Bullfights and exquisite architecture

Lots of walking again today and two very different sites. We began our day with a visit to one of Spains most important bullrings - Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza de Caballeria. Built in 1733 it has one of the longest traditions of bullfighting. It can seat 12000 people and is the first circular and oldest of the bullrings. A fascinating exhibition with lots of historic paintings and pictures depicting the sport as well as the clothing worn by matadors. Hard to believe that such a gory and cruel sport attracted so much attention and glory. Apparently the sport is still practiced today but with lots of protests by animal activists. One can only wonder how many poor bulls were killed as the matadors trained. We then headed back to the public park to see the Plaza de Espana which was closed yesterday as they prepared for a concert. What a building!!!. It was built in 1928 for the Ibero American Expostion of 1929. The building curves for just under a metre.
It is an extraordinary example of various architectures in Spain at the time. The bottom of the building consists of tiled alcoves representing each of the Spanish provinces. There are little bookshelves on either side of the alcove where information about the provinces can be left or where visitors leave books for others to enjoy. The Spanish City Council spent 9 m euros from 2007 to 2010 renovating it. The building now houses various government agencies. Streets a bit quieter being a Sunday. Hilary and Billie arrive later ( a bit delayed by late ferry departure from Tangier) for the next adventure. Sadly, Carla heads back to Girona at the crack of dawn tomorrow. Skoon ma en skoon dogter het lekker saam gekuier al was dit te kort. ❤️ 💙Read more