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Published: October 2nd 2008
Ancient Spain
So I explored the middle area of this map, the Castile region.After spending a night in London and having some fun, I arrived in Spain and began seeing this well known country. My travels through Spain are all through the Castile area, or basically in the middle. It is important to note that here is where the boundary existed between how far the Muslim empire got, and where the Spanish kept their border. As time passed, the Spanish eventually pushed out the Muslims and regained control of their country. Within Castile, I was able to explore some of the castles and cathedrals that were created that represented the build up of this border region. To explore this region, I decided to see a new town each day, and rent a car to allow myself to go at my own pace. The transportation within this region, well, I never saw any busses, so renting a car is probably the best way to go.
Some cultural notes for those who may travel to Spain. Speaking Spanish is a plus, but of course, speaking the native language always is. Another important thing I learned is the Spanish schedule. In a sense, breakfast does not really exist in Spain. For me to get breakfast, I
Cathedral of Salamanca
This cathedral is actually 2 combined, each with different styles. had to go to Western hotels, or to the touristy areas. Along with this, most shops close from about 3-6 or 7. The siesta time is taken very seriously (which I am starting to open up to). My current roommate is Spanish, and helped me plan this route. From him, I have truly begun to appreciate good pork, and the power of siesta.
As for the first city I visited, I drove from the airport and was able to find a hostel in Salamanca. The nickname of this city is “the golden city,” and this is because the glow from the sandstone buildings now has a unique quality. When I woke up, I got my first taste of traditional Spanish life. A quick history about Salamanca is that it was under Roman province, the Lusitania. After this time, the Muslim empire took over this Castile region, until around 1096, when King Alfonso IV reclaimed the city. About 200 years later, under Alfonso IX, universities were set up and Salamanca was thought to be one of the shining lights of education in the world. Still today the university life is the rhythm for the city.
As the pictures show,
there was quite a lot to see. There were many things that I did not get a chance to see, like some of the old Roman architecture left behind. Well, I suppose with a city like this, there is always more to enjoy. As for my personal view, I started to gain an idea why the religion, Catholicism, was such a major part of the culture for Spain. Put simply, it was a major rallying point for the identity of the Spanish. When the Moors (African Muslims) took over, Spain began to lose its identity. With a rallying point such as Catholicism for the people, they were able to gain back their land. Thus, understanding all of the cathedrals and power of the church in medieval times, it makes more sense. However, I think it is important to note that often our greatest power can become our greatest weakness. Later on in history, Spain became so fundamentalist about Catholicism that it developed the Inquisition, and basically drove out some of the most important people and ideas of its country. Later on, it lacked the power to hold on to its territory, and the once world power lost its place. A
Walking within the cathedral
I have to admit, when the Spanish stole the wealth from the America's, they made some impressive buildings! pretty important lesson I think in not letting our own power’s corrupt us.
Overall, the Spanish trip was off to an intellectual and beautiful start.
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