Ingrid and Malcolm's Life in Luxembourg: Day Trips from Madrid

Although exciting and full of things to do we also wanted to see some of the places just outside Madrid.

St Teresa's in Avila

On Day 3 we decided to do a guided tour to Avila and Segovia.

Avila is a medieval walled city (12th century) where St Teresa is from and started the new Carmelite nuns in the 16th century. Having gone through primary school being taught by the Carmelite nuns and remembering Mum walking us to church at St Teresa's it was very interesting to go there and here about and see where it all happened. We first went to St Vincent's basilica and then walked through the town towards St Teresa's convent and church. It was quite different to the scout hall converted to St Teresa's that we used to go to. Avila was a very pretty town and we would like to have the chance to go back and explore it further.

We then we to Segovia and found a place for lunch then met for the afternoon tour at the Roman aquaduct, 28m high and 894m long with no mortar and still in pristine condition.

We enjoyed walking the streets and went to the Cathedral followed by the alcazar (castle) where Queen Isabel sometimes stayed and where she had received Christopher Columbus at times.

On Day 5 we took the fast train to Toledo. Toledo was overlooked in favour of Madrid to be the capital of Spain as it was too powerful in the 16th century. We enjoyed walking around this city with its Muslim, Jewish and Christian influences. The Cathedral was spectacular and housed works by El Greco, Rubens and many others. We also went to the synagogue which was also a place not to be missed. We looked for the last remaining mosque but were unable to find it.

Toledo

On Day 7 we went to El Escorial on the recommendation of Susanne. This was home to a monastery and palace combined with an amazing basilica.

This was well worth going to with the highlight being the "Crypt of Kings". Only monarchs are placed in the kings' side of the crypt. Spouses have their own section. Isabella II is the only queen residing on the kings' side. The current King's parents are waiting in the "rotting room "before being placed in there. It was quite incredible.