Vinnenberg was established probably in the 13th century by Cistercian monks. The abbey was dissolved in 1810 post secularization. The Lage Gothic abbey church has marvelous architecture and is one of the most significant buildings in the complex. The abbey is home to a statue that is believed to be carved out miraculously from a tree trunk; it depicts Mother of the Lord and St. John. One of the oldest places for pilgrimage, the church is utilized as a conference and retreat center.
The Walls of Constantinople are a series of defensive stone walls that have surrounded and protected the city of Constantinople (today Istanbul) since its founding as the new capital of the Roman Empire by Constantine the Great. With numerous additions and modifications during their history, they were the last great fortification system of antiquity, and one of the most complex and elaborate systems ever built. They were also the largest and strongest fortification in both the ancient and medieval world.
Initially built by Constantine the Great, the walls surrounded the new city on all sides, protecting it against attack from both sea and land. As the city grew, the famous double line of the Theodosian Walls was built in the 5th century. Although the other sections of the walls were less elaborate, they were, when well-manned, almost impregnable for any medieval besieger.