Rizal’s Grand Tour of Europe with Maximo Viola (1887)

After the publication of Noli, Rizal planned to visit the important places in
Europe. Dr. Maximo Viola agreed to be his traveling companion. Rizal received
Pacianos remittance of P1000 which forward by Juan Luna from Paris and
immediately paid his debt to Viola which he loaned so that the Noli could be
printed. First, he and Viola visited Potsdam, a city near Berlin.

Tour Begins
At the dawn of May 11, 1887, Rizal and Viola, to browned-skinned Doctors
on a roaming spree, left Berlin by train. Spring was an ideal season for travel.
Their destination was in Dresden, “One of the best cities in Germany”.

Dresden
Rizal and Viola tarried for sometimes in Dresden. They visited Dr. Adolph B.
Meyer, who was overjoyed to see them. In the Museum of Art, Rizal was deeply
impressed by painting of “Prometheus Bound”. They also meet Dr. Jagor and
heard there plan about Leitmeritz in order to see Blumentritt. He advice to wire
Blumentritt because the old professor might be shock of their visit.

First Meeting with Blumentritt

At 1:13 P.M of May 15, 1887 the arrived at the railroad station of
Leitmeritz. Professor Blumentritt was at the station carrying a pencil sketch of
Rizal which he sent to identify his friend. Blumentritt get a room at hotel Krebs,
after which he bought them to his house and stayed Leitmeritz May 13-14, 1887.

Beautiful memories at Leitmeritz

They enjoyed hospitality of Blumentritt family. The Professor’s wife, Rosa,
was a good cook. She prepared Austrian dishes which Rizal’s liked very much.
Blumentritt proved to be a greet tourist as well as hospitable host. He showed the
scenic and historical spots of Leitmeritz to his visitors. The Burgomasters (town
mayor) was also amazed by Rizal’s “privileged talent”.

Prague
Rizal and Viola visited the historic city of prague. They carried letters of
recommendations from Blumentritt to Dr. Wilkom, professor in University of
Prague. Rizal and Viola visited the “tomb of compernicus”.

Vienna
May 20 they arrived at Vianna capital of Austria-Hungary. They met
Norfenfals, one of the greatest novelist from the time. They stayed at Hotel
Metropoly. They also meet two good friends of Blumentritt-Masner and
Nordman, Austrian scholars.

Danubian Voyage to Lintz

May 24, Rizal and Viola left Vienna on a river boat to see beautiful sights of
Danube River. As they travelled along the famous river, Rizal observed keenly
river sights.