About the Author

My name is Fengxin Ma, you may call me Francine. I was born in China and raised in Miami. I’m currently a Junior at FIU studying Finance and Computer Science. I love to travel the world and meet different people for the opportunity of learn about their culture and background. This is why I’m so deeply in love with photography. I want capture unforgettable memories and places in hope that one day when I’m old I can look back and reflects on all the wonderful things I’ve done. I have a fascination of what mother nature and human can do. It creates the most enchanting sights and arts. With my fascination in things and an adventurous heart, I hope I will always be exploring and bringing what the most our planet can offer through my camera.

Geography

The current address of Vizcaya is 3251 South Miami Ave, Miami, FL, 33129. It is located at North Coconut Grove, along the shores of Biscayne Bay. The Museum is right off I-95 and about a ten-minute drive from Downtown Miami. Vizcaya offers free parking for all visitors, however, parking space on site are upon availability because there are only two parking lots. If the main parking lot has reaches its full capacity, visitors can park on the parking lot at the west side of South Miami Avenue.

Vizcaya strongly encourages visitors to utilize the public transportations to get to the museum. Visitors can take the Miami-Dade Metrorail and exit at the Vizcaya Station. When using Metrorail, visitors can cross US 1 on the pedestrian bridge, then continues along 32^nd road to South Miami Avenue. Once the visitor cross SW 32^nd street, it processed to the Vizcaya Entrance Drive that is cross from South Miami Avenue. Visitors may follow the pedestrian routes to the Admission Booth. The Vizcaya Metro station is about ten-minute walk from the site. Alternative method of getting to the Vizcaya via Public Transportation is through the Miami Trolley. Visitors can take the Brickell Route to stop #39 on a Northbound trolley, or stop #15 on a Southbound trolley.

The geographical location of the Vizcaya has played a crucial factor in attracting visitors. It is conveniently designed for guests to have multiple ways to reach the destination through different transportation systems. This allows the visitors to access the site without any disruption and has certainly played an encouragement factor in marketing. The construction of Vizcaya has play a critical role in the Miami real estate market by causing an appreciation to the real estate around it. It provided a leverage to housing and the community by attracting investors to the area. Ultimately caused an improvement to the neighborhood and the raise of real estate prices.

History

The story of Vizcaya begins with the arrival of James Deering to Miami in 1910. James Deering was a millionaire from South Paris, Maine. His main source of income comes from his family’s agricultural equipment manufacturing company: Deering Harvester Company. During Deering’s senior years, he was diagnosed with pernicious anemia, a health condition that his family doctor suggested to him to move to a warm climate. This condition served as a catalyst for Deering to move to South Florida.

The plan of Vizcaya begins in 1910 when James Deering purchased 180 acres of land in Coconut Grove from Mary Brickell. The Vizcaya has two parts: Main House and Garden. The architectural design of the main house was led Francis Burral Hoffman, a brilliant architect from New York City and studied art at Ecole des Beaux in Paris. Hoffman collaborated closely with Paul Chalfin, the interior designer of Vizcaya, who is an artist originated from New York but studied art at Ecole des Beaux in Paris and later stayed at American Academy in Rome. He was introduced to James Deering by Elsie de Wolf.  The Garden of Vizcaya was led by landscape architect Diego Suarez. Suarez was born in Bogota, Columbia and studied architecture in Italy. Suarez began working with James Deering and Paul Chalfin in June 1914.

Mission

The mission of Vizaya is: Preserve, Engage, Connect, Understand, Shape.

The mission of Vizcaya is to preserve the history and protect them. Vizcaya has a strong emphasis in preserving the history because they believe it is important to take care of what is being pass on. The principle of Vizcaya is for people to engage in connecting with the past, it provides visitors with the understanding of how things came to be and directly help shapes their value and cultural understanding. Through their engagement of the past, people can apply their findings to the present. Essentially, it allows the Vizcaya to fulfill its mission by providing a platform for people to connect with the past, understand the present and shape the future.

Access

Visitors can enjoy the Vizcaya Estate and Gardens during the week from Wednesday through Monday. Their hours of operation go from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. However, Vizcaya offers extended hours on holidays to allow visitors to marvel the sunset over the beautiful marina behind the estate.

Visitors can expect to pay anywhere from ten to twenty-two dollars based on their age, with United States military veterans and activity military personnel going in free of charge. There is a myriad of discounts available through culturally funded programs in Miami Dade County; for example, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs offers free admission on select days to senior citizens through their Golden Ticket program.

For those who chose to enjoy the estate all year-round, there are membership deals that grant pass holders reduced fees and perks. The Vizcaya Museum and Gardens put thought into their membership program by curating different levels based on the amount and status of people. The types of membership based on amount of people are individual, dual, family for the soloist, couple, and household who want to admire the century old estate. While those who choose to give more can opt for the preservationist and conservator package. However, not everyone can afford the hundreds of dollars for a year-long membership, so college students can pay a reduced rate while enjoying some of the benefits other members get.

If one choses to spend their day amongst Mediterranean revival architecture and blossoming flowers, at the ticket counter they would see the following hours of operations and prices.

Hours of Operation:

OPEN: Wednesday-Monday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Entry to various parts of the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens closing time

Estate at 4:30 pm

Main House at 5:00 pm

Gardens at 5:30 pm

Admission Prices:

Adult (18 and older)                                                                                                  $22

Seniors (65 and older with ID)                                                                                $16

College students with ID                                                                                           $15

Teens (13-17)                                                                                                               $15

Child (6-12)                                                                                                                  $10

Visitors with wheelchairs                                                                                        $10

Children (5 and under)                                                                                             Free

United States military veterans and active duty US military personnel with ID        Free

About the Main House

The construction of Vizcaya started in 1912 and is complete on Christmas Day of 1916. The main house is built with the inspiration of Spanish and Italian architect design, however, due to the warm climate and the environment that Vizcaya is at, Hoffman emphasized many Mediterranean architect elements to better suit the South Florida Climate. Other than its beautiful European exterior, the main house also utilized a moat on its surroundings, and it was later filled with cacti. This feature was originally used to discourage trespassers and protect the property itself. The main house has a total of 54 rooms and an open living space at the heart of the house. The living space is an open courtyard at the center of the house. The living space was built with the intention of James Deering wanted to take full advantage of the environment around it. The main house was designed with a symmetrical façade on the east side, it opens onto the terrace and subsiding towards the water. The façade on the west side of the house used to welcome visitors. It is not as glamorously decorated as the house, perhaps it is very simple that creates a contrast to the elaborate décor of the house. The north façade leads to the swimming pool of the house, and the south façade opens to the garden.

The interior design of the house was led by Paul Chalfin. With a total of 54 rooms (34 of them are open to visitors), each room was carefully thought out and decorated with a different theme. Visitors may walk into one room that is Renaissance-inspired and walk into another room that is Baroque inspired. The first floor of the house is served as the reception of the house. The first floor is surrounded by the Library, Music Room, Kitchen, and the Dining Room with open access to the main living space – the courtyard. The second floor is more for personal usage. It included guest suit, James Deering’s bedroom, Breakfast Room and the Kitchen. The details of the house are put together by little pieces, ranging from painting Chalfin found in Europe that suggested to have the same last name as James Deering but have no ancestry history to hiring a painter to paint marble-like looking artifacts on the wall. One of the décors of the room was a painting Each room is designed around objects and artifacts from Italy. According to the Vizcaya.org, the main house serves as a memory book. It suggests the pass of time through the accumulation of artifacts and memories.

Despite its Baroque look, the Vizcaya has some of the most advanced technology could offer at that time. Many of these technologies include generator, water filtration system, telephone, dumbwaiter, refrigerator, vacuum cleaning system, elevator, and partial automatic laundry room.

The main house of Vizcaya played a significance in history. It offered knowledge of the architectural technology that was utilized during the period but also offered an insight view of the people living at the time. The implement of technologies in the house provides visitors knowledge of how modern-day technology came to be and see the progression of technology through the presentation of the old and the new.

About the Garden

The Vizcaya Garden is a stunningly designed showcase of flora, which captivates visitors from all over the world. This landmark offers a magnificent blend of art, the ocean and the flora of Miami. These gardens are a form of art themselves, displaying beautiful, intricate layouts of plants strategically meant to complement the beautiful architecture of the house and its surroundings. These gardens represent a dance between the beauty of man-made structures interlaced with the beauty of nature as the garden is adorned with multiple fountains and sculptures.

The garden is designed to be a romantic get away. Walking through the garden, you will see the it offers many spots and opportunities for lovers to showcase their affection. The emphasis of love is displayed throughout the garden, ranging from the Secret Garden to the Theater Garden, each location is carefully thought out to be an outdoor room.

Since its beginnings, this garden was carefully planned with an aged aesthetic, Diego Suarez, the landscape architect, strategized the type of tree and the material of the structures within the garden to obtain this look which has only strengthened throughout the years. This estate holds a variety of exotic flora which is carefully protected even by the layout of the gardens themselves. Suarez took inspiration from Europe, Africa, Asian and even the South Florida natural ecosystem to design different parts of the garden, making it a mult
icultural artistic masterpiece in and out of itself. The gardens as a unit, along with their location and their purpose to preserve, make the Vizcaya Gardens a national landmark and a piece of South Floridian history.

Collection

The Holy Trinity, Seat of Mercy

One of the missions of the Vizcaya Museum is to restore art, not only to its original state

but to its original owners as well. During World War II, the way Nazis destroyed the
nations they invaded was by diminishing their culture. They accomplished this by
stealing national artwork and hiding them away as commanded by Hitler. Vizcaya came across one of these stolen pieces of art called The Holy Trinity, Seat of Mercy by George Pencz. After careful research on the piece, the restoration-ists discovered this painting was stolen from the Warsaw National Museum and immediately returned it to its proper home. This example of one the past pieces in the estate’s collection exemplifies its mission to keep art in its ideal form and proper home.

Light Fixtures

Hanging above everyone’s heads and lighting the way into the night are the light fixtures scattered throughout the property. A major conservation project was spearheaded by Rosa Lowinger & Associates, a notable conservation firm. In order to restore the light fixtures that were damaged by a century’s worth of marine exposure, the team of electrical engineers, metal smiths, and conservationists extensively studied what was before them before repairing it.

The team went through meticulous work to restore the fixtures made of metal and glass. The fixtures were cleaned, repaired the corrosion, refinished the surface, and rewired them back into place. In order to ensure these fixtures could last another century, the conservation firm redesigned the fixtures so they could be removed from the façade of the house during hurricane season. It would be shocking to note that all this work was put in for only two pairs of light fixtures but exemplifies Vizcaya’s drive to maintain the integrity of its estate.

The Garden Mound

Aside from the Main House and marina is the Vizcaya Gardens designed by the infamous landscape architect, Diego Suarez. Those who visit the gardens could not miss the Garden Mound that effectively blocks the house from sight. Suarez intentionally did this to block the strong sunrays from blinding the visitors who want to stroll along the garden path.

The Garden Mound features an ornate stone staircase bordered by two stone walls. For those starting from the house, they can enjoy the luscious greenery reflected in the pond before making their way up the stairs. Their descent will take them to a large alcove where many dignitaries have made speeches and enjoyed parties there. In the Garden Room, President Reagan addressed the media with Pope John Paul II while President Clinton held the First Summit of the Americas meeting. The Garden Mound has served as a venue for political events that has seen many historical figures resolve problems and enjoy some free time.

Visitor

• Have visited the Vizcaya before? What is your reason in visiting?

My visit to the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens was prompted by my fascination with the old architecture that stood as a stark contrast to the buildings around it. I had passed by the property a few times and wanted to know more about the building that was shielded by its high walls and trees. After doing some research on the estate, I needed to see the place for myself in real life and decided to take a trip there.

• What is your favorite part about the Vizcaya? Why?

My favorite part of the estate was the rooms in the Main House. The gardens and marina have their own personality and flare, however the deep, dark woodwork against the bright marble floors kept me wanting to explore every design etched in its old wood. What made this feature of the house even more enchanting was the unique patterns based on the type of room in the house. Rooms saved for certain select guests had furniture and artwork that featured elements that were distinct to its occupant. This showed how much care was put into this house and how the owner wanted to create a place for people to come together and feel at home.

• What did you enjoy the most about Vizcaya?

The best part of visiting Vizcaya was its ability to transport its visitors back in time. Even if someone is wearing modern clothes and armed with the latest phone, you could not help but feel like you could be in the 1920’s.

• Would you consider visiting the Vizcaya again? Why or Why Not?

Going to Vizcaya is a treat one can only enjoy every so often. Since the estate does not have rotating exhibits, one would find themselves seeing the same thing every time they visit. For those who live in South Florida, taking a trip to Vizcaya once is a must but going back is up to the person. I would wait a couple years until the details of the marble halls and open courtyards are hazy in my memory. If the estate offered more exhibits or special events, I would see myself going back more often.

• What do you feel about the impact that the Vizcaya has made ?

The impact that Vizcaya has on our society, specifically in Miami, is a grand reminder of what our city used to be like. Since schools in Miami Dade county do not require students to learn about Floridian history, this is the best option for people to learn about the city they live in.

Portrait

Alberto Aquistapace

Visitor Services Associate

Contact :The Vizcaya

3251 South Miami Ave

Miami, FL, 33129

Telephone : 305-250-9133

• What is your name ?

Alberto Acquistapace

• What is your job title ?

Visitor Service Associate

• What is your inspiration to work at the Vizcaya?

I have always wanted to work inside a museum and I feel like the historical value of museum in context to Miami Dade is really important, and I want to be part of that.

• How do you feel about your job position?

I like it , I think this is a good opportunity to participate and interact with customer in form of like a stronger customer service experience.

• What do you enjoy the most about working in Vizcaya ?

Well its really beautiful, so I enjoy that. I really like history, so be able to work at place that has a lot history behind it is really nice and quite enjoyable.

• Do you feel like the Vizcaya is easy accessible to the public?

I think so but at the same time I feel like we could have a stronger presence.  I mean there are people that lived in Miami their whole life and they never heard of Vizcaya till they finally come here. We probably could do something a little bit more to do to be more presence.

• What is your favorite part about the Vizcaya? Why?

My favorite part is the first floor especially the enclosed loggia room. Obviously because it has that one wall faces the garden that completely made of stain glass and I really like the pastel colors all around the room. The western and Greek inspired decoration.

Summary

The Vizcaya museum is a time machine for visitors within a modernized city. The fifty-acre estate, originally home to James Deering, offers Miami locals as well as visitors a unique blend of nature and art. The European architecture of this historical landmark juxtaposes the Latin-American and Caribbean culture found all across the city of Miami and its suburbs. Vizcaya offers the community a variety of programs and activities that promotes bonding among the attendants. Additionally, many of these programs preserve the hopes of James Deering, a known environmentalist, by encouraging the community to learn to care of the environment and appreciate art. The estate promotes knowledge in the arts, history, flora and fauna, making it the perfect destination for the youth of Miami. The location is in the less hectic part of Miami, Coconut Grove, offering a tranquil and welcoming environment; it is the perfect location to encourage both tourists and locals to visit. The art within the estate itself is a magnet for art enthusiasts all over the world, which is only elevated by the ambience of the location. The European-Renaissance style architecture, the art, and the history make it a perfect educational, calm place within the restless Miami life.

The Vizcaya is a stunningly designed showcase, which captivates visitors from all over the world. It offers an amazing educative experience to people of all backgrounds with its affordable prices. The Vizcaya Gardens have been one of the most popular spots for coming of age or “quinceañera” pictures for generations among Hispanic families, as well as wedding and maternity photoshoots, holding a dear place among the memories of many Miamians. This landmark offers a magnificent blend of art, the ocean and the fauna of Miami, displaying a peek into Miami: a place filled with ecological wonders and a mixture of cultural art forms. These gardens are a form of art themselves, displaying beautiful, intricate layouts of plant strategically meant to complement the beautiful architecture of the house and its surroundings. This piece of land creates a world of its own within the city of Miami, it has served its original purpose of preserving the environment from future construction.

References

https://johnwbailly.wordpress.com/lectures/vizcaya/

https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/the-painting-the-holy-trinity-seat-of-mercy-is-on-display-news-photo/687386

Home

Part of the course requirement, I completed my art service hours at the de la Cruz Collection during Art Basel Week.

As one of the most promonient collectors of contemporary arts, the de la Cruz Collection is located at the heart of the Design District, welcoming over hundreds of visitors around the world on a daily basis. The de la Cruz Collection is a large warehouse with hundreds of pieces of artwork displayed throughout. The warehouse is divided into three floors. The main floor is showcased pieces from the permanent collection of the institution – Felix Gonzalez, Nate Lowman, Kelley Walker, etc. The second and third floor showcase mainly some of the past exhibitions such Cosima von Bonin, Laura owens, Peter Doig, Gabriel Orozco, Ana Mendieta etc.

I have multiple roles in completing the service hours at the de la Cruz Collection. My main primary role was to act as a security guard for the artworks that is in my assigned area. I was assigned to be on the second floor, overwatching artworks from Laura Owens and Cosima von Bonin, and the art installation from Kelley Walker and Wade Guyton. My responsibilities was to ensure visitors are precautions with the artwork and ensuring each art piece is respected. Being part of the de la Cruz team, I was also expected to have a general knowledge about each art pieces in my area. I was not only a security guard, but also a mini guide of my area. I will interact with the visitors, provide them with information regarding the institution or the art piece, and address any questions or concern they have. I also collaborated with other team members of the de la Cruz Collection to ensure the operation of the institution runs smoothly. We need to ensure all part of the gallery is taken care of and ensure all visitors are satistfy with their experience.

I would have to say doing my service hours at the de la Cruz Collection is one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had. I completed this service hours at the right time – Art Basel Week- and at the right institution. Because of the fame the institution, it drawn in a lot of prominate figures from the art world into the space, from Museum Directors to an artist from the costal Mexico. I had an opportunity to meet and speak with some of the most interesting people I’ve ever meet, they shared their thoughts, their love for art, and what brought them into the Collection. Especially during Art Basel Week, it brought in hundreds of visitors from different countries. Seeing the countless amount of people travels thousands and thosands miles to come to Miami for Art really emphasis how powerful Art can be. Through the interaction with vistors, I get to learn a lot more information regarding the pieces I lookafter, some share their experience in collecting the art piece from the artist and some their experience with actually interact with the artist itself. It is amazing what art can do. It is art that brought the de la Cruz Collection into a such prominenate role in the art world, it is art that drawn in so many visitors around the world, and it is art that I had an opportunity to meet with some the of greatest people.

Proof of Hours

Student Bio

Hello, my name is Leonella Santillan, I am an international student about to finish my bachelor’s at Florida International University. My main dream is to become a lawyer, and therefore, I am always determined to learn more to attain my dream. I am from Ecuador and came to the United States when I was 14 years of age.  This study will focus on Miami Beach, which is one of the cities in Miami. 

Geography

Miami Beach is a tourist mecca with more than 7 miles of shores, three golf courses, 20 parks, world-class art, music, restaurants, nightlife, and shopping. It is also a lively, economically active, and residential neighborhood (Park et al., 164). Miami Beach is a trendsetting arts and culture center for tourists from all over the country, actors, and local people alike, a community of only 7.1 miles between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Miami Beach provides tourists and locals with various facilities to enjoy, from café, clubs, and retail at South Beach’s Ocean Drive, Lincoln Road, and Washington Avenue to International Collins Avenue and Middle Beach Restaurants and North Beach neighborhoods.

History

“Sunny Florida” epitome is Miami Beach, home to some of the wealthiest and famous Americans. The island town offers lovely sandy beaches facing the North Atlantic waves from Lummus Park to South Beach. According to Carson, the area combines lifestyle, heritage, and the arts in an excellent way (pg5). Miami Beach is a Miami-Dade County, Florida, United States coastal resort. On 26 March 1915, it was incorporated. The town is situated on natural and human-made barrier islands that isolate the beach from Miami’s mainland town from the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay.

Demographic

Age and Population Demographic

Interview of Monica Garcia

Leonella: Hello Monica, can you introduce yourself and mention what kind of work you do?

Monica: “Hello, my name is Monica Garcia, and I am a Model. I have lived in Miami Beach area for 2 years.”

Leonella: Why did you choose to live in Miami Beach?

Monica: “I chose to live in Miami Beach because it is full of activities to do, also because I am close to the ocean and my favorite part of Miami Beach are the beaches”

Leonella: How would you describe the Miami Beach residents?

Monica: “I describe them as nice, fun and entertaining”

Leonella: What is your favorite aspect of Miami Beach?

Monica: “The beaches and the amazing skyscrapers that are hotels.”

Leonella: If someone you knew were to come to Miami Beach, where would you take them?

Monica: “I would take them to the beaches, and parks because I would like for them to fall in love with the views that Miami Beach has to offer.”

Leonella: If there was something you could change about Miami Beach, what would it be?

Monica: “Honestly nothing, living on Miami Beach has been so amazing since every time I would wake up I would see the amazing view of the oceans and the skies”

Cultural Roots

Miami Beach’s population speaks only English, 28.26 percent, while the other languages speak 71.74 percent. Spain, which is spoken by 56.30 percent of the population, is the majority group’s non-English language (Fallon et al., pg 67). Miami Beach, FL’s five major racial groups, are white (37, 6%), white (Hispanic), others (Hispanic) (15,6%), Black or African (Non-Hispanic) (3,0%), and Asian (Non-Hispanic) (3,0%) (Miami Beach) (1.55 percent). FL speaks non-English, and 72.8% are US residents.

Income Level

Miami Beach has an annual family income of $106,818 and a poverty rate of 14.00%. Median leasing prices are around $1,396 a month in recent years, and average housing costs are around $459,000, as indicated by Sadri et al., pg (169). Miami Beach is median for 41.4 years, for men 40.8 years, and women 42.6 years. 107.0 males are eligible for every 100 females.

Landmarks

I. Museums

Gardens and Vizcaya Museum The lavish winter residence of the industrialist of the 1920th century, James Deering, was located on 28 acres of the national historic landmark. Built-in 1916 and built around the central courtyard, the mansion has 34 rooms (Zebracki et al., 2269). The Vizcaya project wanted over 1,100 employees and artisans, many of whom came from Europe, to guarantee design authenticity.

The Renaissance Italian villa is full of a remarkable array of European furnishings and decorative arts from the 15th to the 19th. There are lovely fountains, swimming pools, and sculptures in the grounds and garden. An ornately carved barge with females is a breakwater at the base of Biscayne Bay’s steps (Revell et al., 1940). There’s also a fun children’s museum in Miami, which is in a vibrant and imaginative building with a space of over 56,000 ft. Miami’s children’s museum is an exciting location for children. Entertaining interactive displays seek to cater to the interest and imagination of children. Fourteen thematic galleries concentrate on the arts, music, environment, networking, and four outdoor exhibitions offering children the ability to play and enjoy outdoors.

II. Monuments

One of the common monuments recognized in Miami beach is Freedom Tower. Freedom Tower is one of the most striking structures on the Bay of Vice versa. Built-in 1925, the skyscraper is one of the oldest in the US’s Southeast and has been the Miami Daily News headquarters for many years (Zebracki et al., 2261). Its name derives from the fact that it was used to treat hundreds of thousands of Cuban refugees who arrived in the 1960s. It is also a monument to Cuban immigration and is also used as a museum of modern art.

Charles Deering is the former site of a 444 acres’ estate that protects the habitat and marine hardwood tropical Rocklands, mangrove trees, salt marsh, and a coastal dune island threatened by a global extinction (Ann Conyers et al., pg 283). The Richmond Cottage, which operated as a hotel and historical buildings dating back from 1896 to 1922, and an American Indian burial ground from 1500, is listed under the Cutler Deering Estate National Register of historic places. Cutler’s Charles Deering was a dealer of art who collected a large number of Old Masters’ works along with his brother James. Here are some of his paintings on display, Deering himself also painted. The Artist Village is now an important cultural hub with services for performers and artists on the farm.

III. Historical landmarks

This memorial is especially effective even for a Holocaust piece. Its main component is the Sculpture of Love and Anguish, an immense, oxidized bronze arm with several Auschwitz selected because it never came out of the camp. With more than 100 sculptures (Wdowinski pg 7). Terrified camp inmates spread over the sides of their arms, attempting to secure their loved ones, including girls, only to later see them massacred, while underneath lay figures of every generation in different poses of pain—a spot where a feeling of the history will come from Miami Beach Holocaust Memorial. Many visitors to Florida visited the memorial (Park et al.,170). The Jews in the Nazi hand have a famous legacy, but it is possible that the next generations will not be aware of the Holocaust. In 1984 several Holocaust survivors fittingly entered the remembrance of the over six million Jews who the Nazis murdered to set up a permanent monument in Miami. This small group of survivors of the Holocaust set up a committee responsible for constructing the monument. The group was renamed the Holocaust Remembrance Committee and registered as a non-profit private body.

Green Parks

The 32-acre green area of the Bayside Marketplace is Bayfront Park on the east side of Biscayne Boulevard. The park features many unique sculptures and monuments. The electronically controlled Pepper Fountain is one of its special characteristics. The Challenger Memorial, which commemorates the Challenger spacecraft crew, and the Light Tower, an amphitheater used for musical events of all sorts, and a playground for children are other highlights. Locals come here mostly to stroll or to run along paved paths.

The Miami Zoo has over 3,000 wildlife, of which 40 are endangered species. In comparison to conventional zoos, animals are clustered in a forest with other creatures that usually coexist and are housed in conditions close to their natural ecosystems (Houston et al., pg 14). The feeding of the giraffe is one of the most delightful encounters in the zoo. Children will be shocked when these gentle giants with their long necks reach out to pluck a treat.

The bird sanctuary, the animal park, and the botanic garden are Jungle Island. In tropical forest environments, parrots and other native bows ride; others are participating in regular displays. A major part of the draw is large mammals, including lions, baboons, alligators, tortoises, monkeys, and orangutans. The gardens contain approximately 2000 different types of tropical plants, including helicons.

Transportation

I. City buses

Metrobus runs more than 95 routes and almost 1,000 buses covering 41 million miles annually, which is a huge deal. Hop one of the metro buses routes that are not serving city areas with the Metro, such as Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, Homestead, Fort Lauderdale, or the Florida Key, if you can’t get there by Metro (Shafer et al., 11). Three hundred sixty-five days a year, in Miami-Dade County, the Metrobus system provides service. Miami-Dade County bus service services every major retail, leisure, and cultural center and major hospital and schools, planned to connect with Metrorail and Metro Metromover.

II. Metrorail

Metrorail is like the monorail, a 25-mile rail line of two platforms. It’s a quick and cheap way to get you all way through the city center to South Miami from Miami International Airport (MIA). You can easily get to the Civic Center in Jackson Memorial Hospital, Hialeah, Miami-Dade northwest, with access to the Tri-Rail/Metrorail transfer station in Brower’s and Palm Beach counties.

III. Metromover

Metro mover is ideal for tourists to Downtown Miami or to discover the most famous attractions in Miami. The Metromeas is a quick place to visit near the American Airlines Arena, home to the Miami Heat, and various famous concerts; Maurice A. Ferré Park, home to the Pérez Art Museum Miami and the Frost Science Museum; and the Adrienne Arsht Performing Arts district.

Food places

Joe’s Stone Crab

Joe’s has been, over the years, a multimillion-dollar company, being branded Restaurant Business’ second-largest independent restaurant in the US. Although Joe’s provides a wide range of fresh seafood and steaks to cleanse great bits of flesh with full-time fish and butchers, it is the stone crabs that draw buyers worldwide (Shafer et al., 12). The claws are eaten with the mustard sauce of this restaurant, which is why many generations enjoyed their birthdays, birthdays and commitments, and just a Thursday night at Joe’s. The restaurant now has minimal reservations, and its outdoor dining space has been extended.

La Sandwicherie

Situated in an alley off 14th Street, this french counter restaurant does not look like much of it, but it has some of the finest southern sandwiches. The sandwich is based on Crispy, flaky French bread. From there, you can add a selection of sandwich builders such as ham, turkey, roast beef, salami, and Swiss cheese to your option of meat, cheese, and a mixture of these, and even more exclusive euro-friendly options such as Camembert, fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, saucer sec or potato/duck pâté.

South Beach Planta Beach

This plant-based paradise is a fascinating, tropically inspired restaurant for celebrities, influencers, and the sexiest Miami soul that serves vegan food, which also carnivorously shrinks (Zebracki et al., 2270). The menu is comprehensive and culinary with amazing inventive recipes, such as Ahi watermelon nigiri, tots of cauliflowers melt in the mouth, an omnivore-inspired meat enthusiastic pizza, and a savory burger. Pair your dinner with a new juice drink, and don’t hesitate to order a light dessert ice cream in revolving aromas.

Businesses

Miami is still known more for its beaches than for its businesses but, according to WalletHub, the Magic City is one of America’s best locations for a small business. Miami was 14th out of 180 US cities on the Personal Finance Website. The rankings were based on 19 main metrics, from five-year company survival rates to office room accessibility.

Restaurants Business

Company restaurant in Miami Beach is one of the business prospects. Due to the high population existing and tourists to this city, there is a tendency to develop restaurant services. In this situation, companies must ensure that a well-established approach aims to make the food they produce special and delicious (Carson et al., pg15). Beaches flourish with food, for example. Many who come would like to taste everything from local cuisine to foreign dishes. Thanks to its ethnicity, local food can be a perfect connector and establish a relationship with consumers. Shacks with decent comfort and a range of recipes for food help you stand out. But you have to worry about the competition here because it’s enormous. It is also necessary to have a sector as a special attraction. You have to run offers and sell them successfully.

Accommodation huts

Accommodations are also a key business that does well in Miami beach. This is the hospitality sector’s backbone and is a significant feature that tourists consider before they arrive. One can range from comfortable to modest, depending on the price and availability (Park et al., 172). It’s a long-term enterprise that needs time, and it doesn’t take visitors overnight. Clean structures and accommodating workers contribute to the market growth with good service practices.

Photo booths

The photo booth is also a well-established business in the Miami Beach neighborhood. They still promise businesses everywhere now. That is the photo booth market. Cute slogans and one-liner with an enchanting background on the beach will spiral into money-making for everyone. Picture boots create enjoyable moments fed by a responsive layer of memories with selfies around the world.

Conclusion

This following information proves that Miami Beach has a diversity of cultures, businesses, history landmarks, and transportation.  As you can see, Miami Beach is very popular, well known, and entertainment neighborhood of Miami that is why tourists from all over the world come to Miami to visit Miami beach.

References

Park, Kwang‐Soo, Yvette Reisinger, and Hyun‐Jung Kang. “Visitors’ motivation for attending the South Beach wine and food festival, Miami Beach, Florida.” Journal of Travel & Tourism Marketing 25.2 (2008): 161-181.

Carson, Ruby Leach. “Forty Years of Miami Beach.” Tequesta 15 (1955): 3-28.’

Sadri, Arif Mohaimin, et al. “Hurricane evacuation route choice of major bridges in Miami Beach, Florida.” Transportation research record 2532.1 (2015): 164-173.’

Fallon, Kathleen M., Qing Lai, and Stephen P. Leatherman. “Beachgoer’s recognition of rip current hazard at Miami Beach, Florida.” Ocean & Coastal Management 165 (2018): 63-70.

Sadri, Arif Mohaimin, et al. “Hurricane evacuation route choice of major bridges in Miami Beach, Florida.” Transportation research record 2532.1 (2015): 164-173.

Zebracki, Martin. “Urban preservation and the queerying spaces of (un) remembering: Memorial landscapes of the Miami Beach art deco historic district.” Urban Studies 55.10 (2018): 2261-2285.

Revell, Keith D. “From Urban Citizens to Ocean Liners: Miami Beach Hotels and the Enclosure Movement, 1935-1955.” Journal of Urban History (2020): 0096144220904950.

Zebracki, Martin. “Urban preservation and the queerying spaces of (un) remembering: Memorial landscapes of the Miami Beach art deco historic district.” Urban Studies 55.10 (2018): 2261-2285.

Ann Conyers, Zella, Richard Grant, and Shouraseni Sen Roy. “Sea level rise in Miami Beach: vulnerability and real estate exposure.” The Professional Geographer 71.2 (2019): 278-291.

Wdowinski, Shimon, et al. “Increasing flooding hazard in coastal communities due to rising sea level: Case study of Miami Beach, Florida.” Ocean & Coastal Management 126 (2016): 1-8.

Park, Kwang‐Soo, Yvette Reisinger, and Hyun‐Jung Kang. “Visitors’ motivation for attending the South Beach wine and food festival, Miami Beach, Florida.” Journal of Travel & Tourism Marketing 25.2 (2008): 161-181.

Houston, James R., and Robert G. Dean. “Beach nourishment provides a legacy for future generations.” Shore and Beach 81.3 (2013): 3-30.

Shafer, Dee Naquin. “Miami Beach: ASHA’s 2006 Convention.” The ASHA Leader 11.8 (2006): 10-12.

Medical Advancements & Healthcare System

by Keysa Garcia

Overview

Different technological advancements are being brought to countries with an increasingly high number of individuals who can’t get the correct treatments due to the lack of advancement in their countries healthcare systems.

Top Tier

When looking at the world and it is entirety, our society tends to label countries. For example, Chinese people are labeled as people who eat dogs or that all Mexican foods are spicy. However, when one thinks of Spain they think of lazy people who take 3 hour siestas in the middle of the day. What people don’t know about Spain is that it is amongst the top five researching and developing countries within the medical technology world [1].

Not only is Spain amongst the top five countries, but it flourishes in other medical aspects besides research and development. For example, agrobiotechnology, the application of biotechnology on to agriculture is ranked third in the world. Another example includes, Spain being the fifth largest exporter of health technology and Spain ranking third in reproductive technology.

Reproductive Technology

As previously mentioned, Spain is very advanced in reproduction technology. One of the largest and most well-known fertility centers, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (IVI). The Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad is one of the first fertility groups to open up in Europe and all over the world. The institution was founded in 1990, and 65 clinics in 11 different countries; with 35 of the clinics in Spain and 19 in the United States [8].

What most Americans dream of is having a family, and sometimes this isn’t possible. As many American females wish to conceive naturally, many have to turn into in vitro fertilization. In result to this many American fertilization companies rely on any advancements or new techniques that Spain produces. An example of this includes embryo transfers. Medical professionals in the United States transfer embryos by playing a small catheter and releasing the embryo [9]. However, researchers and developers at the IVI have noted higher success rates if this process is down with a guided ultrasound [10]. Findings like these, have lead to merging of Spanish fertilization companies with American Fertilization companies [3].

Pulmonology

When reflecting on the aspects within the Americas influenced by Spain, one can look into the what is taught to students at the high school, collegiate, and graduate level. Michael Servetus (villanueva de Sigena, Aragón, Spain, 29 September 1509 or 1511 – 27 October 1553) was one the first Europeans to describe the functions of the pulmonary circulation [4]. Michael Servetus explains the functions of pulmonary circulation by describing the color of the blood, and the size and location of different ventricles. The functions Michael talks about are all common teachings a student learns in an American classroom setting.

Approximately 35% of deaths that occur in United States are respiratory related, and 75% (a total of 26%) of that is caused by Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) [6]. However, when you compare COPD death rates the 26% of deaths in the United States towers over the 6.9% of deaths in Spain [7].

Spanish-Arabic Medicine

At the starting point of the 7th century till the end of 8th century, an Arabian culture started too spread from the Straits of Gibraltar to Egypt, and leading to the Spain. As the culture migrated through the country, so did the writings of many medical professionals. Many of these writings, were works done by Rhazes.

Muhammad ibn Zakariya al-Razi, Rhazes, was a Persian polymath, physician, alchemist, philosopher. Besides all of these attributes Rhazes is an important figure in the history of medicine [13]. Rhazes was a personal physician while living in Baghdad but his literary works on the differences between measles and smallpox’s traveled through Europe and made its way to medical schools in Cordova, Sevilla, and Toledo. [12]

In addition to Muhammad ibn Zakariya al-Razi, a.k.a Rhazes… We are introduced to an Arabic doctor, who practiced medicine in Cordoba. Abul Kasim, migrated to Spain and was the first to be interested dentistry. Abul is also the first too manifest an illustrated literary piece about surgery, within this text he illustrates about many topics including removal of teeth and plaque [14]. These two concepts are top reasons why individuals in today’s society go to the dentist.

Surgery

The Iberian Peninsula was visited by many foreigners who all shared one common trait, that trait was a vast knowledge within the medical and surgical field. The surgical aspects one gets to learn about today or gets to see on Tv stemmed from the megalithic era. WIthin the megalithic era, the first “surgical” procedure was performed, the procedure is what we know as trepanation, the procedure of making a hole in an individual’s skull. Until the Renaissance, Spain did not flourish within the medical and surgical field. As time went by, improvements and advancements were made. However, most advancements were noted by medical breakthroughs, such as anesthesia, and many technological breakthroughs in the 19th century. [15]

However, since the 19th century Spain has not stopped. Spain is currently envied by many countries by their surgical transplant rates. It is noted in the video description, that 27 organs are donated by every million people! This is currently (2015, when the video was posted), twice as much as the Americas. [16] However, I believe that in North America this rate is not as high as Spain’s due to the eating habits and lifestyle Americans, most organs are not eligible for transplants.

Healthcare System

When looking more in depth about the Healthcare System of Spain, various sources mentioned how Spain started implementing electronic health records (EMR) during the past decade. However, as a current healthcare assistant and healthcare system trainer at the University of Miami, I am always reminded that our system is “faulty” because it’s only 3 years old. My provider states that for every patient within our system there should be four sets of eyes, as he also mentions on he misses writing a patient’s prescription on a tiny piece of paper.

Nonetheless, Spain has introduced their electronic health records (EMR) within two decades. According to MIT technology review, by the year 2010 more than 95% of Primary Care Physicians were using the EMR and also placing more than 250 million prescriptions. [5]

Videos

Source

[1] Article Post – Medical Research and Development in Spain

[2] Youtube Video – Antonia Goggans Testimonial

[3] Article Post – Merging of Spanish and American Fertilization companies

[4] Article Post – History on Michael Servetus

[5] Article Post – Emergency Medical Records Statistics

[6] Research Article – COPD Background and Statistics

[7] Article Post – COPD Spain Death Rates

[8] Webpage – IVI Locations and Facts

[9] Youtube Video – Visual representation of Embryo Transfer

[10] Article Post – Ultrasound increases Embryo Transfer success rate

[11] Picture – Clipart

[12] Article Post – A History of Surgery

[13] Webpage Info – Wikipedia

[14] Webpage – History of Medicine

[15] Article Post – History of Surgery

[16] Youtube Video – Transplant Surgery in Spain

Student Bio

My name is Andro Bailly, and I am a junior at FIU. I am an Honors college student majoring in International Business. My interests are cycling, rock climbing, investing, and having a good time with friends and family. I was born and raised in Miami and have spent many of my summers exploring the European nation. Upon graduation I will seek to further my education and pursue an MBA.

Geography

The neighborhood I have selected is Coral Gables. Coral Gables is one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in the Miami area. It has gorgeous houses, top tier restaurants, some of the greatest parks in Miami, Universities, and the beautiful Old Cutler road. The northern region is more urban and has a wide array of landmarks, galleries, businesses, restaurants, and museums. The urban area is heavily integrated with the public transportation system, making it easy to navigate around the northern half of Coral Gables.            

The southern half of Coral Gables is mostly composed of residential areas and high-class green areas such as Matheson Hammock park, Chapman Field, and Fairchild. There is limited presence of transportation, a few bus stops are present on the south western zone. Old Cutler is a magical road covered by a strong canopy of trees. On both sides of Old Cutler are high end houses that represent the upper income of Miami citizens. On the east side of Old Cutler are the coastal neighborhoods and the green areas that will be further described in the green section.

History

The origins of Coral Gables start with a man named George E. Merrick. In the year 1899 he purchased the land that is now Coral Gables and developed it with a Mediterranean style. The creation of the congressional church and the charter of the University of Miami occurred in the year 1925 (CoralGablesChamber.org). Coral Gables has experienced exceptional growth and is a magnificent area but there are harsh truths that lay beneath its creation. Segregation is an innate feature of the US; it has been here since the beginning and is still present to this day. The US itself was built by people of all races and cultures yet these people were not treated equally. Coral Gables is no exception, it was largely built by the Bahamians (Johnwbailly.com). The demographics section below will give a deep dive into just how segregated our society is currently, specifically Coral Gables.

Demographics

Coral Gables has a population of approximately 50,000 people. Of these 50,000 people, 92% of them are White individuals. Of this 92% of White people, 60% of them are Hispanic or Latino. The Coral Gables population is also well educated with 96.2% of the population graduating from high school and 66.7% having earned a bachelor’s degree or higher. The median value of household value is $846,000 which is significantly higher than the median value of a Dade County household which is $289,000. The median income in Coral Gables is $100,000 which is two-fold of the median income in Dade County. Black or African American account for 3.1% of Coral Gables while in Dade County they represent 17.7% of the population (Census.gov).

Above is a portrait of Alec Lau. Alec Lau is a resident of Coral Gables and was an ideal candidate for my interview. He is a close friend that I have known for over 7 years. He is a student at USC and loves to fish.

Question 1: Where do you live in coral gables and how long have you lived there for?

Answer: I live in Gables by the Sea and have lived here since 2005.

Question 2: Do you have any knowledge regarding the history of Coral Gables?

Answer: I do not have much knowledge about the history of Coral Gables, if any.

Question 3: What are your favorite aspects of Coral Gables?

Answer: My favorite aspects of Coral Gables are the amount of greenery, its proximity to the coast, the designs of the houses and buildings, and the restaurants/shops.

Question 4: What are your least favorite aspects of Coral Gables?

Answer: My least favorite parts of Coral Gables are the roads and traffic, costs of living, the number of regulations by the city, and the lack of public transportation.

Question 5: Where would you recommend a good place to eat in Coral Gables?

Answer: There’s a good variety of restaurants in Coral Gables. Personally, I would recommend going to somewhere like Bachour, Mamey Miami, or Havana Harry’s.

Landmarks

This is a bunker that was built during the early 1960s because of the Cuban Missile Crisis. This bunker is located directly south of Matheson Hammock. When walking towards the ocean you can find a path that veers off into the forest and leads to this bunker. It is completely covered in graffiti and is a cool hangout spot that only some of the youth know about. The Cuban Missile Crisis directly involved South Florida because of its proximity to Cuba. This bunker was most likely used as an outpost that provided information regarding any threats that it could detect (abondonedfl.com).

During the 1930s the US was enduring the Great Depression, as a result, President Franklin Roosevelt created an organization called the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Coral Gables needed assistance and needed a new municipal building that would house both firefighters, police officers, and a court room. In 1938 a deal between the WPA and Coral Gables had been formed (corgablesmuseum.org). As time went on, upgrades were required and this buildings usage as a court room and fire department were no longer suitable for the growth of Coral Gables. This building is now known as the Coral Gables Museum and most of the inside and outside of the Coral Gables museum has been preserved and is open to the public.

The picture above is of the luxurious Biltmore hotel. It was constructed in 1926 and was a glamorous hotspot that hosted all sorts of celebrations. During WWII, the Biltmore’s new purpose became that of a hospital. It was a VA hospital up until the year 1968, when it was abandoned. For many years it became a place for the youth to sneak into and spread stories of ghosts. It was later purchased by the City of Coral Gables and experienced a grand reopening in the year of 1973. It has a total of 350 rooms, has an expansive golf course, and once bragged of having the biggest pool in all the US (wlrn.org).

Greenery

Photos by Andro Bailly / CC by 4.0

Matheson Hammock park opened in the 1930’s and was the first Dade County park (livingnewdeal.org). It is a common sight to see weddings, birthday parties, photo shoots, and relaxing picnics here. The picture on the left depicts the area of Matheson Hammock that is free and hugs Old Cutler Road. The coastal section of Matheson requires a small parking fee (you can also park in the free area and walk to the coastal spot free of charge) but is well worth it if you are interested in spending the day at a beach or enjoying some food at the highly rated Redfish by Chef Adrianne. A stunning view of downtown Miami as depicted on the picture on the right is another reason to visit the coastal part of Matheson.

Photos by Andro Bailly / CC by 4.0

This is Fairchild Botanical Gardens and was first opened in the year 1983. It is 83 acres of land containing plants that have been collected from all over the world (fairchildgarden.org). There is also a magical butterfly exhibit that is a must see and hopefully visitors are lucky enough to spot the few hummingbirds in the exhibit. Fairchild is named after David Fairchild who is a world renown plant scientist and explorer. A visit to Fairchild on a Sunday will be rewarded with a high-level farmers market. Just be careful when walking around Fairchild’s body of water because there are alligators present. Rare plants and alien looking trees can be seen throughout the Fairchild layout. You can choose to walk and explore Fairchild yourself or hop on a trolley for a guided tour.

Photos by Andro Bailly / CC by 4.0

Once an airfield during WWI and WWII, Chapman Field is now a Miami Dade County park with over 850 acres of marshlands, mangroves, pineland, seashore, and a dog park (ars.usda.gov). It is a top location for those interested in hikes through nature, walking their dogs, canoe rides, and relaxation on the bay. Chapman field is named after an Airforce soldier that was the first casualty in WWI in France. The picture on the left is the first sights when exiting off the canoe/kayak ramp. The picture on the right is of the shoreline along Chapman. If you hike to the shoreline during low tide, you will be able to enjoy miles of shallow water, white sand, and sand bars perfect for relaxation or sports.

Transportation

The Coral Gables Trolley in the picture above is unique to the Coral Gables neighborhood. It is a free service provided by the City of Coral Gables and effectively eases traffic congestion (a serious problem in Coral Gables as mention by the resident Alec Lau). The metro station behind the trolley in the picture above is the Douglas Road Metrorail station and serves as a hub for the Metrorail line, Coral Gables Trolleys, and Metro Buses. Since the trolley is special to Coral Gables, its route is rather limited and extends in a circle surrounding the Douglas Road station. These trollies operate Monday through Friday from 6:30am to 8:00pm and arrive at stops on a 15-minute basis (coralgables.com).

The Metrorail is speedy way to move north and south bound along US1. There are two stations that are accessible from the Coral Gables neighborhood. The Douglas Road station and the University station are roughly 1 mile apart from each other and are both along the same route. This route can take you all the way to Dadeland south and up to Downtown Miami. The Metrorail operates 7 days a week from 5am to 10pm (miamidade.gov). There is a small fee to pay but the service is currently free because of the COVID pandemic.

The Metrobus on the left side of the picture operates in the Coral Gables neighborhood and has a far more complex and expansive route then the Coral Gables Trolley. These Metrobuses run 7 days a week and 24 hours a day, providing a cost-effective option for people to travel around Miami (miamidade.gov). There are many routes and stops that pass through Coral Gables. This picture was taken at the Douglas Road station (one of the many Metrobus stops). Coral Gables residents and visitors are very lucky to have a public trifecta of transportation available to them. This greatly affects the ability of the lower wealth class to move around and perform necessary tasks.

Food

Photos by Andro Bailly / CC by 4.0

El Taquito is a small Mexican grill located near Coco Walk and the coastal Peacock Park. This place offers authentic Mexican food at an affordable price. The picture on the right, is their menu which consist of common Mexican cuisine. This restaurant is special to me because when I was working in the area it was a common choice for lunch. The people who work at the restaurant reflect this authentic Mexican culture. This is not a chain so be sure to take advantage when you are walking down Main Hwy. I recommend the Tacos.

Photos by Andro Bailly / CC by 4.0

This is a pricier selection, Cracked by Chef Adrianne. Cracked was opened in 2018 by the popular Chef Adrianne. Their goal is to provide simple food from organic and free-range ingredients. They have a vegan friendly restaurant, and all items are locally sourced. The picture on the right is of the filet mignon steak sandwich with a side of truffled fries that I highly recommend if you are a meat lover. Chef Adrianne also has a restaurant located in Matheson Hammock park called the Redfish.

Photos by Andro Bailly / CC by 4.0

If you love Tacos and you love to eat Tacos on a Tuesday, then Taco Craft is the choice for you. Prices of Tacos are slashed by nearly 50% on Tuesdays. The ultimate way to take advantage of very high-quality tacos that are rather expensive compared to other Tacos. Their cheese dip which can be seen in the picture on the right is a must have side for a large group of people. Taco Craft gets busy after 8pm so make sure to show up earlier if you want to avoid a wait time above 20 minutes. My top 3 taco recommendations would be the Korean Short Rib, Key Lime Grouper, and the classic Carne Asada.

Businesses

Photos by Andro Bailly / CC by 4.0

The business depicted above is the Deering Bay & Yacht and Country Club. This location is a haven for rich people that are retired or want a place to keep their large boats. They have a world class golf course and boats have direct access to the Atlantic Ocean. The Deering Bay & Yacht and Country Club is directly south of Chapman Field and was once a part of the airfield in WWI and WWII (dbycc.com). This club also offers top of the line cuisine and tennis lessons.

The Miracle Theater/Actors Playhouse was built in the years of 1947-48 (johnwbailly.com). It has 900 seats and is host to the performing arts. In the picture above you can see that The Jungle Book is going to be performed live on stage and the Wizard of Oz is going to be streamed. The main attraction now is for people who appreciate live performance. If you prefer to see live action talent performed in an Art Modern style building as opposed to your regular films then the Miracle Theater is the right way to go.

This funky looking building is the Home Financing Center, it was built in 1984 (zippia.com). This business focuses on providing loans for people in the Coral Gables area that do not have enough money to purchase a house on their own. This spaceship building has around 70 employees and has an annual revenue of roughly 30 million dollars. If you are interested in buying your dream home but do not quite have the funds, then the Home Financing Center may be able to provide you with some aide.

Summary

Coral Gables is a one-of-a-kind neighborhood with a small yet telling history, epic green areas, great restaurants, special landmarks/monuments, and powerful businesses. Segregation and unfairness are a common tale in the US and Coral Gables is not exempt from this. It was built by Bahamians hired by George Merrick. Yet 92% of the Coral Gables population is white. Only 3% of Coral Gables is African American while 17% of Dade County is African American. These numbers alone show that the residents of Coral Gables are not a diverse population, and this can be attributed to Miami’s racist zoning laws. Non surprisingly Coral Gables is also a neighborhood with house values and annual incomes that are more than 2-fold the median in Dade County.

Coral Gables also has possibly one of the best public transportation ecosystems in Miami. The Douglas Road station serves as a hub for the Metrorail, Metrobus, and Coral Gables trolley. This allows for the lower income population to traverse throughout the Coral Gables neighborhood without a car and in a timely manner. This also eases the traffic congestion which is a problem that Alec Lau stated as his least favorite aspect of Coral Gables. Strong public transportation support allows for nonresidents to access the Coral Gables neighborhood which is beneficial for the businesses located there.

Chapman Field, Matheson Hammock, and Fairchild are some of the greatest green areas in all South Miami. In a concrete jungle it is not common to find heavens of natural Miami wildlife. Finding great restaurants, unique businesses, landmarks, museums, monuments, and the public transportation to take you there is an easy task in Coral Gables. Hopefully, this guide will give you some ideas as to what to visit when in Coral Gables.

Sources

Sources

Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce, Historic Timeline

A History of Coral Gables

Johnwbailly.com, Coral Gables Walking Tour, Stephanie Sepulveda & John W. Bailly, 11        March 2021

https://johnwbailly.com/lectures/coralgablestour/

United States Census, Quick Facts, Miami-Dade County, Florida, Coral Gables City

https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/miamidadecountyflorida,miamicityflorida,coralgablescityflorida/PST045219

Abandoned Florida, Coral Gables Bunker

Coral Gables Bunker

Coral Gables Museum, The Journey from Municipal Building to Museum by John Allen

            https://coralgablesmuseum.org/portfolio-item/an-archelogical-expedition-the-journey-          from-muncipal-building-to-museum-2/

WLRN, A History Of The Biltmore, Miami’s Best Known Creepy Hotel, 30 October 2014

            https://www.wlrn.org/culture/2014-10-30/a-history-of-the-biltmore-miamis-best-known-    creepy-hotel

The Living New Deal, Matheson Hammock Park – Coral Gables FL

            https://livingnewdeal.org/projects/matheson-hammock-park-coral-gables-            fl/#:~:text=The%20city%20got%20its%20first,Surfside%2C%20was%20added%20in%2      01932.

Fairchild Tropical Botanical Garden, Mission & History

https://fairchildgarden.org/mission-history/

Agricultural Research Service, Chapman Field – The Evolution of a South Dade Army   Airdrome by Raymond G. McGuire, 1 January 2001

            https://www.ars.usda.gov/southeast-area/miami-fl/subtropical-horticulture-            research/docs/chapman-field-the-evolution-of-a-south- dade-army-airdrome/

Coral Gables – The City Beautiful, Coral Gables Trolley

https://www.coralgables.com/trolley-services

Miami-Dade County, Metrorail

https://www.miamidade.gov/global/transportation/metrorail.page

Deering Bay Yacht & Country Club, Club History

https://www.dbycc.com/about-us/club-history

Zippia – The Career Expert, Home Financing Center Overview

https://www.zippia.com/home-financing-center-careers-849682/

Una Ida, que no quiere Vuelta!

A short-story about a girl who falls in love with a country, its people, food, traditions, and culture.

written by Keysa Garcia

A Student of the Florida International University Honors College Spain Study Abroad Summer 2019 Program with Professor John William Bailly.

---

---

---

Prologue

Being born and raised into a family that courageously lives on the phrase, “You learn more abroad than a day at school” is what has inspired to travel the world, immersing myself in different cultures while living like a local. Over the past 20 years, I have experienced and gained so many life skills that will only enrich my future self and future career goals. As I am forever grateful for the opportunities I have been given to travel to new places and see and learn new things with my family, seeing Spain through the eyes of John W. Bailly is something one must experience to truly admire. 

---

---

---

Chapter 1: Where It All Started.

The Park of the Pleasant Retreat does not sound as beautiful as hearing a madrileño/madrileña roll their R’s as they mention El Parque del Buen Retiro. The park is filled with various monuments that not only add beauty but enrich the history of the park. 

La Fuente de los Galapagos, the Galápagos Fountain is located to the north of the park by Salamanca, as it honors the first anniversary of the birth of Princess Isabella (who later becomes Isabella II), as commissioned by Ferdinand VII. The fountains origin is the Red de San Luis. In 1879, the fountain was relocated to the Glorieta de Nicaraguainside of El Parque del Buen Retiroadjacent to the big lake where one can rent a paddleboat and admire the beautiful greenery of the park. The fountain is composed of different animals, humans, and fictional characters such as fairies, dolphins, and turtles as the each contribute to the story of the fountain. One can spot the dolphins on the statue, as they have four children riding them to symbolize intelligence, prudence, and wisdom. The fountains fictional characters include three fairies, these fairies are associated with the good wishes towards the future queen, Isabella II. However, as a local or tourist one is automatically drawn to the water as it represents the source of all life, but one cannot ignore the only color that stands out on the statue, the green of the Galápagos turtle, as it represents longevity of the queen and her reign.  [•]

Located 666 meters above the sea level, La Fuente del Ángel Caído, the fountain of the fallen angel sits in the midst of El Parque del Buen Retiro. The state was sculpted and created by Ricardo Bellver, yet his inspiration derived from Paradise Lostby John Milton where it received first prize in 1877 at La Exposiciones Nacionales de Bellas Artes. However, in 1878 the original plaster sculpture was destroyed, and recreated in Bronze to be apart of the Exposition Universelle, where masterpieces can only be made out of marble and bronze. This statue brings lots of attraction and pride to the park as it is one of the only public displays of the Devil in the world. [•] However, I believe that this public admiration to the devil has made its way to the Americas, as many individuals since the creation of this sculpture are not afraid to show their admiration to the devil himself. An example of this in the Americas include both the Church of Satan located in San Francisco, California and The Satanic Temple located throughout the United States, as it has 18 different active chapters. As it noted that both institutions believe and practice Satanism in different way, it is easily shown that both organizations do not have shame showing what they worship as those who commissioned, created, and displayed did not have fear when it came to La Fuente del Ángel Caído. [•]

El Parque del Buen Retiro, may be filled with beautiful historically rich statues and landscapes that make you fall in love with the place but there is nothing more astonishing than El Palacio de Cristal. Designed by Ricardo Velázquez Bosco, El Palacio de Cristalis one of the most intricate iron works in Madrid as it was inspired by Paxton’s Crystal Palace, yet was created for the 1887 Philippines Exhibition. [•]

Standing inside the crystal palace feels like a fairytale movie scene, having the warm Madrid sun shine through the glass and hit your skin is incomparable. It compares to nothing I have seen back at home, even comparing to my reaction to the Walt Disney Castle as a child. InsideEl Parque del Buen Retiro, one can find something to do… Whether it is working out, a light stroll or job, take a nap, row a boat, or just enjoy and embrace the greenery and historical attributes that offered within El Parque del Buen Retiro. 

Chapter 2: The Midst of It All.

Walking through the streets of Sevilla reminded me of the times I have visited Cuba and Puerto Rico to not only visit family but to see where my parents grew up and established their childhood memories. However, the streets of Sevilla reminded me of the streets of El Viejo San Juan, the Old San Juan. My mom would walk up and down the street to get to and from school, it later became the same street she would walk to go to errands for my grandmother, and the streets that hold many secrets and memories… The same way the streets of Sevilla hold the secrets and memories of many locals and tourist. Sevilla first inhabitant have been established to be with the Tartessian culture. [•]

What is now present-day Sevilla, used to be known as Itálica, also known as the birth place of the Roman Emperors; this was founded in the early 200 BC. As a Vuelta,The nightlife in Barcelona was nothing like what I have experienced in Brickell or Wynwood. The music, the people, even the drinks taste different. The nights I spent out an about through the streets of Sant Marti and Barceloneta are the nights I will forever cherish.  I see the early architectural aspects influence the Americas, as the streets of Sevilla are so similar to the streets of El Viejo San Juan, Puerto Rico. 

As previously mentioned, walking the streets of Sevilla reminded me of the times I have visited Cuba and Puerto Rico to see where my parents grew up and established all of their childhood memories. However, Sevilla was able to give me the comfort of being home without being in Miami all thanks to a little store located on Calle Francos, 12. The Taste of America didn’t let me reminisce on the times I have visited Cuba and Puerto Rico, as there were moments I craved un plato de arroz blanco con huevo fritoor a portion of mofongo, but it gave me the access to my American comfort food. Paying 8 euros for a box of Kraft Mac and Cheese and 1,80 euros for a Twinkie sounds outrageous now that I am back in Miami, but when you are walking the streets of Sevilla and all you feel is a such an uplifting home vibe, you miss what you have back home as I was truly missing the taste of artificial cheese.

It was not only in Sevilla where I decided to seek for comfort food, it was from Day 1 till Day 22 of being on the program. Throughout the program, I would occasionally eat at fast food chains I have at home like Taco Bell and McDonalds, a Vuelta that I knew I would encounter but didn’t expect to engage in. In Miami, Taco Bell is only for the late-night munchies after a night of going out, in Sevilla it replaced my paellaand tapas for dinner. After being in awe on how different our tacos tasted, we also realized that even though we were eating at a popular American fast food chain, we were surrounded by locals who were singing along to Spanish street music. It wasn’t until I went to McDonald’s and saw both of my new Spanish life and my American life intertwine, on the menu of an American fast food chain… McCroquetes. 

Nonetheless, when looking back on each city I traveled to the only city where I found an American grocery mart was in Sevilla.

---

---

---

Chapter 3: One Last Dance.

Barcelona, the city that truly took my heart a second time… A city that truly taught me how to love, live in the moment, party till sunrises and not stay indoors playing cards, and helped me believe that the most amazing things in life are those that are unexpected. 

Pacha. The Coconut Club. Espit Chupitos. El Bombon. Opium. Club Catwalk.

The nightlife in Barcelona was nothing like what I have experienced in Brickell or Wynwood. The music, the people, even the drinks taste different. The nights I spent out an about through the streets of Sant Marti and Barceloneta are the nights I will forever cherish. 

When comparing the nightlife of Spain to one in Miami, you are able to spot many differences. To begin with, the time. In Miami, it doesn’t matter if you’re going to Miami Beach, Wynwood, Brickell, or Downtown… If you are partaking in activities of “my demographic” you will more likely commence you night between the hours of 10:30 pm to 11:30 pm. In Spain, all partying locations are closed at that time, as most of them open at 12:00 am even 1:00 am. Yet, if this were to be implemented in Miami, it will not only give us time to play cards in our room, but it will restrict us from going out as the crime rate in the United States is much higher than the crime rate in Spain. Following the time is the price tag. 

When it comes to partying and a bargain, Spain is you go to. After the converting your total cost spent (uber/taxi, entrance fee, and drinks) from Euros to United States Dollars, one can see a huge difference in the price tag. For example, the most I paid for an entrance fee in Spain was 20 euros, roughly 23 dollars and it included a drink. In the United States, an entrance fee will cost you 20 dollars, and drinks range from 15 to 25 dollars. Lastly, the spirit of those who go to the club is nothing like the ones in Miami, everyone is out and about living their life to the fullest without a worry in the world. In Miami, everyone even at the club, is stressed. 

---

---

---

Dear Spain, I cannot thank you enough for the unforgettable memories. I cannot wait till we meet again in December. I will also be ready for an ida but I never want to come de vuelta. Gracias por todo, from Dale to Vale…

Atentamente,

Keysa Garcia

---

---

---

Sources

[•] La Fuente de los Galapagos

[•] La Fuente del Ángel Caído

[•] Satanism

[•] El Palacio Cristal

[•] Sevilla

Biography:

Hello everyone! My name is Derick Plazaola and I am a junior at Florida International University currently working towards a dual Bachelor of Science degree within the fields of Anthropology and Geography while also in the progress of completing a minor in History. My primary passions in life include traveling, exploring nature, and reading historical documents. While at FIU, I have been able to become involved in the betterment of residential life through Parkview Hall Council and have undergone academic opportunities presented to me through the Honors College at the university. I wish to further my academic future by going into graduate school for additional subfield studies of Anthropology, with a certain interest in Archaeology above all other subfields.

Geography:

Situated on the east of U.S. Highway 1 and located north of Cutler Bay, Palmetto Bay is a small community village that is connected to the calm shores of Biscayne Bay. I found it to be a rather calm and peaceful location where one could take a retreat to enjoy moments of relaxation because of how easy it was to be next to the shore.

According to the official Village of Palmetto Bay website, the city was established in 2002 – now having almost marked 19 years since it was built. The incorporation of the city into the Miami-Dade counties marked Palmetto Bay as the 33rd municipality. With that being said, Palmetto Bay now serves as a residential home for over 24,000 people with that number most likely have increasing by today’s current time.

History:

Within the overarching history of Miami, a prominent theme of interconnection is one that is continually seen throughout many key destinations in the city. Palmetto Bay is no different as this theme of interconnection is reassured through the once-known presence of the Tequesta Indians within the area, notably via their inhabitation within the land that now recognized as being apart of the Deering Estate – one of the historical landmarks which I’ll later discuss. In addition to the Tequesta, there was also a presence of Paleo-Indians, Seminoles, Afro-Bahamians, and Anglo-Americans. However, the Tequesta were the ones who left a notable footprint upon the land as their burial land in Deering Estate – now recognized as the Old Cutler Fossil Site – was one of the biggest archaeological discoveries within South Florida that completely revolutionized the foundational knowledge of early human inhabitation, thousands of years ago, within South Florida. This influence of the Tequesta would, unfortunately, quickly disappear with the arrival of the Spanish to South Florida due to a transfer of diseases. This would lead to the complete disappearance of the Tequesta by 1700.

In the foundational history of the village of Palmetto Bay, the Perrine family grant would play a major role along with other the presence of other figures – notably Dr. William Cutler and Charles Deering – to begin the development of what would become Palmetto Bay. According to the Thalatta Estate timeline, Dr. Henry Perrine would become the recipient of a land grant, from the US congress, that would allow him to promote settlement and tropical plant agriculture in the area. However, this would be interrupted with his death, effectively placing a stop to the establishment of any settlements. To further add, this stop would be worsened by the failure of Henry Perrine Jr., the son of Dr. Perrine, in 1873. The development of Cutler in South Dade, named after Dr. Cutler, would change the development course of Palmetto Bay by slowly incorporating settlers towards the area of Palmetto.

Although the Perrine family had failed in utilizing the land grant, the land grant’s influence would retain importance and be passed on to figures who would fully utilize its power. Charles Deering was one such figure would eventually build his famous property on the shores of Biscayne Bay – starting in 1916 – along with the Chinese Bridge just outside of the gates of the Deering Estate. With the establishment of the Deering Estate then came the rise of a Mediterranean Revival through the construction of the Thalatta Estate in 1925 by the Connett family. Further construction in the area would be marked by the development of the Perrine Community House, as a result of the establishment of the Works Progress Administration of the Roosevelt New Deal in 1935, the Palmetto Bay Park Recreation Center – originally named the Perrine Park Recreation Center – in 1938 and the Perrine Jail in 1946. Finally, the Cutler Drainage Canal System – which still can be seen in various areas Palmetto Bay – was developed in the 1950s. Alongside all this development came an increase in settlement by many different people in the local area.

The establishment of Palmetto Bay as a municipality would not arrive until 2002 due to a years-long prior history of denial by the Boundaries Commission and Board of County Commissioners (BCC). According to the Palmetto Bay history site, this 7-year long lasting issue began in 1995 when the Alliance of Palmetto South Homeowners Association petitioned for the incorporation into the Miami-Dade counties. This petition would be deferred in 1996 and would lead to a lawsuit battle over the right of citizens to vote over incorporation. In 2000, the BCC would allow for the establishment of the Palmetto Bay Municipal Advisory Committee for any tasks and problems relating to incorporation. With this, incorporation finally came in 2002.

Demographics:

In terms of specific demographics regarding the citizens who live in Palmetto Bay, the Data USA census showcases that the specific number of residents who currently reside here is, at minimum, 24,6000. There is a near balance of both males and females as the Census Bureau lists the population as being 50.3% female and 49.7% male. Furthermore, Palmetto Bay is primarily ethnically composed of 42.8% Hispanic or Latino origin and 42.3% white non-hispanic. On the other hand, there are also minority populations showcased with a Black population of 4.49% and an Asian population of 5.09%. According to Data USA, the median age for those residing in Palmetto Bay is 41.1 and the median household income is around $115,709, marking a 7.5% increase to the number from 2020 – that being $107,612. Regardless of the increase, the high median household income number of over $100,000 details that Palmetto bay is a rather higher middle-class area of Miami, thus contrasting some of the more poverty-filled municipalities of the city.

Landmarks:

The Deering Estate

Once serving as a retreat vacation home for businessman Charles Deering and his family, the Deering Estate serves as a remarkable reminder for what a Spanish villa truly looks like. As previously mentioned in the history section (see above), the Deering Estate was built from 1916 to 1922 and serves as major source of Mediterranean revival influence. The active borrowing from other cultures was essential in the construction of the home as it would serve as a culmination of all of these different cultures all into one major source. However, this stone house was never seen as a house by the likes of Charles Deering. For him, the house was reminiscent to that of a museum in his eyes because of the incorporation of so many cultural values and aspects in its construction.

However, the history of the Deering Estate in not limited in just the history of its owner but in the history of the land upon which it is built. With the Tequesta having once inhabited the lands of the Estate thousands of years ago, this location serves a lens for which people can view into the past and see the true foundations of what Miami-Dade once was – prior to any development. With that said, people can visit the Deering Estate for a simple view towards the waters of Biscayne Bay, may make reservations for a wedding ceremony, or can even rent canoes and kayaks to take out to the surrounding islands, notably Chicken Key.

Chinese Bridge

Located on the nature trail right outside the front walls of the Deering Estate, the Chinese Bridge serves as a lens by which visitors can look into the experiences of Charles Deering. Built in 1918 on what was once known as “Old Cutler Road”, the bridge serves as a reminder for Deering into his past experiences as a young U.S. Naval officer when he was traveling across Asia. Without a doubt, the placement of this bridge brings an overwhelming sense of cultural identity compared to the nature-ridden swamp-like aesthetic of South Florida.

When walking to find this historical landmark, it almost felt like I was coming across a hidden gem because of the fact that it was hidden within this path. Previously, during Charles Deering’s time, I perhaps think that landmark was one that was appreciated more often. However, nowadays, I noticed that people were rarely stopping to take a look at it or take any photographs. I personally took an appreciation to this landmark because of its initial hidden physique, making it one that people had to actively search for in order to find.

Thalatta Estate

Only a couple minutes driving distance from the previously-discussed Deering Estate, the Thalatta Estate serves as yet another prominent source of Mediterranean revival art style present in South Florida. Built in 1925 by the Connett family, the Thalatta Estate is another such villa which offers its visitors a first-hand view towards the waters of Biscayne Bay. Quite similar to the Deering Estate, the Thalatta Estate is another notable venue that offers visitors the potential to make wedding reservations for those engaged.

Upon my arrival to the Thalatta Estate, my eyes were first set upon the presence of the magnificent tree placed in the middle of the driveway leading to the villa. Upon researching it, the Thalatta Estate’s official welcome page helped reveal that this was a Banyan tree. I thought that the placement of this tree here really helped in establishing the villa’s high-class status.

Green Spaces:

With each of the green spaces present in Palmetto Bay, I personally found that each area had its own advantages over the others as to what visitors could do in that space.

Thalatta Park

Located right behind the Thalatta Estate villa, Thalatta park offers a vast recreational space for its visitors to sit on the lawns of the villa. This park, specifically at the very end, offers its visitors a first-class view to the waters of Biscayne Bay. I found this park to be one in which visitors could dedicate their time and energy best towards relaxing and feeling the currents of the Biscayne Bay winds with plenty of walking space for those wishing to simply get outside.

Ludovici Park

Instead of offering a direct view towards the bayside, Ludovici park offers a quiet reserved space for those wishing to perhaps get a good reading out of a book. Connected right next to the Palmetto Bay Branch Library, Ludovici park offers many spaces for its visitors to dedicate their time to obtaining knowledge of all sorts. However, in addition to its quiet reserve spaces, Ludovici park is also recognized for being able to host musical performances and loud activities for all sorts, serving as a community gathering ground for the residents of Palmetto Bay. Thus, a sort of duality is taken into appreciation with the spaces of Ludovici park.

Bill Sadowski Park

Offering more of an adventurous and activity filled aura instead of a fully recreational and quiet space, Bill Sadowski park is a smaller green space located in a centralized area of Palmetto Bay in which residents can take their children and families alike to gather together, whenever the occasion calls for it. When I personally went, there was a gathering for boys scouts happening. In addition to this, the park offers a 0.3 mile trail in which its visitors can take time to exploring the ins and outs of the pathway, taking an appreciation for the surrounding nature.

Transportation:

For the most part when driving through Palmetto Bay, I found that most people stuck by conventional transportation means through their own vehicles. However, there were quite some exceptions to that. I found that a lot of the residents in the nearby area actually took an appreciation to biking since a lot of things were within a close radius of each other. Also, I saw people utilizing golf carts instead of conventional vehicles – most likely with the intention on saving money not having to drive a normal vehicle. Finally, there was still a utilization of buses within Palmetto Bay as there were bus stops all around for those who needed to utilize them.

Food:

Greek House Kitchen

Offering a grand menu of classic Greek dishes and meals, Greek House Kitchen is a dining establishment that truly provides you with a classic, yet richening Greek experience when it comes to the selection of unique nourishment. I personally ordered the wrapped Chicken Gyros (pictured above) and was extremely satisfied with the amount of food which they provided me with. Greek House Kitchen is located at 17041 S Dixie Hwy in Palmetto Bay.

Maxwell Bros. Clothing Store

Probably my most favorite food establishment from this list, Maxwell Bros. Clothing Store is a pizza and beer based dining establishment located at 17395 S Dixie Hwy. The establishment, which features a bar, takes on a sort of classic retro-oriented space theme that fully compliments the overall vibe of the establishment. Without a doubt, I found it to be the more unique dining locations that I went to because of this welcoming aura presented with the location. Even when I was dining in, a customer entering the establishment said “oh! This was not what I expected!” in a highly positive tone, showing the uniqueness to the place.

Walter’s Coffee Shop

Walter’s Coffee Shop, located at 17009 S Dixie Hwy, is more of a classic restaurant type of location – a perfect location if you are looking to have whole breakfast or lunch meals with your family. Featuring both an outdoor and indoor dining option, Walter’s is a classic choice for anyone seeking to dine from a classic American menu of well-nourishing food options. I personally ate a classic french toast when I went there in the morning to start my day off right.

Businesses:

Babe’s Meat & Counter

Serving as a small meat butchery shop, Babe’s Meat & Counter is a perfect location if you are wishing to obtain different kinds of meats for any meals you seek to prepare at home. Located at 9216 SW 156th St, Babe’s also features a small menu of food selections for those wishing to grab a meal to go from this business.

Milky Way Cereal Bar

Located at 17013 S Dixie Hwy, the Milky Way Cereal Bar is easily a sort of heaven for those with a sweet tooth. Here at this small shop, you can mix and match different kinds of desserts with a wide selection of add ons and toppings to your selection. Most interesting of all, this shop utilizes cereal in their items. This gives it a unique approach as customers can interchange with their favorite cereals mixed in tangent with their selection.

Golden Rule Seafood

Simultaneously a market and a dine-in restaurant, Golden Rule Seafood serves the best of both worlds to customers as you can either dine-in to the vast selection of food offered at the restaurant or you can take your time and pick through the items offered in the market – both next door to each other. This unique approach gives the business even more customers by being able to still offer unique selections of seafood at the butchery while also providing meals for customers only a couple footsteps away. Golden Rule Seafood is located at 17505 S Dixie Hwy.

Summary:

In terms of what works, I find that Palmetto Bay is a quiet yet, at the same time, busy part of Miami by being able to offer a sort of duality that is not found in other parts of the overarching city. For one, residents and visitors alike can take the time to have a more recreational experience by visiting historical landmarks that undoubtedly lure in the visitors due to their rich history and the possibility to experience the Biscayne bayside. On the other hand, Palmetto Bay features a vast selection of businesses and food locations which people can visit and enjoy their time at with their families. What allows these both worlds to work so well is the lack of distance between all of these things. As I personally was going through Palmetto Bay, I found that it did not take too much time at all to arrive at the next location which I was interested in viewing or visiting. Even without a car, I find that the people here are still able to arrive at their desired location relatively quickly, adding towards the success of the overall area.

Works Cited:

“Chinese Bridge Historical Marker.” Historical Marker, 16 June 2016, http://www.hmdb.org/m.asp?m=79320.

“History of Palmetto Bay: Palmetto Bay, FL.” Village of Palmetto Bay Florida, http://www.palmettobay-fl.gov/681/History-of-Palmetto-Bay.

“Palmetto Bay, FL.” Data USA, datausa.io/profile/geo/palmetto-bay-fl.

United States Census Bureau, http://www.census.gov/quickfacts/palmettobayvillageflorida.

“Welcome to Palmetto Bay: Palmetto Bay, FL.” Village of Palmetto Bay Florida, http://www.palmettobay-fl.gov/431/Welcome-to-Palmetto-Bay.

“Welcome to Thalatta Estate.” Welcome to Thalatta Estate | Thalatta Estate, http://www.thalattaestate.com/welcome-thalatta-estate.

Odesia por el Laberinto:
Journey of the soul to the New World

“Labyrinths are allegories for journeys representing ventures across time and space, from This World to the Otherworld and back”

Corelyn F. Senn (2002)

The journey of the soul beings already tainted by sin. According to Catholic doctrine sin entered the earthly world through the actions of one human, and we bare the responsibility for the disobedience of Adam’s second wife as the following generations (Roman 7:9-11).

The second half of the 15^th century brought political changes to Spain that would eventually domino into radical historical, political, and religious changes that we see in effect to this day. The marriage between Castilian heiress and Aragon heir, Isabella and Ferdinand II, in 1469 unified the two predominately powerful Catholic kingdoms occupying what is drawn with modern boarders as “España” . Note: this was not a marriage of love, it was essentially a power move.

The Kingdom of Spain now held one of the largest military fronts of in the developing Western world. The unification of the two largest regional powers during an era wrought with violence and conversion flavored the next two centuries for Europe, and the Americas. The spirit of crusader conquest had received its ‘second wind’ later in the previous century. The Holy Office of the Inquisition was founded in 1478.

For centuries prior to the official founding of the Inquisition, Spain had been a multi-religious land. Tensions over land between Moores, Jews, and Catholics accumulated between the 8th and 15th century. The Moores were pushed out with the fall of Granada in 1492. While there were some converts among the marginalized religious populations, the Catholics Monarchs lacked tolerance for this behavior deeming converts illegitimate Catholics due to their lack of ‘blood-purity.’

Conversion and conquest would become the dominate message emanating from the Kingdom of Spain entering the 16th century. Multiplicity within Spanish Catholicism mimicked the past religious diversity of the Iberian peninsula, including its instability. The Catholic message of the country was far from unified. However, the newly dominating Catholic Monarchs were essentially a medieval superpower. With an enormous military front and the backing of the Roman Catholic Church, Isabella and Ferdinand II moved forward with the Inquisition.

Architectural Styles

The architectural style of Medieval Spain encompassed predominate European traditions. Histories of great medieval Italian basilicas paved the ground work for a Spanish counterpart. Romanesque and Gothic flavored freestanding sculptures punctuate the grand spaces.  Simple bright light walls tied in luminescent Gothic architecture, yet it was distinctly flavored by its Moorish occupants.

From the West, Spain uses the traditional cross-shaped floor plan. This was, and still is the cannon for construction of Cathedrals across Europe and the world after its medieval conception. Vaulted ceilings, sculptural door jams, and catholic narratives typically dress the Cathedrals. Biblical stories are brought to life as Christ’s passions are depicted through frescos covering the walls. The artists tasked with adorning the Cathedrals walls did not shy away from the brutality Christ faced in his pious trials. The aim was to essentially ‘move’ individuals spiritually through intimidation tactics and a running narrative. Gothic traditions of a bright white luminescence work to literally light up the place, but also evoke the symbology of the color. White evokes purity in spirituality; the simplicity of the hue promote penance without distraction from over-ornamentation.

From the From the East-Moorish and beyond- the Spanish heavily borrow a variety of arch shapes and designs, as well as different forms of ornamentation from the same group they spend hundreds of years pushing out of the Iberian peninsula. Ogee, and lancet arches had long been appropriated by the Spanish which distinguish their style from other European styles. Voussoir arch ways, which were not original to Moorish architecture, yet regularly and incredibly used, became a staple in masterpieces like the baths at Albambra de Giralda. Rather than following in strict adherence to the Italian tradition of heavy sculptural reliefs on the door jams and archivolts, the Spanish used those surfaces as opportunities to employ the intricately precise geometric designs, and similarly designed coffers and corbels to show divinity. The Moorish and Western European elements are so well integrated that it becomes an architectural flavor that is distinct to the Iberian Peninsula.

Cathedrals in the New World

The first Cathedrals in the New World were put up as symbols of power from the missions sent through the Spanish Inquisition. They became institutions of conversion, education, and exploitation. The first monks of the Franciscan order reached New Spain early in the 16th Century and quickly began headway on building Cathedrals and Monasteries to house the new Catholic presence in the land.

Along with their patrons, the institutions built were distinctly Spanish in origin. Regardless of order, whether it be Franciscan, Dominican or Jesuit the structures still emanated the style seen across Spain’s holy buildings. Across the Atlantic ocean the spirit of Spain had made it, and embedded itself in the white walls, vaulted ceilings, and voussoirs that held up the enormous power of the Catholic church in the new world.

The sacred structures erected in South and Central America bear the flavor left on Spain by the Moores.  From the outside the new Cathedrals showed resemblance to discovered Moorish forts. The infrastructure is intimidating and solid, rendered in white. Sculptural decadence varies from structure to structure. However, a striking point to note is that when the ornamentation is included it is highly geometric-in Moorish fashion. This influence snowballs into the interior as well. The alters are gilded and decadent, simple and to the point. Ornamentation is non-objective, however it is balanced and vast giving viewers plenty to work with in terms of focus points for mediation. While a new Catholic may not be staring at a Christ figure they don’t recognize, they can recognize balance and perfection within shapes.

El Laberinto: Origins

El Laberinto, or the labyrinth, holds pagan origins, and can be traced back to the Island of Crete where the Minoan people lived an arguably decadent life free of strife. The original Labyrinth is associated with the palace of Knossos and the myth goes as follows:

The craftsman Daedalus created a Labyrinth to hold the Minotaur captive. To prevent the beast from attempting to escape and wreak havoc, the Minoan people performed a sacrifice each year. Children would be sent into the Labyrinth never to return.

An Athenian hero traveled to the Island of Crete and rid the utopian town off their filicidal habits in exchange for a pardon of Athenian debts to be paid to King Minos. Entering the labyrinth under the guidance of the King’s daughter Ariadne, Theseus slays the beast.

So, what does this mean for the origins and ultimate symbolism of the labyrinth?

It becomes a symbol of an elusive and darkly-rooted theme of playfulness and exploration. In the Cretan myth, the labyrinth acts as a tool to confuse and imprison the half-human-half-animal Minotaur. Children also cannot escape on their own. Only the already renowned ancient hero is triumphant, and even he requires help.

The Labyrinth also represents the heroes’ journey, theme with a long tradition with western culture. It lives in ancient mythologies and modern religions, as well as most stories of struggle in popular culture today. The meandering maze of Crete has not been found. Its story pervades, and since its conception Labyrinths have become features to religious structures ranging in doctrine.

Pilgrimage of the Spirit

The first Cathedrals were validated by the power of the relic they held. Holy relics are often artifacts of the Saints. Catholic pilgrims made their journey to bask in the holiness of these relics they would often meditate on why they were starting this voyage in the first place. Since Cathedrals were often city centers, medieval pilgrims would travel from far and wide for their individual spiritual journey..

Similarly, to the pilgrims of medieval Europe, the spirit of exploration and spirituality of Spain made a ‘pilgrimage’ backed by militant and religious power to the New World. This sentiment came to me when reflecting upon the unknown voyage monks took, as well as the unknown exploitation the indigenous people would face upon encountering the newcomers to their land. The rapid change occurring over the megacontinent of the Americas manifested itself in violence and oppression. But in the name of God? The indigenous people had their own religious practices that the Spanish essentially dismantled upon their arrival by appropriating and changing indigenous beliefs to fit that of Catholic doctrine.

Ancient symbols such as the Labyrinth encouraged the meditative process. It is a freestanding symbol of balance and perfection: chaos perfectly enclosed in a sphere. The shape is universally recognizable. It exists in nature, and it is a common language. The sphere represents the cycle of life and death, a never-ending journey, and in this case a journey of self-exploration. It inspired the piety of pilgrims as it provided them not only the time, but a visual symbol to associate their spiritual journey with. The Labyrinth contains a meandering maze that can be conquered by few but approached by all, it exists in religions across the globe, including Hindu folklore. Today its meditative qualities are the same and still in practice.

When I began doing research for this project, I wanted to find the oldest Catholic structure in Florida. It turned out to be a 12th Century Spanish Monastery that had been completed IN Spain in 1133 and later transported to North Miami Beach, Florida in the 1950’s. Exploring this cloister led me to a labyrinth deep in the Monastery grounds that as I walked, evoked thoughts within me of the first people to walk a Labyrinth in mediation and how the symbol even came to be. It soon became clear, as the spirit of journey, self-discovery and spirituality lives within all of us, and has persisted in humans since the dawn of time.

The Spanish invasion of the Americas brought pork, sugar, disease and colonization. It also brought new religion, spirituality, and a new language for searching for spirituality. Deities range across religions but geometry exists in the natural environment that surrounds us all.  Recognizing the beautiful and divine around us day to day was accentuated in this country through elaborately sculpted, geometric facades and interiors of the first Cathedrals of New Spain.

Citations:

Antonis Kotsonas. “A Cultural History of the Cretan Labyrinth: Monument and Memory from Prehistory to the Present.” American Journal of Archaeology 122, no. 3 (2018): 367. doi:10.3764/aja.122.3.0367.

Bayón, Damián, and Murillo Marx. History of South American Colonial Art and Architecture : Spanish South America and Brazil. Rizzoli, 1992.

Fiore, Jan. “A Sanctuary of Peace and Tranquility Miami’s Ancient Spanish Monastery.” Antique Shoppe Newspaper, June 2016.

Giffords, Gloria Fraser. Sanctuaries of Earth, Stone, and Light : The Churches of Northern New Spain, 1530-1821. The Southwest Center Series. University of Arizona Press, 2007. 

Senn, Corelyn F. “Journeying as Religious Education: The Shaman, the Hero, the Pilgrim, and the Labyrinth Walker.” Religious Education 97, no. 2 (January 1, 2002): 124–40.

Verstique, Bernardino. FOUR. Religion in Spain on the Eve of the Conquest. Austin: University of Texas Press, 2000.

STUDENT BIO

Dina Kencie Denord is a junior in the Honors College at Florida International University. Dina is double majoring in Psychology and Interdisciplinary Studies and loves to express herself through spoken word. Dina is a true linguaphile, speaking 5 (and a half!) languages. She hopes to one day use her ability to speak and understand these languages to assist immigrants and residents of low-income neighborhood anyway she can. 

GEOGRAPHY

North Miami is geographically situated ten miles north of the city of Miami and is directly to the left of Biscayne Bay. North Miami runs from NW 117^thAve down to Biscayne Bay and is often confounded with North Miami Beach. North Miami beach is directly above North Miami and the two are separated by a single street, NE 151^stSt. In terms of landscape, North Miami is naturally lush, due to the location by the bay. Unfortunately, development has run amuck in North Miami and that beauty is slowly fading away. As far as the urban landscape, North Miami is close to Aventura, which is full of large buildings, but the two neighborhoods are vastly different. North Miami is a primarily residential area, 

  
Map by US Census Bureau

Additionally, North Miami is surrounded by the following neighborhoods:

-Golden Glades and North Miami Beach (to the north)
– Opa-Locka to the northwest
-Sunny Isles Beach to the northeast
-Westview to the direct west
-Sunny Isles Beach, Biscayne Bay and Bay Harbor Islands to the direct east
-Westview to the southwest
-Biscayne Bay to the southeast
-Pinewood, Biscayne Park and other unincorporated parts of Miami Dade county to the direct south

HISTORY

Most know that Miami itself was founded by Julia Tuttle in 1896, with the help of Henry Flagler. The origins of North Miami are a bit different. Fort Dallas, originally a military post that dates back to the Seminole Wars, sat on the banks of the Miami River (it has since been moved to Lumus Park in Downtown Miami). The soldiers needed a path to go from Fort Lauderdale all the way back down to Fort Dallas, so they cut down a military trail. This trail attracted some pioneers, who saw it fit to set roots and name the area “Arch Creek”. 

In 1891, the first pioneer, a man known as Mr. Ilhe began to grow crops like bananas, shallots, apples and tomatoes. As more people came to settle in the area, a general store, roughly 15-20 homes and even two tomato packing businesses all came as well. What helped spawn this growth was the development of Mr. Flagler’s railroad that ran through the area. By 1924, when the Biscayne Bay Canal was dug, the residents of the community were unable to farm due to the soil changes (the canal removed the moisture that was so beneficial), so then came the big business boom. North Miami was incorporated in 1926 as the town of Miami Shores, but when the Miami Shores Village area incorporated as well, the name was forced to be changed (by the State of Florida) to North Miami. To clarify this: the Shoreland Company, an extremely wealthy land developer lobbied with the Florida State Legislature in 1931 to take the name of “Miami Shores”. 

North Miami truly developed and grew after World War II, with many veterans began to move into the area with their young families. This was incredible growth, with the town of North Miami being named the fastest growing city in America in 1951, and the name once again changed in 1953 to the City of North Miami. 

DEMOGRAPHICS

 North Miami is known for have an extremely large Haitian-American population. According to the last decennial census, more than 50% of the population of North Miami identifies as Black American or African-American. 33% identifies as White or Caucasian Hispanic, and the remaining percentage identifies as white non-Hispanic, Asian or other. North Miami is not a particularly wealthy community. The median income is very close to the national poverty line and roughly a quarter of the residents live below the poverty line. 

Generally speaking, the city is well balanced in terms of age and gender, with about 30% of the population being under 18, 12% between 18-24, 32 % from 25-44, 20% from 45-64 and 6% being 65 or older. It is quite evident that North Miami is more family focused just from seeing the demographics. 

The above photo is of Carmelita Germain, a resident of North Miami since 1975. Ms. Germain left Haiti in the early 1970s to come to the United States for a better life for herself and her children. She left her children in Haiti and came to the States to look for a job that would help sustain her family, as her husband was preparing to leave Haiti with the murmurs of the fall of the Duvalier regime. She moved around South Florida, coming to Miami first, then moving to Belle Glade (where there were more Haitians, as not many Haitians lived in North Miami back then) and up north to Maryland for a bit and back down to North Miami in 1975. Ms. Germain has lived here since, and has seen changes through the neighborhood- demographic and land development. She encouraged me to go to several local eateries to get a feel for not only the Haitian demographic of the area, but a feel for the area in general. 

LANDMARKS

In North Miami are the following landmarks:

• MOCA (Museum of Contemporary Art) which is located very close to the city hall, on NE 125^thST. MOCA was designed by an internationally celebrated architect and hosts several awe-inspiring pieces. 
• St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church, which is a Spanish monastery that originated in Segovia, Spain in 1141 AD, and was shipped to New York in 1925 and then to North Miami in 1964.  Today, the church is no longer a Catholic institution, but Episcopalian, and is also an event venue and tourist attraction. 
• Arch Creek Park, which contains the natural stone bridge that the aforementioned soldiers used as a landmark for the trail they built, but more importantly, was a trail that the Native Americans used. The park now contains a small museum that houses many artifacts, live animals and an original coontie mill (coontie is a naturally occurring cycad in Florida, and was grown and traded by the farmers of the area). It is also a very important archeological site for Miami Dade County. 
• Oleta River State Park, Florida’s largest urban park, is located directly on Biscayne Bay and is situated very close to the Biscayne Bay Campus of FIU. The river is very popular for canoeing and nature gazing.

GREEN
North Miami is full of parks and greenspaces. There are roughly 10-12 parks, and many preserved natural areas. Aforementioned are the Oleta State River Park and Arch Creek Park. Both are beautiful designated areas that honestly display the natural beauty of South Florida. The rest of the parks are partially man made or completely man made, but contribute to greenspace nonetheless and serve to be a communal space for families in the area. 

TRANSPORTATION

For the most part, transportation in North Miami is fairly balanced, with a portion of residents walking or cycling, a portion riding public transportation, and a portion who own and operate their own vehicles. On the several days that I visited North Miami, I had to maneuver how I would be able to make it to there. I drove on a few of the visits, I took the FIU Panther Express to the Biscayne Bay Campus of FIU and from there, I would walk or take an Uber to get to the heart of the city. I’ve taken the bus in North Miami, and the wait is not great, it can range between 20-30 mins. North Miami has its own transport bus, and it runs extremely well. There are also jitneys available throughout the city. Jitneys are small vans or buses that serve as transport vehicles where you can pay $1.50 (which is cheaper than the city bus) to get to different parts of the city, and it does not have specified stops, so you can get closer to where you need to be. Apart from those methods of public transport, it is very easy to get around on one’s two feet. Unlike other parts of Miami Dade County, North Miami has the right balance of suburban and city living, with everything being within walking distance from home. 

FOOD

As for authentic and great places to eat, North Miami is such a wonderful place to explore! The following restaurants are highly rated (by many and cosigned by myself):

• Cayard’s Bakery: A Haitian bakery that has been a staple of NoMi for well over 40 years, and it is a must go-to in my opinion. All of the meals are extremely affordable, but if you do go, expect to spend a while in line, because regardless of the day of the week, this spot is busy! Not only does the bakery have sweets galore, but they also serve bright, flavorful dishes that bring anyone’s heart home. 

• Finga Lickin’: Recently converted into a chain, this restaurant has become a favorite for many, as it was the first restaurant that DJ Khaled opened in 2015, and due to its incredible success with both locals and tourists, he has opened several more all over the US. 
• Chef Creole: This is a Haitian American staple in NoMi!! Serving authentic Haitian food, this spot is sure to please. From oxtail to all sorts of seafood, Chef Creole serves aptly seasoned food- that is a joy for the taste buds. 

BUSINESSES
As mentioned before, there are some wonderful businesses in North Miami. From colorful artwork to a quick screen repair, there are a plethora of small businesses to support the local economy. There are many Haitian restaurants (too many to list), small delis, and even quick stop cafeterias. My favorite part of North Miami is the fact that it is simple to find a local business for everything. From dollar stores to small shops that serve as a glance back home, being in North Miami is reminiscent of living in a small town. 

Some of my favorites are the Haitian barbershops, where you’ll find a heated discussion on the politics of the US or Haiti, or a vivid retelling of old country life in the outskirts of Port au Prince. 

SUMMARY
In taking a look at the neighborhood and comparing it to where I live, a lot more works here than where I live. Public transportation is much more accessible, and most stores are in walking distance. Additionally, there are more local small businesses to support, so personally, I feel like I am investing in my local economy much more. Most of the residential areas are nice, but due to so many people being pushed out of gentrified neighborhoods, not only are neighborhoods like North Miami packed, but some areas are attracting people who don’t have the best in mind for everyone. What doesn’t work is the lack of parking in some areas, and the overall cleanliness in some parts of the city. In going to one of my favorite bakeries, Cayard’s Bakery, I was not pleased to see grease and dumped water sitting on the side of the business like there wasn’t anywhere else to dispose of it. In conclusion, being able to reexperience North Miami and look at it from the scope of a visitor and not someone who is fairly used to the area was fantastic. It was a breath of fresh air to be able to speak to residents of North Miami and park my car and walk around. I truly enjoyed dipping into small businesses and investing my dollars into their economy. For Haitians, North Miami is a sliver of home. It is a glance at what Haiti could be like if the country was more organized, and most importantly, it is a vivid picture of the American Dream. The ability to come to the United States in pursuit of a better life, to rebuild and to live the way you only could imagine. 

Citations

“City of North Miami.” City of North Miami Files, http://www.northmiamifl.gov/docs/BidFiles/DataInventoryandAnalysis_12-21-07_RFQ371516.pdf.

“History.” Spanish Monastery, https://www.spanishmonastery.com/history.

Legends of America, https://www.legendsofamerica.com/fort-dallas-florida/.

US Census Bureau. “Households and Families: 2010.” The United States Census Bureau, 22 May 2018, https://www.census.gov/library/publications/2012/dec/c2010br-14.html.

“ Natives For Your Neighborhood Conservation of Rare Plants, Animals, and Ecosystems.” IRC – Natives for Your Neighborhood, https://www.regionalconservation.org/beta/nfyn/plantdetail.asp?tx=Zamiinte.

MADRID

Peace Through Strength by Sofia Guerra of FIU in Madrid, Spain

I landed in Madrid a few days before the program commenced, confident with my packed Osprey and extremely limited, broken Spanish in my arsenal. A desire to get away, learn about the ancient history of España and not-so-ancient mishmash of my own identity propelled me to leave all I’ve known for the last 21 years of my life. Madrid is a city foreign to me, one I’ve only experienced through class lectures, family stories and sparing Google searches. The steadily sustained microcosm of Miami pushed me to a point where I felt exhausted of the city and not what is going to propel the next phase of my life after graduation-so I ran.

Museo del Prado, arguably the crown jewel among Madrid’s art collections houses masterpieces from the Classical age through the dawn of Modern art. A carousel of Greek-inspired Roman sculptures welcome you to the museum, one of which is a marble representation of Antinous. A young Grecian of Bithynian decent, a poor boy turned God by the will of Hadrian greets you. 

Hadrian ruled during the 2nd century AD during and was part of a legacy of Emperors that maintained peace and growth for the empire. He grew up native to the lands that would become Spain, and once he gained power he spent most of his reign traveling, checking on his administrations, living among his soldiers and living in common spaces; a habit that would ultimately introduce him to his forever love, Antinous. 

The two continue Hadrians travels, the world is their oyster until one day on the Nile Hadrian had a close encounter with death. Hadrian began to drown, Antinous dives in to save him, and Hadrian’s soldiers follow. While Hadrian’s soldiers save their emperor Antinous is swept away by the river and drowns. 

Hadrian deifies Antinous, an honor reserved for Emperors after death. He names cities after his lost love to keep his memory alive. Hadrian defies tradition set out before him by elevating his poor foreign lover into a God to be covered, l living life far form his capital and living as a peer to his constituents. All these actions reveal and authenticity to his humanism. 

Madrid is nothing as I anticipated. The hustle and bustle of the city swept away my shallow confidence and replaced it with a wash of anxiety, confusion, and disorientation. What am I doing here and why would I put myself in this position, all by my own choosing? 

Rome was not built in a day. Greatness and growth take time, and both occur in the face of adversity. While the Madrid presented itself as a metropolitan rip-current, the desire one feels to broaden ones perspective should not be stifled.

Hadrian accomplished all he had through his exploration and understanding of himself and his people. An expansive empire rich with culture and peace are a result of this awareness, and sweet the stage for the development of modern Western history thousands of years later. While Antinous met a tragic end his divine status and plethora of namesake cities keep his legend of love and truth alive. The Roman Spaniard and his Grecian lover live on in Museo del Prado and the city of Madrid. Madrid, the capital of the country where my journey for inner peace will continue through the strength I gain, and will continue to gain in Hadrian’s native land.

TOLEDO

God almighty, all Mercy, in Toledo by Sofía Guerra of FIU in Toledo, España

Fungia– (n). fOOn-ja. An intense frown where both corners of the mouth almost reach the chin. Often accompanied by crossed arms, the evil eye, and a tantrum.

The thought of a building bringing one to tears may sound strange in concept, but when standing inside Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo it becomes much easier to grasp. 

When I hear the term “going to church” my thoughts take a time machine back to my childhood. I think of being no more than nine years old, and seeing every Easter morning, Good Friday, Noche Buena, and speckled Sundays of fights with my father, crossed arms and the hardest fungia I can muster plastered on my face. 

Waking up before even the sky is fully awake, frilly dresses with matching ribbons, and tight french braids slicked to my scalp were not on my child-minded To-Do list. As soon as I got a say, or protested just enough, the silent visits with God in our neighborhood church stopped. 

More than a decade later, with a few years of college-level Religion and Art History classes under my belt, I gained a deep founded appreciation for the Italian and French masterpieces of Catholic paintings, altarpieces, and cathedrals. I also gained the opportunity to stand inside the massively elaborate Cathedral of Santa Maria de Toledo, built in a Gothic style. 

Building of this masterpiece in the heart of Toledo began in the 13th century and took nearly 300 years to complete. The architects and artists were outsourced from Italian, French, and even Flemish craftsmen to assemble a group skilled enough to build a structure so large, and visually powerful to reflect the importance of Toledo as the Catholic center of the Western world in its era of conception. In a town ruled by the Bishop it exudes spiritual dominance, precisely what the role of Catholicism was during the reign of Felipe II.

On a chilly Wednesday morning I stand inside el Catedral at the west end. Tears stream down my face, my arms are crossed to constrain my chills, fungia-less, and with a full heart. The beauty and radiance of the gold-gilded altarpiece depict the passions and life of Christ in full sculptural relief, topped with a crucified Christ whose pain is so tangible my heart drops. I begin to understand how religion was such an immense force so many centuries ago, and still today. 

In a time when literacy was so rare, these sites are more than enough to guide someone silently, not only through the Cathedral but to a place of utter spiritual transcendence. 

SEVILLA

Juderia Wrought by the Holy Cross by Sofia Guerra of FIU in Sevilla, España

Barrio Santa Cruz, covered in bougainvillea vines, intricate wrought iron work, boutique shops and tapas bars. The humble abodes that line the streets are quaint and close knit due to the kissing streets that take you through el barrio.  The street get their name because they’re so close knit that if you walk side by side, you’d be kissing your company. 

“Juderia” spelled out on painted tiles in the Barrio Santa Cruz naming the yellow wall that separated the jewish community from the rest of Sevilla 600 years ago. Houses packed on top of each other, trying to make the most of every square inch, the street so narrow that you must walk single file if walking with company. The walkways open up to small plazas, the site of the Acts of Faith, torture tactics and tests of faith given before execution of jews, instilled by the Fernando and Isabela in 1481. The humble abodes are locked by jewish families, holding tight to their keys hoping one day they can return home from the violent persecution sparked by monk Ferdinand Martínez. 

The whitewash city of Sevilla is punctuated with strokes of yellow, and barred with wrought iron. It’s welcoming, homey, and offers a place to land, but it’s blood runs deeper than the vines on historically segregating walls, and is tangled with secrets of human atrocities that cannot be painted over with whitewash and yellow paint.

GRANADA

North African Paradise by Sofia Guerra of FIU in Granada, España.

A fort. 

A palace. 

Paradise. 

La Alhambra sits atop a hill, overlooking a whitewashed town in the mountainous valley it reigned over for nearly 800 years. However when walking into the ancient city one actually walks into paradise. 

Throughout Spain there are remnants of the Moorish occupation through the mudejàr style of tiling and calligraphy-a seemingly Islamic decorative style that is vacant of its true spiritual purposes. It developed by the will of Catholic monarchs who coveted the beauty, spirituality, and harmony accomplished by true Islamic craftsmen. However, these craftsman acted to please their patrons, violent enemies. Today La Alhambra is among the only places in Spain where you can still see the natural harmonious style of Islamic architecture and design used for its true intentions, communication with God.  

Shapes that a child becomes familiar with before they can even speak act as the building blocks to the entire palace and paradise of La Alhambra. One on top of the other, the square foundation of the building is spiraled to create circular tents, the original dwellings of the Moores who made their home in Spain after their landing in 711 AD.

Shapes visible in the plants that build a natural agricultural paradise construct the architectural beauty that stands as a true testament to the Muslim power that held the land longer than the Catholics did after their violent conquest of 1492. Catholics monarchs appropriated the natural, symmetrical, and harmonious style of tile decoration present in Islamic art to communicate to the heavens, just as they did with each consecutive conquest of Islamic land on the Iberian peninsula. Luckily when they conquered Alhambra they did not destroy it-they stole it. The messages inscribed in the red stones monument to divinity in nature can not be silenced, it is alive in the walls and domes of La Alhambra. 

BARCELONA

Moonlit Coasts: Miami to Barcelona by Sofia Guerra of FIU in Barcelona, España. Region of Catalonia

The dewy beach in the moonlight feels undeniably like the Miami shore lines past sunset. The Palmetto Expressway isn’t a 3-lane highway connecting Broward and Miami-Dade, it’s a pious man’s catholic masterpiece that has been under construction since 1882. The empanadas are incredible, the festivals are zesty and seductive, the city tempts you to become Catalonian. It brings out a need for rebellion and independence, self-searching and a strong spirit.

Annually on the 23rd night of June, the festival of San Joan light up the dark streets of Catalonia. As the sun starts to set a bonfire is ignited in a town square. The blaze is fueled by the ragdoll version of King Felipe IV, and the crowd erupts. Barcelona belongs to Catalonia, not Spain. A statement that sets the tone for the rest of the night- A flame-fueled night that honors an ancient tradition in worship of the summer solstice. A night of whimsy that caps of the year’s longest day. Reverence to San Joan is a mask. This 23rd night of June has been celebrated before Catholicism dominated the region, as a pagan tradition honoring the giving sun and all it has to offer.

As the night progressed, I found myself to be more and more separated from who I am, or who I thought I was and being surprised at how much I truly enjoyed it. To top it all off, a 3 AM subway scuffle created the perfect opportunity for petty theft as a stranger slipped my phone out of my pocket, truly forcing me to disconnect.  taking me away from any connection to home.

The Catalonian spirit transcends its history, folklore, and present-day politics. A region represented by a blood-soaked shield is not to be taken lightly. The passion, determination, and vivacity of the land lingers, infects its inhabitants and drives them to become the core of themselves-their freest selves. Just as one comes to the capital, Barcelona, riddled with the trials and tribulations of life and leaves cleansed by the fire of the little devils running through the town. Change, identity, and truth are undeniable. Strong as a bull, but free as the capital’s bat, no one can clip the wings of Catalonia.

sitges

Sea-Salted heart of Charles by Sofia Guerra of FIU in Sitges, España. Region of Catalonia.

How one man’s whim took  heart and soul of Catalan art away from its roots.

How one man’s carelessness used the Marciel treasure to quench his debts

How one man’s project lacked vision. 

How one man’s life brought us El Greco’s to the US.

From 4Gats in a narrow side street down Portal de l’Angel, to a waterfront home in Sitges, Charles Deering was living life like a turn of the century Modernisme artist. He passed time in cafes bumping elbows with Picasso and Casas before traveling throughout Europe with Ramon Casas.

Destination: Cau Ferrat, Santiago Rusiñol’s home and masterpiece. Artist and art collector Rusiñol left his own mark in the churning culture wars of the 1900s with his “House of Iron,” a Temple of Modernisme. 

Sitges blue and hand painted dishes cover the walls of Rusiñol’s Iron-clad heart. His collection holds medieval Italian treasures used as commonplace furniture, El Greco’s welcomed with a procession modeled after those for Corpus Christi, and masterpieces of his own hand. Rusiñol’s artistic eye dives deeper and is driven by his heart and soul. Piece by piece he created his own corner of the world along the Mediterranean coast, with a view of the sea that fades into his ultramarine walls and into his heart. 

Deering saw this artist’s life work come together on the coast of Sitges. He placed an offer on the Cau Ferrat, but Rusiñol refused to sell his heart’s collection. Deering took his money for Cau Ferrat and settled on being neighbor to Rusiñol’s ultramarine beauty. Rusiñol’s Iron masterpiece was dwarfed by the massive palace, Palau de Marciel- of the sea and sky.

Such a palace became a dwelling for what would be referenced as Marciel’s Treasure, a nearly encyclopedic collection of Spanish art and artifacts. An American man, rich with family money gained access and ownership to some of the most treasured Spanish artifacts, some artworks in themselves. After setting out on this mission to create such an extensive, culturally rich place, personal circumstances him to pack up his treasure and move it across the Atlantic.

Charles Deering’s heart did not lie in Sitges the say Rusiñol’s did. He saw everything he experienced in that quaint beach town with his eyes and wallet. He didn’t let the salty air, thick with Catalan penetrate his comfort zone and slow him down, and settle roots in Sitges. His vision did not end in Sitges because it never belonged to Sitges to begin with.

Off of 152nd street in Miami, the nature preserve and the Chinese bridge lead you to the Deering Estate: the ultimate fruition of his vision. The waterfront home is inspired by Cau Ferrat, overlooking Biscayne Bay. From the back porch all of Biscayne Bay spills into Charles Deering’s heart.