Segovia

We took a day trip to Segovia whilst in Madrid. I have always been impressed by train travel in Europe - fast, clean and efficient. Spain apparently has got one of the best networks in Europe. I wasn't disappointed - I'd highly recommend the trains.

Segovia is about 30mins by high speed train from Madrid. Then you have to take a bus to the city centre itself. The bus ride was probably as long as the train ride. But as the bus pulls into the city centre, I was in awe. There is nothing like it when you see the Roman Aqueduct that dominates the city. The Great Wall of China is older than the aqueduct - but it still didn't stop me marvelling at how something that was built 1BC has stood the test of time. All the wars and disasters of modern time. And these are 25,000 granite blocks with more than 170 arches. It is quite a sight.


The Aqueduct


Segovia Cathedral

Inside the Cathedral

 There were a few rooms and courtyards surrounding the Cathedral. Walking around I found a painter painting one of the walkways of the Cathedral.

 This was what he was painting 

 The Segovia Alcazar


View of Segovia from the Alcazar

 Exhibit inside the Alcazar

 Stained glass in the Alcazar

 One of the rooms in the Alcazar. The ceiling is fitted, in gold, with the coat of arms of all the prominent families.

 Guard tower

 Atop one of the guard towers

 Segovia was famous for its suckling pig.

 Wall of a house. I love how it aged.

 The house of pyramids.

Madrid

When one enters "normal" life again, it can be difficult to up and go again. So when my girl friends back home tell me they are going to Spain - I unabashedly indicated my intention to tag along. Being such amazing people that they are - they took me in.

I have never really spent much time in Europe, despite its history, culture and economics. I suppose I thought it will always just be there. But after Germany, I have to say, my interest grew. And perhaps, with the current debt crisis it has gotten itself in, it might not "just be there" as it is. In any case, from a tourist point of view, I did minimal research.

Madrid is a heaving, bustling city. Is it cliche to say that there is a buzz? I love the mix of old and new, the stories that go with everything around you. The kings and queens whom wrote the being of this city. The influence of The Moors from centuries past. Speaking of the The Moors, fascinating, isn't it, how history repeats itself, albeit in different forms. And how would have the world turned out, if The Moors hadn't passed the keys of the city to the Christians?

And that is what I pondered upon as I walk through the cobble-stone alleys of Madrid.

Almudena Cathedral

 Mercado de San Miguel - right in the middle of the city, fantastic spot to take a break from the bustling city

 I think this was going into Calle Cava Baja? Anyway, used to be a red-light district, so back then, they erected a massive cross to remind those of the sins they are about to commit.

 Randomly placed windows to avoid taxes - don't you love the Spanish?

The last bit of The Moorish Wall in front of Almudena Cathedral. Isn't it fascinating how back then The Moors were the tolerant ones and the Christians were not. How history goes round.

 Bull fighting. Couldn't quite stomach it after a while

 The Parque del Retiro - I wish I had more time here. What a beautiful park.

 Although the lake could do with a bit more of a clean up

 Flamenco