Intriguing Spain - a first itinerary for the 2013 PC Performance Tour with a special emphasis on music and Dominican traditions

Here is a first itinerary for the upcoming journey:

Day 1, Monday, May 20, 2013

Overnight group flight to Spain

Those choosing the air-land package will depart from Boston today.

Day 2, Tuesday, May 21

Benvenidos en Espanya

Meet your Incantato Tour Manager and bus driver at the airport, then embark on an orientation tour of Barcelona’s highlights prior to check-in at your hotel and a special welcome dinner.

Day 3, Wednesday, May 22

Barcelona sightseeing - Mass

Your guided tour of Spain‘s second largest city will include many highlights, but also retrace Dominican history. A special Mass featuring the PC choir is scheduled today, followed by free time for exploring.

Day 4, Thursday, May 23

Scenic Route to Modern Valencia

Bid farewell to Barcelona late this morning. You’ll experience a rapid change in scenery as you take the coastal highway to the artistic city of Valencia. Meet with students from the Conservatory and rehearse for tomorrow’s highlight performance.

Day 5, Friday, May 24

Valencia Sightseeing - Exchange Concert & Reception

Known as the city of Arts and Sciences, Valencia is also haven for musicians. Embark on a guided tour, followed by a second rehearsal at the Conservatorio Profesional de Musica de Valencia, followed by a special concert.

Day 6, Saturday, May 25

Ancient Cuenca & Concert

There is lots to see and do today as you explore the historical hilltop town of Cuenca in the La Mancha province. Learn more about the Dominican routes of this unique place, then presents a special concert tonight at one of three unique venues.

Day 7, Sunday, May 26

Dominican Mass - To Toledo

After participating in Sunday Mass, continue to Toledo - declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 for its extensive cultural and monumental heritage as one of the former capitals of the Spanish Empire and place of coexistence of Christian, Jewish, and Moorish cultures. Enjoy a guided tour and plenty of free time for exploring.

Day 8, Monday, May 27

Toledo in-depth & Concert

There is so much to see and do in beautiful Toledo. After a guided tour and recital at the magnificent Cathedral, your next concert will take place in the historical city center.

Day 9, Tuesday, May 28

Madrid sightseeing - Farewell performance & Dinner

Madrid is only a short drive away. After a guided tour of the capital city‘s highlights including the Gran Via, the PC ensembles prepare for a farewell performance at one of the city‘s stunning Dominican churches followed by a tapas farewell dinner.

Day 10, Wednesday, May 29

Flight back to Boston

Return home with memories to last a lifetime.

Discover the UNESCO side of Barcelona with Incantato

Did you that know that Barcelona has several sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List? Here are just a few examples of the many sights to see while you are visiting this vibrant city:

La Sagrada Familia
This iconic cathedral from the 19th century was first started by architect Francisco de Paula, who had originally envisioned a Neogothic building. However, when the famous Spanish architect Gaudi took over the project in 1883, he soon began to change the project to his own personal and very distinctive style. He was only able finish the chapel of San Jose, the crypt and the door o El Nacimiento  before he died. Work on the project continues to this today.

La Casa Mila "La Pedrera"
Another masterpiece by Gaudi also on the UNESCO List of World Heritage Sites is the so-called "La Pedrera" House. It is one of the best-known works by the architect and one of the symbols of Barcelona. Built between 1906 and 1912, everything in this building is curved and undulating. Reflecting Modernist techniques and tendencies, there are chimneys and sculptures on teh roof, large windows and iron balconies set into the stone walls on the outside and the interior consists of two painted courtyards.


Palacio Guell
Gaudi created the small Guell Palace during the 19th century on top of some basements and columns. The site measures only 18 x 12 meters and features a dome, stained glass windows and stairs that create an optical illusion to make the palace seem larger. The entrance doors are iron work with coiled sculptures snakes and the terrace is a veritable outdoor museum. 

Palau de la Musica Catalana
The Palau de la Musica Catalana Auditorium was inaugurated in 1908. It took the architect Lluis Domenech i Montaner three years to complete what is now one of the world's major concert halls. An excellent example of Modernism, the interior is decorated with ceramic mosaics and glass with floral motifs.