The next stop was the Palacio Real. The Royal Palace which is HUGE and apparently took 26 years to build the shell of the building alone. We weren't allowed to take photos inside but the best way I can describe it is ornate. There were tapestry walls, frescos, and crystal chandeliers everywhere. One room was made entirely of porcelain. There is a quiet pride that emanates throughout the whole building. You can also see it in many of the everyday Spaniards as well - it's pretty cool.
The best part of this whole palace was the armory. Such beautiful work on protective gear worn by soldiers and horses. Entire stories depicted on some of the guns and armor.
I turned a corner and I couldn't believe my eyes. Could it be? No way - midget armor??? My heart leapt and I thought of the movie Time Bandits and visions of midgets in battle. I went in to read the description - uh, no it's kids armor.
I don't know what I found more disturbing: How excited I got at the prospect of armor for midgets or that people suited up their kids in this stuff.
Finished up the tour and went back to the hotel to call Tio. It would be the first time I have spoken to him and in Spanish so I was nervous. I think Consuela answered and I had asked for Tio Luis. She said something I couldn't understand and then I said "Es Penelope". "Ah, Penelope! Hola!" We started chatting as best I could and I gave her all my bus arrival information. There was one phrase that was unmistakable in any language by the tone alone: "We've been waiting for you to call!" Ah, family translates no matter what.
She was so kind and warm. Also very excited to see me tomorrow as was I to see her and Tio. "Hasta Manana!" she said. Yep, you betcha.
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