Madrid
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Hola from Madrid, where it’s a nippy 16.13°C, but feels more like 15.1°C to my gnome skin. Clear skies above, but let me tell you, the humidity at 50% is playing havoc with my beard! And the wind at 1.54 m/s? Barely enough to ruffle my hat! I must say, this weather is “clear-ly” not designed for a gnome of my stature… or lack thereof! Ah well, off to find a nice garden to nap in. Adios amigos!
Madrid Mischief: Gnome Away from Gnome!
I’ve just completed a 16.4km journey from the bustling city of Fuenlabrada. My tiny gnome feet have never known such hustle and bustle! The transition from the industrial heart of Fuenlabrada to the cultural and historical richness of Madrid was like stepping from one world into another.
One fascinating observation I must share is the iconic Cybele Palace in Madrid. I’m a gnome, so I’ve seen a fair share of gardens in my day, but the beauty of this place took my breath away. Or maybe it was the lack of oxygen due to my small size, who knows?
Over the past three weeks, I’ve been a guest in the beautiful towns of Sotillo de la Adrada, Cadalso de los Vidrios, Fuenlabrada, and now Madrid. I’ve covered a whopping 574 kilometers, and every step has been worth it.
Here’s a local phrase I’ve picked up during my journey: “No hay camino se hace camino al andar” (There is no path, the path is made by walking). The wisdom in these words reminds me that our journey is what we make of it, not just the destination.
Speaking of language, crossing the border into Madrid was seamless, no language changes. It was all Español, all the way!
Allow me to leave you with a little verse from a local song I picked up: “De Madrid al cielo, y en el cielo un agujerito para verlo” (From Madrid to heaven, and in heaven a little hole to see it). It captures the Madrileños’ love for their city, a sentiment I wholeheartedly share.
Till my next post, keep exploring, keep learning, and as they say in Madrid, “no pierdas el norte” (don’t lose your north)!
Hasta luego, amigos!
Wandering Madrid’s Streets
Gnome-Guided Madrid Mischief
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Madrid.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Madrid: Royal Guard, Artful Dodger!
Madrid is not just Spain’s capital; it’s a treasure trove of stories that date back centuries. One of the most fascinating things about this city is the Palacio Real, the official residence of the Spanish Royal Family. You’ll be awestruck by its grandeur! Don’t miss the Changing of the Guard, a spectacle that harks back to the days of yore.
But Madrid is not just about the past, it’s a vibrant hub for the arts. The city is home to the Museo del Prado, one of the finest art galleries in the world. Here, you’ll find masterpieces by Goya and Velázquez, two of Spain’s most celebrated artists.
“Madrid es una ciudad de contrastes, donde la historia y el arte se encuentran en cada esquina.” (“Madrid is a city of contrasts, where history and art meet at every corner.”)
Madrid’s Belly-Warming Symphony!
Hola amigos! From the heart of Spain, in the city of Madrid, I bring you a classic local dish, Cocido Madrileño. A perfect winter warmer!
Primero (first), you’ll need garbanzo beans, chorizo, morcilla, beef, and a variety of veggies.
Pon los garbanzos a remojo la noche anterior (Soak the garbanzo beans overnight). Al día siguiente, cocínalos con la carne y las verduras (the next day, cook them with meat and veggies).
Añade el chorizo y la morcilla en los últimos 30 minutos (Add the chorizo and morcilla in the last 30 minutes).
As we say here, “Barriga llena, corazón contento” (Full belly, happy heart).
So, my friends, enjoy this Cocido Madrileño, it’s a true taste of Madrid! Hasta la próxima (Until next time)!
P.S. Don’t forget to pair it with a robust Spanish vino tinto (red wine). It’s a match made in heaven!
Madrid’s Gnome-tastic Gems
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 