#西班牙旅行

Western Spain ~ León (Region) This hotel is located within the building of the Los Padres Paúles Monastery, featuring Baroque architecture and built in the 17th century. The cloister has two rows of semicircular arches with pilasters (closed with oval windows and oculi), and one wing has a double-arched gallery above it. The cloister is used as a terrace for the hotel bar, providing easy access. Another highlight is the Baroque church, which has a nave and a lantern on the transept vault. I would particularly note its wooden altarpiece, though I'm not sure if it is open to visitors.

During this trip to Barcelona, I chose to stay in Sabadell, a historic and culturally rich town located a bit farther from the city center. This charming town is worth exploring, with many attractive tourist spots, including the magnificent Església de Sant Fèlix, known for its exquisite architectural style and historical significance. Additionally, Sabadell's town center boasts delightful squares and shopping areas, allowing visitors to easily enjoy local cuisine and shopping experiences. However, what impressed me the most was the warmth of the locals. When I was struggling to communicate in a convenience store, a local person kindly offered to help us translate, and despite the communication barriers, the store staff greeted us with smiles, eager to assist. One of Sabadell's most famous attractions is the renowned Hotel Balneari de Caldes de Montbui. This hotel is famous for its natural thermal spa facilities, providing the perfect place for visitors to relax and rejuvenate. The thermal waters in the hotel are rich in minerals, which are very beneficial to health, attracting many travelers seeking relaxation and healing. Whether exploring historical sites, enjoying local cuisine, or relaxing, Sabadell offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.

On a weekday in May, I visited Barceloneta Beach. Despite it being a workday, the beach was incredibly crowded. The atmosphere was vibrant, with a fitness area where many people were working out, showing off their muscles. People around were leisurely lying on the sand, swaying to the music, and enjoying the sunshine and sea breeze. The ambiance was so delightful that I couldn't help but want to dance along with the music. As the sun set, the sky gradually turned a beautiful orange-red, which was mesmerizing. However, as the sun went down, the temperature started to get a bit chilly, making me want to find a place to sit and quietly admire the spectacular view. The waves gently lapped at the shore, accompanied by laughter in the distance, making the entire beach even more lively. While enjoying the beach, I also remind everyone to be cautious of their belongings. This area is a hotspot for pickpockets, so always stay alert, especially in crowded places, and keep an eye on your bags and valuables. After exploring various attractions in Barcelona, consider coming to this beach to relax and unwind!

Heading west in Spain ~ Zamora (region) Spanning the Duero River and connecting both sides of the city, it is the oldest existing structure, with a history dating back to the 12th century, although it has undergone numerous renovations and preservation efforts up to the present day: the last one was in the early 20th century. It is a pedestrian street, leaving a very beautiful impression, especially at night when it is illuminated. A must-visit when touring Zamora.

Western Spain ~ Zamora (Region) This is the largest church in the city after the cathedral. The building was constructed in the 11th century on the site of the old Church of Saint Leocadia, and has undergone continuous expansion and renovation, incorporating various architectural styles. The church originally had three naves, but was expanded and remodeled in the late 15th century, leaving only one nave with a slender spire vault at the top. In the early 18th century, Joaquín Churriguera remodeled the tower and built the western entrance. Another treasure discovered in the sacristy is a magnificent 16th-century Flemish triptych, a gift from King Charles I during his visit to Zamora in 1522.

Spain Westward ~ Zamora (Region) The 12th-century Romanesque church is in the shape of a Latin cross, with five apses, three naves, and a large transept with four cross vaults. The two transept facades have a pair of similar doors decorated with images of the Evangelists. Inside the church, there are 13th-century Gothic sculptures, the most notable of which is the original painted sculpture of the Annunciation. The church's columns are diverse, featuring double sawtooth decorative patterns and rows of small leaves.

Westward in Spain ~ Zamora (Region) To be honest, Fermoselle Castle is quite exaggerated. Intuitively, one would think that the preserved ruins are a castle, but it requires a great deal of imagination. It is recommended to visit and enjoy Fermoselle, but do not expect to see anything resembling a castle. Without a doubt, strolling through the streets and admiring the architecture of the oldest houses is a better memory. The preservation status is zero, and the land is in private hands. In fact, the dilapidated nightclub is more striking than the castle ruins, which might be the only real thing about this place. The best part of this visit to the castle ruins is the viewpoint overlooking the Duero River channel.

Westward in Spain ~ Zamora (region) The Temple of Las Batallas is located on the outskirts of the city, standing in a pine forest by the Duero River. It features the characteristic design of Romanesque-Mudejar architecture. It is built of exposed bricks, with a nave and a semicircular apse, followed by a straight section. The roof of the nave is a traditional gabled roof, while the rest is covered with vaults. The surrounding exterior and interior are decorated with classic enclosed semicircular arcades, which in this case are designed as double arcades, making them highly stylized. It has two entrances, both with pointed arched doors topped with pediments. Highlights of the interior include late 15th-century murals decorating the walls of the apse.

Heading West in Spain ~ Salamanca (Region) Domus Artium 2002 (DA2) was established in 2002, coinciding with Salamanca being designated as the European Capital of Culture. Previously a prison, it has spacious rooms that have been renovated and expanded to provide ample space for showcasing various modern art pieces. The museum primarily focuses on contemporary art and new technologies.

Heading west in Spain ~ Salamanca (Region) It is a Baroque-style square built according to the plans of Alberto Churriguera. On the north side is the Town Hall, a Baroque building with five granite arches and a spire adorned with allegorical figures. Several medallions in its decoration are particularly striking, including those of Charles I, Alfonso XI, Ferdinand VI, Cervantes, and Saint Teresa. The building's facade is three stories high, with semicircular arches and railings. Today, this square is one of the liveliest and most popular places in Salamanca.

Heading west in Spain ~ Salamanca (region) Strolling through the streets of the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, means walking through centuries of history, art, and knowledge, experiencing the wonders of landmark buildings such as the famous university, one of the oldest in Europe, which still attracts thousands of students today. When night falls, the sunset's afterglow gives these monuments a special golden hue, thanks to the stone used to build them. At that moment, Salamanca at night begins to show its charm, bringing a lively, youthful atmosphere. Secrets hidden in the monuments. When you enter Salamanca's monuments, a world full of legends and history awaits you. You can start your pleasant walk from the famous Plaza Mayor, the city's most outstanding meeting point. It is highly recommended to enjoy a coffee at the legendary Novelty restaurant while admiring the 88 arches or quietly sitting on the terrace. You can start exploring Salamanca's two cathedrals (yes, there are two! The new and the old). At the Ramos Gate of the new cathedral, you need to find the astronaut statue carved in stone, and then climb one of the towers on the Ieronimus tour to experience unparalleled views. Are there more secrets? The facade of the University of Salamanca "hides" a stone frog, which is said to bring good luck to students; legend has it that a treasure is hidden in the palace of Casa de las Conchas, the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea is actually a garden related to a literary story; it is said that the devil taught witchcraft in the Salamanca cave... In this city with many landmark buildings, there are thousands of similar stories, such as Casa Lis, Cielo de Salamanca, Clerecía, and Roman churches. Gastronomy and nightlife: two other strengths of Salamanca One thing that is certainly no secret is the delicious cuisine of this city. Some of its typical products include various cured sausages, ham from Guijuelo, and a popular snack called "hornazo," a pastry filled with eggs, pork loin, chorizo, and other ingredients... You can buy some to take away, although eating it here will definitely make it taste even more delicious. Speaking of shopping, the pedestrian streets of Toro and Zamora are full of shops, and at Plaza del Liceo, you can even shop inside a renovated church (part of the old San Antonio el Real monastery). The city's nightlife is also renowned, with students bringing vitality to the city day and night. You can feel their energy on a tapas tour along Calle Van Dyck, and their alternative culture exists in the Barrio del Oeste neighborhood, where you can see garages and walls covered with urban art. Under the moonlight, the monuments are illuminated, and it's time to enjoy live concerts or have a drink at any of the city's bars.

Spain Westward ~ Salamanca (Region) I was fortunate to have the opportunity to visit a typical Albuquerque house, a charming museum that depicts the daily life of this Pueblo a century ago. For just 2.5 euros, you can tour this old house, led by a warm and hospitable gentleman who was born here, and whose grandparents spent their lives here. If you want to understand the culture and roots of Albuquerque society, this is an essential visit.

The church, built in the 18th century in Baroque style, is both surprising and saddening. It is located in the center of Cáceres. The location itself is overwhelming, situated on a high hill that requires climbing stairs to reach. The building stands out as it is grayish-white, contrasting with the surrounding stone and ochre-toned buildings. The entry fee is worth it, and it's very affordable. Next to the entrance, there is another spectacular stone facade. The most impressive feature is the main altar, a true gem. A good restoration should be considered to restore the splendor of the walls, which still retain Baroque-style murals. Reusing it as a religious space would certainly be more respected than its current use as a concert venue. From the tower, you can enjoy unparalleled views of Cáceres.

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) Palace of universal significance, property of the Falco family. You have to ring a bell to get inside and pay in cash. The palace is beautiful, especially the balcony area and the 360 ​​degree viewing point from where you can see the entire view of Placencia. The palace has several rooms containing items from that period. The palace's conservation needs improvement, but it's still worth a visit. The entrance to the palace courtyard is very peculiar, like entering the palace through a wide door, but it faces a long alley, mostly covered, in this section there is the entrance to the palace courtyard, if If you continue walking you will reach a back street. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) This is a 17th century bridge that got its name from the hermitage next to it; it’s a beautiful stone bridge, but what’s even more striking is its surroundings, which are beautiful. It is a pity that this small bridge is no longer the main access to the city, and its once glorious purpose has been slowly forgotten by the world. The Jerte River flows beneath it, and the area is lushly wooded and, at this time of year, flowers bloom. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Puerta Trujillo is located at 35 Calle Trujillo in Placencia, the entrance to the city after crossing the Trujillo Bridge. The gate is as old as the city walls, since King Alfonso VIII of Castile entered the city through it in 1196, expelling the Almohad family of Caliph Abu Yusuf Yakub al-Mansur. In s. In the 13th century, a statue of the Virgin Mary was erected in a niche within the city walls to commemorate the reconquest of the city. In the SS. In the 16th and 17th centuries, the gate evolved into the Maria Church dedicated to Our Lady of Health, associated with miracles in times of epidemics. In the 18th century, it was transformed through a Baroque project that, without eliminating its defensive function, transformed the door into a sanctuary called the Cañón de la Salud, essentially an underground passage beneath the church between the towers. It is connected to the Bishop's Palace by a walkway, like the other doors and walls. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) Placencia Cathedral consists of two buildings with different styles. It has three naves topped with rib vaults. The Cathedral of Placencia consists of two buildings: one, known as the Old Cathedral, was built in the 13th century in Romanesque style, transitioning to Gothic. Remains of the original church include the nave, west facade, Gothic cloister and chapel, topped by a traditional Byzantine ribbed dome. The new cathedral was built in the 15th century in Gothic style. It has high vaults supported by sets of columns. The main altar dates from the 17th century and has engraved images by Gregorio Fernández and paintings by Francisco Ricci. Highlights within the church include the ornate Gothic-style transition to the silver-clad choir stalls. The old cathedral currently houses the Cathedral Museum. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) It is located in the old Santa Maria Hospital building and was inaugurated in 1989 as a tribute to the traditional culture of Extremadura. Most of its 5,000 objects belong to the collection of Pedro Pérez Enciso and include ceramics, wood carvings, pottery, tools for making linen and wool, traditional Cáceres Photos of the architecture, typical Extremadura costumes, trousseaus, handkerchiefs, embroidery and lace. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) The town has managed to preserve the famous "verata" architecture traditional to the La Vera area, which includes streets flanked by ditches, vaulted squares and houses with balconies made of stone, adobe and wood. The scenery of Valverde de la Vera is not the only reason why this town is so beautiful and unique. The people of the town managed to care for and cherish the monumental legacy of its tradition, so much so that the city was declared a historical and artistic site. The castle dates from the 12th to 14th centuries, two of its defensive towers still exist and are today part of the church, while the castle was built in the 15th century. Entela Church. Sla. de las Fuentes Claras was built between the 15th and 16th centuries in a mixture of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and even Arabic styles, as well as cathedral and Romanesque repainting. In the main square or Plaza Mayor we can find great examples of traditional architecture. Equally eye-catching is the Gothic pillory, a symbol of the village's status. But there is no doubt that Valverde de la Vera is famous for his "empales" of Holly Weeks. These were penitents, naked except for old petticoats, with veils over their faces, carrying a plow beam tied to their bodies with an esparto rope. Everyone in the town participates in the Way of the Cross and maintains absolute silence. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) This is a historic station and unfortunately there is only one train left today, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, to Cáceres (and, of course, the onward line to Madrid). Previously this was the main route from Madrid to Lisbon, with many passenger and freight trains running along this line. But towards the end of the last century, traffic gradually decreased until in 2012 only one night train was rerouted through Salamanca; fulfilling the wishes of the Portuguese, who wanted to close their section. Today, it is impossible to travel to Portugal via here, as the Portuguese closed it partially (until Torres Vargens, where it connects with the line to Badajoz). Marvão-Beirã and Castelo de Vide stations have been converted into accommodation facilities, while other stations have been abandoned. On the Spanish side, which remains open, Aldea Moret, Aliseda and Herreruela have been destroyed, while in Arroyo-Malpartida and San Vicente de Alcántara there are only trains left on the line. But the biggest problem with this station is that it is far from the city and there are no city buses. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Traveling westward in Spain ~ Cáceres (region) The Monastery of Valbon is located on a granite plateau about five kilometers from Valencia de Alcantara. The current ruined building was built in the 16th century. There are two versions that try to explain its origins: the most legendary was created by a group of pilgrims returning from the Abbey of Sainte-Marie in the French town of Valbonne, from where they gave the temple its name. However, another, more historical explanation suggests that the monument was built together with other monasteries in 1569 at the request of Philip II and named "Valbón" (from the Portuguese "good valley" ) naming. The works will be entrusted to Juan Bravo, an important figure in the architectural panorama of Extremadura in the 16th century, and the Marian image named after this topographical consecration is housed in the sanctuary . This carving was declared patron saint of the town in 1618 and was confirmed in 1678 as patron saint not only of the town but of the entire region. The monastery was destroyed during the War of Succession after Portuguese troops invaded the city. However, its final decline was caused by the 18th century declaration of the Virgen de los Remedios as the town's patron saint, as this other carving is housed a few kilometers away from Valencia de Alcantara (Valencia de Alcántara) Closer hermitage. The end of the veneration of Our Lady of Valbon led to the monument being forgotten and abandoned, and the carvings were moved to the convent of Santa Clara, where nothing has been heard from since 1910. Starting next to it, climb the Zafra I, II, III and IV dolmens, from where it is easy to enter the monastery through the lanes between the farms and then follow the path back to the town. It is strongly recommended that the 12-kilometer route has a gradient of no more than 300 meters. #2024TravelReview #SpainTravel #Extremadura

Heading West in Spain ~ Cáceres (Region) The Parral Bridge in Jarandilla de la Vera is a charming Romanesque stone bridge that is well-maintained and still in use. You can drive over it, and it has been standing for hundreds of years, which seems incredible. Next to the bridge, there is a spectacular swimming pool. The clear water is very cool, and the wooded area provides plenty of shade to relax in. There is ample parking, so it is often quite busy. However, it is a great place to spend a few hours, cool off, and continue exploring the area.

Heading west in Spain ~ Badajoz Province (Region) The Convent of Santa Clara in Zafra is home to a museum of the same name, dedicated to the history of the city and the nuns of the Order of Saint Clare who have lived there since its founding. The Monastery of Santa María del Valle (its official name) was established in 1423 by the first Lord of Feria, Gómez Suárez de Figueroa, who is buried here in a Gothic alabaster tomb. The buildings and architecture on this site span from the 15th to the 18th century. The church has a rectangular floor plan with a nave with a barrel vault and a square sanctuary (17th century). It includes a main chapel, a sacristy, the nuns' choir stalls, the funeral chapel of the Dukes of Feria, and two porches, one in classical style (17th century) and the other in Mudejar style (16th century). Other elements of the site include a cloister with pointed semicircular arches and various other rooms.

Spain, heading west ~ Badajoz Province (region) It is the most important square in Jerez de los Caballeros. Spacious and well-lit, it features a church and various buildings on one side, surrounded by whitewashed squares with an Andalusian flavor. Additionally, you can visit other monuments in the town, as well as restaurants, bars, and some small businesses where you can buy souvenirs and gifts. It is very attractive, just like the whole city, which is full of medieval history and Templar knights. Jerez de los Caballeros is not to be missed!

Westward in Spain ~ Badajoz Province (Region) A beautiful corner of Jerez de los Caballeros, just a few minutes from the city center. The gate, which holds significant historical importance, is in good condition despite obvious restorations. It is one of the main entrances to the walled city located here. Its history dates back to the 15th century. In front of it, we find the statue of Hernando de Soto.

Heading west in Spain ~ Badajoz Province (Region) The city of Badajoz, from prehistoric times to Gothic and Baroque, has seen many different cultures, knowledge, and artistic styles overlap. Surrounded by grasslands, which are the foundation of the local economy - excellent pastures for livestock farming. Its old town has been declared a cultural heritage site. The origins of Jerez de los Caballeros can be traced back to the Phoenician era, although various cultures that arrived on the peninsula have always inhabited this area. The oldest archaeological find in the area is the dolmen of Granja de Torriñuelo, declared a national monument, alongside which paintings and interesting burial treasures were also found. Roman villas, Visigothic remains, and Arab influences form part of the landscape of this area, located between Portugal and Andalusia, and this cultural diversity can also be found in many traditions and customs. But Extremadura has always been the cradle of explorers and conquerors; specifically, Jerez de los Caballeros is the birthplace of Vasco Núñez de Balboa, the first European to see the Pacific Ocean. After the colonization of the Americas, many nobles and government officials returned to their birthplace with wealth from the New World. Thus, the historic district of Jerez de los Caballeros blends popular architecture with ancient churches, monasteries, noble houses, and mansions, all dominated by the majestic Templar fortress of Arab origin.

Western Spain ~ Badajoz Province (Region) The museum is located inside the Casa del Conde, a building whose history dates back to the early 20th century. The building has two floors and a small basement, with over 40 exhibition rooms where visitors can view items related to the customs and traditions of Don Benito in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Westward to Spain ~ Badajoz Province (Region) Don Benito is 50 kilometers from Mérida. The 3,000+ artifacts found in the Ethnographic Museum are representative samples of the ancient customs of the area. During the visit to the 29 rooms, visitors can understand the recent past and its development from different perspectives, showcasing various living and working environments, from rural society to the bourgeoisie, and to the work of small craftsmen and merchants.

The well-preserved popular architecture and a range of interesting artistic and architectural features make this place a model of a typical village in southern Badajoz. Its old town has been designated as a cultural site. The Templar's medieval castle (mid-13th century) is one of the must-see attractions in Frejenal. Its floor plan is trapezoidal and very large, with walls reinforced by seven towers. You can enter through the Gothic doorway inside the castle.

From the outside, the cathedral resembles a fortress, designed to provide security in the event of ongoing warfare in the city. Construction began after King Alfonso IX conquered Badajoz in the 13th century. The building features battlements at the top and a tall quadrangular tower with large windows on the second level. There are three entrance doors, with the main one being the Gate of Saint John the Baptist, which is topped with an image of the saint. Inside, the cathedral follows a traditional layout, including three naves, five bays, a transept, and a chancel with three apses. The ceiling features decadent Gothic vaulting.