In 1996, two enhancements were installed on the cathedral in the form of two large bronze doors, one on the west facade and the second on the south facade adjacent to Ciril-Metodov Trg. These were added to commemorate the visit of Pope John Paul II. The stunning west door is decorated with a raised relief schemes depicting 1,200 years of Christianity in Slovenia including scenes of the Crusades through to the independence of Slovenia, whilst the south door is decorated with the raised relief of the bishops of Ljubljana.

I rose at an ungodly hour to have breakfast with Mr C before he left to deliver his training course.  I had a little bit of a giggle whilst the receptionist was trying to call a cab for Mr C. The surname is quite incomprehensible ‘up north’. I proffered the suggestion, just ask for ‘M’ it worked  It reminded me of another memorable occasion in the Toon when two rooms had been booked and because the surname was so unusual one of the rooms ended up being cancelled, but that is another story…

I then asked where the nearest cash point was so I could pay for my lunch and headed there before exploring ‘Old Newcastle’ including the castle keep, bridges, Cathedral, and the Black Gate.

I had an early lunch in the Cathedral where I was pleased to see that cherry scones were on offer. Very tasty they were too

After my lunch I walked up Grey Street which was unfortunately almost completely shrouded in scaffolding!  As I walked up the street a paramedic and ambulance arrived making me wonder if there had been an industrial accident. The two vehicles were still there after I had strolled up through the shopping area and through the Central Arcade…

As I walked back in the direction of the hotel the temperature dropped quite considerably and it was quite a relief to get back into the warmth of the Hotel (in the temporary reception area) where I had arranged to meet up with JD.