After our usual coffee and pain au chocolat we are off to the Jewish Quarter. I discover a fabulous jewellery store on the way so an essential stop is made. Arriving at the Mezquita we first head across the bridge to visit the Calahorra Tower built during the late 12th century to protect the Roman bridge - the views back to Cordoba are breathtaking. Our stroll around the Cathedral reveals many tourist shops and tabernas yet when you look to the other direction you can't help marvel at the exterior wall of this magnificent construction. We have visited the Blue Mosque in Istanbul but this is another level again! The original building commenced in 784AD and it is known as the Great Mosque - it became a Catholic Cathedral in 1236 at a time when Christians, Jews and Muslims all lived peacefully together, respecting each others belief systems. The majesty, size and beauty of this Cathedral can't be overstated - 850 columns cover the expansive floors and the ceilings are incredible feats of artistry and engineering. It felt like every time you turned a new corner there was another level of magnificence. It almost defies belief that mere mortals could produce such an extraordinary construction and work of art. The bell tower only allows 20 people up at a time between certain hours and we have just missed out so we head out to find a place to eat - not difficult. Bodegas Mezquita is just around the corner and offers a beautifully clean venue to sample more tapas and a glass (or three) of wine. We also stop at their store and purchase Spanish olive oil, at a confectioner to purchase his wares and then head back to pay our two euros each to climb the 54m high bell tower - let me say that this did not end well :( . I often wonder why I still challenge myself to these feats!
I'm a mess so we head straight back to the hotel to recover.
We head out again as a couple of shops we have decided need further investigation (remember that there is a siesta period in Spain so the shops don't reopen until 5pm) . "Why are you packing that suitcase in another? .... you are not going to be shopping .... you don't need it!" .... guess who has just had to buy ANOTHER suitcase to carry all HIS purchases?
Tonight is a special night - while the 24/25th December is celebrated, children do not receive their gifts until tonight! In the shopping precinct you can hardly move - there are people everywhere! Drinking beer on the streets, singing, celebrating - hardly a car in sight ... it's amazing! With our new suitcase in tow we head back to the hotel again and after a quick "shooshz" we head downstairs to the hotel restaurant, Arbequina. Unusual for us to eat in our hotel but we ate here last night and the food was sensational. Tonight there is a special degustation menu and it is, once more, spectacular!
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