Sunday, July 28, 2013

The Summit of Morro da Urca

      I remained simply speechless for another two minutes, keeping my eyes plastered to the sights outside the clear glass of the cable car, until we finally neared an angled, concrete arch on the summit of Morro da Urca. I stared as the thin strands of wire all fused into one as we slowly climbed to the peak of the magnificent mountain. Eventually, after several seconds had passed, we found ourselves completely fastened in place by the large structure, and sought to quickly exit the carriage, attempting to make way for the large influx of tourists entering the vehicle.
        I marveled at the unfailing efficiency of the cable cars running every twenty minutes to and fro the magnificent peaks. To further compound one's knowledge of the system of Pao de Acucar and Morro da Urca, the first cable car to Morro da Urca departs at 8:10 AM, and the last cable car from Morro do Pão de Açucar leaves at 8:40 PM, when the broad daylight that illuminates the city fades, and allows blazing electrical signs  to take its place.
    We cautiously stepped out onto a firm, concrete platform, which bridged the gap between Morro de Urca and the light, airy abyss, which wrapped itself around us. Once we felt our feet firmly hit the ground beneath us, we confidently moved forward, readily exploring the airy summit of Morro da Urca. As we duly followed a surge of tourists, we quickly discovered a wide, circular veranda placed on its lofty peak. It was a cheerful square, being populated with several chattering families, sitting on sturdy benches and admiring the view. Clean and thriving businesses stood at the sides, providing tired tourists with fresh water and food, in exchange for money, of course.

       I admired the sky-blue abyss at my feet, which was coupled with a flood of verdant foliage, ensconced on the smooth, stony surface of granite. Everywhere I looked were sweeping views of the incredible city of Rio de Janiero, just as it had been in the cable car, but stagnant now, refusing to move slowly past me.

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