Spain, Buitrago del Lozoya

 

Although A1 will take me to Burgos then Pamplona, the scenery so far seems to tempting not to stray a little. My plan is to arrive in Pamplona before the start of fireworks at 11pm.

 

Before long, I take a road less traveled as I depart A1 at exit 74 and find myself in Buitrago del Lozoya.

 

 

 

 

Located here is Museo Picasso.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Offering free admission this cute little museum displays some of Picasso's works given to his barber a local from Buitrago.

 

 

 

 

I am unnerved a little by a piece “muerto del toro” as it reminds me of the dangers of what I hope to accomplish in Pamplona.

 

Sharing the building with city hall, I think this museum with it's unique exhibits is worth the stop.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Browsing a local hardware store, I purchase a 120 Volt for $E1.40 to replace one I left at a friend's home in Istanbul.

A bargain!

 

 

 

A few doors at a grocery store I buy a local beer, salmon pate and a fresh warm baguette.

 

 

 

 

A E$3.00 lunch.

 

At a nearby park bench, I crack open the salmon pate and with a twist, the end of the fresh broken baguette is coated. Complimented with a sip of cold Mahou beer, my taste buds are pleased with my choice for lunch.

 

I am not sitting long at the bench before it becomes a meeting point for a group of traveling kids.

 

 

 

Donde eres?

(Where are you from?)

I exchange questions with a few kids carrying or drinking 2 liters of Coke or Orange soda.

 

 

 

Just a few minutes from where I sit is Santa Maria Del Castillo. Located within a fortified enclosure it is a church from the mid 15th century.

 

 

Even with a dimly light interior, the 15th century construction and decor is impressive.

 

During my visit there, I meet the parish priest and exchange pleasantries although mostly with mutual smiles.

 

 

 

 

Leaving Santa Maria I pass through an ancient arch.

The afternoon temperature has risen significantly. The VW air conditioner is welcomed relief.

 

 

 

 

Leaving Buitrago,  I get one more glimpse of this city’s history and don’t miss the chance for a Kodak moment.

 

Technorati Tags: Spain,Buitrago del Lozoya,Burgos,Pamplona,Museo Picasso,Picasso,Muerto del Toro,Mahou Beer,Coke,Santa Maria Del Castillo,Kodak