Lunch and a stroll.

Today we had lunch at El Caçador in Els Valentins which is 22 km inland from Vinaròs to the north west so it is just inside Cataluña.

I think we have been seriously influenced by Spanish cuisine. For starters Margaret had Salmorejo and I had paella.

This was followed by grilled tuna steak for Margaret and Secreto Iberíco for me. We just love these traditional dishes.

On returning to Vinaròs, we had a walk along the sea front...

...where the natural flowers and weeds are in full bloom.

I've got a feeling we are gradually becoming Spanish as not only do we enjoy the food but having a walk after lunch is another custom!

It's either that or having a siesta!

It's holiday time again! (5) Córdoba

Córdoba is famous for 2 things. The main one is the Cathedral which was built in 1523 on the site of the Muslim Mosque after Córdoba had been reconquered in 1236. The Mosque had been built in stages from 785 and was in actual fact on the site of the San Vicente Basilica dating from occupation by the Visigoths and built in the 6th century only to be destroyed to make way for the Mosque.

The Mosque was considered the most important sanctuary of Western Islam and Córdoba was the capital of territory extending as far north as the Duero River.

The arches are constructed from red brick and beige stone.

The second thing that Córdoba is famous for is the festival of the patios where private homes open to display their inner courtyards decorated with an abundance of pot plants.

Lunch is at the Rincón de Carmen restaurant. Primero, the first course, is a speciality dish, Salmorejo, which is a "cream of gazpacho", a purée of tomatoes, bread, oil, vinegar and garlic served cold and topped with diced hard boiled egg and jamón de serrano, serrano ham

For segunda, the second course, we have another speciality of Córdoba, a Flamenquín garnished with chips, salad and mayonnaise.

A Flamenquín is pieces of pork loin rolled with serrano ham, coated with egg and breadcrumbs then deep fried. A formidable dish but delicious.

 To see my video of Córdoba, click HERE.