At Murcia’s gridlock garden, a van holds court,
a scruffy king of last resort.
Its doors don’t shut, its paintwork peels,
but oh, the charm! It spins its wheels.
Between the shiny cars in line,
it slouches, smug — "This spot is mine!"
No showroom gloss, no modern tech,
just quirks, some rust, and lots of specks.
At dawn it shakes, it groans, it grins,
"Time to roll — adventure wins!"
With a puff of smoke and a wobbly roar,
the rascal is gone — to the LIDL next door.Spain
Roman Sagunto (Spain) and the Mystery of the Marble Relief
Marble relief from the 2nd or 3rd century AD, found in Sagunto (Spain).
Sagunto, a historic town in eastern Spain, played a crucial role in the Second Punic War and later became a thriving Roman city. Among its many archaeological finds, one stands out: a marble relief depicting a boat and a hippopotamus, discovered in the Plaza de la Moreria excavations.
The relief, dated to the 2nd–3rd century CE, shows a boat with a square sail, a bearded figure onboard, and a hippopotamus in the water. Though Roman in style, it has strong Egyptian influences—suggesting a fascination with Nilotic (Nile-inspired) themes. The boat resembles Egyptian papyrus vessels, and the hippopotamus, a powerful symbol in Egyptian culture, could reference mythological or decorative motifs.
Carved from Buixcarró marble, a local material, the relief was probably made for a Sagunto resident, while other scholars suggest it was part of a decorative frieze or panel, possibly linked to a temple of Hercules, given the hero’s mythical connection to the city. Originally, it may have been brightly painted and displayed in a public space or an elite home.
While its exact meaning remains uncertain, the relief highlights Sagunto’s blend of Roman, Greek, and Egyptian artistic influences, revealing the city’s rich cultural connections within the empire.
El hombre, la mujer, y la moza (by Rafael Zabaleta, 1957)
El hombre, la mujer, y la moza (by Rafael Zabaleta, 1957).
Rafael Zabaleta (1907–1960) was a renowned Spanish painter, born in Quesada, Jaén. His work is characterized by vivid colors and a distinctive style that often depicted rural Andalusian life, focusing on landscapes, peasants, and traditional scenes. Zabaleta's paintings reflect a deep connection to his native land, portraying the daily struggles and beauty of Andalusian rural communities.
Zabaleta's art shares a thematic resonance with the poetry of Miguel Hernández, as both artists were deeply inspired by the Spanish countryside, the lives of its people and the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). Hernández's poetry, much like Zabaleta's paintings, captures the hardships and the enduring spirit of the working class. Their works convey a profound sense of empathy for the rural poor and a commitment to social justice. The two artists, though working in different mediums, created poignant representations of the same cultural and social landscapes, making their works complementary in capturing the essence of early 20th-century Spain.
On the back of the painting ‘El hombre, la mujer, y la moza’ by Rafael Zabaleta is inscribed the poem ‘Todas las casas son ojos’ by Miguel Hernández.
Christ Crowned with Thorns
Christ Crowned with Thorns, by a follower of Hieronymus Bosch (Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial).
Christ Crowned with Thorns, housed in the Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial, is an emotionally powerful painting attributed to a follower of Hieronymus Bosch, created during the first half of the 16th century. The artwork depicts Jesus surrounded by four tormentors in a moment of impending violence, capturing the dramatic tension just before they press the crown of thorns onto his head. A nearly identical composition exists as the central panel of a Passion Triptych in the Museu de Belles Arts de València. The paintings suggest that the works were likely produced by someone very familiar with Bosch's style and themes.
The four tormentors embody different aspects of human cruelty—anger, mockery, cruelty, and indifference. Their faces and symbolic attributes reflect both spiritual suffering and humanity's darker traits, making this painting a profound meditation on sin, redemption, and human nature, mockery, and indifference.
Unique to this composition is a sixth figure positioned behind the tormentors. His expression is calm and introspective, contrasting with the hostility around him. He could represent a detached observer, a symbol of humanity’s passive complicity, or even a contemplative stand-in for the viewer.
The painting’s stark background intensifies its emotional gravity, while the intimate grouping of figures emphasizes psychological tension. The follower of Bosch skillfully conveys themes of suffering, redemption, and moral reflection, transforming this religious narrative into a universal meditation on human nature and spiritual endurance.
Urraca de Zamora (Spain)
Siege of Zamora (1072), street art in Zamora (Spain).
Urraca of Zamora was a prominent figure in the tumultuous history of medieval Spain. Born around 1050, she was the daughter of King Ferdinand I of León and Castile and sister to the famous kings Alfonso VI of León and Castile and Sancho II of León. The 11th century was a time of political fragmentation and military conquest in the Iberian Peninsula, with Christian kingdoms vying for control amidst the ongoing Reconquista against Muslim forces in the south. Urraca's life was shaped by the intense power struggles within her family and her own efforts to navigate the shifting political landscape, making her one of the most intriguing women in medieval Spanish history.
When Ferdinand I died in 1065, he divided his vast kingdom among his three sons—Alfonso, Sancho, and García—leaving the region fractured and setting the stage for future conflict. Urraca, though not a direct heir to the throne, played a crucial role as the governor of the city of Zamora, a strategic and wealthy stronghold. This position made her a key player in the dynastic struggles that followed her father’s death. Sancho II, who ruled León, sought to consolidate control over all of the kingdom, including Zamora, and to eliminate any challenges to his authority.
This resulted in the most defining chapter of Urraca's life. It became a bitter conflict with Sancho II. As Sancho II sought to expand his influence, Urraca resisted his attempts to subjugate her city. The tension between the two escalated into a violent rivalry, with Sancho II laying siege to Zamora in 1072. Urraca’s defense of the city became a symbol of her resilience and determination, though her brother’s forces eventually succeeded in surrounding it. The siege ended dramatically with Sancho II’s assassination under mysterious circumstances, possibly orchestrated by his own allies, which left his territories to Alfonso VI.
Though the death of Sancho II marked a turning point, it did not end Urraca's challenges. Her loyalty to her surviving brother, Alfonso VI, remained strong, and she continued to govern Zamora as an influential figure in the political affairs of the realm. However, her position and role within the broader kingdom of León and Castile remained complex, as she navigated the ongoing power struggles of the time.
Urraca’s story is one of political intrigue, family conflict, and personal struggle for power. Her defiance of Sancho II and her steadfast defense of Zamora stand out in the broader history of medieval Spain, where women often found themselves excluded from the direct exercise of power. Urraca's ability to maneuver within this male-dominated world, fiercely protecting her city and her influence, makes her an enduring symbol of determination and resilience in the face of dynastic and personal conflict.
Street art in Zamorra, Urraca de Zamora and her brother Sancho II. (Zamora, Spain)
Mantas de Bocairent (Spain)
Plaça de l’Ajuntament, Bocairent, on the firts night of the ‘Moros y Cristianos’ festival.
If you want to see the iconic ‘Mantas de Bocairent’, one of the best times to do so is during the informal opening parade of the ‘Moros y Cristianos’ festival in Bocairent. Held every year in early February, this festival kicks off with a fun and lively first night where groups of friends and family gather, many of them proudly wearing the famous Bocairent blankets. It’s a unique chance to see these beautiful textiles in action, wrapped around the locals in a joyous display of tradition and camaraderie.
The blankets themselves are made from high-quality wool sourced from local sheep, and each one reflects generations of craftsmanship. The artisans of Bocairent have perfected these weaving techniques over centuries, passing down their skills to ensure the quality and beauty of each piece. Historically, the textile trade has been at the heart of Bocairent’s economy. For centuries, the town has been a key center of wool production in the region, and the tradition continues to this day.
If you visit Bocairent during the festival, you’ll not only get to see these beautiful blankets, you also get a chance to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the colorful parades. You will learn that the ‘Mantas de Bocairent’ are more than just blankets – they are a symbol of local pride, craftsmanship, and a connection to the past.
La Peña de los Enamorados (The Lover's Rock), Antequera (Spain)
- La Peña de los Enamorados, Chromolithography on tim (ca. 1915)
- Illustration from a German publication from the 16th century on ‘La Peña de los Enamorados’
- La Peña de los Enamorados as can be seen from Antequera.
The story of "La Peña de los Enamorados" (The Lovers' Rock) in Antequera, Spain, is a famous legend rooted in love and tragedy. The rock, resembling the profile of a reclining man, serves as the backdrop for this romantic tale.
The story is set during the time of the Reconquista, the period when Christian kingdoms were fighting to reclaim territory from the Moors. It revolves around a young Christian man named Tello and a Moorish princess named Tazgona (or Tagzona).
Tello, captured by the Moors, is imprisoned in the fortress of Archidona. During his captivity, he meets Tazgona, the daughter of the Moorish leader. They fall deeply in love despite their different backgrounds and the political tensions between their people.
Knowing that their love is forbidden, they decide to escape together. They flee to the nearby mountains, pursued by the Moorish soldiers. Eventually, they reach the top of the Peña de los Enamorados, realizing they cannot escape their fate.
Rather than face separation or punishment, Tello and Tazgona choose to leap from the rock, preferring to die together than live apart. Their tragic end seals their love in legend, and the Peña de los Enamorados becomes a symbol of eternal love and sacrifice.
This romantic and tragic tale adds a layer of mysticism and allure to the striking landscape of Antequera, making the rock a significant cultural and historical landmark.
La vella, Vic (Spain)
La Vella is one of the iconic big-headed figures (capgrossos) featured in the Festa Major of Vic, symbolizing the city’s deep-rooted festive traditions. Created in 1864, she represents one of the three historic groups that animate the celebrations alongside the Merma and the Nen. Known for her distinctive appearance and her playful role in the festivities, she holds whips traditionally used to scare children during parades, adding a touch of mischievous fun to the event.
To honor her 150th anniversary in 2014, a bronze monument was erected, depicting her seated on a stone pedestal with her characteristic whips in hand. The inscription reads La vella més vella de totes les velles de la ciutat (“The oldest old woman of all the old women in the city”), reflecting her lasting cultural significance. This enduring symbol of Vic's heritage was crafted by renowned artist Manel Casserras i Solé (1957-2015).
The Church of Sant Pere in Besalú (Spain)
The Church of Sant Pere in Besalú (Spain).
The Church of Sant Pere in Besalú is a landmark deeply tied to the town’s medieval history. Originally founded in 977 as part of a Benedictine monastery, the church we see today was completed in the 12th century and stands as a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture. Situated in the heart of the old town, it features a single nave with a semicircular apse and a striking bell tower that dominates the skyline.
Sant Pere was once part of a thriving monastic complex that played a vital role in the spiritual and cultural life of the region. Its architectural simplicity is balanced by its precise craftsmanship, reflecting the aesthetic values of the Romanesque period. The church’s enduring presence makes it an important site for understanding the religious and artistic legacy of Besalú and Catalonia as a whole.
The interior of the Church of Sant Pere in Besalú (Spain).
Are Gen-Z Girls Connecting with Córdoba’s Past?
Four Gen-Z girls visiting Córdoba. (Temporary image)
Four Gen-Z girls visiting Córdoba, posing for selfies in front of the city’s iconic Mezquita. However, in an era where social media often takes precedence over history, I can’t help but wonder if they’re missing out on the deeper stories behind the great buildings they’re seeing—if they’re so caught up in selfies and likes that the rich past of Córdoba fades into the background. Anyway, it are great confident girls enjoying themselves.
La Seu Vella, LLeida (Spain)
La Seu Vella, LLeida (Spain).
After the conquest of the Muslim city of Larida in 1149 by the Catalan counts Ramon Berenguer IV of Barcelona and Ermengol VI of Urgell, the need arose to build a cathedral. In 1203 the first stone was placed, though construction continued into the 15th century, resulting in the church, cloister, bell tower, and Canonical House. The Gothic period and early 16th century marked its peak of splendor.
The following centuries brought challenges. During the Catalan Revolt of 1640, La Seu Vella was used as a hospital and armory. In 1707, during the War of the Spanish Succession, it was closed for worship by order of Philip V and converted into military barracks. Its interiors were altered, and much of its heritage was lost or damaged.
Further destruction occurred during the Peninsular War in 1810. Although declared a historic-artistic monument in 1918, it suffered again during the Civil War in 1936 when it became a concentration camp and remained military barracks until 1948. Only then did restoration efforts begin.
Today, La Seu Vella stands as a symbol of Catalonia's enduring history. Its bell tower, cloister, and preserved interiors reflect centuries of architectural and cultural evolution, serving as a powerful testament to resilience and artistic legacy.
Siege of Lleida (Lerida) in 1707, by Gabriel Bodenehr (1720).
La Fiesta de los Reyes Magos (Spain)
La Fiesta de los Reyes Magos, the 'Cabalgata’ of Cadiz (Spain).
In Spain, Three Kings' Day ("Día de los Reyes Magos") is a significant celebration that marks the visit of the three wise men—Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthazar—to the baby Jesus, bringing him gifts. It holds great cultural and religious importance and is often considered a continuation of the Christmas festivities.
On the evening of January 5th, vibrant parades known as "cabalgatas" take place across the country. These parades feature elaborate floats, music, and the distribution of candy to spectators, delighting both children and adults.
The following morning, children eagerly wake up to discover gifts left by the three kings, provided they have behaved well; otherwise, they may receive a symbolic lump of coal, often made of sugar.
Families also gather to enjoy a traditional "Roscón de Reyes," a ring-shaped sweet bread adorned with candied fruits. Hidden inside the roscón are small surprises: a toy and a bean. The person who finds the toy is crowned king or queen for the day, while the one who finds the bean traditionally assumes the responsibility of providing the roscón the following year.
King Philip II of Spain's desk at the Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial (Spain)
King Philip II of Spain's desk at the Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial (Spain).
After completion of the Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial in 1584, King Philip II of Spain worked from his office there till his death in 1598. During these years in the Escorial, Philip II made some of the most significant decisions that shaped the destiny of Spain and its vast empire. His reign from the Escorial was marked by a blend of religious, political, and military strategies aimed at consolidating Spanish hegemony in Europe and beyond.
One of Philip II’s most defining decisions was the continuation of the Spanish Armada’s preparations against England, culminating in the ill-fated 1588 naval campaign. This endeavor was driven by a combination of religious zeal to restore Catholicism in Protestant England and strategic considerations to curb English interference in Spanish interests.
Philip II also played a pivotal role in managing Spain’s territorial empire, including the administration of the Americas, the Spanish Netherlands, and various Italian states. His decisions on colonial expansion and the protection of trade routes from piracy ensured Spain's economic dominance, albeit strained by military expenses.
Religious orthodoxy remained central to his rule, with Philip enforcing the decrees of the Council of Trent. He strengthened the Spanish Inquisition to maintain Catholic purity, making Spain the bulwark of Counter-Reformation Europe. His rule also saw the completion of the Escorial itself, reflecting his belief in the unity of church and state.
Furthermore, Philip navigated complex European alliances and conflicts, including wars with France and revolts in the Netherlands. His policies aimed at suppressing Protestant uprisings while maintaining Spain's influence across the continent.
Philip II’s governance from the Escorial thus encompassed critical decisions that influenced European geopolitics, religious dynamics, and global exploration. His legacy remains deeply intertwined with the history of early modern Europe and the enduring image of the Escorial as a symbol of imperial grandeur and devout kingship.
Philip II of Spain (1565). Museo del Prado, Madrid
Monasterio de San Lorenzo de El Escorial (Spain).
The Battle of Belchite (Spain)
The ruins of Belchite.
The Battle of Belchite was a pivotal and harrowing episode of the Spanish Civil War, fought between August 24 and September 7, 1937. Situated in the province of Zaragoza in northeastern Spain, Belchite became the focus of a Republican offensive aimed at diverting Nationalist forces away from their northern campaigns. The battle was characterized by intense urban warfare, relentless bombardments, and heavy casualties on both sides. What began as a strategic military operation ended in the near-total destruction of the town, leaving behind a legacy of devastation and a powerful symbol of the war's brutality. The ruins of Belchite stand today as a haunting reminder of the conflict and the deep divisions that scarred Spain during this turbulent period.
Old village of Belchite,
the young shepherds no longer roam there,
the jotas our fathers sang
will no longer be heard.
Written on the door of the San Martín de Tours church in Belchite in 1937 by one of the last victims of the battle.
The Church of Sant Vicenç in Besalú (Spain)
The Church of Sant Vicenç in Besalú.
The Church of Sant Vicenç in Besalú, dating to the 12th century with origins in 977, showcases Romanesque and transitional Gothic styles. Notable features include its three naves, intricate door carvings, and a Gothic tomb of Pere de Rovira, who brought Saint Vicenç’s relics in 1413. It also houses a reliquary of the True Cross, gifted in 1923.
Altar Frontal from Sant Martí in Puigbò (Spain)
Altar Frontal from Sant Martí in Puigbò (12th century), MEV, Museu d’Art Medieval, Vic (Spain).
The Altar Frontal from Sant Martí in Puigbò is a beautiful example of Romanesque art from Catalonia, created between 1120 and 1150. The frontal features a geometric style typical of the Romanesque period, reflecting the religious and artistic values of the time. This anonymous work, likely painted by an artist influenced by the renowned Master of the Baldachin from Ribes, combines refined iconography with a popular artistic tradition.
The frontal, originally from the parish church of Sant Martí in Puigbò (located near Puigbò Castle in the Ripollès region), depicts four scenes from the life of Saint Martin, the church’s patron saint. The scenes are arranged in four compartments:
Saint Martin on horseback sharing his chlamys (a cloak) with a poor man, a well-known act of charity.
The resurrection of a convert, where Saint Martin brings a dead man back to life before he is baptized.
The death of Saint Martin, showing his final moments.
Two angels taking Saint Martin’s soul to heaven, symbolizing his divine reward.
These scenes are framed by a horizontal Latin inscription that reads: “For being generous with the poor man on Earth, Martin now resides in Heaven.” The work is noted for its bold use of color and simple, expressive figures, typical of the Romanesque style, which was intended to convey religious messages to a largely illiterate audience. The frontal serves both as a decorative and didactic piece, emphasizing Saint Martin's virtues of charity and faith.
Urban Echoes from Ripoll (Spain)
Urban Echoes from Ripoll (Spain).
Ripoll is a charming town in the heart of Catalonia, known for its rich history and welcoming atmosphere. It is home to the world-famous portal of the Santa Maria de Ripoll monastery, a stunning example of Romanesque art. But Ripoll is not just about history – it plays a vital role in shaping the future too. The Institut Abat Oliba is a key education center for young people from the region. Many students travel to Ripoll by bus or train to study here, as the school offers excellent programs in administrative, sports, and technical fields. This makes Ripoll a hub of learning and opportunity for the next generation.
Olvera (Spain)
Iglesia Arciprestal de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación, Olvera.
Located on a hilltop in Andalusia, Olvera is a town that reflects centuries of history. Its position has made it an important place for thousands of years.
The name Olvera likely has Arabic roots, showing its complex past. Under Roman rule, it was a thriving settlement. When the Moors took over, it became a key outpost on the Moorish frontier.
The Christian reconquest in the 13th century was another turning point for Olvera. The town was freed and turned into a fortified stronghold. The large castle, a symbol of its military importance, still stands tall today.
Throughout the years, Olvera has seen a mix of cultures, each influencing the town’s buildings, language, and traditions. The historic center, with its winding streets and whitewashed houses, acts like a living museum, showing how the town has changed over time.
Today, Olvera lets visitors step back in time and explore the rich history and culture of Andalusia. Its key location and historical importance make it a fascinating place for anyone looking for a genuine and memorable experience.
Almonaster la Real
The Mezquita de Almonaster.
Located in the hills of Andalusia, Almonaster la Real is a town rich in history. Its name, meaning "the royal monastery" in Arabic, reflects its diverse past. Many cultures have influenced this town, shaping its buildings, landscape, and people.
Almonaster began as a Roman outpost and saw the influence of the Visigoths, Moors, and Christians. Each group left a mark, creating a unique blend of influences. The town's main attraction is its mosque, a stunning example of the Islamic Golden Age. This building combines Roman, Visigothic, and Islamic styles, symbolizing cultural exchange and coexistence.
Almonaster la Real is also known for its natural beauty. Surrounded by the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche mountains, the town provides a peaceful escape from modern life. Its whitewashed houses with colorful flower pots create a charming and relaxing atmosphere.
Visitors can explore ancient streets, admire architectural treasures, and enjoy the serene environment. Almonaster la Real offers an unforgettable experience where time seems to slow down, letting visitors connect with both the past and present.
Almonaster la Real.
Cáceres
Cáceres, a city nestled in the heart of Extremadura, Spain, is a living testament to the enduring spirit of human history. Its cobbled streets, imposing medieval architecture, and serene plazas offer a captivating glimpse into centuries past. With a legacy stretching back to Roman times, Cáceres has evolved into a harmonious blend of ancient and modern, earning its place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
The city's history is as rich and layered as the patina on its ancient walls. From its Roman foundations to its Moorish occupation, Cáceres has witnessed the ebb and flow of empires and cultures. The medieval period, however, left an indelible mark on the city's character. Its imposing palaces, fortified mansions, and imposing churches, many converted from defensive structures, stand as silent sentinels of a bygone era.
Cáceres has also found unexpected fame in the modern world, thanks to its role as a stunning backdrop for the globally acclaimed television series, "Game of Thrones." The city's medieval charm and dramatic landscapes provided the perfect canvas for the show's creators, transforming Cáceres into a sought-after destination for fans eager to step into the world of Westeros.
Today, Cáceres is not merely a city; it's a living museum, a stage where history and fantasy intertwine. Its cobblestone streets echo with the footsteps of centuries, while its modern vibrancy promises an unforgettable experience for visitors from around the world.
