Day 35 and 36 Toledo

Holy Toledo another drive through the countryside. This trip was the longest between towns, four hours through not too many towns rather cultivated land which was like a changing pattern depending on elevation.

    Think I have mentioned previously but am astonished at the use of every inch of land here in Spain for agriculture, right up to the rocky outcrops on hills and sometimes over the hills if not rock.

   There are a few areas where they raise bulls but not too many sightings of cattle raising. Pork is the choice of meat on all menus. Not a fan of Spains food, think they might need a few lessons from us Aussies.

   Have seen these 'watch out for deer' signs. Have been watching but none spotted.

   Once you park in a parking station just inside the town's walls it is a short walk to the centre of town  and our hotel, The Navas. The city of Toledo is a no go zone for vehicles unless you have a pass,residents etc, and you wouldn't want too drive as the roads, if you can call them that, are so narrow that if you are walking and a car does come along you have to virtually melt your body into the wall so the car can fit. Not many cars over here in Spain without the addition of a scrape or ding.

Lots of walking the first afternoon visiting among other things, the museum of the painter El Greco who lived here.

   Toledo is an ancient, medieval walled city set on a hill. It is often known as the 'City of Three Cultures', due to its historical co-existence of Christian, Muslim and Jewish cultures.

   Views from across the river that also provided protection for the city.

   It may be very touristy and it is but the best way to see Toledo is from this train that leaves the main square every half an hour. We were the last on the train and got the best two seats up the front. If you ever catch this train make sure you are on the left side looking at it or on the right if seated.

   Beautiful bridges connecting the surrounding countryside to the city are all seen from the train and you even get a commentary of historical info, how good is that!! Our only problem we had a very loud Spanish lady behind us that would not stop talking but I think she got the message after a few people shot her a glare or two.

   One of the many entrance gates to the city.

   There are gorgeous views from many vantage points inside the city walls. This is the 11th Century Castillo de San Serrando. The castle was built as a monastery but also served military purposes because of its strategic location. The building is an excellent example of a Mudejar- style fortress.

   Behind its daunting medieval walls is a labyrinth of cobbled stoned pedestrian streets, magnificent old stone buildings and traditional craft stores displaying all things medieval. Toledo is known also for its antique- inspired swords and shields. Not things that could be brought home in the suitcase.

    Toledo well worth the visit and not that far out of Madrid so you could always do a day tour from Madrid on your next visit.