The Basilica or Our Lady of Hope of Macarena (above) . The name Macarena is believed to derive from a Moorish word and yes it is the basis of the song and dance the macarena. The Basilico is built inside the ancient walls of the Muslim city but the Basilico itself was built in the early twentieth century. It is built in a neo-classical style so it looks very old. But in Spain something that's nearly a mere century old is considered new. Inside the church is so ornate there is barely an empty spot on any of the walls, alters or ceilings. Everything is covered with sculpture, bas relief or fresco, most of it covered in gold leaf. Despite this deeply religious spot the Catholic church in Spain has lost most of its power and many of its parishioners, even though it has far fewer of the scandals that have touched the Church in other places.
The lower mural, which I found around the corner from the Church symbolizes to me much of the very youthful forward looking and optimistic young people who travel the streets in large, boisterous numbers.
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