Day 5 was our trip to Avila. John, Carlos, and I planned to be up and out in time to catch the 830a train, but the boys slept in and I wasn't going to be THAT guest who awakens everyone. Perhaps I should have been because we ended up missing the train by fifteen minutes. Ah well, more time to hang out in the station, lucky us.
(Again, all photos are courtesy of Carlos and John because they are good friends, and I am a lousy photographer.)
First was a common Spanish breakfast of café con leche and napolitana de chocolate (coffee with steamed milk and a chocolate croissant -- breakfast of champions!). We wandered around outside a little until we were driven inside by the window and settled down to play cards in front of a closed Burger King (which sells beer, which is so weird).
True to form, my competitive nature emerged during our first round of Egyptian Rat Screw. See the concentration? But then Carlos taught me Spit, and it was downhill from there -- note the evil gleam in his eye!
Our train left at 1130a, and we were on our way. The Spanish countryside reminded me of the lakebed of Kaweah when the waters are low -- hills and valleys spotted with trees. Two hours later, we arrived in Avila. It was freezing, but at least there was no snow.
Avila is famous for its fortress, constructed of brown granite in 1090, surmounted by a breastwork, with eighty-eight towers and nine gateways (thank you, Wikipedia).
Once inside the old city, we stopped at the Iglesia de Santo Tomé. Once a church, it is now a museum of Spanish and Roman artifacts. (Or so I gathered from my limited ability to read Spanish signs. The boys were of no help!)
We admired to the cathedral.
It was guarded by lions and built into the fortress wall.
The cathedral was open for visitors, but for a price. Instead, we decided to look for a restaurant recommended by John's coworker from Avila -- Tres Siglos. It took forever but wandering around the narrow streets surrounded by ancient stone was neat. Until it was just plain COLD and we were ready to eat.
Appetizers -- pickled white aspargus drizzled with mayo (me) and patatas revolnados (the boys).
Dinner -- fillet steak (the boys), barbequed beefsteak (me). Yes, that piece of meat is so long that it had to be folded under to fit on the plate. Yes, it was riddled with fat, and I had a heck of a time making my way through it. Yes, it was delicious and worth every bite!
After the wonderful meal, we made our way to the wall. Whoa, that's high.
Looking out over the rest of the city.
Evil Knievel -- I mean, John.
"Sir John, the marauders are coming!" "Never fear, Lady Erica, I'll defend you!"
One last look.
After coffee, the train ride home (beautiful sunset), and Renting it up on the metro, we were finally home. What a great day.
