Spain!
February 6-13, 2010
Although we were going to Spain for the America's Cup in Valencia and it was a bit out of season, we were excited to see a new part of Europe. Although we had a major GPS malfunction (it decided to keep us off all highways!!), our 12 hour drive was pretty uneventful. Thank God for DVD players!
We decided to stay in a condo in a small beach town called Peniscola, about an hour from Valencia. It was completely empty of tourists and much of it was closed for the season, so we had it all to ourselves.
Noah was still smiling after the long drive!
We immediately headed across the street to check out the beach. Big shocker.... A castle! We were heading to Valencia for race 1 of the America's Cup on Monday, but Tuesday was set aside for castle exploring!
On Tuesday, we stopped to fuel up on some Paella at the foot of the castle before our exploring could begin. Paella is a famous rice and seafood dish originating from this part of Spain.
The Castle of Peniscola is a fortified seaport, with a lighthouse, built on a rocky headland. It was originally built between 1294 and 1307 by the Knights Templars. From 1415 it was the home of the Western Shismatic Pope Benedict (
long story).
Some of the "Old town" protected inside the castle walls.
After climbing to the top of the castle, we had some really great views
The castle's lighthouse
A beautiful view of the Peniscola beach and the Pope's garden
The castle overlooking the fishing port
Inside the main part of the castle, was the Pope's living quarters and study. Above the door is the Pope's coat of arms.
The window in his study facing Rome and the Vatican city.
Down to the dungeon!!
Noah was growling like a lion as we descended the stairs to the dungeon.
There was a museum displaying Templar gear.
Including cool weapons
The torture chamber
The torture table, kinda scary looking
After all that, we felt we needed to let Noah let out some energy....
With the America's Cup race cancelled on Wednesday, we decided to do some sightseeing and shopping in the historic center of Valencia. We had lunch outside the Saint Mary of Valencia Cathedral.
Saint Mary of Valencia Cathedral dominates this area of Valencia. One of the supposed Holy Chalices is revered in one of this cathedral's chapels. This chalice has been defended as the true Holy Grail. Most Christian historians all over the world declare that all their evidence points to this Valencian chalice as the most likely candidate for being the authentic cup used at the Last Supper.
Unfortunate for us (mostly Rani), we forgot about Spain's famous midday fiesta. Like Switzerland on a Sunday, everything was closed. So, no shopping.
On Thursday, we made plans to visit the Valencia Science Center and their aquarium. This area of Valencia was just recently developed with a very modern flair. There is a theater, an Imax theater, science center, art museum, aquarium.
The aquarium was so fun, we spent all of our time there.
Noah just loved looking at all the colorful fish
Noah and Mommy "inside" the tank
We could have watched the seals all day!!
The water tunnel was really impressive.
Video of the water tunnel. Some scary creatures!!
A dolphin show
After a fun week, we headed home......
Walking on the Lucerne city wall.
Having some fun at the museum in Lucerne. Tracey and I were cold..brrr.
Noah sledges too!
