I've always loved architecture, and the Palacio Real was a gorgeous piece of work. However, the outside of it was no match for the inside, and I sorely wish I would've been able to take pictures. The regal rooms, filled with elaborate decorations, stunning artwork, painted ceilings and gigantic chandeliers was simply breathtaking. Imagine, actually living in a place like this! I could hardly wrap my mind around the concept. As beautiful as the palace was, I don't think I'd ever be able to comfortably live in such an... elegant environment. After all, it wouldn't seem at all acceptable to trudge through those artistic corridors in my wrinkled pajamas.
I eagerly listened to the tour guide, trying to imagine a time of king and queens. The history of Spain was fascinating to me... the king that had fallen in love with his cousin, the clock-collecting Carlos, the way the palace had been built as a defense against Christians... I was swept away in a tide of history, overwhelmed and eager to know more. First, we took a short break in the Plaza Mayor, and I was absolutely delighted in the performances and the Disney figures walking about. It felt more cultural, seeing these little shops and performances of Spain.
Afterwards, the museum slaked some of my thirst for knowledge. I enjoyed learning about the paintings as much as I enjoyed looking at them. I have to say, however, that my favorite artist by far was Goya and his series of Black Paintings. As an admirer of the morbid and the human mind, looking upon Goya's transformation from regal, royal family portraits to these rather disconcerting Black Paintings was simultaneously unsettling and fascinating. I was told that he painted these on the wall, and I imagined him doing so. Fingers, dripping in black paint, sweeping across the wall with steady precision, transforming the once blank wall into the god Saturn, his teeth gnawing and his greedy hands clutching the bloodied body of his own son...
It hadn't taken long for me to grow fond of Madrid. It was a different experience, an exciting city, and still I looked forward to seeing more.
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