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CAMINO DEL CID (The Route of El Cid)
Rodrigo D�az de Vivar, was a warrior, a Medieval knight, a man of courage, and a living legend. He is best known in the History of Spain by his nick name El Cid Campeador (my sire the Champion). This title was obtained by his heroic deeds. His exploits proved him to be almost invincible in combat. El Cid spent his life fighting the enemies of his lords and the moors out of the Christian kingdoms.
Soon jesters travelled the peninsula telling stories praising his life. Unfortunately only one of these oral praises has partly survived, which is known as El Cantar del Mio Cid (The Song of My Sire). Originally it was a poem to be sung. It describes with rich vocabulary and deep admiration his long struggling life.
Rodrigo was born in Vivar, 10 kms north of Burgos, where his noble family lived and he died in Valencia, far from his ancestors’ homeland in 1099. Burgos, deeply proud of its hero this year celebrates the 900th anniversary of his death.
The Cid Route follows the many paths he rode and passes by every place mentioned in the song. It starts in Vivar goes through Burgos and down south to San Pedro de Carde�a, Covarrubias, Santo Domingo de Silos, San Esteban de Gormaz, Berlanga de Duero, Atienza... it also extends East and West to include every site he lived, fought or conquered. Many of these places still hold his name such as El Poyo, La Iglesuela or Villafranca del Cid. The Route includes sites and cities in the provinces of Burgos, Soria, Guadalajara, Zaragoza, Teruel, Castell�n, Alicante and Valencia.
In one part of the poem the jester refers to El Cid saying : "My good abbot, if you see people looking after me, tell them to follow my trail and start the walk, for both in wastelands and in populated places they will easily reach us"....... thus referring that he is not fleeing from anyone. But these verses can be applied to any traveller as well. Follow his trail enjoying the beauty of the land, visit the same places the great warrior passed by and learn an interesting chapter in the History of Spain.
For more information contact: Excma. Diputaci�n de Burgos, Phone 00 34 947 20 97 44, Fax 947 26 50 69.
VEL�ZQUEZ COMMEMORATIONS
SEVILLA
From 1 October until 12 December a series of Vel�zquez works from all over the world will be exhibited in the Cartuja de Santa Mar�a de las Cuevas in Sevilla to celebrate the 400th anniversary of his death.
The exhibition shows Vel�zquez’s influences on his first artworks from the 16 th century Flemish painters, the painters who shared his artistic and social circles, such as his teacher Francisco Pacheco and the works Vel�zquez painted while living in Sevilla before moving to the court.
Opening hours are from 9am until 9pm, and people wanting to see the exhibition should buy or reserve tickets in advance. For further information contact Tel: 00 34 95 448 0611.
ENGRAVINGS ON VEL�ZQUEZ WORKS IN C�RDOBA
Until 31 October a collection of engravings by Goya and Fortuny reproducing the most important works of Vel�zquez will be exhibited in the Museo de Bellas Artes in C�rdoba.
VEL�ZQUEZ IN THE PRADO
From 15 December until 5 March 2000 an exhibition is being held in the Prado Museum in Madrid as part of the anniversary celebrations. Works by Vel�zquez, Rubens and Van Dyck will be hung together to compare the styles of these great painters.
For more information contact the Prado Museum, Paseo del Prado, s/n, 28014 Madrid, Tel: 00 34 91 330 2800, email: [email protected], http://museoprado.mcu.es
. . .
500TH ANNIVERSARY OF CHARLES V
To commemorate the 500th anniversary of the birth of King Charles V of Spain next year a series of cultural exhibitions have been organised in Spain and throughout Europe during 1999 and 2000.
From September Valladolid’s Sculpture Museum presents its exhibition on Charles V and Philip II and in Madrid there is the "Golden Ages in the Viceroys of America" and "The Glory of Flanders and the Spanish Monarchy" exhibitions.
As Charles V was also Holy Roman Emperor in the 16th century, on 6 November a major international exhibition, "Karolvs", will begin in Gante and will continue in Bonn and Vienna before ending in Toledo in autumn of the year 2000.
Other Spanish cities host further shows next year - "Arms and Letters in the reign of Charles V" in Granada, "Fiestas in Charles’ Europe" in Sevilla and "Art under the Spanish Crown" in Barcelona.
For further information contact the State Society for the Commemoration of Philip II and Charles V, http://www.felipe2carlos5.es
MORE ABOUT THE WAYS TO SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA.
There are many ways to reach Saint James. The best well known is the so-called "Camino Franc�s" (French route) which pilgrims followed from Eastern Europe by way of Paris, through the provinces of Navarra, La Rioja, Burgos, Palencia, Le�n and Lugo to Santiago. Many Cathedrals, churches, monasteries and hospitals were constructed to help or accommodate the pilgrims. Many of them are immaculately preserved, others had to be restored, but even the ones in ruins give us a good idea of the importance that the pilgrimage to Santiago had in the Middle Ages.
Eighty kilometres of the French route are in the province of Palencia. One of the main stages is the Church of Saint Martin in Fr�mista. Constructed in Romanesque style it is one of the best preserved in Spain. This construction style flourished along the Way to Santiago imported by the French monks of Cluny from the 11th century.
To commemorate this Jubilee Year there is an exhibition on display in the Cathedral of Palencia until the end of October. "Memories and Splendours" is a collection of 300 works of religious art by the best sculptors of the 15th to the 17th centuries. This exhibition belongs to the series of shows called "Las Edades del Hombre" (the Ages of Man) which have taken place in various parts of Spain over the last 10 years. For more information on "Memories & Splendours". Tel: 00 34 979 74 9119, Fax: 00 34 979 74 6478, email: [email protected]
Another way is by the Silver Route (Ruta de la Plata) which runs south-north through the west of Spain. It is the N-630 road which in many parts follows the ancient "calzada", paved by the Romans to improve the transportation of metals, goods and soldiers. Along the centuries it was also used for pilgrimage. Pilgrims from Andalusia, and those sailing from Italy who had landed in Seville, also used this path. This route of the shrine in Santiago offers nowadays, the possibility of admiring important Roman remains,-such as the Theatre and Amphitheatre and the pieces displayed in the Museum of Roman Art in M�rida--, and to walk the remaining parts of the "calzada" in the provinces of C�ceres, Salamanca and Zamora and Le�n. These provinces treasure important architectural expressions of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque Art.
In Santiago de Compostela there are more than 1.000 pieces related to the "Xacobean" culture exhibited in the Fonseca y Gelm�rez palaces, in the monastery of San Mart�n Pinario and San Paio de Antealtares church. The exhibition contains archaeological remains, pieces showing the craftsmanship, jewellery, and religious life in the Middle Ages as well as pieces from M�xico, Per�, the Philippines, Italy and the Vatican. These exhibitions will last until mid November 1999. For more information: Informaci�n Xacobeo, phone 0034 981 54 1999 or http://www.xacobeo.es
150th ANNIVERSARY OF CHOPIN IN MALLORCA
To celebrate the 150th anniversary since the famous composer’s death, a series of concerts and events have been planned in the convent museum in Valldemossa where Chopin lived.
On Sundays at 10pm in July there is the young musicians festival in the gardens and rooms of La Cartuja de Valldemossa. Throughout August the International Chopin Festival will take place every Sunday in the Valldemossa Charterhouse while there is
also the "Homage to F�d�ric Chopin" exhibition by 25 famous Mallorcan and Catalan painters. These events complement the permanent collection of manuscripts of Chopin’s work, letters, portraits and articles informing about his life and works. For more information on events, contact the Festivals Chopin de Valldemossa, Claustres Cartoixa, 07170 Valldemossa, Tel: 00 34 971 61 2351 or 00 34 971 61 2181.
NEW EXHIBITION AT THE PRADO
"La P�rpura del Imperio" exhibition runs throughout the summer until 15 September in the Prado Museum in Madrid. From the 13 century onwards, it became fashionable for the wealthy to commission marble busts in the style of ancient Roman statues.
The 38 busts exhibited are made from different types and colours of marble, alabaster and porphyry. The works are lent by the Museo Nazionale Romano, the Museo Archeologico Nazionale de Napoles and the Prado Museum. All of them are originally from Rome, where they were restored.
For further information, Tel: 00 34 91 330 2800, e-mail: [email protected], http://museoprado.mcu.es
THE FIRST EUROPEANS - Atapuerca
Around one million years ago prehistoric settlers lived in las Cuevas de la Trinchera in the Atapuerca Mountain Range, 15 kms. east of the city of Burgos. These people hunted mammoths, rhinoceros, giant deer, lynx, bears, wolves and hyenas and many other small mammal species typical of the Pleistocene age. The Archaeological interactive museum "Aula Emilio Aguirre" opened in Atapuerca-Ibeas de Juarros contains replicas of the utensils made of bones and stone found in the cave. Guided visits to the archaeological sites are an added bonus of this informative museum. It is Open every day in July, August and September and from October to June open only on Saturdays and Sundays. Please ring for information on schedules, phone 00 34 947 42 1462.
MONFRAGUE Natural Park
Monfrag�e Natural Park is located in the province of C�ceres in Extremadura. From Madrid it can be reached by the motor road N-V to Trujillo and then by C-511 through Torrej�n el Rubio and Villarreal de San Carlos.
This land was inhabited from about 2500 - 800BC as there was plenty of water - the Tagus River meanders the whole length of the park--, and a good supply of game, fish and fruits. Cave paintings from this time testify the presence of prehistoric peoples. "Castros" or Celtic and Iberian dwelings crown the tops of the mountains. The Romans fortified the elevations and the Arabs in the 8th century erected the castle that gives the name to the Park. Monfrag�e means "mons fragorum" or rough mountain, and means densely wooded, as well.
Later centuries saw many improvements to the park: bridges over the river, the foundation by the Borbon King Charles III of the town of Villareal de San Carlos for the protection of travellers.
Now, Monfrag�e is a natural reserve of Mediterranean vegetation, formed by cork trees, laurel, evergreen oaks and strawberry trees. In Spring brooms, cistus and lavender bloom, together with heath, thyme and rosemary. Ash trees, willows and poplars line the Tagus river and the streams. There are thousands of species of wild flowers while lichen and moss cover the rocks to complete the green landscape. Birds of prey such as the black vulture, the Iberian eagle, the black stork, buzzards and hawks live here; owls and kestrels as well as the blue-rock-thrush can also be easily seen in Monfrag�e. During the Winter cormorants fly up the Tagus River. Cranes and wading birds make the park their winter home. The linx, the wild boar and the red deer are also inhabitants of the park.
During Autumn, Winter and Spring Monfrag�e is the ideal resort for the Nature worshiper. There are paths to follow and excellent guides to provide company and information.
A new four star hotel, the Hospeder�a Parque de Monfrag�e, has just opened at Villareal de San Carlos. It has been constructed with the hard slate that is found there blend in with the environment. Phone 0034 927 45 52 45, Fax 00 34 927 45 50 16.
THE FORTRESS OF BOBASTRO - The Nest of Eagles
There are thousands of legends in Spain. Many created by the lyrical imagination of poets, many by the innocence and fears of humble people, but there are many based on real facts. To the latter group belongs the legend centred in Bobastro (the Nest of Eagles).
Historically Ibn Hafs�n was a rebel who fought in the ninth century against three generations of Caliphs(the Moorish kings of C�rdoba) and became the lord over many towns of Al-Andalus. Then, a legend developed, which surrounded him in mystery. His fortress, on top of the Mesas de Villaverde in the Sierra de la Pizarra (Slate Mountain Range) was a symbol of terror, such was his cruelty.
The excavations carried out recently have shown the ruins of the fortress, caves and houses, a Mozarabic church. The mesa (name given to mountains with a flat top) where the Alc�zar was constructed is made of stratified layers of slate. It is as impressive as the view from the top. The plain of olive groves and almond trees surrounds the town of Ardales below. You can only reach the ruins by foot but it is worth seeing what remains of the empire of a man who based his wealth on luting and pillaging. The wind there blows due to the height but also as it wants to wipe away the mist of the legend.
Ardales is 69 Kms north of M�laga city. Nearby accommodation is in the Parador of Antequera **** phone: 95 284 13 12 and in El Burgo La Posada del Can�nigo, a 150 year old building fully renovated, Tel: 00 34 95 216 01 85
SEVILLA OPENS NEW OLYMPIC STADIUM
The brand new Olympic Stadium in Sevilla will hold the 7 ISS- World Athletic Championship from 20th to 29th August this year. For ticket reservations and further information, please contact the organisers at the following address: Campeonato Mundial de Atletismo 99, Edificio Sevilla 99, 41092 Isla de la Cartuja, Sevilla. Phone: 0034 95 4460999, Fax: 0034 95 4463419 and E-mail: [email protected].
NEW OFFERS AT ISLA M�GICA
Sevilla’s theme park, Isla M�gica now boasts a new area, Quetzal, which extends over an area of 6,500 square metres and where an adventure ride in darkness, The Fury of the Gods has been built.
The theme park on the island of La Cartuja has also decided to change its opening times to better cater for demand. To coincide with high season, the park will be open every day between April and September and from September until it closes for three months in December, when it will open at weekends.
TOURIST COMPLEX NEAR C�DIZ
A new luxury tourist centre is being developed on the Atlantic coast of Spain near provincial capital, C�diz. The Costa Ballena complex aims to break down the seasonal tourist cycle on the Atlantic coast, creating a destination that can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
The Costa Ballena is situated between Chipiona and Rota and covers a total area of 400 hectares. There is a wide range of accommodation and cultural and sporting activities to choose from, including water sports and golf. An artificial lake has been built and there will be a 27 hole, 9 hole and practise course for golfers.
BALLOONING OVER DO�ANA
Now visitors to the south west coast of Spain can take advantage of a new balloon ride over the Do�ana national park. Spanish company Green Aerostaci�n flies you 800 metres over the pine trees to see the park’s wildlife from this excellent vantage position.
The park is home to the largest number of birds in Spain, and has colonies of flamingos, stalks and many other protected forms of wildlife among the marshlands.
For more information contact Green Aerostaci�n, Pol�gono Servialsa c/B no. 9 - Gines-, 41960 Sevilla, Tel: 00 34 954 714 104, Fax: 00 34 954 716 087, email: [email protected], http://www.andalunet.com/greenaerostacion
FIVE CENTURIES OF CARTHUSIAN HORSES
The "Yeg�ada de la Cartuja-Hierro del Bocado" on the farm at Fuente del Suero, near Jerez de la Frontera, is a State-owned stud farm for the research and selection of Spanish Carthusian horses. This breeding stock dates from the 15th century when the Carthusian Monastery was founded. These horses are specially admired for their beauty, ease and grace and pace.
The programme consists of a video of the history of the stud farm and biological research, an exhibition of horse-draw carriages, a visit to the stallion’s stables, mares’ shed and colts, and an exhibition of colts and mares in the covered paddock. It is open every Saturday from 11:00 am. Tel: Expasa 0034 95 616 28 09, Fax 00 34 95 616 28 22.
ART MUSEUM OPENS IN CEUTA
An art museum has just been opened in the Spanish enclave of Ceuta in the historic Royal walls. The building was renovated both inside and out.
The museum is home to the art and architectural collections of the city. Currently showing at the museum is the Fundaci�n Caixa’s collection of 40 Spanish contemporary art works, which includes work completed in the 50s and 60s.
The exhibitions will change every year. For more information contact the Ceuta Tourist Office, Muelle Ca�onero Dato 1, 11701 Ceuta on 00 34 956 51 1339, Fax: 00 34 956 51 6377.
BOTANICAL GARDENS OPEN IN BARCELONA
Barcelona has opened Botanical Gardens overlooking the Olympic Stadium in Montj�ic. It covers a 14 hectare site which 40 years ago was the city’s dumping ground and forms part of an ambitious project aimed at turning Montj�ic into the Central Park of Barcelona.
Public gardens will be built on an area that until recently was a funfair. The new gardens will overlap others to create a green belt across the Olympic stadium to the Botanical Gardens.
The Gardens recreate the different climates of the world. Between the next five to ten years there will be some 4,000 different species from eight regions: Australia, Chile, California, the Canaries, South Africa, the western Mediterranean, the Iberian peninsula and North Africa.
Entrance to the Botanical Gardens costs 300 pesetas (�1.2) for adults, 100 pesetas (�0.4) for students and is open from 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday and until 3pm on Sunday and national holidays. There is a bus link from Pla�a Espanya which drops you off at the entrance.
NEW SHOWS AT PORT AVENTURA
Universal Port Aventura opens five new shows this season, its first under the management of Universal Studios Recreation Group. Experts are currently working on designs of a new adventure ride which will open soon.
Fiestaventura is the first show in the Mediterrania area of the park. This daily night show combines a display of projections on water screens with fireworks, lights, music, kites and skilled jet skiers racing on the lagoon.
The Far West area has a new show in the setting of the Grand Canyon. American Indians perform their traditional dances in the Eagle Feather Show. There is now also an stunt show, the Fort Frenzee.
China’s most important acrobatic company perform the Orient Sun show in China’s Imperial Theatre and the Route of the Maya in Mexico’s pyramid recreates a ritual Mayan ceremony with dance, lights and sound.
Universal Port Aventura is open until November 1.One day passes cost �18 for adults and �13 for children. Special "2 for 1" offers are available from a number of tour operators. For further information visit the park’s website at http://www.portaventura.es
HORSES PERFORM IN BARCELONA
Every Friday night until September The Mounted Guard of the Barcelona local police force perform in La Foixarda in Montjuic. Prices are 800 pesetas for adults (�3.2) and children 600 pesetas (�2.4). Contact the tourist office in Barcelona on Tel: 0034 93 423 1800, Fax: 00 34 93 423 2649.
SUMMER ARTS FESTIVAL IN BARCELONA
During the summer months theatres and open-air arenas throughout Barcelona are filled with different forms of theatre, music and dance as the International Summer Arts Festival begins. Launched in the 1970s, this festival celebrates different art forms from all over the world. Highlights include performances from the Cuban National Ballet, Van Morrison, Incognito and much more. For more information contact the Barcelona tourist office at: http://www.grecbcn.com
STEAM TOURIST TRAIN IN L�RIDA
Visitors to L�rida can now enjoy a steam train, called "La Garrafeta" which travels through countryside and discover what it was like to journey on these trains fifty years ago. It currently travels to Les Borges Blanques, La Pobla de Segur, Balaguer, Cellers and Raimat among others.
During the journey, travellers can see the machinery and see how a steam train works. The train is 25 metres long, has a Beyer-Garratt engine, made between 1960 and 1961 by Babcock and Wilcox and is one of the last series of steam locomotives made by RENFE. For more information on its routes contact the Tourist Board of L�rida, Rambla Ferran 18, 3er, 25007 Lleida. Tel: 00 34 973 24 5408, Fax: 00 34 973 24 5558, email: [email protected] or http://www.lleidatur.es
CONTEMPORARY ART CENTRE IN CASTELL�N
In Castell�n de la Plana in the Community of Valencia, a centre dedicated to art works of the last third of this century has just opened. The Espai d’Art Contemporani de Castell� (EACC) aims to position Castell�n on the international art circuit as a forum for debate on culture in the 21st century.
The museum has been purpose built in the city centre on two floors with two exhibition rooms of 750 and 200 square metres and a room for conferences and projections. The works have involved an investment of over 420 million pesetas (�1.68 million).
The EACC plans a series of events entitled "Seven Proposals and an Epilogue for the end of the millennium" where exhibitions will be complemented by workshops, educational projects, a series of films and seminars. For more information contact the tourist board in Castell�n, Pl. Maria Agustina 5, Tel: 00 34 964 358688, Fax: 00 34 964 35 8689.
LA CORU�A OPENS AQUARIUM
La Coru�a is now enjoying the new aquarium in its city centre, "Aquarium Finisterrae". This innovative development has been built on the shore of the city in order to take advantage of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can literally watch waves breaking on top of them through the glass fa�ade.
The Aquarium is home to over 300 marine species from the Atlantic, many of which have never before been seen in a man-made aquarium, has the biggest underwater exhibit in the world, a garden showing Spain’s diverse coastal vegetation and even has a care centre for injured marine animals.
There is a seal display, stroke tanks and the "Submarine" below sea level where visitors can observe the behaviour of sharks, rays and other species in their natural environment.
The centre is open every day from 11am to 11pm. Price: 1,000 pesetas for adults (�4), children under 14, those with a young person’s card and those over 65, 500 pesetas (�2), children under 5 entrance free. For a fee of 1,200 pesetas (�4.8) visitors gain entrance to the Casa de las Ciencias and the Domus Museum of Mankind in the city. Contact Turisme de la Coru�a for further details, Tel/ Fax: 0181 968 1447 in the UK or in La Coru�a, Edificio Atalaya, Jardines M�ndez Nu�ez, 15006 La Coru�a on Tel: 00 34 981 21 6161, Fax: 00 34 981 20 0711.
GREEN ROUTES THROUGHOUT SPAIN
This year over 254 km of green routes have been opened throughout Spain by the Environment Ministry and another 100km will open in the near future. These routes were abandoned pathways that have been rediscovered in order to promote climbing, horse-riding and cycling in the local areas.
The region with the longest amount of green routes is in the stretch between Olot and Gerona in Catalu�a, which has 57km, followed by the expanse between Gibrale�n and Ayamonte in Huelva, Andalucia with 47km.
Other green routes currently under development include the 52km between Calera and Chozas Puerto de San Vicente near Toledo and 27 km between Arn�s Lled� Pinell de Bral in Tarragona.
COSTA DEL SOL RACECOURSE
The Hip�dromo Costa del Sol is opening this September in Mijas. The first phase of the development has been completed, and to test the track, lighting, betting terminals, boxes and starting gates, professional races have just taken place at the course. Around 160 thoroughbreds were registered and punters could bet on their favourites.
The facilities include an outer track is 1,700 metres long and the inner track 1,600 metres long, two new access roads from Cala de Mijas and Fuengirola, restaurants, veterinary compound and horse stalls.
The entrance ticket will cost 500 pesetas (around �2). For further information contact Tel: 00 34 95 249 3606, Fax: 00 34 95 249 2159, email: [email protected]
REOPENING OF THE LICEU IN BARCELONA
The Grand Liceu Theatre will be reopened this October in a gala ceremony to be attended by the King and Queen of Spain. Monserrat Caball� and other leading Spanish opera singers will be performing.
After it was destroyed by fire in 1994, reconstructing the Liceu has been a meticulous process to ensure that the acoustic quality and the facilities are of the best standards.
The much awaited 1999-2000 season will begin with 12 performances of Turandot by Puccini. The Liceu is now home to the Barcelona Symphony Orchestra, The National Symphony Orchestra of Catalu�a, The Music Museum and the Catal�n Academy of Music. For more information, visit the Liceu’s web site at http://www.gt-liceu.es or tel: 00 34 93 485 9900, fax: 00 34 93 485 9918.
MADRID’S NEW SKI CENTRE
By the end of 2000 Madrid will boast a ski complex, Madrid Xanadu. This ambitious project is being built over an area of 16,000 square metres in Arroyomolinos, 27 km from the city. The pistes will be made from real snow and have a total length of 230 m and width of 60 m, and will include a steep and slower slope separated by a small alpine village. Everyone will be catered for - there will be lessons, facilities for people with physical disabilities and for schools and families.
The centre will also have a hotel, shopping centres and an entertainment complex with cinemas, bowling alleys, gym and both open-air and indoor swimming pools. To ensure that visitors can reach the centre with ease, a train station is being built to link the site with Madrid. The project costs around 25,000 million pesetas (�100 million) and is being part funded by British firms Hayden and Snowmec.
EXCELLENT SKI SEASON FOR L�RIDA
The province of L�rida in Catalu�a enjoyed its best ski season in recent years, with 8% more people using its slopes than the previous year.
The most popular ski station was Baqu�ira-Beret, followed by Espot-Esqui i Boi Ta�ll and Port-Ain�. The province has invested a total of 3,700 million pesetas (�14.8 million) in improving the installations and services at the ski stations (new lifts, parking, cafeterias etc).
For more information on these ski stations contact the Patronat de Turisme de Lleida, Rambla Ferran 18, 3er, 25007 Lleida. Tel: 00 34 973 24 5408, Fax: 00 34 973 24 5558, email: [email protected]
FAUNA PARK IN PYRENEES
A new park is to be opened near Piedrafita de Jaca in the province of Huesca in Arag�n, which will be home to wildlife native to the area. Animals that used to live here, such as wolves, linx, brown bear, reindeer and bison are to be reintroduced to their natural environment.
The forty hectare area of woodland will be home to over 60 animals who can be seen from a track around the park and look out points. Certain species will be separated from each other by discreet fences to ensure that they do not attack each other.
CULTURAL THEME PARK IN C�RDOBA
In the spring of next year the new Al Man Sur theme park will open in the historical Moorish city of C�rdoba in Andalucia. The park shows a fascinating insight into the history and culture of Andalucia through the ages.
A 10th century Arab city will be recreated in the park, with a market, Islamic gardens, palace, Bedouin world and a horse arena. The overall investment is approx. 2,000 million pesetas (�8 million) and the centre is being developed over an area of 62,000 square metres.
The aim is to reflect the contrasts of the Arab world - between the castles in the arid mountains and the beautiful palaces in the cities, where the traveller can step back in time and enjoy the fantasy of the Moor’s world of refined living.
For more information contact Rafael Redondo Puquio, Calle M�rtires 9, 28660 Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, Spain. Tel: 00 34 91 632 0354, Fax: 00 34 91 632 1118, email: [email protected]
TALL SHIPS GRAND REGATTA 2000
C�diz on the Atlantic coast in south west Spain is host to the ISTA regatta between 4 and 7 May 2000. The city will celebrate with street pageantry, processions and much more to welcome the sailors back to port. This is expected to be the biggest ever international race of square rigged and other vessels.
For further information contact Tel: 00 34 956 211313, Fax: 00 34 956 228471, http://www.cadiz-regata2000.com/
MARBELLA RENOVATES CONGRESS PALACE
After extensive renovations, the Exhibition Palace of Marbella has reopened as the Congress Palace. The redeveloped centre has advanced technological facilities and has a large hall which seats 2,000 people, an auditorium for 1,600 people, restaurants, caf�s and various multi-use rooms.
There are two more phases to be completed - a 5,000 square metre auditorium and a central open air square of 6,000 square metres which will have fountains and gardens. There will also be a three floor carpark. For more information telephone 00 34 95 282 8244 or Fax: 00 34 95 282 1461.
NEW CONGRESS PALACE IN BARCELONA
In the heart of the city, on the edge of Las Ramblas, a World Trade Centre is just one of the many new developments along Barcelona’s port. It has easy access to both tube and bus stops and the coast road, allowing you to reach the airport, or the industrial centres of Baix Llobregat and the Zona Franca in only 10 minutes.
Among the facilities is an auditorium with a capacity for 436 people, a press room, multi-use rooms that can be joined or separated depending on the size of the event and which are fully equipped with all audio-visual facilities.
Once the other section of the complex is fully completed there will be an exhibition hall of 1,200 square metres, 600 and 400 square metre rooms for various uses and 2,500 square metres of terraces. There is also a 2,500 square metre space that forms the central square of the complex where all type of outdoor activities can take place.
For further information, contact the World Trade Centre Barcelona, Moll de Barcelona s/n, 08039 Barcelona, Tel: 00 34 93 508 8000, Fax: 00 34 93 508 8010, email: [email protected] http://www.wtcbarcelona.com
CONVENTION BUREAU OF CEUTA
Ceuta, the Spanish province on the north coast of Africa, on the Straits of Gibraltar is relatively unknown to the British traveller, although it boasts an excellent convention centre.
For further information, contact
the Ceuta Convention Bureau, Parque Mar�timo del Mediterr�neo, Avda. De la Compa��a de
Mar s/n, 51001 Ceuta. Tel: 00 34 956 51 7742, Fax: 00 34 956 51 6989,
email: [email protected]
AUDITORIUM OPENS IN TORREMOLINOS
The Prince of Asturias auditorium has just opened in Torremolinos. It has been developed over a total area of 6,482 square metres and includes a room for a maximum of 1,790 people, a room for banquets which holds 1,700 diners and another standing area for 5,668 people. For more information contact the Patronato de Turismo de la Costa del Sol, Palacio de Congresos y Exposiciones, C/M�xico s/n 4� planta, 29620 Torremolinos. Tel: 00 34 95 205 8694/95/96 Fax: 00 34 95 205 0311, http://www.malagaturismo.com
OFFERS IN BARCELONA
Now visitors to Barcelona can enjoy the benefits of a range of different offers. The Barcelona Card allows transport on all bus and metro services and discounts in 90 of the principal tourist attractions in the city. There are three options: 24 hours at 2,500 pesetas (�10), 48 hours at 3,000 (�12), and 72 hours at 3,500 (�14).
The Bus Turistic allows passengers travelling around the city to get on and off whenever they like. For 1 day the price is 1,800 pesetas (�7.2), for two days it is 2,300 pesetas (�9.2).
The Bus Pass is a product created by Turisme de Barcelona that allows visitors to discover the city’s most interesting attractions at special rates. It is a voucher book that offers discounts in: L’Aquarium, The Sagrada Familia, on Golondrinas, Zoo, Piscines Bernat Picornell (swimming pool complex), Joan Mir� Foundation, Montj�ic Funicular railway and cable car, Museum of Montserrat, train and cable car and funicular railway to Montserrat, Tibidabo Amusement Park, Poble Espanyol, Science Museum and the Maritime Museum to name a few.
The pass can be obtained until March 31 2000 at a cost of 200 pesetas plus VAT and the minimum order is 50 copies. For further information contact Marisa L�pez, tel: 00 34 93 423 1800, Fax: 00 34 93 423 2649, email: [email protected]
CORU�A CARD OFFER
Turismo de La Coru�a has designed a more economical and easy way of exploring the Galician city. The credit card, Coru�a Card, enables visitors to enjoy 48 hours of fun in the city at a special rate.
Once the card is bought, all museums, art exhibitions and use of the tram are free, there is a 20% discount on car hire from Europcar and a 50% discount on tickets to see the Symphony Orchestra of Galicia and many concerts, shows and plays.
The Coru�a Card costs 1,500 pesetas for individuals or 3,250pesetas for families. For further information and sales contact Turismo de la Coru�a, Edificio Atalaya, Jardines de M�ndez Nu�ez, Tel: 00 34 981 21 6161 http://www.turismocoruna.com
GOLF DEALS ON COSTA BRAVA
One of the Leading Hotels of the World, the five star Hostal de La Gavina are offering a three day golfing deal. Three days at half board, including two green fees in this luxury hotel on the coast in S’Agar� costs 69,400 pesetas (approx. �277.60) each in a double room.
The hotel was opened in 1934 and has excellent facilities, including a sea water swimming pool, gymnasium, tennis courts, motor boat, horseriding, water sports, sauna, jacuzzi and much more. It is ideally situated for easy access to Barcelona, medieval inland towns such as Pals and the Dal� museum in Figueres. For more information contact the Hostal de La Gavina, 17248 S’Agar�, Tel: 00 34 972 32 1100, Fax: 00 34 972 32 1573.
TOURIST OFFICE OPENS IN BARCELONA
An excellent tourist office has opened in the very centre of the city on the Passeig de Gracia. It provides extensive information and advice not only on Barcelona, but on the whole of Catalu�a.
Palau Robert, Centre d’Informaci� Turistics de Catalunya, Passeig de Gr�cia 107, 08008 Barcelona. Tel: 00 34 93 238 4000, Fax: 00 34 93 238 4010, http://www.gencat.es/probert, email: [email protected]
TRAVEL JOURNALIST PRIZE
The Tourist Authorities of Lleida (L�rida) in Catalu�a are awarding a prize to an article about Lleida published between October 1998 and October 1999. The "Pica d’Estats" International Tourist Prize has five different prizes on offer: for the press, radio, television, specialised tourist and travel press and local press. The total prize for the first four sections is approx. �4,170. Credit will be given to articles that convey the diversity of the province of Lleida - for example through activity sports, rural tourism, natural parks, routes from the Pyrenees to the interior, gastronomy, Romanesque heritage and traditions and festivals in the area.
There are different areas in the province of Lleida: the Pyrenees where there are woods that are hundreds of years old, 24 mountain lakes, glaciers, rich flora and fauna and 3.000 metres mountain high peaks which all form part of the Aig�estortes National Park.
The foothills of the Pyrenees where rafting, climbing, skiing, potholing and paragliding are some of the sports to be enjoyed by adventure worshippers.
And on the plains the Catalonian Romanesque Art are found in churches and monasteries, set against the backdrop of snow capped mountains and woodlands.
For more information: Turismo de Catalu�a Tel: 00 34 902 10 11 10, http://www.lleidatur.es.
MELIA OPENS HOTEL NEAR C�DIZ
The recently opened Hotel Meli� Sancti Petri is located two hours away from Seville and 30 minutes from Jerez Airports in the Novo Sancti Petri resort in Chiclana de la Frontera (C�diz) right on the beach of "La Barrosa" and near a Golf Course.
This five star hotel is open all year round. The installations are designed in an Andalusian style and have more than 20.000 square meters of gardens, outdoor and interior swimming pools, saunas and jacuzzi. The rooms are classified as Superior, Royal Service and Suites. All of them either face the ocean, gardens or the nearby Golf course.
The location and climate are ideal for practising golf, tennis, horse riding, windsurfing, sailing, etc. Tel: 0034 056 49 7149, Fax 00 34 956 49 7053 or Sol Meli� Reservations 00 34 902 14 4444 and http://www.solmelia.es
LUXURY APARTMENTS IN HOTEL ARTS
Barcelona, a city renowned for its contemporary style and innovative design has a new attraction - 28 lavishly decorated apartments situated on the top floors of the Hotel Arts on the Carrer de la Marina. They were created by celebrated designer Jaume Tresserra.
Available with up to three spacious bedroom suites, the apartments all offer panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean. The state of the art furniture is made from pale Spanish walnut, the sheets on the king sized beds are made from Egyptian cotton and the throws are of soft cashmere.
Apartment guests enjoy the services of a round the clock butler to attend to unpacking, restaurant reservations or other requests. Guests can also use the Club Lounge and the services of a concierge, the fitness centre, gourmet restaurant, outdoor swimming pool and room service.
Rates for the apartments start at �750 per night, excluding tax. Apartments are available through travel agents on 0800 234000 or through the hotel on 00 34 93 221 1000, Fax: 00 34 93 221 1070.
HOTEL OFFER IN LA CORU�A
Couples travelling to La Coru�a can now take advantage of a new weekend offer. If you spend a night in specific hotels they will give you the second night free.
On arrival they will also provide a pack of discounts and free entrances to some of the city’s museums, monuments, tourist attractions and antique shops.
For more information on participating hotels, or to reserve the 2 for 1 offer, contact Turismo de La Coru�a, on 00 34 981 21 6161, http://www.turismocoruna.com
NEW HOTELS OPEN IN CANTABRIA
Cantabria will boast 20 more hotels by autumn of the year 2000. The tourist authorities of the region have invested over 12,000 million pesetas in this project in order to further aid the tourist expansion that the area has enjoyed in recent years as part of a growing interest in Green Spain.
AGENTS FOR HOTUSA HOTELS
HPS Hotel Reservations are now representing the Hotusa groups three star hotels - Nervion in Bilbao, Olletas in M�laga and Maisonnave in Pamplona. For further information call 0181 446 0126 or fax: 0181 446 0196.
NAME CHANGE FOR LOS MONTEROS
Luxury five star hotel in Marbella, Hotel Los Monteros opens under a different name after renovations were recently completed. The Meridien Hotel Los Monteros has high quality facilities and accommodation on offer.
For more information contact Meridien Hotel Los Monteros, Ctra. C�diz km 187, 29600 Marbella, Tel: 00 34 95 277 1700, Fax: 00 34 95 282 5846.
EXPANSION TO JEREZ’S HOTEL MONTECASTILLO
The Hotel Montecastillo and Golf Resort in Jerez is enlarging its facilities in order to cater for an overwhelming demand. The Hotel has hosted high profile golf events (Volvo Masters and PGA Seniors) and many conferences and is now established as one of the finest Hotel and Conference Centres in Europe.
The new facilities include a Health and Fitness Centre with indoor heated Swimming Pool, Saunas, Solarium, Gym and Relaxation Area. Two Premier League football pitches are being built to attract professional football teams. Four tennis courts and a basketball pitch will complete the developments. For further information contact the Montecastillo Hotel & Golf Resort, Carretera de Arcos, 11406 Jerez, Tel: 00 34 956 15 1200, Fax: 00 34 956 15 1209.
KEMPINSKI HOTEL IN ESTEPONA
The international luxury hotel chain, Kempinski are opening an exclusive five star hotel this September in Estepona. The Kempinski Resort Hotel is located on the Andalucian coast. One hours drive away from M�laga airport, the property has 149 rooms and suites, all with sea views. The resort is set in 70,000 square metres of subtropical gardens, fountains and palm trees.
There are two restaurants, three bars, and many sports and leisure facilities: outdoor tennis courts, outdoor pools, indoor pool and a centre for water sports with tuition available. There is a health centre with fully equipped gymnasium, sauna, Turkish baths, beauty parlour and hairdresser. The hotel’s guests also benefits from preferential rates with local golf courses.
The hotel can also cater for businesses. The 300 metre square ballroom can be divided into two conference rooms and a business centre is equipped with multi-line ISDN telephones, photocopier, fax and computers. For more information and reservations telephone: 00 800 42 63 1355.
NEW HOTELS FOR BARCELONA
The hotel sector of Barcelona is investing 35,000 million pesetas (approx. �140 million) in building fifteen new hotels over the next three years. Another 3,000 hotel beds are to be created, adding to the existing 28,607 in the city.
RITZ MADRID THE BEST IN THE WORLD
The Hotel Ritz in Madrid has been awarded the price of "Best Hotel in the World" by the American magazine Travel & Leisure. The magazine’s readers chose the winner on a criteria of quality and price and the Madrid hotel won with 75%, followed by Villa D’Este in Italy with 72.8%.
NEW HOTEL IN SANTANDER
The first two floors of the Rhin Apartments in Santander on the El Sardinero beach have been renovated into modern and spacious hotel rooms. Now the three star Hotel Apartments Rhin Victoria boast 20 apartments of 60 metre square with kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms, lounge and terrace and 32 double rooms with terrace. For further information, contact the group’s web pages: http://www.gruporhin.com
PARADOR OPENS IN LA PALMA
The new Parador of La Palma has just opened in El Zumacal in Bre�a Baja, after an overall investment of 1,555 million pesetas (�6.22 million). The parador has been designed in a style typical to the Canary islands and special attention has been made to ensure that it fits in with the environment and surrounding area.
The hotel has a total of 78 double rooms, many of which are suites, lounge areas, dining room, bar-caf�, swimming pool, gym and sauna. For further information contact Paradores de Espa�a, Requena 3, 28013 Madrid. Tel: 00 34 91 516 6666, Fax: 00 34 91 516 6657 or http://www.parador.es
BOOKS & WINES
The Parador of C�ceres, boasts a Wine-cellar containing more than 300 wines selected from all over Spain. This idea of "Paradores de Espa�a" is to encourage a wine culture for their clients to enjoy. There is also a specialised wine library on the premises, lectures and exhibitions on wine-making and wine-tasting The Parador**** is in a 14th century palace. Gothic and Renaissance noble houses and religious buildings surround the Parador. C�ceres was declared a World Heritage City in 1986.
GASTRONOMY
In the Paradores of Carmona (Sevilla), C�ceres, Almagro(Ciudad Real), Sig�enza (Guadalajara) , M�laga-Gibralfaro and Aiguablava (Gerona) a special promotion on Gastronomy is taking place. The dishes are both prepared following recipes from the Roman and Medieval times and the traditional cooking of the local Parador. This promotion will last until the end of September 99. For more information: Paradores de Espa�a Tel: 00 34 91 516 6666, Fax: 00 34 91 516 6657.
STATISTICS
The Spanish Institute of Statistics reports that during the first four months of this year Spain received a total of 12.159,226 tourists which represents an 11.6% increase over the same period in 1998. Fifty million tourists are expected to visit Spain in 1999. Around 69% of these visitors prefer beach resorts, while the rest enjoy city-breaks, sports and organised tours.
METRO LINKS BARAJAS WITH MADRID
A new metro service is now in operation between Barajas airport and Mar de Cristal station. Line 8 links the airport with the station in the congress area of Madrid and from here there is a transfer to line 4 for access the city centre.
A direct link between the airport is being constructed along with a check-in luggage terminal at Nuevos Ministerios station.
COSTA DEL SOL MOTORWAY
A tolled motorway between Benalm�dena and Estepona has just been inaugurated, making the journey on this busy coastline 20 minutes quicker.
The 56 km road between the two coastal resorts has cost approx. 70,000 million pesetas (�280 million) to build.
LAUNCH OF VIRGIN SUN TO SPAIN
Virgin Sun is now offering holidays to seven Spanish destinations - Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, Tenerife and Gran Canaria from Gatwick and Manchester airports.
There is a wide variety of accommodation available for travellers - from 2 star self catering apartments through to all-inclusives, Virgin villas and luxury 5 star resorts, so there is something to suit everyone’s taste and budget. There is also a flight only programme with prices starting from �99 return.
For those wanting something a bit special, a Premium service is offered for a supplement of only �79. This includes priority check-in, executive airport lounges, extra leg room, a premium meal with champagne and complimentary drinks, plus a private taxi transfer to your hotel or apartment. The flight only premium supplement is �49, which includes everything but the taxi transfer.
The Virgin Sun brochure and details of the flight-only programme can be obtained from your local travel agent or by calling Virgin Sun Reservations on 01293 616261.
BRITTANY FERRIES OFFERS "THE PICOS BY PARADOR"
For �442 per person, Brittany Ferries is offering a new week long tour entitled "The Picos By Parador". The tour includes seven nights accommodation on a half board basis at four of Northern Spain’s stunning Paradores and is based on double occupancy and return cruise ferry crossings with a car on the company’s flagship Val de Loire with two nights on board with cabin.
The Paradores have been selected to provide a picturesque tour of the beautiful Picos de Europa mountain range in the north of Spain and the main attractions of the area. Holidaymakers can choose from various hotels.
Brittany Ferries’ exciting Parador touring programme offers a choice of 72 destinations throughout Spain ranging from three star hunting lodges to luxurious palaces and castles.
ANDALUCIA TRAILS OFFER NEW ROUTE
Specialist horse trail tour operator, Andalucia Trails are now offering a new seven day tour, the Zahara Ride. The route passes through the Sierra de la Plata, Punta Paloma, Sierra de Retin, Atlanterra and Betis. It also includes a rest day in Jerez de la Frontera where there is a visit to a sherry bodega and to see the beautiful white stallions of the Royal Andalucian Riding School. The tour costs from �595. For further information contact Andalucian Trails on Tel/Fax: 01892 730706.
SPORTING BREAKS AT LA MANGA WITH BARWELL
A sporting break is now available at luxurious sports complex in La Manga, Murcia with Barwell Leisure.
The break features a three night stay at the five star Hyatt Regency La Manga, inclusive of golf or tow hours of tennis plus one hour of squash, one hours of bowls, paddle tennis and crazy golf. The offer is based on two people sharing superior twin or double rooms and can be taken for travel from 25 August until 31 October 1999. Those travelling out on a Tuesday receive the fourth night free.
The holiday costs from �468 per person, while a self catering option is available at the Hyatt Los Lomos Apartments for just �298 per person.
Barwell Leisure operates a service with British Airways from Manchester, Birmingham and Gatwick to Murcia, 20 minutes from La Manga with transfers included.
For more details contact Barwell Leisure, The Coach House, Elm Road, Chessington, Surrey, KT19 1AW, Tel: 0181 397 4411, Fax: 0181 974 1442, http://www.barwell.co.uk, email: [email protected]
GO "WALKING OVER LEMONS" IN THE ALPUJARRAS
Walking and painting holiday specialist Andalucian Adventures has just teamed up with Chris Stewart, ex-member of Genesis and highly acclaimed author of "Driving Over Lemons" to offer the chance to experience the beautiful Alpujarras region of southern Spain, near Granada.
Chris Stewart is an expert on the region, having lived and worked there for 12 years. His book gives an engaging account of his love affair with this area.
For details of the week long walking trip, contact Andalucian Adventures, 6 Durdham Park, Bristol, BS6 6XA, Tel/Fax: 0117 9733527. Holiday prices start at �639 for fully inclusive packages, flights included.
INCREASE IN FLYING PROGRAMME FROM MONARCH
Monarch has increased its Crown Service timetable during the Millennium period, 22 December 1999 through 8 January 2000 with 10 additional departures. This brings the total flying programme to 57 departures in 18 days with flights from London Luton to Mahon, Alicante, M�laga, Gibraltar and Tenerife ranging from only �216 to �290 return excluding taxes.
A total of 15 flights will operate to Alicante with an extra flight on 24 December and an extra return on 7 January from �216 return. Two additional departures will operate to Menorca on 22 and 29 December at 08.00 with an additional return on 3 January from �220. Flights to M�laga operate daily throughout the winter with the exception of Christmas day and New Years Day. Gibraltar, which serves the Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz sees a total of 3 additions to the timetable; from Luton on 23 and 30 December and an extra return on 4 January. Fares on both these routes start at �236. A
combined total of 29 flights will operate to the Costa del Sol region over the Millennium period. The regular three flights per week to Tenerife are supplemented by 2 extra operations; out to Tenerife on 23 December and back on 8 January with fares from �278 return. All prices include taxes. For further information contact Monarch Reservations on 01582 398333.
NO SMOKING WITH IBERIA
Iberia Airlines is to ban smoking on board all of its aircraft. The new policy will be implemented from 1st September this year. For further information please contact Iberia Airlines, Tel: 0171 830 0011.
AER LINGUS LINKS MADRID AND DUBLIN
Aer Lingus is now flying between
Dublin and Madrid on Wednesdays and Fridays.
Flight EI594 leaves the Irish capital at 09.00, arriving in Madrid at 12.35pm, while the
EI595 from Madrid departs at 13.25 and arrives at 14.55. For further information, contact
Aer Lingus on 0181 745 4848.
AIRPORT OPENS IN LA GOMERA
An airport was recently inaugurated on the Canary island of La Gomera. The airline Binter Canarias will be flying between the island and Tenerife and Gran Canaria and there will initially be three flights a week.
CANARIES IMPROVE AIRPORTS
The Canary island airport authorities are currently concentrating on two important new developments: the new control centre for all the islands and a new terminal at Lanzarote airport. Around 600 million pesetas (�2.4 million) has been spent on the control centre in Gran Canaria which is now operating. The old control centre has been expanded, the surrounding area landscaped and a advanced automatic system (ADS) has been introduced.
Over 10,000 million pesetas (�40 million) is being spent on the new airport terminal in Lanzarote. A total area of 42,000 square metres has been set aside, more than two times bigger than the existing terminal. Around 4,400 passengers will be able to pass through the airport every hour, double the current amount. A new control tower is also being built to cater for the increase in air traffic to the island.
FLIGHTS CONNECT LA CORU�A AND LONDON
ERA, European Regions Airlines have introduced a direct service between Gatwick and the Galician city of La Coru�a. Flight EA304 leaves London at 16.35 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays and arrives in La Coru�a at 19.35.
Flight EA303 leaves La Coru�a on the same days at 14.45, arriving at 15.50 in London. For further information contact your travel agent or telephone ticket agents on 0171 828 7613.
GO’S NEW FLIGHTS
From July, GO starts flying to Madrid. Fares for the twice-daily flights are priced from �90 return with a minimum two-night stay. The no-frills airline is now offering flights to Alicante, Palma and Ibiza throughout the summer. Every flight is guaranteed at a fixed low price: Alicante at �130 return, Palma �150 return and Ibiza �120 return.
Due to demand, Go is also increasing the number of flights to M�laga and Bilbao. Between 10 August and 15 September there are three flights a day to M�laga when before there were five a week. For more information check their website http://www.go-fly.com or call 0845 60 54321.
SPECIAL PLACES TO STAY
Now visitors to Spain can stay in distinctive types of accommodation with the help of Alastair Sawday’s book "Special Places to Stay in Spain and Portugal". The hotels included are selected for their individuality, style and class and show visitors undiscovered gems in Spain. This third edition of the book also covers the Balearic islands.
Copies are priced at �11.95 and are available from all good bookshops or from Alastair Sawday Publishing, 44 Ambra Vale East, Bristol, BS8 4RE, Tel: 0117 929 9921, Fax: 0117 925 4712, email: [email protected], http://www.sawdays.co.uk. (ISDN 1-901970-03-5).
FOOTPRINT ANDALUCIA HANDBOOK
Guidebook publishers, Footprint, have released a new edition of the Andalucia Handbook. In its new paperback format, it includes colour photography and colour mapping. It is written by Rowland Mead, who has lived and worked in Andalucia for over twenty years.
The guide is packed with information on itineraries, accommodation, where to eat and drink, transport and useful Spanish words and phrases. There is also additional sections on how to party, all you need to know about sherry, the history and culture and local wildlife. Copies are available from all good bookshops for �9.99 or direct from the publishers at �11.99 including p&p. Contact Footprint at 6 Riverside Court, Lower Bristol Road, bath, BA2 3DZ. Tel: 01225 469141, Fax: 01225 469461, http://www.footprintbooks.com
MADRID BY MOONLIGHT
Throughout July and August the "City Summers" are celebrated in some of the city’s most historic and attractive buildings: the courtyard of the Conde Duque barracks, the Corral in Mes�n de Paredes Street, the Arab Wall. There is an overwhelming variety of traditional zarzuela, classical theatre, ballet, rock and pop concerts, Caribbean music and flamenco for everyone to enjoy. For more information contact the Madrid tourist office on 00 34 91 364 1876.
SINGING IN SALOU
In the streets and squares of SALOU there will be singing and dancing every Sunday in July and August. Sardanas (typical Catalonian dance) and Habaneras (fishermen’s folk songs) will be performed. For more information on other events and festivals: http://www.welcome.to/salou
CUEVA DE NERJA FESTIVAL (M�laga) July 1999
The 40th edition of the "Cueva de Nerja Music Festival" will include the following performances:
20 July Montserrat Caball� and Montserrat Mart� and the Orchestra Ciudad de M�laga.
21st July: Noche de Flamenco. Dorantes (piano).
22 & 23 July The "State Ballet of the Opera of Vienna".
24 July Los Romero: Quartet of Classic Guitar.
For more information on these performances and those taking place at the Centro Cultural Villa de Nerja please ring 0034 95 252 38 63, fax 34 95 252 40 07.
Other Festivals in M�laga and Province
16 July Festivity of V. Del Carmen, fishermen’s Patroness. Parade in several coastal towns.
13-22 August Fair in M�laga
14-18 August Fair in Archidona
30 Aug-5Sept Fair and Fiestas Pedro Romero in Ronda
28 Sept-2 Oct Fair in Torremolinos
For more information contact the Town Halls.
ALICANTE 15th International Festival of Music
18-25 September Orchestras and soloists of various musical styles.
Information: 0034 91 468 23 10 and 0034 96 514 92 14
SEVILLA
During the month of July, August and September, in Sevilla and its province there will be Flamenco Festivals, Fairs and Religious Celebrations, Opera and Harvesting festivals. Other events include:
20-29 August 7th World Athletics Championship "Sevilla99"
9-12 Sept. XXVI FISA MASTER Regata (yacht race)
29 Sept.-2 Oct II Congress on the History of Carmona.
The Festival of the Vera Cruz (Moors & Christians and "Horses of the Wine") which takes place in Caravaca de la Cruz (Murcia) has been declared a Festival of Tourist Interest by the Secretary of State of Commerce, Tourism and PYMES, Elena Pisonero
July 22-23 Anguiano (La Rioja) Stilt dancers.
July 24-30 Tudela (Navarra) St. Anne, Patron’s fiesta.
July 24-31 Villajoyosa (Alicante) Moors and Christians Festival.
July 25 Cangas de On�s (Asturias) Day of the Shepherd
July 25 Luarca (Asturias) Festival including typical wedding to honour Asturias’surviving itinerant herdsmen.
July 25 Santiago de Compostela. St. James’s Festival.
July 30 Cambados (Pontevedra) Albari�o Wine Festival
July 30 Estella (Navarra) Patron Saint Festival
July-August Sort (Lleida-L�rida) Rallye in the Noguera-Pallaresa River
August 1 Catoira (Pontevedra) Fake Viking landing.
August 1-8 Jaca (Huesca) Pyrenees folk festival
August 6-9 Cocentaina (Alicante) Moors & Christians Festival
August 7 Arriondas (Asturias) River Sella International Canoe Race.
August 7-14 La Uni�n (Murcia) Flamenco Contest
August 8 O Carballi�o (Ourense) Octopus Festival
August 11-15 Elche (Alicante) Dramatic representation of the Assumption in the Basilica.
August 13-22 Jumilla (Murcia) Grape Harvest Festival
August 15 Alar del Rey (Palencia) River Pisuerga International Canoe race.
August 22 Viveiro (Lugo) Octopus Festival
August 22 Torrelavega (Cantabria) Flowers parade
August 25 Requena (Valencia) Grape harvest festival
August 27 Laredo (Cantabria) Flower battle
August 27-30 Onteniente (Ontinyent-Valencia) Moors & Crhistians Festival
August 28 Ribadavia (Ourense) Traditional medieval Festival
August Montilla (C�rdoba) Grape harvest festival
Navia (Asturias) Swim contest along the River Navia
Sanl�car de Barrameda (C�diz) Horse races on the beach
September Valdepe�as (Ciudad Real) Grape harvest festival
Moors and Christians Festivals in L’Olleria (Valencia), Villena
(Alicante) and Caudete (Albacete)
September 9-12 Murcia. International Mediterranean Folklore Festival
September 12 Sueca (Valencia) "Paella" contest.
September 16-20 Palma del Condado (Huelva) Grape harvest Festival
September 20-26 Logro�o (La Rioja) Grape harvest Festival
September 24 Barcelona. "La Merc�" Patron’s celebrations
CORRECTIONS
Please note that in our Spring Newsletter, on the "Conventions" section the address of the Bilbao Congress Centre was incorrect. The correct address is: Palacio Euskalduna de Congresos y de la M�sica, Av. Abandoibarra, 4, phone 0034 94 403 5000, fax: 94 403 5001.
And on "Tour Operators" there is a typographical error in the FCD Overseas phone number. The correct number is:01743-850522.
The above information has been
compiled with the utmost care. However the Spanish Tourist Office
may not accept responsibility for errors, omissions or changes without previous notice