For a steep ascent to the top of San Cristobal hill, take the Funicular, an ancient structure which take you in an open car to visit a religious shrine with a great view around the giant city of Santiago. It was a smoggy day, which is common in this home to 7 million people surrounded by mountains. We could only see the mountaintop in one direction, there is still some snow on the top.
The statue atop the hill is beautiful and the gardens very impressive. There is a small chapel with art made from tinted concrete with a bit of a relief, simple and beautiful. Monastic music was amplified throughout the area. A very relaxing spot.
At the top we met a new friend, Rodrigo, a young engineer who had biked to the top. It was fun practicing spanish with him. When we asked if he knew of any celebration planned for the rescued miners he responded, "33 alive; end of story". The press surrounding their struggle was overwhelming here, as you might imagine.
I am so glad to hear that you are having a wonderful time so far, even dispite my bad news!
ReplyDeleteKeita and I love you so much! She is looking better and better every day but isn't keen on me touching her neck. I understand. She has gotten even sweeter and mellower since the whole thing and has even learned to "stay"! Yay!