Have finally got my butt into gear and managed to take the monumental step of actually doing some more blogging. Phew! Have a lot to catch up as I suddenly realise. Just as a quick update can say that I have been doing a lot Italy over the summer holidays (Northern Hemisphere ones of course), which, alas are just about finished. So here goes on some catch-ups:
Think since my last trip to Switzerland in February 2008
(ClickHere)
Think since my last trip to Switzerland in February 2008
(ClickHere)
Easter Holidays 2008 - 21st-29th March
To Spain:Experiences, travels, sightseeing, interesting people, making friends... and much more. Highlights included Madrid and Monfrague National Park in Extramadura, Spain.
Exploration undertaken by myself and girlfriend Yani.
From England and the Czech Republic we came, two overworked individuals (yes, believe it or not, one of them actually me) looking for a break in the heat of Spain. With out hostel found it was time to soak up the atmosphere on the streets of Madrid for our first night - in the midst of Spain's Easter celebrations.
Tucked away in side streets or sitting astride main roads numerous churches, chapels and colleges greeted the eye. Designs ranged from Romanesque to neo-classical or Baroque.
Spanish Tapas restaurants and cafes are jotted throughout the urban landscape of Madrid. The national dish - Jamón ham - graces many of cafes in the city and indeed throughout Spain.
Packing up for the night after the day of Easter processions. Many of the orders wear what is called the “nazareno” or penitential robe in these Processions. This garment usually consists in cloak and a tunic, a hood with conical tip (“capirote”) used to hide the face of the wearer.
To the uninformed these robes can seem a bit shocking at first as these costumes look very similar to the traditional uniforms of the KKK. There is of course no connection between the two.
To the uninformed these robes can seem a bit shocking at first as these costumes look very similar to the traditional uniforms of the KKK. There is of course no connection between the two.
A gloriously warm morning awaited us the next day. The day was clear and blue skied and it was time to explore the city properly. Having seen the Teatro Real (literally Royal Theater) and the Plaza de Mayor we headed over to view the Royal Palace of Madrid (Palacio Real de Madrid).
As Yani enjoys her Iced Coffee its entrancing architecture rears behind.
As Yani enjoys her Iced Coffee its entrancing architecture rears behind.
Just behind the Palace is the Santa María la Real de La Almudena - the Catholic cathedral of Madrid.
By Spanish standards this is actually a fairly modern Cathedral in its history. It was begun in the 16th century as a restoration project, but did not receive much headway until 1879. Francisco de Cubas designed and directed the construction in a Gothic revival style, but construction ceased completely during the Spanish Civil War. The project was abandoned until 1950, when Fernando Chueca Goitia adapted the plans of de Cubas to a neoclassical style exterior to match the grey and white façade of the Royal Palace. It was not properly completed until 1993, when the cathedral was consecrated by Pope John Paul II.
The modern nature of this Cathedral shows. Inside the Neo-Gothic interior is shaped with chapels and statues of contemporary artists, in styles, from historical revival to "pop-art" decor.
By Spanish standards this is actually a fairly modern Cathedral in its history. It was begun in the 16th century as a restoration project, but did not receive much headway until 1879. Francisco de Cubas designed and directed the construction in a Gothic revival style, but construction ceased completely during the Spanish Civil War. The project was abandoned until 1950, when Fernando Chueca Goitia adapted the plans of de Cubas to a neoclassical style exterior to match the grey and white façade of the Royal Palace. It was not properly completed until 1993, when the cathedral was consecrated by Pope John Paul II.
The modern nature of this Cathedral shows. Inside the Neo-Gothic interior is shaped with chapels and statues of contemporary artists, in styles, from historical revival to "pop-art" decor.
In front, the Cathedral, behind the courtyard of the Palace.
As a lover of culture and architecture I'm quite sure that Yani is in blissful heaven at this moment.
As a lover of culture and architecture I'm quite sure that Yani is in blissful heaven at this moment.
Notice the Flying Saucer in the far background?
The Gardens and Parks throughout Madrid are among the most impressive and grandiose I have seen in any European city.
Here, the gardens and sculpting in front of the Palace and Cathedral. Here also Yani, looks like someone is seriously loving Spain.
Here, the gardens and sculpting in front of the Palace and Cathedral. Here also Yani, looks like someone is seriously loving Spain.
Another set of beautiful gardens and flowing fountain designs complement the Palace from behind.
:) And I, caught in the moment of a scene so beautiful I just cannot take it all in, I must cover my eyes of from its shuddering ecstasy of emotions.
:) And I, caught in the moment of a scene so beautiful I just cannot take it all in, I must cover my eyes of from its shuddering ecstasy of emotions.
Well after a bit more wandering and a bit more "oooing" and "ahhhing" we ended up having our fine day spoilt by rain.
Yani and I quickly decided to cut short our visit to the Templo de Debod (an authentic 2nd century BC Egyptian temple donated by the Egyptian government in thanks for help given by the Spanish during the building of the Aswan Dam).
It was time to head to one of the great art galleries of the world - the Museo Del Prado.
Yani and I quickly decided to cut short our visit to the Templo de Debod (an authentic 2nd century BC Egyptian temple donated by the Egyptian government in thanks for help given by the Spanish during the building of the Aswan Dam).
It was time to head to one of the great art galleries of the world - the Museo Del Prado.
To our right, the City Botanic Gardens, ahead statues, sculptures and artworks leading up the boulevard to the Museo Del Prado.
The front courtyard and entrance to the Museo Del Prado.
The Gallery features one of the world's finest collections of European art, from the 12th century through the early 19th century, based on the former Spanish Royal Collection.
Of the 1300 works in the Prado, highlights include Diego Velázquez and Francisco Goya, as well El Greco, Bartolomé Estéban Murillo, Jusepe de Ribera and most other leading Spanish old masters. There are also large groups of important works by the Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch (a personal favorite of King Philip II of Spain), Titian, Peter Paul Rubens, Raphael, and Joachim Patiner. Fine examples of the works of Andrea Mantegna, Botticelli, Caravaggio, Guido Reni, Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, Veronese, Hans Baldung Grien, Fra Angelico, Van der Weyden and many other notable artists are also on display in the museum.
The best known work on display at the museum is Las Meninas by Velázquez, considered one of the more important paintings in the history of Western Art.
The Gallery features one of the world's finest collections of European art, from the 12th century through the early 19th century, based on the former Spanish Royal Collection.
Of the 1300 works in the Prado, highlights include Diego Velázquez and Francisco Goya, as well El Greco, Bartolomé Estéban Murillo, Jusepe de Ribera and most other leading Spanish old masters. There are also large groups of important works by the Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch (a personal favorite of King Philip II of Spain), Titian, Peter Paul Rubens, Raphael, and Joachim Patiner. Fine examples of the works of Andrea Mantegna, Botticelli, Caravaggio, Guido Reni, Albrecht Dürer, Rembrandt, Veronese, Hans Baldung Grien, Fra Angelico, Van der Weyden and many other notable artists are also on display in the museum.
The best known work on display at the museum is Las Meninas by Velázquez, considered one of the more important paintings in the history of Western Art.
One tradition very easy to associate with Spain is Flamenco. This dance and musical tradition originated in the far south of Spain - in Andalusia.
Yani and I found a little dance bar just of the Plaza de Mayor in the centre of Madrid. While perhaps being geared towards tourists like us it was nonetheless an impressive spectacle to watch and experience.
To our eyes it came across as a very impassioned and powerful style of dance and music. The Professionalism was obvious as well. The music required great skill in the use of guitars and the Castanet (an instrument consisting of a pair of concave shells joined on one edge by string. These are held in the hand and used to produce clicks for rhythmic accents or a ripping or rattling sound consisting of a rapid series of clicks. (Palillos)
The execution of the dance moves was grace defined. The footwork and hand movements were amazingly intricate.
A wonderful night out indeed.
Yani and I found a little dance bar just of the Plaza de Mayor in the centre of Madrid. While perhaps being geared towards tourists like us it was nonetheless an impressive spectacle to watch and experience.
To our eyes it came across as a very impassioned and powerful style of dance and music. The Professionalism was obvious as well. The music required great skill in the use of guitars and the Castanet (an instrument consisting of a pair of concave shells joined on one edge by string. These are held in the hand and used to produce clicks for rhythmic accents or a ripping or rattling sound consisting of a rapid series of clicks. (Palillos)
The execution of the dance moves was grace defined. The footwork and hand movements were amazingly intricate.
A wonderful night out indeed.
After a small interlude the performances turned towards a more individualised nature. Each dancer brought their own style moves to the performance - outstanding stuff!
Well with the theme of dancing on the mind, I turn to something a little closer to home. After a couple of days in Madrid Yani and I were heading out to near the Monfrague National Park in Extramadura. Here we were embarking on a week-long Anglo-Spanish program. The idea is that English speakers from around the world gather together for a week with Spanish businessmen and professionals looking to improve their conversational English. For the Anglos its free - food and accommodation all included. In return we spend time in one-to-one sessions, group activities and meal times talking and doing things in English. Its a lot of fun and a great to meet, speak and interact with people from many different backgrounds and parts of the world.
Anyway, to get back to the dancing theme, many is the time that us Aussies have had to face the might of the Haka at international rugby games. This time I got to try it out. Steve and Steph, both from New Zealand, led the Spaniards and Anglos through the excitement of trying out the Haka - moves, words and all...
Anyway, to get back to the dancing theme, many is the time that us Aussies have had to face the might of the Haka at international rugby games. This time I got to try it out. Steve and Steph, both from New Zealand, led the Spaniards and Anglos through the excitement of trying out the Haka - moves, words and all...
Some group activities in the works. Themes, ideas, objectives and props were usually provided.
And the fun starts, different groups came up with some very funny skits to make the evenings and exciting time.
Example:
See husbands, how useful an umbrella can be?
LOL, rather funny...
See husbands, how useful an umbrella can be?
LOL, rather funny...
Phylliss (on the right) was an absolute character at the camp. Confident, witty and practically funny she brought a great sense of vibrancy and life to everything she did.
Here, Danny, Julio and Yani try to keep up... ;-)
Here, Danny, Julio and Yani try to keep up... ;-)
Yani plays it up during her one of her activities.
Near to our campsite at the small town of Torrejon el Rubio was the main part of the Monfrague National Park. Here, vultures, eagles and natural breathtaking beauty combine in tantalising symmetry.
Thanks to one of the Javier's on the camp (there were 3) Yani and I were able to ascend the heights of this dramatic combination of carved gorges and rocky sloped mountains. Winding through this already spectaclular setting is the River Tagus and its close set natural fauna and flora.
Thanks to one of the Javier's on the camp (there were 3) Yani and I were able to ascend the heights of this dramatic combination of carved gorges and rocky sloped mountains. Winding through this already spectaclular setting is the River Tagus and its close set natural fauna and flora.
Of note is that Montfrague is actually Spain's most recently designated National Park (Parque Nacional Monfragüe).
It will be hard to match this setting again. Maybe the Grand Canyon? :)
The mountainous ridge opposite to us.
The light conditions were not spectacular, but even so this is an impressive sight.
Habitats in the park included extensive dense scrub, small oak woodlands, and numerous cliffs and rock faces.
Raptors, Eagles and Vultures of various species all make their residence here as well. Bird watchers come from afar to gaze at the sight of these birds wheeling gracefully over the landscape.
Apparently there are also Iberian Lynx in the park.
Raptors, Eagles and Vultures of various species all make their residence here as well. Bird watchers come from afar to gaze at the sight of these birds wheeling gracefully over the landscape.
Apparently there are also Iberian Lynx in the park.
In the words of Rudolph Otto - a mysterium, tremendum, fascinans experience, which points to the Numen.
Gatherings of social good will and fun were aplenty - particularly late at night.
Aha! Strange Spanish rituals afoot. The old pagan world survives this night. Get thee gone evil spirits...
The architecture is designed to meet the needs of living in a hot country. Verandas and ventilation systems are prolific and the houses are painted to help deflect heat.
In one of our sessions, Yani myself and Roberto went off to the nearby town Torrejon el Rubio. In between talking I was of course merrily snapping away at all and sundry with my camera.
First of the mark was this true picture of spring in bloom - newborn lambs.
First of the mark was this true picture of spring in bloom - newborn lambs.
One to one conversations in action. Often there would be dozens of people walking along conversing in English.
A sunset or two captured with difficulty by my camera. There was a little bit too much light to capture the colours properly.
Evening activities could often be hilarious. But none were funnier than Roberto's insights into the pits and dangers of learning English. In the real world, the way that people speak English can be a confusing morass of accents and intonations. Movies are excellent example of this in process, as Roberto so ably pointed out.
Czech and Spanish cultures combine. Its Flamenco combined with how shall I say it, "difficulty intonated Czech words"...
On the last evening it was Karaoke night. Steve, the New Zealander, started "going off" on one or two of the songs - very funny to watch.
Yani is looking stylish there in the background as well. A very Spanish look.
Yani is looking stylish there in the background as well. A very Spanish look.
Requisite group photo on the last day.
One thing very common in Spain is the good old Eucalyptus tree - or varieties of them anyway. It brought me home just a bit and, hey, I was able to introduce Yani to them.
On the last day as everyone was packing up and ready to go Eloise (Crazy Adventurous Aussie) and Debby (Crazy Adventurous American) decided to hitch hike over to the neighbouring province of Avila (where Eloise was heading to another program with Vaughntown - the same place I went last year as a point of interest). Much kudos to them, but child's play for Eloise it must be said. She told us of exploits much more daring.
Back to Madrid and some more sights to take in.
Puerta de Alcalá, one of the former gateways into the old city.
On the cheap, sandwiches I had made earlier in the day come out of the woodwork.
Night trek through the Parque de Retiro. This is a magnificent park, beautiful sculpture and monuments, galleries, and a serene central lake.
Palacio de Cristal, on the grounds of the Parque de Retiro. The lake can be glimpsed in front.
Having missed the interior of the Cathedral of Madrid in the earlier part of our trip, Yani and I got the chance to go back and have a peak inside. The interior combines an interesting mix of the traditional and the contemporary in its style.
Here, the traditional.
Here, the traditional.
Here, contemporary art style works its way into the building. Quite interesting to see when compared to most European Cathedrals.
An excellent photo I managed to take on the day. I was so pleased with this shot that I decided to put it up with some of my other artistic photographs on www.gfxartist.com
Here: http://elvenearth.gfxartist.com/artworks/166251
And the description I put below:
The sense of numinous - of something greater - lies in all of us. Perhaps we revere the Universe, or Earth's nature - perhaps it is something we call God. It maybe that it is something we are devoted to throughout our lives - sport, music or even the Hollywood star.
Whatever it is, at moments it can lead us to contemplate - to feel the mystical edge of reality and of our sense of mind.
I have tried to capture such a moment here. The light of a Stained glass window gave me the inspiration for the shot.
Taken in the Santa María la Real de La Almudena - the Catholic cathedral of Madrid, Spain.
Here: http://elvenearth.gfxartist.com/artworks/
And the description I put below:
The sense of numinous - of something greater - lies in all of us. Perhaps we revere the Universe, or Earth's nature - perhaps it is something we call God. It maybe that it is something we are devoted to throughout our lives - sport, music or even the Hollywood star.
Whatever it is, at moments it can lead us to contemplate - to feel the mystical edge of reality and of our sense of mind.
I have tried to capture such a moment here. The light of a Stained glass window gave me the inspiration for the shot.
Taken in the Santa María la Real de La Almudena - the Catholic cathedral of Madrid, Spain.
Well, we had planes to catch and we had to hurry to leave the Cathedral, make our way through the centre of the city and then "to glory".
In the meantime in the home of the guitar, a guitarist came especially to see us off.
And that friends, was out trip - well more or less.
In the meantime in the home of the guitar, a guitarist came especially to see us off.
And that friends, was out trip - well more or less.
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