Sunday, August 1, 2004 9:15 am near Monsaraz, Alentejo, Portugal
Slept in a little later today – the larger bed helps.
Once again sitting under the Alentejo’n sun as I write me notes – as I’m visited by ants. Very peaceful out here. It would be amazing star gazing if the full moon weren’t here, but that’s nice also. I am sure the photos won’t capture the overall effect of sitting by the pool at night sipping wine with Monsaraz i the distance beyond the palms with the full moon shining over it all.
Yesterday morning we rose fairly early, but no success on getting off quickly. It was almost noon by the time we left. M & GL were waiting for the fresh bread for breakfast. Just when we had given up, it showed at 11ish. so we had to have fresh bread; still warm sourdough at 1.05E / loaf.
We didn’t get the phone # for our B&B in Sitra to give M&GL since Jane had gone to town, but we know where they are as of Tuesday so we will contact them.
At this moment Michael is photoing a very large grasshopper (locust) right up close – within 6 inches – that is sitting on the chair across from me.
My ankle rash is back – and Marucia has it also. Not sure if it is heat rash or due to some plant.
First we stopped by and bought some pottery. We arrived just as he was about to close for lunch. I hope it all makes it back to Canada intact. I really like – wish I could take even more home.
Then off to Evora. We parked right next to the aqueduct. The houses are now built right into it. Would be a really neat place to live – in a Roman aqueduct! We walked up to the Se (accent aigu) – you can always find them since they are on the highest ground. It is very interesting since it is asymmetrical. One tower is typical square peaks and the other triangular. The cathedral inside was very impressive. The building was large, but the best was the alter area. All marble with many different colours and patterns all used systematically and matched. Next you can go to the museum with the religious artifacts. Then up to the rooftop (56 steps up the spiral) for a great view of the surroundings. Quite cool to walk on the rooftops. Finally you can go through the cloister. Again you can go up onto the minor roof and look down into the halls around the fountain. Bishops from as recently as 1966 are entombed here. And oh yes…. we first visted the Roman ruins in behind the Se.
We went to the tourist info to ask about film -Mike needs even more! Tried the photo store downtown which was ridiculously expensive (14.30E for one roll). We walked back to the car and stopped for ice cream/ coffee / desserts (7E and decided to head for the antiquities beyond (west of) Evora. We found them easily by following the signs. First a little hike took us to the vertical single stone – we expect it is a phallic symbol used in fertility rights. Then we continued on to the circle of stones. There are currently 96 of them which are dated between 5 & 4 thousand years B.C. They mark the equinoxes and perhaps were used as crude astrological markings. Some stones are carved – but I’m not sure how they know when the carvings were done. One stone appeared to possibly have been a sacrifice stone, but I suspect that it may just have fallen over.
Then back to Monte Branco for dinner & pool & wine around the pool. Michael chatted with Frances who attends school in Lisboa for communication Technology. Jane is a real estate agent I believe and has sold a couple just this week.
Anyway, time for breakfast. No real plans for today as yet – a first I think!
Bon Dia.