DAROCA IMPRESSES WITH BOLD & GLORIOUS HISTORY

Daroca is a bold fortress town that once held great power as the midway point between the two great Roman cities of Valentia (Valencia) and Caesaraugusta(Zaragoza). El Cid, marched victoriously at Darocas with his troops after a campaign against the Moors. And a Holy Miracle launched the building of a Holy Relic Church to house a blood stained cloth found after another victorious battle against the Moors. Now, many centuries later, it is a great place to explore and have lunch at the fine dining restaurant at the local hotel.

The video below the photos shows an aerial view of the massive fortress walls that once protected this vital town.

ROMAN RUINS REMAIN IN SAGUNTO

Sagunto is just a short drive north of Valencia city and if you need to believe that Rome once ruled these parts, then this is the place to get your proof. Excellent artifacts litter the fortress site and the Roman amphitheatre has been restored. You can also greet some catty caretakers who carefully watch you stroll by!
Double left click on photo group - to enlarge full screen ;)

GOAT HERDING - A SUPRISING CONTINUED TRADITION

I am always surprised to find a goat herder out with his goats and working dogs - wandering the fields during the height of tourist season. It is truely a time bound tradition and a major miracle there are no crazy accidents as goats invade roads and leap out in front of cars!

BULLS COME TO MORAIRA

Another season of farmers showing off their prize bulls to the crowds in Moraira. Bull handlers taunt the young beasts to give chase and when the bulls charge the crowds scream and applaud. Spectators shrill at the thrill of being so close to a dangerous animal!

DRAMATIC SUMMER SKIES

We have had some dramatic summer skies this year. I never get tired of walking through the Granadella Park early in the morning with my dogs and watching the sun come up over the sea. These photos were taken over July and the first of August - 2011.