Montalbán
Last Week on the Road
My Epic Journey So Far
Today’s Weather Report
Well, I’ll be a gnome’s uncle! It’s a nippy 12.26°C here in Montalbán, feels more like 10.66°C to my gnome-y senses. Scattered clouds above, a bit like my thoughts after a long walk. Ah, that 43% humidity – just enough to keep my ceramic skin glowing! And the wind at 3.74 m/s? It’s like a gnome-sized treadmill for me. Keeps me from gaining too much moss, you see. All in all, it’s a fine day to be a gnome on the go!
Spanish Stroll: Gnome-where Bound!
It’s your favorite wandering gnome, Oliver, once again. My wee legs have carried me another 52.5 kilometers, from the charming village of Santa Eulalia, Spain, to the historic town of Montalbán.
Along this stretch of my journey, I came across a group of sunflowers standing tall and bright in the open fields. It’s not just the sight of these radiant flowers that intrigued me, but their silent philosophy. As the Spanish saying goes, “El sol no se puede tapar con un dedo.” Translation: “You can’t cover the sun with a finger.” These sunflowers reminded me that no matter where we go, it’s important to keep our faces towards the light, even when the skies are gray. As a gnome, I can certainly vouch for that!
On my way, I hummed an old Spanish folk song, “De Colores.” The lyrics, “De colores, de colores se visten los campos en la primavera” translates to “In colors, in colors the fields dress up in spring.” It felt like I was singing a tribute to the vibrant Spanish countryside.
So here I am, in Montalbán, having covered an overall distance of 852.9 kilometers over the course of 31 days. The flavors of Trillo, Beteta, and Santa Eulalia still linger in my memories as I move forward on my journey.
Remember, my dear friends, “No hay camino, se hace camino al andar.” In English, “There is no path, the path is made by walking.” So, let’s keep strolling and rolling.
Hasta la próxima vez (Until next time),
Oliver, the Travelling Gnome
Wandering Montalbán’s Streets
Gnome’s Charming Dabble
Painted en plein air while taking in the sights of Montalbán.
— Oliver the Gnome, aspiring artist
Montalbán: Picasso’s Colorful Fortress!
Firstly, I was enchanted by the Castillo de Montalbán. Built in the 12th century, this fortress sits proudly atop a hill, whispering tales of Spain’s glorious past. As the Spaniards say, “El pasado es un prólogo” (The past is a prologue).
Secondly, I was moved by the city’s deep connection to the world-renowned painter, Pablo Picasso. I learned that Picasso’s mother was from Montalbán, and the city’s vibrant colors and unique landscapes have often been cited as significant influences on his art. As Picasso himself once said, “Todo lo que puede ser imaginado es real” (Everything that can be imagined is real).
So, there you have it, my dear wanderers. A city that is as much a fortress as a canvas, Montalbán is truly a gem in Spain’s crown.
Lisps, Siestas, & Gnome Necessities!
Hola amigos! I’m in Montalbán, a charming Spanish town where they speak, you guessed it, Spanish! Let’s dive into a mini language lesson, shall we?
1. Buenos días (Bwen-os Dee-ahs): “Good day!” Start your day with a smile and this cheery greeting.
2. Gracias (Grah-see-ahs): “Thank you.” Spread the politeness around, just like how you’d sprinkle water on your garden.
3. ¿Dónde está el baño? (Don-deh es-tah el banyo): “Where is the bathroom?” Essential for any traveling gnome!In Montalbán, like in many parts of Spain, they speak Castilian Spanish. It’s full of lispy sounds, so your “c” and “z” sound like “th”. For example, cerveza (beer) sounds like “ther-vay-tha”.
And remember, the Spanish love their siestas. So, don’t be surprised if the town goes quiet in the afternoon. They’re not being rude, just recharging their batteries!
Hasta la vista, baby! (See you later!)
Montalbán’s Gnome-tastic Marvels!
See you tomorrow!
Around the World on Foot, in Many, Many Days 