Madrid: Day 1

Matt and I arrived by plane in Madrid around 11pm on Wednesday. While getting our checked luggage, the clearly new luggage belt system failed by the ground crew delivering the 3 different carts of luggage from the plane to 3 different carousels.

With luggage in hand, we hailed a cab. We found our hostel was not well marked so the driver called for directions. With my limited knowledge of the Spanish and my own lack of shame, I somehow had the cabbie convinced I understood him fluently. In the end, we arrived without too much hassle.

On our arrival, again the receptionist thought I understood him fluently. All I know is there was a mistake with our 3 night reservation and we received 1 night free of charge.

In the morning, we wondered down a major street, Calle Mayor. We visited a lovely church (we have not seen a non-Catholic church yet! Quite the opposite to GB) and took tons of pictures for the architecture and freshly planted flower beds.

Next we visited Cathedral de Nuestra Senora de la Almudena. The inside is beautiful and written description does not do it justice, so please stay tuned for pictures.
In essence, it is a collection of new and old style of religious decoration with out loosing the centuries of the different cultural influences.

After a light lunch, we continued wondering and taking pictures before deciding it was nap time. 2.5 hours worth, but we are on vacation :)

Afterwards we headed down the main artery street of central Madrid, Gran Via, until we reached a throng of people lining the streets. The TV station cameras on stands above the crowds indicated something was about to happen. Matt and I found a great spot standing behind 3 physically short couples. The view was great.

Again, words escape me. It was a parade of lay persons and clergy dressed as though it was a funeral procession through the street and Plaza Sol.
Some had purple robes with purple pointed hats, not unlike except in color to the hoods of the KKK, yet with a clearly different intent.
Others were barefoot and had chains on their ankles; dragging the chains through the parade path.
A large effigy of a golden alter decorated with mass amounts of fresh and bright flowers carried a statue of Jesus on the top. People clapped and made the sign of the cross as a sign of respect as it passed.
Multiple large sets of bands provided a sombre but traditional atmosphere. We had attended what was clearly an annual family tradition for many.

Matt and I wandered more and ran into Plaza Ciebeles, known for its stunning fountain. Since it was dark, these night pictures of this plaza should turn out great.

More wondering for an hour or so until we ended up with a pitcher of Sangria and 5 tapas for dinner.
Although the original plan was to go out for another drink or two and explore the famous Madrid nightlife, we were very tired and went to sleep close to 1am.

Matt and I agree the architecture is our favorite thing so far in Madrid, although the Sangria was good as well.

Matt is in heaven with different types of tapas whereas my picky palate really enjoys the basics. I am working on the sense of adventure to have a seafood dish during the trip.