Seville

We (or I) had been a little worried how we would cope today with the heat, weekend crowds and general chaos, but we worked out a successful plan. First was a painful bit - we decided to queue for one of the 400 tickets sold on the day for the Alcazar. So, after only eating mandarins in our room we set off to join the line by 8.45 (they start selling at 9)…we were clicked off - they count off the first 400 so we knew we were in, but it was a LONG line. And it took 2 hours!!! During the time, we learnt that they require ID - to prevent scalping tickets - and my precious passport was tucked away safely in the hotel. Amr had a photo of his which is acceptable, but I hot tailed back, a little nervous that I would get lost in the labyrinth, collected passport and enjoyed the brisk walk! And gained confidence that I wasn’t too dilly and could find my way - at 9.30 the streets are deserted, except for tourists wanting to buy tickets, and shops and bars all closed, and each alley looks the same. The 9.30 bells from the Giralda bell tower of the cathedral entertained us - bells visibly swinging and ringing in every space! (See and hear video)

After getting the precious tickets, for 3 pm when we would avoid some of the hottest part of the day, we went back to hotel to unwind, hide precious passport away, and recuperate.

We then went to check the cathedral which had been totally sold out for visits, and discovered that there was a Mass at 1pm, and people could go in for that…so we did. We quite often attend masses on the Camino, especially with Rachel and Richard, and enjoy the peace and contemplative time, even though it is in Spanish. It was in one of the very decorated chapels, and many people were there. And when it was over, we were free to have a wonderful walk around, with many others, and admire the splendour and enormity of this cathedral in total peace. It was Amr’s inspiration that we do this and it was brilliant!

Then time for lunch and we went to a great place where we hope to go to dinner soon, and had, finally, my chiperones a la plancha which I have been fantasising about, but which we never seem to find available. Delicious, and some cod croquetas. By then it was 3pm and time for our Alcazar visit…and of course it was just amazing. We remembered the exquisite and ornate Islamic decoration and carving…very similar to the Alhambra. So we are satisfied. The only thing missing was that the fountains in the courtyards weren’t founting…I don’t know why. I remember them as the peaceful sight and sound in the courtyards…maybe they worry in these mad times that someone will drown…anyway, after admiring the building itself, we went into the gardens of the alcazar and sat on a seat and had kindle time. Peacocks and ducks, people wandering…just a lovely time. Now back, via some hydration, and will soon set off for dinner. And tomorrow a new adventure - to Granada.Leia mais