What an exciting weekend! On Friday, I went to Italica, ancient Roman ruins just outside of Sevilla with my art and culture class! It was a great field trip! We were able to see the layout of the Roman houses with its many courtyards. Then we went over to the thermae, which were the public baths. In those days, people went daily not only to physically relax, but also to also mentally relax and have social interactions and stimulating political and philosophical conversations and debates. The last thing we saw was the impressive amphitheater where slaves and gladiators battled beast and man! It the most intact of all the sites there and made me feel like I was in a gladiator movie! Overall, a very enjoyable and historical trip!
Saturday, our ASA group took an early train to Córdoba to see the mosque and the alcazar. The mosque is the only one in the world that has a cathedral built in the middle of it. Instead of destroying any Muslim influence when the Christians conquered Spain in 1492, they decided that it would be more impressive to build their place of worship into the enormous mosque. As far as the eye can see there are columns and arches! The cathedral is also very impressive, with ornate marble ceilings and statues! After touring that, the sun finally started to come out as we were walking through the Barrios (neighborhoods) that were filled with beautiful plant-filled patios and plazas. After winding through the maze of streets, we arrived at the alcazar (or Moorish palace). I think that the alcazar in Sevilla is more ornate and the gardens are larger, but I am biased! Nonetheless, this alcazar was still very nice, and we were able to climb up into its towers and take an Ariel shot of this lovely town! We all ate our lunch in the garden by the beautiful fountain and spent the rest of our short time in Córdoba walking around some shops!
cool sydney!
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