Masonry Magazine January 1971 Page.87
MCAA Industry Tour of Spain
By Susan Miller
Friday, October 15th-There was an air of expectancy as some 140 MCAA members, their wives and guests gathered at John F. Kennedy Airport in New York for their 7:15 P.M. departure on a 10-day Industry Tour of Spain. Things moved smoothly, but having a most trying time were the B. A. Lybecks of New York City. With cab at door, luggage loaded, the driver could not get the motor to start-finally in desperation they flagged down another cab and made it to the gate with just minutes to spare. The spacious TWA 747 made a terrific living room-refreshments, dinners and movies all thrown in.
Saturday, October 16th Some 6½ hours later we made our descent into the Madrid airport. The huge bird made a terrific landing. After the usual confusion found in all airports around the world, the luggage was finally identified and loaded aboard waiting buses. In the late afternoon a short tour of the city convinced all that Spain could well qualify for the title of Masonry Center of the World-the use of brick, tile and all masonry products was tremendous, with plenty of tower cranes thrown in. The masonry walls surrounding the project sites have more units in them than some entire projects in the states.
Sunday, October 17th-This was a free day, but many toured Avila, one of the great medieval centers of Europe. It is the loftiest city in Spain and is completely encircled by its 11th century walls. Segovia, a short mountain journey to the north, is where the magnificent aqueduct is situated. It is believed to have been built during the reign of the Roman emperor, Trajan. This world-famous, double- arched structure still carries water in from the Frio River. Stretching out from the market square, which it spans, it goes in both directions a distance of 795 yards. It is constructed of granite-without reliance on mortar or clamps and it soars upward about 95 feet. Located in Segovia also is the masonry Alcazar-used on billboards and posters advertising Spain throughout the world. This offered one of the most impressive sights of the entire trip.
Still used to transport water to Segovia is this soaring aqueduct built during the Roman Empire's reign.
A truly magnificent structure typifying the traditional castles of Spain the Alcazar in Segovia.
Monday, October 18th-This day was set aside for a full-day excursion to Toledo-the ancient capital of Spain. The government has seen fit to preserve all of the city as a "national monument."
Tuesday, October 19th-Members boarded buses for a general tour of various construction projects in Madrid. Masonry products are plentiful and are generously used.
One of the beautiful ancient churches found throughout Spain constructed almost entirely of masonry materials.