The abbey of Saint-Jouin-de-Marnes was built in the 11th and 12th centuries to the site of 4th century oratory. The abbey was fortified in the 14th century and is an impressive size, measuring 72 metres long and 15 metres tall. It contains beautiful Poitevin Romanesque art. Visitors can also admire the arches of its doors with their sculpted motifs, the scene of the Last Judgment adorning the pediment, the square bell tower with round bays, and in the majestic chancel, the oak stalls and eagle-shaped lectern from the 17th century.
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.