We had spent a lot of time in towns and wanted to see some
different scenery, so we set off for the mountains. After driving back past
Ubeda, we drove through many miles of olive groves before we started to climb
into the Sierra de Segura. Gradually olive trees became less dominant and
cherry and almond trees appeared together with pines. The scenery was
spectacular with huge, vertical cliffs and views of snow-covered peaks as well
as extensive views over the plains. At the beginning it was quite murky with
low, white clouds hanging below the mountain tops but it soon became clearer
and the temperature began to rise. Eventually, we came out of the Sierra de Segura
and the land levelled out.
This was probably the most interesting day’s drive that we have had so far. The
geology was very varied – kast limestone rock with cliffs and caves, marble, Badlands,
reservoirs, rivers and ravines.
Our aire was in Puebla de Don Fadrique, a small town nestled at the bottom of
the mountains – a peaceful location. We took a short walk around the centre of
the town but there was little of interest to see. The church was open but only
because they were preparing a statue of the pieta for procession. This involved
removing the statue from its normal position and placing it on a pedestal that
would be pushed around the streets. It was a delicate operation and fascinating
to watch. When they had completed it, I congratulated them with a ‘bravo’ and
there were smiles all around. The lady who was supervising held her hands over
her heart and I didn’t need a translator to understand that her heart was
beating fast during the process. This will be happening all over Spain in
preparation for the Easter celebrations.
Photos: Early in the drive - miles and miles of olive groves with irrigation
reservoirs dotted amongst them; Badlands scenery; Behind these rocky outcrops
you can see part of a massive dam holding back a large reservoir; Moving the
statue, very carefully.
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