The legend of the eighth-century Visigothic king Rodrigo of Hispania tells how Rodrigo’s seduction of the beautiful maiden Florinda ('La Cava') initiated the Arab conquest of Spain. In this scene Florinda (centre left) and her companions, all draped to varying degrees in luxurious Indian silks, prepare to bathe in the grounds of the castle near Toledo where she lives, unaware that they are being watched by King Rodrigo who hides in the bushes nearby. Rodrigo falls violently in love and seduces Florinda, to the anger of her father, Count Julian, who secretly meets with the Moors and encourages them to invade Spain. In the subsequent war Rodrigo is killed in battle by the invaders, who subject the country to their rule for two hundred years.

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Day 13- Palace Grounds

More victims of the drought and heat.

Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan and is considered a symbol of the country. The mountain is located just outside of Tokyo and can be seen from the city on a clear day. Visitors can hike up to the summit or take a cable car.Kyoto Imperial Palace is the former home of the emperor of Japan. The palace is located in Kyoto and is open to the public for tours. The palace grounds are also a popular spot for cherry blossom viewing in the spring.