Unusual things we've seen in Europe, part V

Yes, it's a fire hydrant.

Unusual things we've seen in Europe, part IV

We discovered these interesting carved tree faces when we were in Switzerland for a conference. They bring to mind the Ent trees in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy.

Unusual things we've seen in Europe, part III

Ok, so there's a tree high up on a pole in the middle of this German town square... A bit odd, but the rumor is it's related to May Day (May 1) festivities.

Unusual things we've seen in Europe, part II

Western European yard art, we've discovered, seems to consist mainly of dwarves or gnomes. Since many Europeans don't really have a lawn to decorate, their yard art is usually displayed on or around their front doors or balcony areas. These two pictures were taken in Germany and Switzerland.

Unusual things we've seen in Europe, part I

The picture shows a case of beer in a very cold stream coming from the glaciers in the Swiss Alps... We witnessed this when we were attending the Cow Fighting tournament (see "Mad Cows in Switzerland"). It surprised us that this kind of refrigeration actually happens outside of beer commercials. Glacier water must be a very practical way to keep drinks ice cold for those who have access to it!