Sunday Sauntering - Farewell Madrid

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An early breakfast at rooftop bar of The Hat, then I was off to catch the bus to Porto. It was time to leave Madrid.
I spent Sunday in Madrid  taking time to acclimatise- the temperature climbed to the mid 30s by lunchtime. First I came across some Coin Collectors & Money Changers,  selling everything from ancient Roman to old Spanish currency. Keeping the biblical vibe I headed to the cathedral, down St James Rd
Local artists were working on a commemoration - Pilgrims of Hope, a positive message in these times

Passing gardens with families 

And on to the Royal Palace and Cathedral - right across the street from one another. Queues at the palace entrance 
And a transformer outside the cathedral!

This real estate overlooks ‘the sunny hills of Madrid’

I decided to step into the cathedral. It was approaching midday and preparations for mass were underway..

Bells rang, incense burned and the procession passed by - first the acolytes…

Then the priests

Then the bishops (i.e. the men with hats)

I am sure the lady on the left in front of me was thinking ‘where are the women?’ Well yes good question…Still the choral and organ music was extraordinary. Later I dropped by St Michael’s plaza, next to last night’s market.

Watching people come and go, striking conversations up with table neighbours - had salad for lunch (yes!) and then it was time for siesta Later I went to the market for some tapas- couldn’t resist.

And cheeses where you need to separate the sheep from the goats (and the cows)

I had an early night again, and was up early and packed and ready as the rooftop bar opened.

The walk to the bus station took about an hour through peak hour traffic.

I got to the bus station in plenty of time.
To relax and enjoy a coffee and an orange juice

I’m on the bus now and will be for the next five hours or so 

Next stop Porto!


And …. The strange substances one finds in hostel bathrooms- left as a donativo? It’s not mine officer.












Comments

  1. Anonymous25 June 2025 at 03:37

    Fabulous Mike! I love reading your adventures. Is x keep them coming

    ReplyDelete

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