Toledo....
The medieval city of Toledo, once the capital of Spain and 65kms from Madrid, is like an open-air museum. The city is a living dedication to Cervantes, who wrote Don Quijote - which in 2002 was names the best fictional novel ever written. Don Quijote and Pedro Sanchez the main protagonists of the novel are to be found around every corner - in all different guises. The labyrinth of small alleys and narrow streets lined with original small dwellings and the overpowering Alcazar fortress and huge Cathedral are breathtaking. Around every corner is a romantic plaza, another church, mezquita (mosque) or synagogue. Amazing to think that 1000 years ago muslims, christians and jews were able to live together in harmony, with all the craftmanship of the era still able to be admired today. All the influences are to be seen in the architecture throughout the city and more pronounced in the different neighbourhoods.
Today was a national holiday, which was celebrated by the military with military parades. We were forunate to see the military parade, with sword carrying soldiers, in Toledo at the Alcazar fortress, which has a rich military tradition. It seemed as if all the "brass" had assembled here. Amazing experience - with the military brass band adding to the festive atmosphere.Toledo was draped in all its finery, with flags and banners all along the balconies and windows of the buildings. With the cloudless blue skies above, it could not have been more perfect.
It is advisable to spend a night in ppToledo, as it must be amazing to see the city all lit up. The narrow streets and alleys are filled with chandeliers, stained glass lights and floodlights against all the big buildings. Can only imagine how beautiful it must be. The last bus leaves at 10pm - but it only gets dark at abput that time, so not possible for us to stay late enough to see the lights. Something to come back for next time !
Need to mention the Spanish women again. Even on the cobble stones and steep hills one can only admire the women in their seriously high stillettos - definately style above comfort ! Clint is enjoying all the eye-candy !