Sunday, 4 January 2015

Monument to Miguel de Cervantes

Plaza de España, Madrid

This is a tribute to Miguel de Cervantes, Spanish writer of the world famous novel of Don Quixote de la Mancha and his trusty squire, Sancho Panza. In front is the bronze statues of Don Quixote on his horse, Rocinante and Sancho Panza on his mule, Rucio. Behind them a is statue of Cervantes himself, looking over his creations.

On either side of Cervantes, on their own pedestals, are the two "true loves" of Don Quixote - the simple peasant girl Aldonza Lorenzo and the beautiful imaginary Dulcinea del Toboso he imagines Aldonza to be.

On the other side of the obelisk is a statue of Isabella of Portugal, the only wife of Charles V. She ruled Spain while Charles V was away fighting battles.

The globe which crowns the obelisk is supported by figures representing five continents, a tribute to the spreading of the Spanish language – and the translations of Cervantes literature - all over the world into so many other languages.

In the background is the Madrid tower or “Torre de Madrid” - an iconic landmark of Madrid.

All set, of course, in incredible beauty.

I had thought that by travelling in December I would miss out on some of the best that Spain had to offer, but I was oh so oh so oh so wrong.  Antonio referred to December as Spain's autumn - and how wonderful that was proven to be.  I got it by luck, not planning.

Click on pictures for highest enjoyment.







 

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