As with most old architecture from Europe and around the world, I am moved by how colorful a whole town or architectural style can be. What happened to that? At least, speaking on modern architecture in the United States, in general. Whether residential or commercial spaces, the color palette you often find in the U.S. is so drab, inside and out. To say nothing of the dull architecture itself. I don't want white walls unless their crisp and complimented with deep and dreamy blues, as you'd find in the Cyclades (Greece). Give me yellow stripes, pinks, and pastels any day!

Sori at left, Lerici at right.

Location: Liguria, Italy ★

Step right up! From big sets to small, Liguria is sea of stairs.

The town of Sori on the left, Riomaggiore on the right.

Location: Liguria, Italy ★

Still on the topic of trompe l'oeil, the most enchanting applications aren't hidden behind palace doors. Instead you can find them outside, gracing the exteriors of traditional residential buildings and churches throughout the region.

The example on the left was a pleasant surprise after a long climb to the top of Sori, and the two on the right are in equally steep and soulful Camogli.

Location: Liguria, Italy ★