As an Englishman living in Andalucia the obvious team for me to follow during the 2008 European Cup was Spain. The Spanish national team has, for many years, under achieved so it was very much like supporting England. The locals, many of whom are ardent Real Madrid fans, were very sceptical over the Spanish team's chance as the Coach, Luis Aragones, had taken the brave decision to leave one of Spain’s most recent footballing hero's, Raul who plays for Madrid, out of the squad.

Last Friday the 20th June, Ashley, Sophie and I, went to our local San Juan Fiesta, in Montecorto. Fire and Water are the theme of the whole Fiesta. This afternoon the children of Montecorto had a water fight, at midnight there is a huge bonfire.  It is believed the fire and water cleanse the body and soul.  It´s a very magical night, with the whole village entering into a party spirit, drinking and dancing into the early hours.  San Juan celebrates the start of summer, traditionally  this fiesta starts around midnight. 

The Romería is traditionally a pilgrimage through the countryside, carrying a religious effigy, normally to a shrine. Following behind are beautifully decorated horses and carts drawn by oxen, many of the pilgrims are dressed in traditional flamenco attire.