The flourishing capital of Al-Andalus (Muslim Spain), Córdoba was the richest and most populated city of Europe between the 8th and 10th centuries. The 1,200 year old Mezquita is one of the largest, oldest, and most beautiful mosques in the world. Other sights in Córdoba include a 2,000 year old Roman bridge and a historical synagogue.

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The small town of San Lorenzo de El Escorial is located approximately 30 miles northwest of Madrid. The principal attraction of this city is the 16th century complex built by King Felipe II. The result is more than a royal palace; it is a massive monument, containing not only the King's residence but also an ornamented church, a world renowned library, a monastery, and a royal mausoleum, the final resting place for most of Spain's royalty.

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Granada is a southern city located at the foot of the Sierra Nevada Mountains (Spain's highest mountains). Its crowning glory, the Alhambra, is a Moorish fortress and complex of palaces occupying the crown of a hill overlooking the lower part of the city. The rattle of castanets and the strum of guitars echo through the streets of Granada as gypsies perform the traditional dance of southern Spain: Flamenco.

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Lisbon (Lisboa), the capital of Portugal, is a legendary city with over twenty centuries of history. Spreading out along the right bank of the Tagus, Lisbon hosts popular festivities, exquisite shopping, exciting nightlife, and interesting museums. Rising above the oldest medieval quarters of Lisboa, Alfama and Mouraria, is the famous and magnificent St. George's Castle. Walking through the city below, visitors may enjoy the typical tile that covers the building façades and narrow medieval streets. At night, sounds of the fado being played and sung may be heard throughout this monumental city.

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The excursion to the capital city will include visits to the Museo del Prado, which houses works of Spanish and European painters from the 12th through the 18th centuries; Palacio Real, considered one of the finest palaces in Europe; as well as the Puerta Del Sol, which captures the spirit of old Madrid.

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Morocco is a legendary country, with a history as diverse as its population. A longstanding cultural crossroads, Morocco provides visitors with a taste of Arabic, African, and European influences. The country's famous open-air markets are filled with textiles, jewelry, and art, and there are endless ways to savor the distinctive culture. Morocco's bustling urban centers stand in stark contrast to the quiet desert that dominates the country's landscape.

Dates of excursion to be determined. This excursion may not be available during all sessions.

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Ronda is one of the oldest towns in Spain. Once a stronghold for the legendary Andalusian bandits, Ronda is now known for its spectacular position and views. The town's most impressive feature is its ravine, known as "El Tajo", which divides "La Ciudad", the old Moorish town, from "El Mercadillo." Students also visit the Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest and most handsome bullrings in Spain.

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Declared a national landmark, Toledo is the city that inspired El Greco in the 16th century. Since then, it has remained largely unchanged in its blending of Arabic, Jewish, and Christian influences. Toledo is also famous for its outstanding Cathedral, which houses many of El Greco's paintings, along with a variety of other art treasures. Toledo was the first capital of Spain.

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