The Hall of Maps is surely one of the highlights of the Vatican Museum. During the “Waking the Vatican” tour, a visitor has the privilege of standing in the darkness as the key master switches on the lights. Here’s a video showing our reaction:
It was an impressive experience. Of course, once your eyes adjust to the light the maps are easy to see and brilliant renditions for the time they were created. This tour is worth every cent. I’ll post photos showing some of the maps at a later date.
Not the largest religious building in Toledo Spain, the Church of Cristo de la Luz, was originally built in the year 999. That’s right, more than a 1,000 years ago.
The facade features the interesting “moorish” architecture.
Inside, you’ll find the remains of some frescos:
And more:
This building is definitely worth a stop while in Toledo as it shows the continuity from one culture to another as it evolved in this area. Do a little homework before you go and you’ll discover the details more easily.
During my latest visit to Spain, I returned to Toledo, a stunning place to linger. While there, I stayed at the Hacienda del Cardenal, which is located at the foot of the old town, behind the city walls.
The entrance sits up a few stairs at the rear of an expansive courtyard that is used for weddings and other functions. The restaurant there is good for a light meal or snack, plus some good wine. The rooms were comfortable.
Complete with en suite baths with all the amenities:
There is parking in a nearby lot for your car. It is an energetic walk up the hill to the Cathedral and other sites, or you can take a taxi or bus. I choose to walk because I need the exercise and enjoy the regular things along the way. In any case, Hacienda del Cardenal is a great value for your stay in Toledo.
As mentioned in the previous post, here are some details from Segovia’s Cathedral. There are a number of ceremonial objects on display, including these vestments:
There there are statues from various periods:
Which show the change in style, technique, and taste in how they’ve evolved:
You’ll also find some equipment from the period when the cathedral was built:
Thus, the cathedral is a sort of living history museum while at the same time a functioning religious site. There are literally hundreds of things to see and experience here, so take your time.
The Bent Page 
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