Monday, May 30, 2011

Since the night before was a late one, I slept in until noon – which is just crazy, but since it’s my vacation I’ll take it. I had a lovely breakfast in the hotel and then went out for a day of walking all over Madrid, sightseeing, and enjoying this fabulous city.

Reina Sofia
Much of the afternoon was spent in the fabulous Museo Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, where I learned a tremendous amount of history about Dali and Picasso. In addition to seeing the famous Le Geurnica. Here’s a photo montage of my favorite paintings.

Reina Sofia

Miro

The Invisible Man by Dali

A World by Santo Torroella

La Jorneta by Dali

Dead Birds by Picasso

Woman’s Head (painting and sculpture) by Picasso

Infinity Mirrored Room – Filled with the Brilliance of Life by Kusama
I’m the silhouette to the right

Moment of Regeneration by Kusama

And of course the impressive La Guernica by Picasso
(not my picture, since photos aren’t allowed)

Botanical Garden
After a few wonderful hours in the Reina Sofia I walked through the Botanical Gardens for tour of flora and fauna.

I indulged in a run through the park for a few miles, which was lovely. By the time I got back the Museo Prado was closed so I ran up and down the stairs a few times. It was a gorgeous end to the evening.

Dinner at El Mollette
An article in the New York Times sent me to El Mollette with the review “The restaurant, set in an old charcoal cellar, has space only for 26 diners and is always full (Calle de la Bola, 4; 34-91-547-7820). Put yourself in the hands of the owner, Tomás Blanco, and hope he will serve you mollete (fried bread in oil), Gorgonzola croquettes, artichokes and scallops, and, of course, huevos rotos.” How could I resist? Tomás did take care of me and brought all sorts of goodness including the huevos rotos to my table.

Tomás at the bar

Upstairs

My table and wine

Photo of me, by Tomás Blanco

Stylish Walk
After dinner I took a long walk (in heels) from the nearby Palace to the hotel. It was a gorgeous night filled with music, people, and lovely sightseeing.

Palacio Real at night

Opera House

My accordion player

Pachelbel, Canon in D