Back to Madrid

After spending a couple of days in Valladolid, we took a bus to Madrid. If you haven't noticed, we spent a lot of time there! Madrid acted as our homebase in between travel destinations and each time there was always something new to see! I probably visited Madrid at least 5 times this summer. Anyhow, here are some more pics of Madrid that I haven't shared yet:

A statue of Pope John Paul II. Anyone who visits Spain is constantly reminded of its Catholic roots and history, as portrayed through its architecture, art, celebrations, and museums.

A typical Spanish park, great for romantic walks or just reflecting on your own.

A beautiful building downtown.

Sunset at the Royal Palace.

This sculpture portrays some gypsies dancing.

El Oso y el Madroño (The bear and the strawberry tree).

Located in the Puerta del Sol, this statue weighs almost 20 tons!

It is the official symbol of Madrid.

This is also a great place to people watch!

A lion at the Parque Buen Retiro (Park of the Pleasant Retreat).

The park itself is over 350 acres and is a favorite summer retreat for Madrileños.

The Crystal Palace is one of the many beautiful buildings within the park, which also features a large artificial pond.

I haven't posted any door pics lately! This was actually taken at the University of Alcala, which is near Madrid. Alcala de Henares is the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes.

A courtyard at the university.

Well, after seeing more of Madrid, we went to lunch with our friend Marc who had been living in Madrid for the past year. I sent some luggage home with him too! After that we picked up our rental car and then it was off to see some castles!