Magical Mystery Tour

The city of Liverpool has amazing history - the docks were the home to some of the world's largest ships, including the Titanic.  Liverpool - the home of The Beatles and the Superlambanana. 

The Beatles - Famous!

The Superlambanana - Not-so-Famous!

The Superlambanana is a sculpture that can be found in many places around the city.  It is the new symbol of Liverpool and was designed by a Japanese artist in 1998.  The statue is meant to  "warn of the dangers of genetically modified food, whilst being appropriate to the city of Liverpool due to the port's rich history in the trade of lambs and the import of bananas".  It even has a fan-club (www.superlambanana.com) of which many Scousers are members (a Scouser is a local Liverpoodlian, named after a stew - their favorite food).

Liverpool's skyline is known for the 2 main cathedrals.  The Anglican cathedral is the largest in Europe and the 2 bells inside weigh a total of 32 tonnes.  Imagine hoisting those into the bell tower!  The architect of the museum also designed the famous red British telephone booths.

Anglican Cathedral.

The Catholic cathedral was built in 1976.  It certainly looks unique and modern.  Some locals refer to it as "Paddy's Wigwam". 

Catholic Cathedral.

The circular section is not, in fact, representing a space ship, but the crown of thorns.  The circular structure is the largest continuous display of stained glass.  All that glass prevented the installation of church bells in the glass tower (for reasons I am sure you can figure out!). 

The four bells are outside of the church and are referred to as Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.  The bells are also affectionately named by some as John, Paul, George and Ringo.

Catholic cathedral church bells.  What naming convention do YOU believe in?

Speaking of the Fab4 - the reason I added Liverpool to my itinerary is to see the birthplace of the Beatles.  I cannot tell you how excited I was to see where it all started.  The homes where they lived housed the creation of songs we all sing and know - this was very special.

This pub is on the street where Ringo Starr grew up - it was referenced in his song Sentimental Journey.

Our tour guide (Paul) - in front of George Harrison's house.

Zanner & Greg infront of John Lennon's home called Mendips. 
The blue plaque on the home indicated it is a National Trust historical site.

Paul's bedroom is the top right.  Imagine all the screaming girls who would gather outside this window!

We saw the original Penny Lane and the entrance to Strawberry Fields.

Strawberry Fields Forever.  Being here brought me to tears.

The Beatles first gig was played in the Cavern Club.  This club is in the basement (about 4 fights of downward stairs!) and felt like a cave with low ceilings made of stone. 

I can't believe I am here!!!

Greg holding up the ceiling in the Cavern Club.

The Cavern Club walls and ceiling were covered in graffiti and notes of love for the Beatles.  There was a cover band playing the favorites and the club was full of energy and had a fun vibe.  It made me want to Twist & Shout!