For our first trip to Andalusia, we opted for a diptych Cadiz–Gibraltar. Based on MarbellaDear to Sean Connery, we planned our one day getaway in Cadiz from the second day of our stay.
After two hours on the motorways in southern Spain, we arrived in the region under a beautiful sun and very pleasant temperatures for one month of October, for what probably remains to date one of the largest fail bondien…
Playa de Camposoto – Cádiz(Andalucia)
Loyalty: ★★☆☆ – Access: ★☆☆
Before joining the city that served as the setting Cuba to Die Another Day, we have taken the direction of the Camposoto beach. It is on this road that we see Bond driving a Ford Fairlane, typical of American models recycled infinitely by Cubans. On the spot, we already knew, thanks to another traveller, that the very long row of palm trees had disappeared. But once on site, the disappointment was still well present: the place no longer at all the same atmosphere, and it is certain that the production would never have turned here without the palm trees.
Unprepared and probably a little frustrated, I did not correctly identify the Good bridge... It must be said that this road of Seafront spans nearly 2 km and that pedestrian walk was under construction/renovation. It will also be the running gag of the day.
Back by car, we saw some palm trees a little further, but in very poor condition — probably the explanation for their disappearance.
Center of Cadiz – Cadiz (Andalucia)
Loyalty: ★★★★ – Access: ★☆☆
We then arrive, after about ten kilometers, in the historic center of Cadiz. After long minutes trying to understand the setting of the parking meter, we finally reached on footCampo del Sur Avenue, where Bond arrives on foot in the Cuban capital. Second deplorable episode of urban renewal : of grids, barriers and construction cones Everywhere... and another series of missed photos.
On the spot, however, we remain amazed by theSouth American atmosphere the city. We understand perfectly why, from The World Is Not Enough, the production wanted to film Cuba in Cadiz. The character of the Cigar Girl, played by Maria Grazia Cucinotta — supposed to be Cuba — is the only remaining element in the scenario which referred to lCaribbean island.
Our next step leads us on the trail of Cuban cigars, famous Delectados : about 10 meters, you reach the foot of the Torre del Sagrario, where Bond meets Raoul. I knew the place was not visitable, so the disappointment was less... but it's a shame, because the seen from the top must be amazing. The tower belongs to theSanta Cruz church, the oldest in the city (1708). However, one can have a view preview as at bell tower of the left tower of the cathedral.
A few hundred meters further, in the maze of the Old Town, we arrive at Mercado Abastos — outsidecigar factory (the interior having been shot in London in a clothing shop). A very good memory. He must have been close to 12 noon and, among many Local still busy doing their shopping, we found some charcuterie and fresh fruit for lunch on the go. The products wereexcellent quality and very affordable prices. It's also the first — and the only one — when I ate a orange green !
The Calle Libertad, which faces the market and where Bond meets a prostitute Before entering the factory, did not change!
Playa de la Caleta – Cadiz (Andalucia)
Loyalty: ★★★★ – Access: ★☆☆
We were then able to enjoy the Old Town : narrow alleyways, ochre facades, Coffee, markets and Baroque churches. Cadiz really has a unique atmosphere, which gives the impression of crossing a living decor.
Our walk leads us to the Balneario de Nuestra Señora de la Palma y del Real, placed in the middle of the La Caleta beach. The building, with its neocolonial architectureis immediately recognizable. He served in the outdoor movie for thehotel « El Gran Palacio ».
On site, a new episode of urban renewal the Wide plan I was hoping. I had to contort myself to get a Medium plane showing the visible façade on screen.
However, on the beach, I was able to give heart joy and to produce a series of convincing photos. Much of the beach had been fitted out with a terrace for the needs of the film: this is where Bond is spying on patients at the clinic and meet Jinx For the first time.
It's the 3 April 2002 thatMain team Camiz, Spain. While the casting expects a mild weather, production is hit by a catastrophic weather : rain, Wind and sky covered For four days.
The actors rotating on the beach are equipped with bouillottes and bathrobes between catches, and Halle Berry will have to wait a few more days before being able to turn his introduction scene, direct tribute to that ofUrsula Andress.
Castillo de San Sebastián – Cadiz (Andalucia)
Loyalty: ★★★★ – Access: ★☆☆ (closed in 2019)
After a really nice time on the beach, we headed towards the Castillo de San Sebastián. Located on a peninsula directly accessible from the beach, it served as a decor and inspiration for the clinic De Los Órganos. On a few distant planes of the film, we clearly distinguish round, and some architectural elements have been taken over... but this remains quite limited.
Again, one disappointment : the Castle — and we knew it — was in the middle renovation. I thought I could slip... impossible, because the security personnel Watch! We went around and took a photo through the grid.
Since 2019, the Castillo de San Sebastián has reopened its doors, and all photos of the Zao's flight by helicopterand the Double pursuit Bond/Jinx It is now fully feasible.
During the shooting, during the shooting with Zao's men, Halle Berry received from dust in the eye because of a bullet impact on a rock. Press and Internet immediately ignite... but after consulting a oculist, it will finally be able to resume the shooting Very quickly.
A frustrating day from a point of view Bondianbut one unique atmosphere at the tip of Spain will still leave me a pleasant memory of Cadiz.
The Torre Tavira and its camera obscura are absolutely to be done! A unique and atypical vision of the city.
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This blog shares my travel experiences, from unavoidable destinations to the most original and exclusive places. Each article is the result of careful work and a real time investment. If you use this information elsewhere or for your own adventures, consider citing your sources and thanking – that's what I do myself, and it's always fun.
Julien Abauzit (JaBoz)
