Estamos Explorando

Yesterday we had class from 9 to 11 and then took a 2 hour tour of La Catedral de Sevilla. My camera died, so I only go one picture, but it definitely wouldn't do justice to how magnificent the structure actually is. One of the professors from the center took us on a tour of the cathedral, with way more information than I could possibly remember, but it was very interesting. It's the third largest cathedral in the world. It was was built from what was originally a mosque during the Reconquista of Spain. It's incredibly ornate and beautiful, and intimidating at the same time. Christopher Columbus' tomb is in the Cathedral. La Giralda, a tower that rises out of the structure, is one of the defining landmarks of Sevilla. On top of it is the statue from the picture below, El Giraldillo, which represents the triumph of Christianity over Islam at the time. The statue turns (girar) with the wind, that's where the name comes from...and that's what I remember from our tour. We climbed the tower which has ramps not stairs, and it's about 35 levels, quite a workout! You can see all of Sevilla from the top. I'm pretty sure that La Giralda is the tallest building in the city.

Today was a day for wandering. After class, Liz, Bre, and I went to tomar tapas y copas at a nearby cafe. We had jamon iberico, chorizo, queso de oveja (manchego), lomo con tomates (pork in tomato sauce with potatos), and espinacas y garbanzos (spinach with chickpeas). Then we wandered a bit and came across yogurice, where we got frozen yogurt with melted ferrero rochers on top. AMAZING. Liz and I kept going and got intentionally lost, coming across cool stores and random little churches (there are thousands of churches in Sevilla) for about 3 hours. I never thought I'd say this...but i need a foot massage. We walk sooo much.

Tonight we are going to La Carbonaria for some flamenco, and then out to the discotecas! I have to wake up super early for the trip to Cordoba tomorrow, but it's our first friday free! I'll sleep on the bus...