Spain is a completely different country in comparison to other European countries. Even so - called Mediterranean Europe. I asked myself why. I felt so free there as I have not felt in any other country. What makes this country like that? I think Gaudy and Dali had a hand in it. I still don't have an exact answer. But freedom is in the air.
Here I would like to tell you about some treasures in Spain. We have visited too much to talk about everything, so I will talk about the most impressive things. To have a complete picture of my impression you can check my previous posts about Spain.
Unusual Spain: Museum of a Mad Genius Salvador Dali.
One of a Kind Gala - Muse of Salvador Dali. Visit of the Gala Castle in Spain.
In Vino Veritas. My Impressions of Wineries in Different Countries.
We stayed in Salou. But we rented a car and drove all along the Costa Dorada.
Monastery Montserrat
First must - visit place is Monastery Montserrat. It is situated 725 m above sea level and 50 km from Barcelona. To get there you need to take a cable road. It is the most impressive monastery I have ever seen. It is high in the mountains with gorgeous views and a fantastic atmosphere.
This Monastery keeps a national relic of Catalonia, Black Madonna. There is a line of people there to touch her. After the God Mother helps people, they bring wedding dresses, crutches and other things proving that their wishes came true.
Tarragona
This town is a real open - air museum. Before it was called Tarraco and was the capital of the Roman Empire. The most famous sight is an amphitheater which was intended for gladiator fights, theater performances and public executions. It is dated the 2nd century BC and every stone breathes history. Recently we watched Spartacus which brought back memories of Tarragona.
Aquaduct Puente di Dialo (4 km from Tarragona)
It is one of the most famous aquaduct. It got the name Devil's Bridge as according to legend the bridge had been built by the devil in exchange for the soul of any creature who first would pass through it. People were not stupid and they made donkey go first.
Strange, welcoming Barcelona where you want to come back
And for dessert - Barcelona. It was the most amazing city I have ever seen. You feel that people are happy that you have come there. You feel free and special.
As Spain is one of the major soccer countries we decided to watch a soccer game Espanyol against Deportivo La Coruna. Unfortunately the game was very bad and you can see it on my face.
We took a bus excursion. It is very comfortable. You take a ticket for 1 or 2 days and the bus stops at the most interesting places and goes further. Later you come back to the stop and go to the next.
The architecture is overwhelming.
Unfortunately I don't have good photos of the buildings designed by Gaudy but he made this city special. It was very difficult to make photos from the bus. So, I have decided to insert a couple from internet as it is worth to see.
Barcelona is a holiday which is always with you.
And of course there wouldn't be a real Barcelona without Sagrada Familia. It is one of the famous long - term built building in the world. The castle is the best creation of Antonio Gaudy which has not been finished during his life. He died because of a tram accident and didn't leave any designs, only sketches. It was started in 1882 and it is planned to be finished by 2026 but the Spanish don't hurry up as they tell that when it is done the end of the world will come.
We even dropped in at the Aquarium. I didn't know that sharks have two penises.
Will you join me for dinner? )))
Dancing fountains.
There are many of such fountains around the world. This one is one of the most spectacular.
And finally the surprise I promised. Unrivaled Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballe with the song Barcelona and dancing fountains.
It was really breathtaking moment when everybody can feel souls unite in ecstasy.
