Dr Kate Simpson MAPS
The APS study tour of Spain in May-June, 2011 provided a wealth of knowledge on the culture, history, sovereignty and religious influences of Spain. The study tour, led by Isabel Stepanik and Professor Trang Thomas, flew into Barcelona and commenced with a lesson in Spanish speaking and an introduction to the history and culture of Spain. The time in Barcelona gave an opportunity to visit art museums as well as Gaudi’s famous church, La Segrada Familia.
The fast train took us from Barcelona to Madrid, where we visited the Spanish Psychological Society. There Professor Berdullas and Anna Rabaso presented on Madrid’s comprehensive provision of mental health services. We visited the Centre for Addictions clinic and then the University of Madrid for a presentation on their contemporary research focus.
After Madrid we visited Segovia, a historic town built around one of the Romans’ impressive aqueducts. There we toured the castle and were informed of the changes in culture, architecture and the stresses that tourism brought. Then to Salamanca and beautiful Cathedrals, the University and the town square (a must to see at night). Cordoba, our next port of call, had a tour of the ancient city and our guide reviewed the historical and cultural effects of the transition of religions and their influence on the people and culture of Spain, from the Moors to Catholicism.
The trip to Granada was a highlight. We visited the beautiful Alhambra, where the Moors built an impressive retreat. In Granada we visited the enormous Science museum. The displays included Escher's Art (90+ works of his Impossible Figures) highlighting Gestalt perspectives. We completed the Granada visit with a presentation by Dr Jimirez on psychological practice in Spain and his work with people with schizophrenia.
Our next stop was Ronda where we learnt about the Arabic and Roman settlements, influences on Spanish culture, the impact of the inquisition, and Catholicism's influence over society since 1492. We visited the famous bullring and its museums where Orson Welles and Ernest Hemmingway have their ashes. Finally, in Seville we had a visit to the former tobacco factory (where the story of Carmen took place) and a visit to the University of Seville.
Overall this experience facilitated a greater understanding of Spaniards and their culture, and enhanced the tour participants’ cultural and religious awareness within an applied context.
Disclaimer: Published in InPsych on October 2011. The APS aims to ensure that information published in InPsych is current and accurate at the time of publication. Changes after publication may affect the accuracy of this information. Readers are responsible for ascertaining the currency and completeness of information they rely on, which is particularly important for government initiatives, legislation or best-practice principles which are open to amendment. The information provided in InPsych does not replace obtaining appropriate professional and/or legal advice.