We took the wonderful AVE train to Seville not knowing what we’d find there. Grams and I read the guide book as the train raced through the center of Spain south from Madrid. Big Guy was checking out the scenery: miles and miles of olive groves. I’ve said it before, but I can’t say it too much: The AVE is fantastic! The ride is smooth, the food is great, the service is terrific and the seats are more than comfy.
By the time we got to Seville, Grams and I knew exactly where we were going. Big Guy asked, “Well?” “We’ve got it all figured out. First we catch a bus across from the train station” “And then?” he inquired. “And then we go to the Reales Alcazares!” said Grams as she swept me up in her arms. "It's another palace that the Moors built!" Big Guy looked sceptical after the crush atthe Alhambra.
We knew which bus to take, but not where to get off. So, when we got on the bus Grams asked the driver, “Señor, por favor, dondé esta el Reales Alcázares?” He had us sit right behind him and assured us that he would let us know when to get off.
We went through the very modern city of Sevilla. The broad avenues and traffic showed us a modern city. But, we were headed right for the 14th century. Pretty soon the driver was saying,”Aqui, aqui Señora!” Gracias all around and off we got. Right in front of us wafted the scent of fresh coffee from a café. So, we stopped in the café: 2 cafés con leche, 1 hot chocolate and a plate of churros. Even though we had a full breakfast on the train, this little snack hit the spot.
We got our bearings and toddled off. The Real Alcazares was right around the corner. Across a small plaza from it was the cathedral, but first things first. We noticed immediately that the Reales Alcazares was not crowded. This was a relief after the Alhambra. As with other Moorish palaces, this palace was later altered by the Spanish royals. When you look closely you can see where beautiful artwork was covered with Spanish royal insignia. Also, this collection of royal residences is in the midst of urban setting, so it isn’t as expansive as the Alhambra. All that said, it is a gem. There is some amazing tile work, and the gardens are havens of solitude in the middle of the city.
There are also some beautiful tapestries from much later. It has wonderful water features. This picture shows the Grams in front of some tile work. Later I’ll tell you about the cathedral.
A la prochaine. Moochas smoochas, Gweeds
*Cervantes
Today is Pearl Harbor Day; please remember those who died to keep us safe.
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