Montejaque revisited

It's been just about two years since we last visited the lovely pueblo of Montejaque so today we headed off intending to refresh our memories and perhaps find a restaurant to have lunch.

Heading south of Olvera on the A-374 towards Ronda, we turned off right onto the MA-8403 that took us through the picturesque El Hundidero gorge and on to Montejaque.

Arriving at about 1.15pm, we drove through the narrow streets, trying to park near to the centre of the village. However, our way was blocked at the Plaza de la Constitución so we turned around, parked on the outskirts of the village and walked back in.

It's a very pretty village with a population of about a thousand. The oldest part above the Plaza has very steep, winding and narrow streets but well worth the effort for the great views over the village and the surrounding countryside.

Many of the houses were made all the more attractive by their brightly painted doors and windows.

We had lunch from a tasty but limited menu at a restaurant in the main square before heading back home.

Las Cabalgatas de Reyes Magos

One of the major fiesta's of the annual event calendar throughout Spain is the Cavalcade of the Three Kings , that always takes place on the 5th January, the night before the traditional day for the giving and receiving of gifts (similar to Christmas Day in the UK).

So, with our friends Dan and Alison, we walked down town at about five this evening to watch the procession of the Three Kings.
It was great to see a such a large crowd supporting the occasion, lining the streets in anticipation of filling their pockets and bags with the sweets and small gifts being thrown from the floats.

Upturned umbrellas are another method of ensuring that you get your fair share of sweets.

A video of a brilliant night can be seen below.

The views this morning

There I was, sitting with my tea and digestives this morning watching the news, when an item about the partial eclipse of the sun came on.

So, ignoring the delights of breakfast, it was hot foot up to the terrace to see if I could get any decent pictures of the eclipse. Well, as you can see, I failed miserably but never mind, the ever changing views are always worth looking at.

The weather today is as forecast, with sun and temperatures at about 13°C.

Hopefully, the weather will be fine for the procession of the Three Kings taking place in town tomorrow evening.

Looking across to the pueblo of El Gastor.

Visita del Cartero Real

On a lovely "warm in the sun, chilly in the shade" day, we walked up to the Plaza del Ayuntamiento to witness the traditional visit of the Royal Postmen. They collect cards and letters from the children for delivery to the Three Kings, in the hope that their wishes are granted on January 6th, the traditional day for the giving and receiving of gifts in Spain.

Arriving at just after midday, a few people were already gathering.



After about an hour or so of waiting, we could hear the approaching band, by which time the square was quite full.

The procession was led into the square by a new bugle and drum band, formed in Olvera I think last year. And very good they were too.

Following on, surrounded by children and parents, were the two Royal Postmen.

Finally, the excellent Band of Olvera brought up the rear of the procession.

It wasn't long before the postmen were sitting down and receiving the written requests from the throngs of excited children and parents gathered. I think in the four years that we've been here, this is the largest gathering we've ever seen at this event.

Judging by the smile, it looks like this young girl's wishes may be granted.

We hope you enjoy the pictures but the following video may also enhance your appreciation of the atmosphere of the occasion.

Un Feliz y Próspero Año Nuevo a todos

A Happy and Prosperous New Year to all and we hope all your dreams come true in 2011.

We were fortunate to spend our evening with friends, enjoying delicious food and great company before watching the firework display above the castle at just after midnight (see video below).

Lets hope that 2011 brings love, peace, tolerance and understanding to a world that desperately needs it.