Gayle Brennan Spencer – sending random thoughts to and from South Austin
Above: Had to stop numerous times for a delicate tejas de almendra at Pasteleria Fantoba
Any reasonable, sentient person who looks at Spain, comes to Spain, eats in Spain, drinks in Spain, they’re going to fall in love.”
Anthony Bourdain
Guess I’m a reasonable, sentient kind of girl. But, after three weeks, the time arrived to pack our bags and hop a train out of Zaragoza.
Continue reading “Postcard from Zaragoza, Spain: ‘Parting is such sweet sorrow’”
Above: Full moon rising over la Parroquia de Basílica Colegiata de Nuestra Señora de Guanajuato
Having blogged much about churches in Guanajuato in the past, am simply posting a few random shots from this most recent trip. Churches were fulfilling their roles, too occupied by the faithful attending services – sadly a high number of funeral masses this time around – for intrusions by wandering visitors snapping photographs of soaring ceilings and intimate altars.
Continue reading “Postcards from Guanajuato, Mexico: Overflowing pews meant no opportunities for interior photos”
Above, Bells at the Top of the Facade of the Santiago Church in Merida
Under supervision of Spanish architects, Mayan laborers began building the Cathedral of Merida in 1562 with stones pillaged from one of their own temples. The cathedral was finished before the close of the 16th century and dedicated to the new outpost’s patron saint, San Ildefonso of Toledo (607-667).
As Ildefonso was conducting Mass in his role of Bishop of Toledo, Spain, brilliant light suddenly illuminated the entire church. Many of the celebrants fled in fear, but those who remained witnessed the Virgin Mary herself descend and enthrone herself at the altar. Grateful for his devotion and defense of her purity, she even gifted him with a splendid vestment, a chasuble, from her own son’s wardrobe. His association with the miraculous illumination must provide Merida with extra excuses to set off fireworks on his feast day, January 23.
Click here to read more and see photos of churches in merida
Postcards from Barton Springs 