Bayreuth Festival works. The Festival has become a pilgrimage destination for Wagner enthusiasts. The origins of the Festival itself lie rooted in Richard Wagner's interest in establishing his financial independence. A souring of the relationship with his patron, Ludwig II of Bavaria, led to his expulsion from Munich, where he had originally intended to launch the festival. Wagner next considered Nuremberg, which would have reinforced the thematic significance of works such as "Die Meistersinger". On the advice of Hans Richter, however, the focus fell upon Bayreuth which enjoyed three distinct advantages. First, the town boasted a splendid venue: the Markgräfliches Opernhaus built
Al-Ghab offensive (July–August 2015) forces also lost a number of military vehicles, including tanks. On the same day, the Syrian Armed Forces were attempting to recapture the contested town of Al-Bahsa, which was 60 percent under their control (they ended up recapturing it on 10 October). On 28 August, the Army again launched a counter-attack and recaptured Khirbat Al-Naqus. According to Al-Masdar News, the "Tiger Force" pulled back its forces during the last rebel counter-attack and did not participate. On 10 October, the Syrian Armed Forces were able to take full-control of the town of Fawru. Al-Ghab offensive (July–August 2015) The al-Ghab offensive (July–August