Let’s just say that today, May 11, 2025, Roc had an absolute blast as did I. From riding a LEGO tiger to attending church to a romantic dinner to an adventure in a medieval silver mine, the experiences that I shared with Roc were unforgettable. I may have dropped Roc in some mud at one point, but we reconciled after the fact. At this moment, Roc has fallen asleep considering that we did and saw so much today.
To be serious, today was indeed amazing. Our class took a trip down to Kutná Hora, where we visited the Sedlec Ossuary, the Cathedral of Assumption of Our Lady and St. John the Baptist, St Barbara’s Cathedral, and a silver mine used during the 13th century. The ossuary was, no pun intended, bone chilling, and the cathedrals were stunningly beautiful. Meanwhile, the history and strategy behind the silver mines was utterly fascinating. Several pictures from these experiences are included above and below.
Starting with the churches, I have to say that the time and dedication that man puts forth to honoring God never seizes to amaze me. The cathedrals we visited, each and every one of them, are pure engineering feats. The ceilings are immensely high, the art is jaw-droppingly intricate, and the fact that the buildings stand with integrity and beauty both inside and out inspires me to use my engineering skills in a similar manner. Building such spectacles was definitely not a simple task either. Not only did the engineers and architects have to worry about the appearance of the cathedrals, but they also had to assure that the structure itself could withstand the conditions of the world throughout its existence. This, as I mention in most of my blogs, is the combination of art and functionality that engineers must balance in any project they complete. I aspire to do the same.
Moving to the silver mine, this was yet another great experience. To be immersed in the literal depths of history and to see where miners from the 13th century actually struck their pickaxes and chisels made it feel as though the mines were just used yesterday. The mine was well preserved and it, too, served as a great example of medieval engineering. Specifically, these engineering aspects consist of the horse-powered hoists that were used to lift up silver ore from great depths, the systems used for feeding fresh oxygen into the mines, the procedure for keeping track of how many miners were present in the mine so that none were left behind, and so much more. Engineering, from this perspective, was utilized in a very systematic manner to make sure things were done as properly and safely as possible because mining is and was a dangerous industry. This silver mine exploration was most likely mine and Roc’s most interesting event of the day.
Thank you Jana, Chris, and Dr. Sacre for yet another amazing day. Also happy Mother’s Day to all mothers 🙂
Swanson School of Engineering 