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3/18/08 (a day before my birthday)
Madrid, Spain
Four days ago we flew into Madrid, Spain, late at night. The weather here is warm and sunny - no more sweatshirts!
On our first night, we had tapas (small plates/servings) for dinner. After each course we were served sorbet to cleanse the palate. Also in Spain, people eat much later than we do. We get back to our hotel around 11p.m. each night.
On the next day, we visited the Prado and Reina sofia museums in downtown Madrid. The Prado museum hasclassic works of Goya, Velasquez, Rembrandt, Rafael, and many more. The Reina Sofia is a modern art museum including a large number of paintings & art works by Picasso. I prefer the classical art works because you can tell what it is. Picasso's works were cool, but some of them were confusing.
On Palm Sunday we went to the church in downtown Madrid and it was amazing. There was beautiful artwork and the three altars were highly decorative. Instead of votive candles the church used light bulbs. The mass was, of course, in Spanish.
While we were in Madrid we visited the town of Toledo. Toledo originated around 192 B.C.and at one time it was the capital of Spain (Madrid is currently the capital). During the 8th century, under Arab rule, Christians, Jews & Muslims lived in harmony. This long period of time was known as "La Convivencia" Because of this period, the town's architecture is based on Jewish, Christian & Moorish styles.Unfortunately, in 1492, a Christian movement led by the Catholic Kings of Spain forced the Jews & Muslims out of Spain. The one remaining Synagogue in Toledo is named St. Mary's because it was forced to take on a Christian name, during the movement.
The main Cathedral in Toledo has shackles hanging down from one side, symbolizing the Muslims being forced out of the town of Granada. Granada was the last stronghold for the Muslims, in Spain.
Toledo was a small, beautiful town with a sad history. Today, Toledo is a successful, tourist town.
Next Stops - Segovia, Sevilla & Ronda!
RS
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