Coca-Cola originally from Spain?

Imagine my shock when today I read a story in the Spanish newspapers about Coca-Cola originating in Spain! Apparently, three fellows from the town of Aielo de Malferit in Valencia created a concoction using kola nut strain and coca leaves which became a beverage known as “Nuez de Kola Cola.” Supposedly it was the same color as today’s famous beverage. At any rate, these guys attended a world exhibition in Paris circa 1880 and a drinks congress in Philadelphia in 1885. These weren’t any three amateurs either, they supplied Spain’s royalty with certain types of drinks. Bueno!

Now, regular readers of this blog know my great affection for both Spain and Coca-Cola. Therefore, while this story is intrigueing, I’m going to leave the jury out. No doubt there were numerous beverages being created during this time period. The point is that Coca-Cola rose to the top, all the way to the top, all around the world. I’ve yet to go to a place where Coca-Cola is not available, although I am still looking. Either way, Spain and Coca-Cola are two great things that should not be missed.

ENJOY!

Published in: on June 3, 2011 at 1:02 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Romans in Sasamón

The Romans ranged far and wide across what is no Spain. Augusts camped out in what was the Celtiberian town of Segisamo (hence Sasamón) on his way to make war with the Cantabrians. The Romans were conquest crazy and didn’t let up until someone put a beating on them. As they did throughout the known world of their time, the Romans left all manner of artifacts behind, from aqueducts, to coins, to theatres, to mosaic floors. In the town of Sasamón, you’ll find some interpretations of their civilization such as the scene below.

There are authentic pieces mixed with newer versions. And here are the real coins of realm.

And a few more just for contrast.

That was real money, plunked down for goods and services when the Western Hemisphere was not yet known by Europeans. Roman ruins, gothic cathedrals, modern art, great food, just a few of the many reasons I enjoy visiting Spain.

Published in: on July 13, 2010 at 12:04 pm  Leave a Comment  
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Santa Basilica, Salamanca, Spain

Salamanca has more than its fair share of ecclesiastical buildings, including the Santa Basilica. While visiting there, I made this video. Near the middle you’ll see a chapel with a relic that is actually the arm of a saint.

Remember, this is just one of the massive structures open to the public in Salamanca. You can visit a few of them in one day, but certainly not all. I plan to return to Salamanca for a look at the ones I missed.

Published in: on July 7, 2010 at 11:27 am  Leave a Comment  
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Trujillo Castle, Spain

Is there a hilltop in Spain without a castle? Very few. Trujillo’s Castle dominates the town with its battlements looking out over every quarter. You are permitted to walk the walls, which is well worth it. Don’t forget to stop into the chapel, too. You’ll see them both in the following video.

I most enjoyed those expansive views out over the countryside. No army was going to sneak up on this town. Judging by the size of the outer wards, the place was well-prepared to wait out a siege, too. Bring your catapults!

Published in: on July 1, 2010 at 1:44 am  Leave a Comment  
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