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Published: July 21st 2006
First Room in Al Hambra
Example of the delicacy and meticulous decoration of the walls inside Al HambraMy favorite place (and the first place) was the Al Hambra in Granada (Beautiful Ancient Muslim Palace that was kept in good condition when a Catholic King decided to build his palace around it). The next afternoon we went to Nerja - a small town on the coast (in the region of Malaga). It rained most of the time, so we couldn't take too much advantage of the beach (it was also colder than I expected). We had 'orientation classes' which included Flamenco classes, specifically 'La Sevillana' - inspired me to take the semester long class too. And basically, we went out and partied every night . We also stopped by Frigiliana (a small traditional town where all the buildings are painted white, cobble stoned streets and little old ladies dressed in black hobble around. I spent an afternoon in Malaga, Picasso's home town. I went to the Picasso Museum there, which I loved... I think I'm a big Picasso fan.
Next, the group went to a small town in the mountains called Ronda. Its a sleepy little village that was influenced by the Romans, the Muslims and later the Catholics. We stayed in the MOST AMAZING hotel, with
Courtyard of Al Hambra
Used as a place for guests of the king to wait. The Water symbolizes the mercy and generosity of the king. It also is made in an image of Paradise (muslim art and gardens use lots of water and plants to give a cooling/calming sensation). a gorgeous view of the valley.
Next, on the way to Seville, we stopped by a small town to walk around and have lunch. A small group of us bought cheese, ham and bread and had a little picnic by the lookout. (Then we got lost trying to find our way back).
At Seville, our hotel was right by the main plaza by the old Cathedral. This cathedral was built next to an old Mosque Tower (which was renovated by the Catholics into a bell tower). We learned LOTS about the muslim and catholic influences in old buildings.. really fascinating. In the afternoon our "surprise activity" was a horse drawn carriage ride through the city (at sunset). Really beautiful. I sat up front with the driver (as we were in groups of five) and had good conversation with him. He loves to dance Flamenco, cook and take care of his horses. That night we went to a local establishment (like, tourists dont know of it because it doesn't ahve a name/sign). It was filled to the brim, and the guitarrists and singers are about 2 feet from the front row. These two feet of space is reserved for
Corte de los Leones
This is a private space, where the family of the king live and hang out. the dancers (people in the community line up and wait for their chance to dance -since there is only space for one couple at a time). It was really spectacular.
Finally, on our way back to Madrid, we stopped in Cordoba, which is home to a HUGE ancient Mosque that now houses a huge cathedral INSIDE it. Really interesting to see traditional moorish art (the geometrical shapes etc) and then a figure of Jesus on the Cross right underneath it. Once again, a renovation made by the Catholics "This is a pretty nice building.. those moors really know how to build nice buildings... we should convert it into a Church."
Anyways.. check out the pics (I took TONS).. I might have to leave a couple out.. don't want to bore you.
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Anisa
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La chica de Eshhhhpana
Have a blast over there girl! love you!! better teach me how to dance the flamenco...