Well, the last workday of the week – Friday and it looks like
nothing but sunshine in the forecast.
The two travelers head out to have their usual hearty Parador buffet to begin
the day.
Although this is not their first trip to Merida, they had
decided that the Roman Theater and ground should be explored again to verify
what if any improvements have been made since last they were here in Merida.
They stood in line like the rest of humanity to purchase their tickets and
found that they do not give a discount for retirees unless the retirees are members
of the EEU which we are NOT. And so that cost us 24 euros the standard entrance
fee but that covers us for all day; assuming someone would stay out in the heat
for 14+ hours of sunshine!!!
We soon found that new improvement had been made, they
started with a fancy new entrance building that directs everyone to explore the
unrestored amplitheather. Before, moving on to the grand theater and stage
area. We climbed inside and out, took photos and enjoying ourselves. It is quite fascinating. Merida was the
capital of the Roman world in Spain. It has theaters, amphitheaters (where
different classes of gladiators competed) two amphoras (market places,
interesting that Merida was large enough to warrant two), alters to worship the
Emperor, temple of Diana and roads wide
enough for two chariots to ride side by side! When they decide to renovate a building
or rebuilt something a whole different world is uncovered. One building was
built up on concrete pillars to preserve the ruins beneath! A little shop is
now an interpretative t
Next up was the National Archeological Museum. The sheer
scope of this place is amazing. There are 10 arches, about 60 feet tall running
the length of the building. It is filled with statues, busts, mosaic
floors placed there on the walls and
pillars, lots of pillars. Actually nearly every roundabout has a piece or two
of pillar in the center! On either side of the arches there are alcoves,
showcasing the goodies, which go up another two floors. The whole ambiance was
enhanced by a young lady playing the harp. Sigh…….lovely.
It is easier going downhill, so we wandered back downtown for
a refresco and a nice rest before selecting the lunch venue. After siesta we
headed back to the Orange store. Neither of our phones had internet, apparently
the young lady in Avila didn’t have a clue! Dual SIM phones will not connect to Orange
internet unless they have ONLY (1) SIM card installed….!! Both phones are now
up and running correctly.
Time for a bit of people watching down at the Plaza de
Espana! The center of the Plaza is all blocked off and we were told that it is
being renovated to bring it up to code (at least that was my interpretation)
they have made a good start with vertical gardens grace each corner. I miss the
fountain running though. They say only 4 months to complete, but…….it is Spain!
We headed down to the Roman bridge spanning the Rio Guadiana. We contemplated
taking a city bus around the city but as the next Rondo was in an hour, we
passed on that and went in search of a snack.
I have written in years past that I love the tables of older
ladies, obviously widows, who gather to drink a beer with their friends,
beautifully dressed, quite elegant talking and laughing. Not seeing it this
year, quite a shame. What we have noticed are many more old people, walking
with difficulty supported by canes. I guess climbing stairs and walking up
hills is not all it is cracked up to be.
There is a fast food Spanish style establishment called 100
Montaditos. 100 different tiny sandwiches in a little roll! Delish and one of
our favorites for a quick bite to eat. They cost from 1 euro to 3euros (if you
are really lashing out) with a glass of wine and a beer, it is all you need.
All for now, tomorrow we go to Badajoz where the temperature
is forecast to be 100 degrees! Yikes!
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