Our 69th Grand Chapitre began on March 2nd with a welcoming dinner at Hacienda Azahares. Thirteen different nationalities gathered in this wonderful events venue managed by Grupo Abades.

In the courtyard we enjoyed a show with an Andalusian horse and two flamenco dancers. Wonderful! Cocktails and then dinner. The images speak for themselves. Ham on the bone, too! Certainly, an unforgettable evening.

Friday, March 3rd
We visited the Real Alcázar of Seville during the day. Many of you will know it is a walled palace complex built in different historical stages. The original palace dates from the early Middle Ages. Vestiges of Islamic art are preserved. From the period after the Castilian conquest there’s a Mudejar palatial space and another in Gothic style. Everyone admired the vast architectural wealth of our country. That means Spain can be enjoyed with all the senses!

In the evening, an April Fair was organised for our guests. Shawls, dresses and accessories of the flamenco dancers were by designers Angeles Espinar (the only embroiderer awarded the Gold Medal for Merit in Fine Arts) and Mari Carmen Cruz. The great climax was a flamenco performance by Alejandro Rodríguez who drew tears and applause alike. A great day where the participants received their own fan as tradition decrees.

Saturday, March 4th
Luis Felipe’s Bodegas Rubio in La Palma del Condado (Huelva) was our morning destination. It was followed by lunch at Dehesa “La Zorrera”.

The culmination of our Grand Chapitre was the Induction Ceremony followed by a cocktail reception which was enjoyed on the “pier” amidst moments of fun as the photos reveal. The Gala Dinner in the restaurant was wonderful.

I would go so far as to affirm that an Induction Ceremony (national or international) has never been held on a “pier”. Restaurant Abades Triana’s terrace has unique views in Seville of both Guadalquivir and Giralda. An incomparable setting ideal for a Chaîne event especially for those wonderful souvenir photos.

The sun going down with those views is unparalleled. If we add to the beauty of the sunset, special moments of the Induction Ceremony, surrounded by friends and after three very endearing days, the result is a magical moment.

We are already looking forward to welcoming you all for our 70th Grand Chapitre!

Vive la Chaîne!

Abel Gonzalez
Chargé de Missions