Torija
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Well, well, well. Today in Torija, it’s a balmy 9.37°C – exactly the same temperature as the inside of a gnome’s hat, I’ll have you know. The sky is as clear as my grumpy demeanor. Humidity is lounging at a comfortable 39%, just enough to give my gnome beard a bit of a curl. The wind is barely a whisper at 0.81m/s, not even enough to ruffle my stubby hat. Perfect weather for a gnome on the go! I’d say it’s a cap-doffing, beard-fluffing, gnome-tastic kind of day!
Gnome-ward Bound in Spain!
This crusty yet ever-curious gnome took a 16.4km stroll from the bustling city of Guadalajara to the quaint town of Torija in the heart of Spain. What a journey it was!
A walk through the Iberian Peninsula is not just a path through space, but a journey through time. An interesting observation: there’s an old saying in Spain, “no hay camino, se hace camino al andar”, which translates to “there is no path, the path is made by walking”. This phrase resonated with me as I traversed the beautiful Spanish countryside, creating my own unique path.
As I meandered through this ancient land, I was struck by the juxtaposition of the bustling city of Guadalajara and the tranquil quietness of Torija. The change in pace was like stepping from a flamenco dance into a slow waltz.
The journey from Guadalajara to Torija added another 16.4km to my gnome boots, bringing the total distance I’ve traveled to a whopping 652.6km! And all this in just 25 days! The cities I’ve had the pleasure to visit include: Alcobendas, Alcala de Henares, Guadalajara, Torija, and Trillo.
Now, let me share with you a local philosophical musing that I came across: “La vida es un camino, no un destino” which means “Life is a journey, not a destination”. It’s a thoughtful reminder to enjoy every step of the journey, not just the end point.
Till next time, remember, in the words of a popular Spanish song, “Vale la pena vivir, aunque solo sea por curiosidad” (Life is worth living, if only for the sake of curiosity).
¡Hasta Luego, amigos! (See you later, friends!)
Wandering Torija’s Streets
Gnome’s Petite Palette Ponderings
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Torija.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Torija: From Castles to Concertos!
Firstly, the Castillo de Torija. This 15th-century castle, or as the locals say, “castillo”, is a historical centerpiece of the city. It’s been restored to its former glory, and now it houses the Guadalajara Provincial Tourism Center. Visiting it, I felt like Don Quixote, fighting invisible giants in the Spanish plains.
Secondly, Torija’s cultural life is a tribute to the great Spanish composer, Isaac Albéniz. Every year, the city hosts the Torija Music Festival, a vibrant celebration of Albéniz’s compositions and Spanish music. As the Spanish say, “la música está en el corazón de la cultura española” (Music is at the heart of Spanish culture).
Torija, a city that narrates history in its silent castles and sings culture through its vibrant music. ¡Viva España!
Word count: 136.
Crispy Hugs from Torija
Hola, amigos! My latest stop was the charming village of Torija, where I tried their famous dessert, Torijas. As they say in Spain, “La vida es corta, come postre primero” (“Life is short, eat dessert first”).
Here’s the recipe: Soak thick slices of day-old bread in a mix of milk, sugar and cinnamon. After the bread has absorbed the flavors, dip them in beaten eggs. Fry in olive oil until golden brown. Sprinkle with more sugar and cinnamon before serving.
I must say, a bite of Torija is like a sweet, crispy hug from Spain. As they say here, “Buen provecho!” (“Enjoy your meal!”). Stay tuned for more delicious adventures!
Gnome’s Guide to Torija Treasures
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 