May 5
Today we traveled from Tomar to Castelo Branco and then back to the castle in Tomar for a walk around the castle wall. Then of course we had to reward ourselves with a gelato.
Castelo branca is a town toward the center of Portugal. The main attraction there is the Episcopal Palace Garden of Castelo Branco. From 1771 to 1831 it was also the permanent residence of several Bishops of Guarda, In 1912 the gardens were opened to the public. We spent some time in the garden and the park across the street then had lunch in a tiny restaurant in town where no one spoke English- or French and the woman was insulted when George asked if she spoke Spanish. She said I am Portuguese. We knew that but just wanted to know if she spoke Spanish. They hate the Spanish and get upset at the mere mention of the word. We went back to Tomar and to the castle wall which we didn't walk yesterday but had one final burst of energy left today to do it. It was worth it. Here are some pictures from today.
Today we traveled from Tomar to Castelo Branco and then back to the castle in Tomar for a walk around the castle wall. Then of course we had to reward ourselves with a gelato.
Castelo branca is a town toward the center of Portugal. The main attraction there is the Episcopal Palace Garden of Castelo Branco. From 1771 to 1831 it was also the permanent residence of several Bishops of Guarda, In 1912 the gardens were opened to the public. We spent some time in the garden and the park across the street then had lunch in a tiny restaurant in town where no one spoke English- or French and the woman was insulted when George asked if she spoke Spanish. She said I am Portuguese. We knew that but just wanted to know if she spoke Spanish. They hate the Spanish and get upset at the mere mention of the word. We went back to Tomar and to the castle wall which we didn't walk yesterday but had one final burst of energy left today to do it. It was worth it. Here are some pictures from today.
the Episcopal Gardens in Castilo Branco
The Kings stairway in the gardens. The statues are Portuguese kings over the centuries
Pool in the garden
Boxwood formal garden with many statues in it
One of the town streets in Castelo Branca
Tomar Castle viewed from the castle wall
Tomar castle anf the garden and vineyard from the castle wall
Your comment about the lady in the restaurant was funny. If they don't want (or can't) speak Spanish, I am wondering how you are communicating while there. More beautiful pictures to share.
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