Alarcón, Spain, Fortifications

Alarcón, Spain, features a handsome set of fortifications. The town itself perches atop a tower of rock that rises above a winding river, making it an ideal place to built a castle. Take a look at the long view:

The main tower sits on the left side of the frame above. The watch tower to the right gives a great view into the next valley as wells as intersecting fire should someone have been stupid enough to approach from the area of that reservoir below. Note the walls that form a line about half way up the hill to the town. Panning slightly left, you’ll further see how isolated the town’s position is:

In the foreground left, stands another watch tower that guards the access road leading toward the town’s main gate. The people who fortified this town were serious about their mission. The main fort is now a paradore, welcoming visitors who wish to spend the night and enjoy a nice meal. I didn’t have the opportunity to stay there or dine. Let’s take a look at that building from the other side:

Those rain clouds passed while  I enjoyed a nice lunch. More about the food later. Check out the rainbow on the left. It was a nice touch for the photo. Before leaving, take a closer look at the road and the town’s main gate:

Alarcón isn’t the largest castle you’ll see in Spain. However, it does have all the features you come to expect from Spanish castle builders. Plus, you’re able to get up close to this piece of history.

Published in: on May 6, 2010 at 9:53 am  Leave a Comment  
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Segovia’s Roman Aqueduct

By most accounts, Segovia’s Roman aqueduct was built sometime around the 1st or 2nd Century AD. It stands more than 93 feet tall including the foundation, which reaches down about 16 feet. Building this device was no small task, but the Romans were no amateurs. I had the pleasure of visiting Segovia again this May, and made a short video showing the structure as it stretches above the plaza below. Take a look:

The structure has been in use since it was built with a few interruptions and repairs. The Moors destroyed a piece of it, but it was subsequently rebuilt under the reign of Ferdinand and Isabella. There are also accessory structures such as the “water house” that are part of the water system. These are less popular destinations but important to understand the thoroughness with which the Romans created their civilization.

I’ll have more photos and video about Segovia soon. It is an interesting city to visit and I hope to get there again.

Published in: on May 4, 2010 at 6:56 pm  Comments (1)  
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Serious Jamón

If you’re serious about your jamón, especially the ibérico, then you’ll have to make a pilgrimage to Spain and visit one of the many shops that specialize in this delicious delicacy. During my recent trip, I found myself wandering about the streets of Madrid, eventually to Cava Baja, where there are a number of fine tapas joints. Lo and behold! There stands Alma de Ibérico at number 41 Cava Baja, the shop you see in the photo below:

While I stood by with my mouth watering, I watched a master carve off the thinest slices for a nice lady. These slices are so thin, they melt in your mouth, releasing all the flavor of a well-cured meat. Now, just in case you want to purchase your jamón intact and do the carving yourself, check out the selection below with yours truly grinning at the possibilities:

Take your pick! It is tempting but not inexpensive. Then again, the good things in life are never cheap. At any rate, if you find yourself in Madrid, on Cava Baja, make a stop here. You won’t be disappointed.

Published in: on May 4, 2010 at 4:22 am  Leave a Comment  
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Loving Frequent Flier Miles

Once again, I’m loving frequent flier miles. The flights on this trip were paid for using my American Airlines frequent flier mile program and about $100 in cash. Not a bad deal for two business class tickets to from the US to Madrid, Spain.

Furthermore, I’d like to say a big “thank you” to all the friendly and helpful people at American Airlines. The cabin staff was fantastic on all flights. Of course, the pilots are professionals of the highest order, making nice landings, avoiding turbulence whenever possible, and personable to boot. Then, I enjoyed the Admirals Club in Miami with all its amenities.

Again, all this cost me $100 plus the miles, which were earned at no interest by using a credit card (carrying no balance) and the other flights I took on American. I’d call that a handsome reward for a bit of loyalty.

Of course it’s going to take me quite a while to accumulate another batch of miles for a trip like this. It’ll be worth it. (Starting tomorrow, I’ll have photos, videos, and zany blog commentary about this sojurn to Spain. All you’ve come to expect from The Bent Page, and more!)

Published in: on May 3, 2010 at 9:32 pm  Comments (1)  
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