Graduation Day in Durham

After our tour of the Isle of Skye, Mark and I headed to Durham, England aboard a first class train.  Our European vacation was actually planned around Mark's graduation from Durham University, so he was happy to get here and go through the ceremony.  We took the last train from Edinburgh, so we arrived pretty late that night.  Thankfully, a resident of the dorms where we were staying heard us pounding on the door and let us in since we were after hours.  After a good night's rest, we took the next day to just relax.  Mark had some business at the University to attend to, and I laid around reading for most of the day.  I felt guilty for not making the most of my free day for a short while, but got over that pretty quickly.  

This is the Durham Cathedral, also known as the Shrine of Saint Cuthbert.  It is well known throughout Europe as a masterpiece of Norman architecture.  Construction was started in 1093 and nearly finished in just 40 years.  It's importance is not just religious.  Due to its proximity to the Northern English border, it has also served an important purpose for the military.  In fact, in the 1600's it was closed and used to house over 3,000 Scottish military prisoners.  In 1832, Durham University was founded here, so restoration and preservation of the cathedral has become much more important.  This is especially true since the graduation ceremonies take place in the nave.  

I was up awful early, but with a cup of coffee, I was all smiles on graduation day.  

While Mark was ushered to the Great Hall across the courtyard to wait for the graduation procession, I waited in the rain to be ushered into the cathedral.  After the ceremony, an eager photographer took Mark's camera and snapped away.  Mark and I couldn't help but feel as if this "master" photographer was taking engagement photos.  Not so much, but they did turn out fabulously.  

Here's another with the famous Japanese peace sign. 

After our photo session, we headed out for some glamour shots of our own.  First, we headed to the College of Education.  The short walk was filled with picturesque scenes that were stereotypically European.  Since I was in charge of the camera, I went a bit overboard.  But, as you can see, I got some marvelous pictures. 

This one reminds me more of Italy than England, but it was beautiful nonetheless. 

The River Wear provided some nice scenes, including this cottage on the riverfront.  

One of our best photo shoots with the cathedral and castle in the background.  

Here's a view from afar.  

While I didn't do a lot of sightseeing here, I did get some much needed relaxation.  And, after chatting with some of his professors at the College of Education, I have seriously been considering getting back in the groove of school.  

The city was beautiful and filled with history.  I think Mark was much more relaxed since he didn't have graduation to worry about anymore.  I felt rejuvenated too, as I left and was ready to explore more of Europe.