More views of Stirling from an early morning wander around the Wallace Monument.
The Catalonia region is not what most people consider as representative of Spain. Its because of the rain. And the mountains. The green landscape is heavily farmed thanks to its fertile and volcanic soil, but there is more. Its Mediterranean position means it can reach baking temperatures in summer and snowy, wet and cold in the winter. Its guaranteed sunshine that makes it a nice compliment to Scotland. Coupled with some interesting landscapes and lovely beaches.
Part of the magic of Girona Spain is how the colours change when the weather turns sour or the sun sets. Its pastels change hue with less impact and become even more subtle. It may feel odd that such a colourful city should photograph well in black and white yet it does. Cobble streets adds texture and geometry. A lovely city in the baking sun, refreshing rain, mid-day or sunset. Although it really comes alive with noise and bustle at dusk.
This is another medieval village located 100km north of Barcelona and lies 800m up on hills in Catalonia, Spain. You can visit 12th Century churches, old buildings as well as carefully arranged fields which hint to its working life. Nowadays its charm attracts many visitors. Usually I shoot in colour, but for a change here is Rupit photographed in black and white.
The medieval town of Besalú sits north of Girona. You approach over a grand romanesque bridge with huge doorways over the river Fluvia. It is a 12th century fortress with a strong jewish history. Side streets are very small and bend sharply unfriendly to motor vehicles and great to stroll through.
Girona – northern Spain’s largest city lies 62 miles north of Barcelona. Its position has been fought over many times by the French just 40 miles to the north. Wilfred the Hairy the Count of Barcelona, incorporated it within Barcelona’s power in 878.
It is a beautiful City full of pastels, history, alcoves (or is it nooks and crannies), cathedrals. From the Catalan flags you can feel it is Catalan in spirit, rarely a Spanish flag in sight. (more…)