Nathaniel Boettcher is a student at Arizona State University and is a current ISA Featured Photo Blogger. He is currently studying abroad with ISA in Sevilla, Spain.
When I first arrived in Madrid, the initial stop before my study abroad destination of Sevilla, I knew that the immense beauty of rich historical sites were finally within my grasp.
During my first two days in Madrid, I walked over 25 miles visiting the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum to see its impressive collection of 20th century vanguard art along with the Prado Museum, San Jerónimo el Real, the Temple of Debod, the San Miguel Market, the Gran Retiro Park, and countless other Madrileño attractions.
I recommend walking the city; it’s very common in Spanish culture and you can really take in everything that you see. If you arrive in Madrid at the historic Antocha Train Station, take a moment to stop into El Brillante restaurant across the street for a bocadillo de calamares (calamari sandwich). Right next door you’ll find the Reina Sofia Museum, where Pablo Picasso’s famous anti-war painting Guernica is on display.
After seeing the sights in Madrid, we spent a day in Toledo, arguably one of the oldest and most culturally significant cities in all of Europe. In 1986, the entire city was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its importance to the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim cultures.
Arriving into my new town of Sevilla, I first visited was the magnificent Plaza de España in María Luisa Park. Built in 1929 for the Ibero-American Exposition, it was the crown jewel of the times.
Continuing my journey to observe Spain’s historic beauty, this past weekend I took a trip to Ronda. The town’s winding streets, sheer cliffs, and ancient architecture were breathtaking.
I can’t wait to see where I go next!
The world awaits…discover it.