Gutsy Gladiators and Spanish Bulls or the History of Cartagena
Just off the Mediterranean coast, in the Region of Murcia, is the Spanish city of Cartagena. In addition to its natural seaport, the ancient city of Cartagena was strategically important to both Carthage and Rome due its close proximity to rich silver mines during that period of time. From Carthaginians, to Romans, to Moors, the Mediterranean city of Cartagena has a very long and colorful history. Visitors entering the city today will find remnants of that glorious past in the form of murals, mosaics, and Roman ruins. Perhaps the most fascinating of all is the Roman theatre of Cartagena which was only uncovered in recent years.
The Roman Theatre of Cartagena
The Roman Theatre of Cartagena was built between 5 and 1 B.C., at the times of Gaius and Lucius, the grandsons of Caesar Augustus. In the 3rd century A.D., a market was built over the theatre and then a cathedral in the 12th century. It wasn’t until the 1990s that excavations were begun to restore the site to its former glory. (more…)
Posted in Adventurous Places, Europe, Historical Journeys and tagged Cartagena, Spain by Big John with no comments yet.
A Flower in the Spanish City of Malaga
Lying on the Costa Del Sol (Coast of the Sun), within the Mediterranean, is the beautiful Spanish city of Malaga. This southernmost large European city is the birthplace of many notable persons to include Pablo Picasso and Antonio Banderas. Malaga’s history spans back some 2,800 years, making it one of the oldest cities in the world. With my stunning señora by my side, I set out on foot to explore all of the city’s splendor and ageless beauty.
Big John and Rebecca set out to explore the beautiful Spanish city of Malaga. (more…)
Posted in Europe, Adventurous Places and tagged Malaga, Spain by Big John with no comments yet.
Touring Barcelona
Barcelona is the largest city in the Catalonia region of Spain. With a population of 1.6 million people within its city limits, this is easily the largest metropolis on the Mediterranean Sea. When Rebecca and I arrived in late June, the weather was extremely warm and pleasant. Donned in comfortable sneakers, tanktops, and sneakers, we put down some serious miles during our two-day walking tour of these historic streets.
The Columbus monument, built in 1888 for the World Exposition, honors Christopher Columbus’ first voyage to the Americas.
This monument was the first landmark we encountered as we left the Barcelona Port and entered into the city. This iconic symbol commemmorates the historical voyages of Christopher Columbus who reported his findings to Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand V in Barcelona, Spain after his first trip to the newly discovered continent. (more…)
Posted in Adventurous Places, Europe and tagged Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain by Big John with 2 comments.
Summer Scenes in the Port City of Ibiza
Of all the Balearic islands, Ibiza is the one that most often comes to mind when considering that go-to-place for some serious fun in the sun. This archipelago of Spain is well known for its lively nightlife, electronic music, and spectacular beaches. The island has become a playground for the rich and famous from around the globe; attracting the likes of Justin Bieber, Orlando Bloom, and more. But if the party scene isn’t exactly your thing, don’t allow Ibiza’s rambunctious reputation to steer you clear from her friendly shores. Ibiza is also home to quiet villages, superb restaurants, great shopping, and an entire fortified city full of fascinating history.
It was a beautiful summer day in June when Rebecca and I took to exploring the streets of this Mediterranean hotspot. With a Spanish sun bearing down on us hard, tanktops and shorts became the order of the day! (more…)
Posted in Adventurous Places, Europe and tagged Ibiza, Spain by Big John with 1 comment.