Plaza de España was right in front of our hotel. We saw it on our first day in Madrid as we stood on the top deck. There was a monument erected at the center of the plaza. Monuments and markers, like the Kilometer 0 marker at Puerta del Sol, were also part of our interest when we travel. Monuments were usually dedicated to prominent people with significant historical contributions to society. This monument was dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes – the author of the book Don Quixote.

Plaza de España was our meeting point for our guided tour to Toledo, Spain. We waited in front of Miguel de Cervantes’ monument while we inspected the design and markings of the monument. It was a surprise to find the epic character of Miguel de Cervantes’ book right behind his monument. Don Quixote was on his steed and pointing ahead as his trusted squire, Sancho Panza, followed.

This was an interesting jolt to our memory. We have read the book but it was years ago. A resulting lively discussion followed about the author and the book. Traveling indeed becomes interesting when experience and learning intertwine. We had never regarded Don Quixote as more than a book. Now, we had jogged our memory, recalled the book, got re-acquainted with the author and the character, and made it a refreshing experience.