strictly Segovia

According to my 1970s guide book to Spain, Segovia has three things to recommend it; (i) the Alcazar (see yesterday’s blip), (ii) the Roman aqueduct, which runs through much of the city (see extra) and (iii) roast suckling pig.  Almost every restaurant we tried had it on the menu.  

If I were updating that guide book I’d add a wonderful and clearly thriving, local dance culture.  We wandered into the Plaza Mayor around midday just as a band were doing a sound check.  Throngs of people in colourful costumes were practicing their moves or chatting to family and friends.

The band were great - a 5-piece playing guitars, a side drum and some sort of wind instrument and singing fabulous harmonies.  So we grabbed a table at one of the many cafes surrounding the Plaza and waited for the show to begin.

What was most striking to us was how well the audience (of all ages) knew the dance steps and were quite happy to join in.  I simply cannot imaging that happening back home.

Anniemay has a wonderful shot of the dancers on stage.

We leave Castile and Leon tomorrow.  Sancho Panza and I will climb aboard Rocinante and head south to La Mancha.