Madrid Part 1

When I first started seriously planning my Camino adventure, I suggested that Brad join me in Spain at the end. So, with the Camino behind me, I boarded a train for Madrid.

I managed to navigate the Spanish railway system and the Madrid metro to find our Airbnb overlooking the Plaza Mayor. I’m honestly a little proud of myself, especially after not riding in a vehicle of any kind for a month.

With 24 hours before Brad’s arrival, I scouted out the city center a bit, hitting important spots like Chocolatería San Ginés.

So good to be back together after five long weeks apart!

With Brad still a little jet lagged, we spent the day playing tourist, visiting the Almudena Cathedral and the Royal Palace.

We started by walking around the cathedral dome, with great views of the city below.

Just as we came around to the bell tower side of the dome, it hit 12:00, and the bells began to toll. So cool!

The inside of the cathedral is spectacular, with a vibrant, colorful ceiling…

as well as stunning stained glass.

I found the crucifix, central to the sanctuary, more compelling than most, with the Savior alone on the cross in the middle of crowds of people.

And I really liked this statue. I don’t actually know what it represents, but to me it feels like Jesus sitting and talking with a friend, having an off the record, human moment, maybe even dancing or telling stories. I’m quite certain the artist was depicting something much more serious, but I like my interpretation better.

Next, we braved the Disney line to enter the Madrid Royal Palace. Boasting over 3400 rooms, the palace is the largest in Western Europe.

Touring the palace takes a toll on the neck, as the ceilings demand attention.

Each room has a distinctive character with incredibly ornate artwork.

After all that hard work being tourists, we needed a little gelato to sustain us.