This morning Rudy said we had to go to the little cafe that he had been to yesterday to have his cappechino and French toast. So off we went. I can’t say enough how glorious the neighbourhood is that we live in. The trees, shrubs and flowers are so stunning but also so peaceful to walk through. The streets are quiet, when we have to walk on them. but mostly we follow the paths. We arrived as the place was opening and were recognized and ushered in. The people we have met in Medellin are so friendly and welcoming and we communicate in our limited Spanish and hand gestures. The food was fabulous. I really should have taken a picture of it to put in the blog. The French toast slices were thick with cinnamon and cream as well as loaded with fruits (mangos, a type of sour cherries, blueberries, strawberries, and kiwi. We sat in the outdoor area amongst the plants and flowers and felt like royalty.
After this leisurely breakfast we sauntered back to our place, relaxed some more, and then headed out to downtown. The walk is about 30 minutes. We had a couple of things we wanted to see and do. The market streets were hopping. Wow, there are so many stands of knock off shoes, socks, hats, underwear, every different kind of pants, t-shirts, and sweatshirts, not to mention the trinkets and food vendors. We wanted to go back to the Old Palace of Justice mall and wander the top 2 floors. Our guide had mentioned that they were filled with art and I had a hankering to purchase something if there was anything that caught my eye and suited my pocketbook. In short, there wasn’t. It was interesting and some of it appealed to me but most of it was shlocky. Lots of stuff (like horses and fruit) that looked like it should be on a velvet painting. But the building itself is beautiful and it wasn’t a wasted experience.
After that we headed to the Botero Art Museum. It is a massive place that used to be a government building. Most of is Botero’s private collection: his own works and works of prominent artists from mostly Europe and the Americas. Luckily there was lots of English and I was able to read lots about how the political and social settings affected what and how art was made. I was really out of my depth but it was so informative to get a bit of understanding. I learned about Colombia’s reputation in the art world and some of the expositions that are internationally known that are put on here in this country. Rudy was not so much interested in that but totally loves Botero and walked around chuckling much of the time.
The top floor was all works by Botero but we were not allowed to take pictures of any of it. So my photos are of a variety of works from the 1st and 2nd floors.
By the time we were through the gallery we were ready for the long hot walk home. Once home we snacked on guacamole and chips and cold water. I had a nap and Rudy did…. I actually don’t know because I was sleeping. But for supper we headed to our favourite hole in the wall for a hamburguesa and salchi papas.