Toledo

What a magnificent city.  This world heritage town dates back 2500 years with a rich history of Romans, Moorish, Jewish and Christian populations.  The old town itself is surrounded by walls and then the Tajo River which flows down to Portugal. Delightful old foot bridges crossover the river to the old town to add to the charm. The old town is very walkable with windy narrow streets meandering up and down the hill. Streets are rough cobblestone and it beats me how the locals navigate them in high heel shoes.

In the am we did a bit of a tour with the local guide visiting the site of El Grecos masterpiece ,The Burial of the Count of Orgaz painted in 1586 depicting the artists conception of the transition from heaven to earth.  We spent some time n the Jewish synagogue which had at one time been converted into a Catholic Church when the Christians forced the Jewish people to either convert or leave the country.  The favorite stop was the Toledo Cathedral .  It is the second largest in Spain and is absolutely awesome. The alter and choir were beautiful but the highlight for me was behind the alter where a large hole was cut in the ceiling to allow the light in for mass. The sculptures adorning this opening and the back of the alter are a mix of heaven and earth. A highlight is a large alabaster carving of the last supper which is larger than life.  One could spend days in here and not see it all

We wandered the streets enjoying a traditional meal of the area including partridge and venison.  Our exploring took us along the walls of the city and out onto an ancient bridge crossing the river. After a wine tasting in the cellar of our hotel several of us ventured out to enjoy sights of the city that were lit up. All and all an amazing day.

Cathedral

The last supper

Gateway into Toledo 

Ancient footbridge leading into town

Steeple at night 

Cathedral door model made completely of marzipan the local delicacy.