Encounter as text
La Opéra estación
Hello world.
Our group has been in España for three days now. It’s fascinating to see how we transform our pre-trip knowledge and discussions into real-life experiences here.
When I was in Miami, I was assigned to explore the Opéra estación. It was difficult to get there since the metro stations were confusing to me for the first few days, and the Spanish language barrier was always an obstacle. However, getting lost in the metro taught me how to navigate the city, and now I can confidently say that I feel like a local and can easily go anywhere using public transportation. It is very convenient, something I wish we had in Miami to avoid the insane traffic when driving in the city. Fewer accidents, less pollution, and more developed infrastructure are things that Miami should learn from Madrid since they are both world famous tourist destinations.
My first impressions of España on the way to the Opéra metro stop were mixed. In my opinion, graffiti art doesn’t look great in the city; it would look better and cleaner without it. At the same time, I fell in love with the abundance of monuments scattered throughout the streets, the authenticity of the local stores and restaurants, and the vibrant, colorful tiles.
Constructed in 1925 and designed by architect Antonio Palacios, the metro station was initially called Isabell the 2nd, named after the square it is located in (plaza). A statue in front of the opera house commemorates this historical connection. One block away, in close proximity to the station, is also Palacio Real de Madrid and Almudena Cathedral. Although the Palacio is the official house of the Spanish Royal Family, it is mostly utilized for formal ceremonies and state activities rather than as a royal residence. The fact that two building are located in front of each other reflects how monarchy is close to religion, since we know that all royals were “chosen” by God’s will.
CC4.0 by Elizabeth Melkonyan
There are numerous opera posters, flamenco performance advertisements, universal music festival schedules, and exhibition announcements around the neighborhood and the metro station. It is a somewhat unusual scene in Miami. I just remember recognizing one banner advertising the Miami City Ballet, which people claim isn’t very good. Miami is definitely not famous for operas, ballets, or any cultural activities, probably only once a year during Art Basel only, but it’s slightly different from what I am discussing now. In Spain, though, everyone would recommend seeing a flamenco dance or an opera. P.S: Not in Madrid! we were recommended to see flamenco in Sevilla.
There are plenty of different restaurants in the plaza near the station. That is what I appreciate about Madrid; in that way, it is so similar to Miami – you can find anything you want. There are Starbucks and Five Guys fast food options, as well as Spanish cafeterias serving traditional tapas and croquettes with jamón. However, at the same time, it does make me sad. Professor Bailly predicted that in a few years, all the authentic Spanish restaurants owned by local Spaniards will be replaced by Five Guys and Starbucks cafes, which will limit our future generations’ experience of real Spanish culture. That is what globalization is doing to our cultural heritage. We should globalize economic and financial industries, but definitely not cultural aspects of our world. I believe that every culture should strive to save all the cultural values and traditions they have.
Madrid as text
Majestic Palacio Real
Palacio Real is a heart of Madrid’s vibrant history and unique culture. Originally built to receive ambassadors from around the world and demonstrate Spain’s luxurious and artistic treasures, it now attracts over 2 million tourists annually and serves as both a museum and a partial royal residence. While still utilized by the royal family for formal events, it has transitioned from a museum to a royal residence, allowing the public to lay an eye on the extravagant palace, constructed with precious marble and gold once stolen by Spanish conquistadors.
Muhammad I Umayyad Emir of Cordoba commissioned the construction of the palace between 860 and 880. It also stands on the grounds where the ancient Alcázar of Madrid once stood. The site was originally occupied by the Alcázar, a medieval fortress that protected the city. However, in 1561, King Felipe II made the decision to transform the Alcázar into the official royal residence of Spain’s monarchs, turning it from a symbol of military might into a center of regal power. He also made Madrid the capital of Spain.
Tragedy struck on Christmas Eve in 1734 when the Alcázar was destroyed by fire, turning centuries of history into ashes. Curiously, a legend exists suggesting that court members, possibly of French origin, intentionally started the fire with the motive of replacing the Alcázar with a grand palace that resembles French or Versailles style. It is interesting that the palace was reconstructed without using wood to ensure its survival against future fires.
Emerging from the ashes of the Alcázar, Palacio Real stands as a testament to resilience. Its extraordinary architecture, influenced by various styles including Baroque and Neoclassicism, captivated me. We witnessed a lot of Spain’s golden age treasures. The ceilings, painted by Italian artists inspired by Bernini, are breathetaking, my neck was literally hurting because I was looking up for a very long to investigate every part of the art pieces. Furthermore, the presence of numerous Stradivarius violins in one room surprised me as a violinist. Finally, I was completely mesmerised by the marble stairs, why? The tour guide told us that the grand staircase was made out of one single solid piece of San Agustin marble.
Also, while I have traveled to many countries and seen numerous palaces, Spain’s giant golden cathedrals and palaces struck me, considering the country’s relative poverty. It led me to the opinion that royalty and monarchs may be more focused on taking from the people than giving and providing middle and low classes. It made me sad, thinking about all the people who did not have opportunity to satisfy their basic needs.
In conclusion, Palacio Real stands not only as a remarkable architectural masterpiece but also as a symbol of Madrid’s rich history and cultural heritage. It has witnessed the transformation of Spain’s monarchy and endured the passage of time. Taking a tour there felt as if I was travelling back in time. I imagined being a part of the Spanish court, wondering through the long hallways with marble lions and lavish red carpets.
Works cited:
“Top 10 Facts about the Royal Palace of Madrid.” Discover Walks, www.discoverwalks.com/blog/madrid/top-10-facts-about-the-royal-palace-of-madrid/.
“Palacio Real de Madrid.” Patrimonio Nacional, www.patrimonionacional.es/visita/palacio-real-de-madrid.
Segovia as text
Discovering Segovia
Segovia, located 45 minutes away from Madrid in the northern region of Spain, holds a special place in the UNESCO World Heritage list. This trip transported me back in time, allowing me to witness the remarkable Roman legacy and architectural marvels that define Segovia.
The Acueducto de Segovia:
In my opinion, the most remarkable sight in Segovia is the Acueducto de Segovia, a Roman legacy. Built around 1 AD by the Romans, it provided the city with water from the nearby mountains. Curiously, this impressive architectural masterpiece remained in use for centuries until the 19th century. It was astonishing for me to learn that it was built around 2,000 years ago without the use of modern technology.
Another significant symbol of Segovia is the Cathedral, located in the Plaza Mayor, the main plaza of the city.
Historical Background and the Drama of Henry the 4th and Isabella:
When Isabella’s half-brother, Henry, assumed the throne and his wife, Joan of Portugal, was about to give birth to their daughter Joanna, Isabella and her younger brother Alfonso were summoned to court in Segovia from Arevalo, where they had been sent to live after their father’s death, to come under the direct supervision of the King. Isabella became part of the Queen’s household and lived a relaxed lifestyle, rarely leaving Segovia as King Henry forbade it. As I explored the city, I found myself transported back in time, experiencing Segovia through Isabella’s eyes.
When Henry, her half-brother and the king, died, Isabella was in Segovia, which became a secure base for her claim to the throne. However, it was challenging for her, as there was a struggle for power and she had to fight other candidates, specifically her half-brother’s daughter, as her younger brother had died of the plague, leaving only her and her brother’s daughter, leading to a war between the factions.
In 1474, news of King Henry IV’s death in Madrid reached Segovia. This prompted Isabella to seek refuge within the walls of the Alcázar of Segovia, where she received the support of Segovia’s council. The castle played a crucial role in her rise to power.
Additionally, the castle is said to have inspired Disney’s Snow White movie castle, although according to our tour guide, there is no direct evidence of a visit by Walt Disney.
The following day, in the San Miguel Church in the Plaza, she crowned herself, as she had reached an agreement and settlement with the king that the civil war would end if she were recognized as the rightful successor to the crown.
Finally, she was enthroned as the queen of Aragon, marrying Ferdinand the 2nd, who was technically her second cousin. Together, they completed the Reconquista when the last Muslim ruler in Granada surrendered. They also financed Columbus and played a crucial role in the Spanish Golden Age.
Segovia whispers the echoes of Isabella’s spirit, leaving me in awe of a woman who tricked her male half-brother and secured her place as his successor. Her audacious self-proclamation as queen within the church stands as a testament to her strength and determination. Isabella is an emblem of power and a key figure in human history, as her actions forever reshaped the world we live in. Her contribution to world history is tremendous.
Works cited:
“Aqueduct of Segovia.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 23 June 2023, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aqueduct_of_Segovia.
“Segovia.” Spain Guides, spainguides.com/top-destinations/segovia/.
“Isabella I of Castile.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 18 Sept. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isabella_I_of_Castile.
Andalucía as text
Andalucía, located in southern Spain, is a region consisting of eight provinces, each offering its unique and truly authentic charm. During my study abroad program in Spain, I had the opportunity to visit Cordoba, Sevilla, and Granada, and among these remarkable cities, Granada stood out as my absolute favorite.
Alhambra in Granada, Spain, CC4.0 by Elizabeth Melkonyan
When I first learned about the Spain study abroad program and saw Granada on the itinerary, I was so excited to explore this specific city. I knew Alhambra was a home to very powerful monarchs, who changed the course of the human history. The name “Alhambra” derives from Arabic, meaning Red Castle, describing its reddish walls. Its humongous grounds encompass beautiful gardens with lemon trees, ancient ruins, and walls with beautiful Muslim inscriptions. Experiencing the fusion of two distinct cultures within this architectural marvel was a truly unforgettable experience.
My excitement to visit the Alhambra stemmed from my fascination with Tudor history, particularly the British Tudor monarchy. I was well aware of Catherine of Aragon’s essential role in shaping the historical trajectory of both Spain and England. As the first wife of Henry the 8th, infamous for his six marriages, Catherine’s lineage as the daughter of Isabella intrigued me. Surprisingly, during my visits to the Alhambra, none of the tour guides mentioned this influential Spanish/English queen, who, like her mother, left a great mark on the histories of two powerful nations.
Queen Isabella of Castile and King Ferdinand of Aragon were at the rise as an international force. Their successful Reconquista to expel the Muslims from Granada and their efforts to unite all the kingdoms on the Iberian Peninsula under a central government were of great significance during that era. Catherine of Aragon, the youngest daughter of the Catholic Monarchs, although not born in Granada, spent a significant portion of her early life in the city. Due to the territorial conflicts in which her parents were engaged, Catherine relocated to Granada as a young girl. She personally witnessed the reconquest of Granada. Catherine’s connection to the city was is proved by her residence in the Alhambra until she reached the age of fifteen.
At fifteen, Catherine went on a journey to England to fulfill her political duty by marrying King Arthur Tudor (and also as a first Spanish female ambassador in human history). The marriage aimed to create an alliance between England and Spain against France. King Arthur died due to tuberculosis shortly after their marriage (~1 year). Following this failure, Catherine had to wait for seven years until his younger brother, Prince Henry the 8th, reached an age for marriage. Eventually, Catherine married Henry the 8th, but their marriage was filled with difficulties, including the loss of their male children. Nonetheless, she made significant contributions to the development of both countries. It is surprising that the connection between Spanish and English history, especially with the subsequent reign of Queen Mary (the Bloody one) is never mentioned anywhere here, considering her influential ancestors.
In conclusion, my fascination with Catherine of Aragon stems from her extraordinary position in English and Spanish history. Documentaries showcasing her often portray English ambassadors arriving in Granada to negotiate marriages between their children. Visiting the Alhambra and experiencing Granada allowed me to establish a personal connection with her story, which was amazing. That was a place on my bucket list.
Alhambra de Granada. “Historical Introduction.” Alhambra de Granada, Alhambra de Granada, www.alhambradegranada.org/en/info/historicalintroduction.asp.
Sitges as text
Without doubt, Sitges is definitely the most beautiful place I visited in Spain, specifically – Maricel palace. Its remarkable architectural style, reminiscent of Miami’s Vizcaya, and the fascinating story behind it left me truly impressed. The aspect that makes this place so special and relevant to our program is the fact that this place has a profound impact on the culture of Miami.
Definitely coming back to Sitges and exploring it with my family again.
I really enjoyed the tour because it was given by a very passionate, engaging, and deeply knowledgeable guide, who warmly welcomed us to Sitges and treated like very special guests – this made our trip unforgettable and sweet.
Santiago Rusinol purchased a house in Sitges and turned it into museum – Cau Ferrat. His collection is truly impressive – 5 pieces by Picasso in one room, two works by El Greco, numerous iron pieces of art, and other Catalan crafts and wonders. I was confused: why would someone collect iron sculptures? Dragons? Sophisticated little birds and animals?
As explained by the tour guide, Rusinol combined fine arts with pop art by collecting a lot of ceramics and iron figures along with traditional pieces of art. According to the guidebook, the idea to collect iron pieces stemmed from the fact that this type of iron craft was disappearing.
During his visit to Sitges and Rusinol’s house, Mr. Deering was so impressed that he wanted to stay there. He purchased the hospital right to his friend’s house and turned it into Maricel palace.
Maricel palace was owned by Charles Deering, the same person who owned Deering estate and Vizcaya, hence, we can witness the direct style linkage between the mansions. Before that, it used to be a hospital of Sant Joan Baptista Hospital, dating back to 14th centuary, leaving a legacy of gothic elements to the palace that exists today. Also, Mr. Deering was an art collector, therefore we emerged ourselves into the world of art and aesthetics , I personally think he definitely had a very nice taste. He also attracted a lot of famous figures of the time to the palace. Maricel palace used to be a pilgrimage for artists, musicians, politicians, and other people who appreciate beauty and art. Later, it was abandoned and art collection was relocated to the USA.
The most beautiful place of the palace is a terrace with colorful authentic tiles and arches, which offer beautiful panoramic views of the Mediterranean coast. This particularly reminded me of Vizcaya. The fact that we visited Deering’s properties on both sides of the Atlantic is marvelous – so far away from each other but still so similar. The resemblance between the terrace of Maricel Palace and Vizcaya’s picturesque terraces was incredible. The parallel between these two magnificent locations, separated by thousands of miles, left me in awe of influence of the Deering’s legacy.
Interestingly, during the Spanish civil war, the property wasn’t damaged. Why? Simply because the warring parties were scared that Americans would enter the conflict.
Maricel palace is a book for me. I was curiously reading and interpreting every little tile, piece of art, and element on the walls. I wad analysing the linkage to Vizcaya and exploring the story of Deering’s heritage.
Barcelona as text
Barcelona as text
My seven-year journey of pursuing a double major in music education has had a profound impact on me. Every time I encounter a classical music, I find myself so passionate and captivated. The Palau de Música in Barcelona is undoubtedly a heritage treasure that represents Catalan Modernism from the 19th century. I fell in love with the unique architecture, magical atmosphere, and story of the place.
I was amazed by the fact that the construction of the palace was funded by the people of Catalunya, with contributions from everyone. It demonstrated a deep patriotism and commitment to the cultural identity of the Catalan society. I wish that Miami had a similar dedication to its own cultural heritage.
The attention to details in the Palau de Música is remarkable. Every element carries a symbolic meaning and has a story behind it. The ceiling is adorned with 400 roses as decorations. The chairs were upgraded to improve the acoustics and prevent sound from bouncing back. The architectural design of the ceiling, resembling an inverted dome with colorful stained glass, reminded me of the energy of the sun. It felt like they wanted to fill the entire music palace with light and provide a source of inspiration and energy (sun is energy) for the musicians and everyone present.
As I explored the palace, I noticed bust sculptures of music muses on the walls, symbolizing the universality of music. I loved the idea behind the wall with muses because its very creative and original – you will never ever see anything like that in the world. So unique and special. Especially when I travel a lot and its not my first time in Europe, I actually even lived in Niece, it is sometimes hard for me to get impressed, since I saw a lot of museums, cathedrals, and palaces around the world. However, this palace and specifically the muses were absolutely stunning and unforgettable.
Another very lovely moment for me was witnessing children playing the piano. Despite their simple melodies, their performance was amazing. It took me back to my own early days of playing music, and I remembered the nervous excitement of walking up on stage and playing a piece of Mozart or Prokofiev. I couldn’t resist sharing this experience with my piano and violin teachers, whom I hadn’t spoken to in three years. It was a wonderful opportunity to reconnect with them , send pictures and tell them about this magical “music box”.
Inside the palace, with its abundance of natural light and floral decorations, I felt as though I was in a garden, surrounded by the sky and beautiful flora. The combination of these elements created a unique atmosphere that truly inspired me. I was craving to sit and play on my piano while visiting and seeing the instruments. Barcelona and its Palau de Música reminded me of the beauty and power of music, as well as the importance of preserving and celebrating cultural heritage. It also made me reminisce about my personal experience with music, which was very emotional.
Ida Y Vuelta as text
The impact of studying abroad in Spain on my life, both intellectually and socially, has been significant. It has left a lasting impression on my mind, transforming me into a curious and critical traveler. I want to emphasize that the following reflections are not filler content for my essay; I genuinely believe that studying in Spain has improved my thinking in various areas, such as learning styles, art appreciation, and understanding history. In this final project, I will provide specific examples to support my statement.
Although I am not of Spanish origin, living in Miami has made me feel like a part of the community, which is rich in diverse cultures and identities. Learning about Spanish culture, which is a part of Miami’s cultural as well, has been valuable. In my last blog post, I will thoroughly explore the significant influence of the Spanish on Miami, examining how their interactions with the United States have shaped their own identity, as well as my role in this transatlantic dialogue.
My study abroad experience in Spain has instilled in me a passion for research and the habit of being an informed traveler. I no longer consider myself a tourist; instead, I now always want to embrace the local lifestyle by using public transportation, understanding different dialects, and avoiding touristic bubbles.
While I have always been interested in learning about the history and culture of the countries I visit, my curiosity expanded even further during my time in Spain. For instance, when I visited my family in Germany shortly after my trip to Spain, I found myself eager to learn about Stuttgart’s monuments, sculptures, and architecture. Even my family, who had lived there for almost twenty years, were surprised by my numerous questions, to which they didn’t have all the answers. This study abroad experience enhanced my critical thinking skills, motivating me to seek out resources to learn about German culture and history. Therefore, my journey to Spain has made me a more knowledgeable traveler, and I wish there were similar resources available for Germany like the baillylectures WordPress page.
Miami, very well-known for its cultural diversity, is a place of people from various backgrounds. While many Miami residents have Spanish ancestry, I come from Armenian, Russian, and Ukrainian origins. Despite not being of Spanish descent, the presence of communism in Cuba has created a shared bond between me and many Cubans during my study abroad experience in Spain. The Russo-Cuban connections hold a significant place in the twentieth century, and it is through this relationship that I feel a connection to Miami’s Spanish population. My Cuban friends from Spain, called me their Russian sister. We truly did have a lot of fun. We engaged in discussions about the similarities and differences between our cultures, finding connections despite our diverse backgrounds.
The enormous impact of Spain on America cannot be ignored. Isabella’s decision to finance Columbus’ journey had a profound effect on shaping history. America would not be the same today without Spain’s initiative. Many aspects of American society, including language, culture, and traditions, bear evidence of Spanish influence. The most apparent example of this impact is the prevalence of Spanish as the second most commonly spoken language in the United States. In Florida, for instance, I know people who have lived there for decades without speaking English, thanks to the presence of Spanish-speaking communities and the prevalence of Spanish speakers. Why? The answer is España!
As I reflect on my role in this transatlantic dialogue, I envision future generations building upon my experiences. Being in a committed relationship with a Cuban-American, our future children will represent a fascinating blend of cultures. Additionally, having immigrated from another continent of the world, I now consider myself an active participant in the ongoing dialogue between peoples and continents.
This chapter of my life ends with this blog post. I hope to reread it years later, recalling my adventurous travels and the impressions they left on me. Just like my Miami blog, which I enjoy rereading, I also want to express my gratitude to Professor Bailly for providing such a valuable experience. I truly appreciate the unique perspective through which you have shown us Espana.
Miami in Miami 