I can't believe it, but today was my last day in Spain! Madrid did not disappoint. We started our morning by walking to the Plaza Mayor. After arriving we were given free time to explore, shop and eat. There were street performers, one of which especially caught my attention (see below). Our final part of the tour was visiting the Palacio Real, a huge palace begun in 1738 on the site of the Madrid Alcazar which burned to the ground in 1734. We walked through a few of 2000 rooms, which were quite elaborate. The evening concluded with another concert at the church of San Millan y San Cayetano located in the San La Latina neighborhood of Madrid. It was a moving concert which took place after the Mass during which the choir sang as well. Our trip concluded with a late group dinner and an erie walk home because of the protest that was occurring that day throughout the city. It has been a wonderful week and I could not have asked for a more meaningful spring break trip!
El Escorial & Segovia
After a restful night's sleep in Madrid, this morning we headed towards Segovia. Along the way we stopped at El Escorial, a massive monastery-palace commissioned by Philip II. We had a guided tour of the Royal Apartments and saw the Pantheon of the Kings where the mortal remains of all the Spanish monarchs from the time of Emperor Charles V are laid to rest. There were beautiful gardens surrounding the palace and I would have loved to explore them if time had allowed. We then got back on the bus and headed to Segovia. Immediately upon arrival we could see an impressive Roman Aqueduct which was built nearly 2,000 years ago. It was truly impressive. We then had time to wander through the city and eat a leisurely lunch. After spending some time shopping, the choir again sang in front of the aqueduct. I can't believe that tomorrow day of the trip!
On to Madrid
Most of today was taken up by the long drive from Cordoba to Madrid. I can't believe we have already arrived in the last city we will be staying in before heading home! I was adventurous at lunch and tried the Bocadillo de Calamares, a squid sandwich our guides raved about. A lover of sea food, I thought it was delicious! After lunch we headed to the Prado museum. Having taken many art history classes as part of my design degree I loved seeing this collection of European art from the 12th to 19th centuries. We saw pieces by Spanish masters including Velazquez, Goya and El Greco. I thought it was wonderful to be able to see in person a few pieces I have learned about in school. After this visit we headed to our hotel which was located right in the center of Madrid. This modern city is bustling with life, and we walked past many shops on our way to dinner. I am excited that we will have more time to explore Madrid over the next two days!
