Spring is around the corner, and we want you to enjoy it to the fullest! At don Quijote, we take our coat off to recommend some of the best plans to explore Madrid in spring, as well as a perfect activity to enjoy the good weather while living the Spanish culture just like another local. We propose a tour through the 4 most important Markets in the city of Madrid. This tour can be done on the same day, since the walking distance from one to the other is not more than 30 minutes. In this way, you will make the most of your time in discovering the stunning stalls inside these historic markets.

Continue reading this post in English or click here to read it in Spanish.

Both the “Mercado de San Miguel” and the “Mercado de la Cebada” are located at squares that are called with the same name. Indeed, they were the squares the ones giving name to the markets. So, if you find the “Plaza de San Miguel” or “the Plaza de la Cebada”, you will also find these emblematic Madrid markets!

Mercado de San Miguel

The “Mercado de San Miguel” and the “Plaza de San Miguel” got their names from the church called “La Iglesia de San Miguel de los Octes”, where Lope de Vega —the famous playwright of the Spanish golden age— was baptized. The “Mercado de San Miguel” is representative of Madrid that it was declared Good of Cultural Interest. If you want to taste delicious Iberian ham, exotic seafood, paella or any of the many delights of the Spanish cuisine, the “Mercado de San Miguel” is a great point from which to start your market day in Madrid.

Mercado de la Cebada

Just 8 minutes walking from the “Mercado de San Miguel”, you´ll reach the “Mercado de la Cebada”, located in the charming neighborhood of La Latina. There, you will have the great opportunity to try excellent tapas and pintxos while discovering one of the oldest districts of the Spanish capital. Moreover, if you’d rather do the shopping, you’ll find delicious food in the different butchers, fruit and fish shops; or even many other high quality products like perfumes, flowers, crafts… and many more!

But if you prefer to spend the day just in one of them, the “Mercado de la Cebada” is a great choice, since it offers a wide range of cultural activities related to food and the products sold in the market.

Mercado de San Fernando

Just 8 minutes walking from the “Mercado de la Cebada”, you´ll reach the “Mercado de San Fernando”, located in the castizo —genuine from Madrid— neighborhood of Lavapiés. It is an area full of life, since the social and commercial activity revolves around the popular “Rastro de Madrid” —main flea market in Madrid— hold on Sundays. Since its opening in 1944, people can get food in most of the stalls, as well as artisan products, books, and many other things you’ll discover when you go!

And, if you stop by at the entrance for a while to see locals and tourists going by, you will discover that, eventually, the most diverse people in Madrid visit the “Mercado de San Fernando”: both elderly and young people; both from Madrid and other parts of Spain, and even from other parts of the world.

Mercado de Antón Martín

To end this tour though the best markets of Madrid, walk just 9 minutes to reach the “Mercado de Antón Martín” on Santa Isabel street. It is inside the old quarter of the Spanish capital, very close to important areas such as the Puerta del Sol or the Plaza Mayor. In this market, you will also meet people from all over the world and from all ages, from children accompanying their parents to old ladies and gentlemen who walk every day to do the shopping.

Museums, parks, restaurants for every taste (and budget), a fun-filled nightlife, different shopping areas, markets and festivals to enjoy… Madrid has it all! Well, almost. In the words of a popular local ska band from the 1980s, 'Aquí no hay playa' (there’s no beach here). So, with summer temperatures approaching 100 degrees, it’s important to always have a plan B to escape the heat.

Read the article in Spanish here.

Here are a few different ideas to keep up your sleeve in Madrid:

Pick a favorite park

El Retiro is hands down the most famous park in the capital of Spain. Aside from the sunny, crowded area around the square lake, its shady paths offer a breath of fresh air, perfect for the hottest part of the day. But Madrid has lots of other parks — this summer, why not try to find your favorite?

Oeste Park is the closest to our don Quijote school in Madrid, and here you can admire an authentic Egyptian temple or take the gondola lift to see Madrid from the skies. The ride will carry you all the way to Casa de Campo, the capital’s largest green space, ideal for exercising, rowing in the lake, or visiting the Amusement Park. Casa de Campo is linked to yet another park, Madrid Río, where you can hop on a bike or strap on your rollerblades and make your way to an exhibition at the Matadero Contemporary Art Center. If you want to keep it laid-back, take metro line 5 to Capricho Park, a romantic garden full of surprises, from a miniature fort (complete with a moat) to a bunker where the Republican government took shelter during the Spanish Civil War.

Make a splash!

Yeah, we know… there’s no beach in Madrid. That means the many pools you’ll find in and around the capital are the place to be when the heat is too overwhelming. If you’re looking for something close by, your best bet is to go to one of the city’s public pools, spread out across the different neighborhoods. If you’re up for a bit of a trek, we recommend you take a trip to the mountains to dip in some natural pools, either in Cercedilla, roughly an hour away by car, or Rascafría, about 15 minutes farther.

If you’re craving something more chic (and also more expensive), several hotels in downtown Madrid will let you spend the day soaking in their pools. Hotel Emperador, right on Gran Vía, features one of the city’s most popular rooftop pools along with spectacular panoramic views of the city.

Cool off with culture

One of Madrid’s many museums could be the ideal plan for a hot summer afternoon, with air conditioning, entertainment, and culture all in one. As you probably already know, the Spanish capital is home to one of the world’s best museums featuring European painters: the Prado. If contemporary art is more your style, the Reina Sofía Museum is just a short walk away, housed in a former hospital with a refreshing patio where you can take a break between rooms.

Why not stray from the beaten path and visit some of Madrid’s lesser-known museums? Try the Cerralbo Museum, located in a charming and luxurious 19th-century palace, or the ABC museum, which organizes interesting illustration exhibitions. Step inside the Sorolla Museum for a look at the painter’s house and studio in Madrid, complete with a beautiful garden and fountains, or stop by the Garment Museum, next to Oeste Park, for a trip through the history of clothes.

Looking for something a little different? Go back in time with the Platform Zero project: you can visit the old Chamberí metro station, restored to look the same as it did the day it was closed to the public in 1966, and the Nave de Motores de Pacífico, an electric power plant dating back to the 1920s.

Join the party

If there’s one thing that stands out about summers in Madrid, it’s the string of typical fiestas celebrated in the different neighborhoods and lasting long into the night. For an authentic Spanish experience, don’t miss La Paloma, a verbena or open-air festival celebrated the week of August 15 in La Latina. You’ll enjoy learning to dance the chotis alongside madrileños in their traditional chulapo dress (it’s the easiest dance in the world, we promise.) The most refreshing fiesta is the almost 40-year-old Batalla Naval de Vallecas — the enormous water fight will leave you as happy as you are soaking wet.

Maybe visiting Madrid in the summer isn’t such a bad idea, right? Trust us, you’ll have a blast. This list is just the beginning: you still have to eat at one of the city’s many restaurants with terraces, enjoy the ambience of the trendy Mercado de Motores, and hear live music at outdoor concerts in the Sabatini Gardens or the Complutense University Botanical Gardens.

Thinking about going abroad to learn Spanish but don't know where to go? Look no further and let us help you find the best destination! Spanish is spoken in many different countries and each one has a different appeal for visitors: whether it's history, nature, or culture you're interested in, you will find your perfect match. Let's explore together different destinations where learning and practicing your Spanish won't be a problem. Here are 7 best destinations to learn Spanish.   

1. Spain

Because, you know, the Spanish language comes from Spain, so wouldn't it be a great place to start? While there are differences between the varieties of Spanish used in Spain, everyone can still communicate with each other. The Spanish you learn in Spain is different to South American Spanish because of the different ways it is spoken, but when you learn Spanish in Spain you will be able to communicate in any country that speaks the language. You may practice your Spanish before studying aboard in Spain by listening to Spanish radio, watching your favorite show in Spanish, or download a Spanish app on your smartphone.

Madrid is the 6th most populated city in Europe and its clearly spoken accent is just great for learners. Madrid is the capital of Spain and is known for its energetic culture, tapas and great ambiance. Most locals are very friendly and like tourists who want to learn to speak their language. Spanish classes in Madrid are very interactive, and everything you learn in the classroom you will put to use with a friendly local. What better way to learn Spanish in Madrid than over a glass of wine and free tapas?

Barcelona is surrounded by sunny beaches and its great food makes it a long-standing favourite destination for tourists. Barcelona could be the best place to learn Spanish in Spain because of its melting pot of individuals and their cultural blend, so learn Spanish in Barcelona to live a cultural experience as you practice the language with native locals. Taking Spanish courses in Barcelona will also help you experience a new lifestyle by making new friends and having fun in a new language. Just imagine: after your Spanish class in Barcelona, you and your new friends head out to eat with an incredible view of the Mediterranean Sea. 

2. Mexico

Truly immerse yourself in the Mexican culture and traditions through the language in Latin America by trying out one of our Spanish immersion programs in Mexico. Learn Spanish in Mexico throughout your daily routines and take advantage of the opportunity to practice your Spanish in your everyday life.

Oaxaca is in Southwestern Mexico and has a coastline of the Pacific Ocean. It is one of Mexico's top destinations, thanks to its rich culture and amazing gastronomy. At our Oaxaca Spanish school, you will make long-lasting friends and open new doors for your future while you study Spanish in Mexico.

3. Costa Rica

Surround yourself with gorgeus nature! Come and try our Spanish immersion program in Costa Rica and have fun while doing it. This country has amazing sights and here you will be able to learn new Spanish vocabulary while you're ziplining through the jungle. Learn Spanish in Costa Rica while enjoying some natural hot springs or visiting an adventure park. It's the most biodiverse country on Earth, so keep an eye on its amazing wildlife!

4. Argentina

Love red wine and advanced cuisine of all types of food? You can venture off after your Spanish classes and indulge in the culture. Argentinians are famous for their distinctive and captivating accent, and they love exchanging and learning new vocabulary words with tourists. So, feel at home and make the most of your stay while you learn Spanish in Argentina and share mate with your friends.  

Buenos Aires is known for its high population, and its cultural scene makes it one of the world’s top destinations. Many of the Spanish schools in Buenos Aires offer immersion programs to help students experience the real Argentina. Since language and culture go side by side, what better way to learn Spanish in Buenos Aires than a highly-customized program that tailors your interests and helps you learn faster?  

5. Colombia

Everything you have heard or seen on TV about this country you must delete it from your memory and start off fresh: a lot has changed since the 90s. Spanish schools in Colombia are surrounded by the country's lush landscape and offer many opportunities to practice your new linguistic skills. One of the many reasons to learn Spanish in Colombia is that the locals clearly pronounce their words and speak slowly, which makes it very easy to understand.

Gain the ultimate experience and learn Spanish in Bogota or Cartagena de Indias while you get to know the local traditions. Spanish schools in Bogota will teach you how to communicate in supermarkets, restaurants, and other places where you will want to talk to people on an everyday basis.

6. Cuba

This historical and vibrant country is known for its music, art, and culture. Take a tour around the city and study Spanish in Cuba in a way you never expected. Jump inside a 1950s car and see vintage art pieces on your way, and don't miss the breathtaking architecture that awaits you just around any corner in Havana or Santiago. Learn Spanish in Cuba while you dance your way through old Havana and, of course, fall in love with the locals' caribbean accent.

7. Ecuador

Explore the beauty of the rainforest and wildlife while you learn Spanish in Ecuador. Most locals are very open to helping international travelers around the area. A good Spanish school in Ecuador prepares you for basic conversations and how to travel around cities like colonial Quito with no problem. People from Ecuador speak slowly and clearly so it doesn't matter if you're an absolute beginner, you won't struggle to communicate. So, come and study Spanish in Ecuador, it will be the experience of a lifetime!

Today we are going to tell you about a flea market in Madrid that is not just a market. It's a cultural event! We are talking about the famous and very trendy Mercado de Motores (Motor Market).

This market, which is held once a month, has become one of the most sophisticated events in the city. And we're going to give you some reasons why it’s so popular.

Read the spanish version

First, because this market, with its great atmosphere, has everything: arts and crafts, work from new and enterprising designers, retro items, just about everything for collectors. You could be looking for a nice shirt and you will end up buying a gift for your partner, several items to decorate your house with and that Stones LP you've been after for years!

Second, because it takes place in one of the most picturesque venues in Madrid, the Railway Museum: what was once Delicias Train Station, today you’ll find several locomotives and wagons on display that in their day toured Spain. Its nineteenth-century atmosphere will transport you to another era. By the way ... Did you know that the museum cafeteria is in an old restaurant car?

Third, because you can hear great live music. So many groups of musicians set up around the museum: from tribute bands, to DJs intent on making you dance no matter what, from swing bands to performances… Hold on to your shopping bags because you won’t be able to resist the moving rhythms.

Fourth, because after so much activity you’ll want to sit and relax or have a drink. Here in the Mercado de Motores there are a myriad of food trucks with all different kinds of fare: international, vegan, the classic and always triumphant hot dog, cupcakes and other delights without forgetting the Spanish gastronomy.

And finally, because when you return home after having spent the day in the Mercado de Motores... You won’t stop thinking about going back the following month!

Note: the photos in this post are by photographer Josetxu Miguel, and granted by the Mercado de Motores organization.

If you're interested in studying Spanish in Madrid with don Quijote this winter, you're in for a unique spectacle. With the cool temperatures of autumn, the city enjoys a charming transformation: the air becomes crisp, t-shirts and sandals are put away and give way to sophisticated coats and boots, many dishes, comforting and warm, and the urban vegetation is tinged with vivid reds, oranges and yellows. Apart from the typical seasonal changes, Madrid also offers fun events during this season. So take your Spanish learning experience out of the classroom and pay attention to our guide of the best things to do this November in Madrid.

Let the weather guide your stomach

Let's start with everyone's favorite topic: food! Spanish gastronomy is known for its long tradition of seasonal dishes, tapas and drinks (just try to find a person who drinks gazpacho in winter, we dare you!). The weather, so cool, is perfect for comer con cuchara (eating with a spoon) and, as Spaniards, a good, healthy cocido madrileño. The city's most famous, cocido madrileño, is cooked with garbanzo (chickpeas), vegetables and meat. Other hot and traditional dishes in Madrid are callos (yes, they're beef intestines, but trust us... they're delicious!) and garlic soup.

Another dish you must try is the famouscochinillode Segovia. Just an hour from Madrid, the city of Segovia will surprise you with its medieval beauty and, after a great walk, you can calm your stomach with this local specialty. And if you want your gastronomic route to go one step further, why not make a reservation at Casa Botín? Recognized by the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest restaurant in the world, Casa Botín was founded in 1725 and its specialties are typically madrilenians and Castellan dishes.

And, of course, don't forget to try the churros con chocolate, which are considered part of a typical breakfast in Spain... Because there's no better way to start a cold winter day than with churros and a good cup of chocolate.

Enjoy unique gastronomic festivals

November is a month of events and festivals in Madrid, designed to satisfy all palates. If you are a jazz lover, for example, you will love the International Jazz Festival that takes place throughout the month. This festival will not only offer you more than 100 musical performances, but also jazz-related discussions, film screenings and exhibitions. On the other hand, the Madrid en Danza festival starts on November 18 and stands out for its innovative aesthetics and its commitment to international and local dance.

For foodies, there is MadrEAT, an outdoor gastronomic market where you will have at your disposal more than 20 vans specialized in gourmet food and craft beer. MadrEAT takes place in the gardens of AZCA during the third weekend of November. Finally, for those with more diverse interests, Madrid also hosts Science Week (Nov. 7-20) and Madrid Horse Week (Nov. 27-27). Never seen a horse show? Why not do it this month?

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Get out into nature

Just because temperatures have dropped doesn't mean outdoor activities end. With the change in vegetation, areas of Madrid such as Retiro Park are transformed into a spectacular paradise of copper and golden colors. So why not take a bike or the metro and discover all the beauty of the city? In addition to the Retiro Park, you can visit others such as the Parque del Oeste, the Sabatini Gardens or the Dehesa de la Villa (former hunting ground of King Alfonso VII). The Casa de Campo is another gem: because it is the largest park in Madrid and because it houses the Parque de Atracciones and the Madrid Zoo. The park also organizes guided tours and walks.

Here it is! If you are studying Spanish in Madrid this year, don't let it go by without discovering all the beauty, culture and fun that the city has to offer!

It’s summertime in Madrid, which means two things: it’s ridiculously hot out, and the city is bursting with things to see and do! Here in Madrid, summertime is lived out on the streets. If you’re a student with our don Quijote School, however, it also means you’ve got to dedicate some time to studying. While studying Spanish is great, we understand the challenges students face during the summer months… Maybe your weekend study plans went out the window with those last-minute tickets to that music festival. Or perhaps you’re itching to finish studying early so you can grab a spot on that hot new rooftop bar.  Or let us guess: your apartment doesn’t have air-conditioning, thus leaving your attempt to study at home feeling more like a Bikram yoga session.

So, how to maximize your productivity so that you can get out and enjoy these long summer days as quickly as possible? A good place to start is by finding a great workspace that works for you. Check out some of these spots that make summer studying in Madrid cool, easy and enjoyable.

Libraries

Madrid is home to the largest library in Spain and one of the biggest in the world: the Biblioteca Nacional de España (National Library of Spain, Paseo de Recoletos, 20). While its unparalleled collection and majestic beauty will no doubt impress you, it’s not the easiest place to study: not only do you need a library card or carné to access the study areas, the library also heavily restricts what you can bring in (jackets, backpacks, books… laptops are permitted, however).

The Instituto Internacional  (International Institute, Calle Miguel Ángel, 8) is a terrific, more low-key option for those who enjoy studying in libraries. If you relish the cozy, old-timey feeling of being tucked away between shelves of antique books, then this is the perfect place for you. Its small library – which you can access without a library card – is located in the building’s lower level. While eating and drinking is technically not permitted, the space is so laid-back that discreetly sipping a Redbull will surely go unnoticed.  

If you prefer libraries of the more modern, sterile variety, check out the Biblioteca Pública Municipal Conde Duque  (Conde Duque Public Municipal Library, Calle Conde Duque, 11). The library boasts of two giant study halls, with long rows of tables filled with university students. If you work best in intensely quiet, barren environments, you’ll definitely flourish here!  While a library card isn’t required to enter, you will have to register with the front desk if you want to access the WiFi. The best part about this library? Conde Duque is a huge cultural center that also houses a free-access museum, an instruments lending library, and even transforms its outdoor space into a large terrace/bar with outdoor cinema during the summer months  – which means that you when you finish studying, the fun is just a few steps away!

Study-friendly cafés

Sure, there’s always the big chains… but you didn’t come to Madrid to spend all afternoon in a Starbucks! Madrid’s city center (student-friendly zones such as Malasaña and Chueca in particular) has an unlimited supply of quaint cafés, perfectly equipped for studying. Café Federal  (Plaza de las Comendadoras, 9) is a great choice: spacious, sunny, good WiFi and great food. As the café is a local favorite for Spaniards and ex-pats alike, staff and menus are English-friendly.

Somewhat of a haven for young ex-pats is the hipster café La Bicicleta  (Plaza de San Ildefonso, 9), famous for its laid-back, international vibe. Here outlets and tables abound – but so do the patrons. This place is so popular, it’s sometimes difficult to find a seat, and its menu has some steep prices. But if you thrive in homey, friendly and lively environments, grab your headphones and get studying!

La Fugitiva Librería Café  (Calle de Santa Isabel, 7) is an intimate, cozy book shop with small tables tucked away between its shelves. Although more a book store than a café, it does offer coffees, teas and some sweet treats, as well as WiFi access. It’s the perfect spot for when you’re looking for a quiet retreat from the hectic streets of Madrid.  

Try the unconventional: Parks, bars and terraces

What about studying in a palace, for example? The Museo del Romanticismo  (Calle San Mateo, 13) is located in a former palace and has a lovely Garden Café. You don’t need to enter the museum to sit and have a coffee in their garden, although the museum is also a beautiful must-see, and offers reduced prices and free admission on Saturdays.

Madrid is full of beautiful luxury hotels –maybe you can’t afford to stay in one, but you can certainly spend a few hours in their lobby, café or bar. Plenty of hotels have spaces open to the public, so why not venture in and study like the rich and famous? If you’re looking for some suggestions, both The Hotel Wellington  and The Westin Palace have various dining spaces, and Hotel Orfila has a beautiful outdoor garden.

If you’re looking for a more laid-back environment, you’d be surprised how great some of those typical bares de abuelos are for studying. You know, that no-frills, local bar where you almost never see anyone under the age of 60? As long as you avoid going during high-traffic times (when a soccer game is on, for example), you’re likely to find a nice corner to work quietly. Although most of these bars don’t come with WiFi, you may get lucky and find one, such as Bar Sidi in Malasaña (Calle de Colón, 15). The best part is, these bars are made for locals, which means they likely won’t have outrageous prices. So go ahead – order than fourth coffee, you deserve it.

Then of course, for those who enjoy studying outdoors, Madrid has plenty of parks and green spaces to lay down a blanket and take out the books. Beyond the expansive Parque del Buen Retiro, there’s also the Parque de Berlín and the Parque del Oeste, to name a few.

So there you have it, a great selection of places to study this summer in Madrid. Not only will you get your schoolwork out of the way, you’ll stay cool and get to explore all the best, most unique, and oftentimes historic spaces Madrid has to offer its students. Happy studying!

Since Halloween is this week, I thought we could talk about those abandoned cities and towns that give us so much good storytelling material for this time of year. Ghost towns are present all over the world and in just about in every country. In the United States, there are famous places like Centralia, Pennsylvania (the inspiration for the Silent Hill videogame and movie), well preserved Bodie in California and numerous other spots in the west and Great Plains. Abandoned places in the UK are everywhere primarily due to the Black Plague while more recently others were abandoned during WWII like Tyneham and Langford.

In Spain there are also some very noteworthy towns where only some buildings, landmarks or vestiges of dwellings once were. In northern Spain, the County of Treviño forms a part of Castille and León. Due to agreements made in the Middle Ages between rival kings, this county is enveloped by the Basque province of Álava and is not physically connected to Castille and León. Due to the difficult geography of the area—rugged and irregular hills along with difficult farming conditions—Treviño has always been isolated from its neighbors like Álava, Burgos and La Rioja.

The Village of Ochate

However, in an area full of hamlets and half abandoned villages, there is one place that stands out—the village of Ochate. This abandoned village is known to have been inhabited since the Bronze Age thanks to discovery of flint and quartz tools in the fields nearby. There is also proof of Roman occupation since a funeral stele was discovered near a neighboring hermitage. Ochate's location, today remote and more off the beaten path than ever, was once positioned along a very transited road that connected Castille and León to what is known as the Route of Fish and Wine. This route got its name by being an important trade route between the fishing villages along the Bay of Biscay and the fertile fields and wine producing region of La Rioja.

Today, that route is nothing more than a hiking trail and with its decline, the enclave of Treviño also experienced depopulation which has dwindled the county's population down to 1461 inhabitants in 2011; a very small population for an area of 100 sq. miles or an area roughly the size of Sacramento, California. Vacío means empty in Spanish and this lack of populatoin coupled with an eerily remote region and unfriendly landscape combine to make this place very empty indeed and also an ideal location for a ghost town.

Through the middle ages to the 19^th century, Ochate was always a village on the edge; in fact it was previously abandoned at the end of the 13th century only to be revived again in the mid-1500s. Descriptions of the village from the second half of the 19^th century tell of a small and humble village populated with cattle farmers and laborers. The people here lived off of what they raised and they ate principally beef, beans, potatoes and cereals. Curiously, the ingenuity of the villagers for making the best of their situation were able benefit from their harsh  conditions by charging mushroom collectors a fee for foraging around their village. We know this thanks to the preservation of written contracts dating back to the 18^th century.

Why this village started to empty at the end of the 19^th century is still not entirely clear but illness, unfortunate weather and a murder all had a role to play. During this time there was sickness, especially the Spanish flu, which devastated the area and rain and hail that destroyed crops in successive years during the 1920s caused people to go search for a better place to live. In 1930 there remained only two families—one being a family of three and the other a single elderly man. Because a crazy pastor that frequented the village threatened pretty much everyone, the Aránguiz family decided to move to a safer village nearby. The elderly man, Eusebio, wasn't far behind. Their fears were later realized when the crazed shepherd brutally killed a fellow shepherd in one of the abandoned houses of Ochate in 1936.

The stories related to this towns cursed past began to surface in the 1970s and took off with the publication of an article in the magazine Mundo Desconocido, a monthly publication that dealt with the paranormal and extraterrestrial.   Within this article the telling of UFO sightings and persistent paranormal activity was uncovered as well as a telling of biblical plagues that affected this tiny hamlet through the years creating the basis for future misery and strange occurrences.

The story of a missing person from a neighboring village in Ochate in 1973 while on his way to plow his field along with farm animals mysteriously disappearing made the news around this time. Also there have been reports of lights that have been seen originating from the village at night and not just from the village. These lights have been found to originate from stone sarcophagi that are buried in the ground around the village that today lay empty and visible to the intrepid visitor.

Numerous other stories of happenings related to the supernatural have circulated among the curious. Iker Jimenez, the famous Spanish reporter of all things strange wrote:

I have to recognize that, with night having fallen over us, I was shaken to my bones when I heard those recorded voices (from Ochate) from January and June of 1987. The first was the scream of a little girl saying "Pandora!" Or maybe it was the voice that yelled "kampora" which in Basque means get out. This was voice was recorded inside of the bell tower and with total clarity that it was truly chilling. There was another voice recorded in the same place but higher up and has left in the air various questions. This last voice was that of a woman who in a lamentable and hoarse tone said: "Why is the door still open?"

Iker Jimenez,

Enigmas Sin Resolver I, Vol.I

It has been speculated that door refers to a door to other dimensions that the researcher, Alberto Fernandez, was trying to uncover. Unfortunately, and for reasons not explained, this researcher took his life on one of his visits to Ochate. The idea that this village is some kind of portal is also reinforced by the towns own name. In Basque, Otxate means Puerta de Lobos (The Wolves' Door) and Ochate means Puerta de Gog (The Door of Gog), Gog being a biblical figure associated with the powers of evil in the Book of Revelations.

There have been numerous groups of researches coming to Ochate over the last 40 years trying to unravel the mystery surrounding the once humble-turned-cursed village. One thing for sure is that this is a place with many stories to tell all within a region that is only 10 miles from Vitoria, the capital of Spanish Basque country, yet a world away. If you want to visit Ochate, you will need some good walking shoes since this village doesn't have access by road. You can park in the nearby village of Imíruri and walk a little more than a mile to the remains of Ochate. There you will find the remains of the church and the foundations and some remaining walls of what were once the houses and barns of the people that lived here. There is also the remains of a hermitage on a bluff overlooking Ochate that is also worth a visit. But don't forget a flashlight and camera, just in case…

Why don't you tell us about your favorite ghost town?

Alberto Aragunde: Ochate. Un pueblo de leyenda desde el aire.

It is the gate of the sun and the apple of the eye of the largest city and capital of Spain. 'Puerta del Sol' is the tourist attraction of Madrid. In addition to its public function today, the square also has an important part in the tourism sector.  Thus, the square possesses famous statues, beautiful fountains and is the zero point of Spain! La Puerta del Sol will take you to the most beautiful places in Madrid.

• Every city has its own beautiful square that gives the city character and appearance. Madrid has "Puerta del Sol"; a square with pure charm and bustle at any time of day.
• The literal zero point of Spain leads you to all the beauties of the city. Every little street shows you the charm of Madrid and takes you to the places the city is so proud of.
• Besides the fame of the square itself, it also holds a number of tourist attractions. For example, the old post office stands prominently in front of the square, the two famous statues have been photographed many times and the fountains are widely used to enjoy this beautiful square.
• 'Puerta del Sol' literally translated means Gate of the Sun and comes from the 15th century, when it served as a gateway to the old city center.

'Puerta del Sol' is a centrally located square in the beautiful capital of Spain: Madrid. The square itself does not have many famous buildings, but it does lead you to the most beautiful sights in Madrid. Besides its important public function for demonstrations and meetings, the square is the literal zero point of Spain. From Disney characters in the afternoon to genuinely good street performers in the evening; 'Puerta del Sol' is alive at any time of day. From 'Puerta del Sol' all distances are calculated to other places in Spain, it is the reference point of highways and the adjacent streets lead you to Madrid's attractions.

Sightseeing in Madrid

There are six streets adjacent to "Puerta del Sol. Two streets of these together are actually one street, running up the side along the square. This street is only accessible to buses and emergency services. Cars are not allowed into the square, which makes it possible for all pedestrians to quietly walk around and look around. The main street "Calle Mayor" takes you to "Plaza Mayor," Madrid's second famous square. The square is surrounded by 'houses' as you see in every 'Plaza Mayor'. If you continue down the street a little further, you will come to 'Plaza de la Villa,' where the Madrid City Hall is located. Return to 'Puerta del Sol', after all, it is the zero point! If you walk through 'Calle Arenal' you can't miss the 'Teatro Real'. 'Teatro Real' is located in the completely matching neighborhood of 'Opéra'. 

The theater is one of the largest stages for opera in the world. From the outside the building does not look spectacular, but inside it is an opera heaven. Behind "Teatro Real" is Madrid's largest square, "Plaza de Oriente. The square holds statues of several Spanish kings and has the 'Palacio Real' by its side. Spain's royal palace is not inhabited but is used for important occasions. A little further on is the impressive 'Cathedral de la Almudena' which took 100 years to build, but the result is impressive. Back to the zero point. The last important street 'Carrera Jerónimo' leads you to a small, quiet neighborhood where you will find many government buildings. As you can see, "Puerta del Sol" takes you easily to the best places in Madrid.

On 'Puerta del Sol' itself you will also find famous tourist attractions. Of course the fountains, which provide a coolness in summer and always have people sitting around them to enjoy the charm and bustle of 'Puerta del Sol'. 'Casa de Correos,' the city's old post office, of which the old clock on the building is especially famous. This clock is used only once a year; during the turn of the year. Like almost everywhere else in Spain, everyone gathers in the central square and counts down 12 seconds before noon until the clock strikes 12. Of course, one grape is traditionally eaten at each clock strike. "Casa de Correos" is the sight of "Puerta del Sol. In addition, the square has two famous statues. Surely the most famous statue is 'Oso y Madroño' (Bear and May Tree). The statue shows an upright bear with a maypole as tall as 4 meters. It is the symbol of the city and the meeting point of many Madrilenians. In the center of the square is the statue of Carlos III. It is a bronze, nine-meter-high replica was placed in the square in 1994.

'Puerta del Sol' was one of the gates of the enclosure of Madrid in the 15th century. It was the central gate to the old center of Madrid, was built on the east and decorated with a sun. This is why the gate was called "Puerta del Sol. Previously, the square had no important function except being a meeting place, but when in 1766 'Casa de Correos' (the post office)was finished, the square took on a more important function. Before 1986, traffic still passed through 'Puerta del Sol,' but this was abolished that year. When more space for pedestrians was created in 1986 and only buses and emergency services were allowed to enter the square, it immediately became much more attractive and cozy.

Cherry Blossom in Spain

Cherry blossoms are usually associated with Japan or even Washington D.C. but Spain also has its own particular cherry blossom festival.  In a corner of Spain between Salamanca and Cáceres, close to the town of Plasencia, is a valley tucked into the mountains of the central system. Within this 70 kilometer long valley—Jerte Valley—is a growing region home to the Picota cherry, one of the sweetest cherries on earth. This cherry comes with a Denominación de Origin (Denomination of Origin) certificate that classifies this fruit as being of the highest quality and coming from only this area of the world.

Every year in spring this valley comes to life with the blooming of the trees and arrival of thousands of Spaniards that come to see a beautiful, fleeting event.  The region prepares an agenda of activities that range from bird watching to participating in the actual picking of the cherries. This area wakes up from a winter hibernation to a calendar of activities that is actually pretty dizzying.

More than 1.5 million cherry trees occupy this basin with many growing up steeply rising hillsides. These trees pertain mostly to small family farms (there are 3,737 registered growers) and are grown in a very traditional and sustainable manner. For example, it is very common to see during picking season the cherries laid out on beds of fern leaves which protects the fruit while it is being gathered.  Unfortunately for most Americans, tasting these incredibly delicious cherries is practically impossible: 60% of the productions is consumed domestically while the rest is exported principally to Germany and the United Kingdom.

Right now the trees are starting to bloom and the second act of a three-act play of nature is happening.  The locals have given a name to these three moments: Despertar el valle (the valley wakes), Cerezo en Flor (Cherry trees in bloom), and Lluvia de Pétalos (shower of flower petals). This is the moment when most people come to the valley to take in some incredible views and walk along the numerous paths that wind between the trees and the different villages within this area.

If you want to come and take part in an incredible show of nature, you better hurry because by the beginning of May the flowers will be gone and the fruit will be start to be growing on the tree. Not all is lost, though, if you come after the flowers have gone since the fruit will be ready and picked in June and July. You will then be able to taste some the best and rarest cherries in the world. I’d say that would be worth the trip.

How to get to the Valle del Jerte

To get to the Valle del Jerte from Madrid you can go north through Ávila or west, by way of Plasencia—either way the trip takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours making an overnight stay in a casa rural an excellent option. In spring, the weather is usually warm during the day with cool nights without the extremes of the neighboring areas due to the excellent micro-climate the valley creates.