Church of San Benito

The Church of San Benito is a Benedictine monastery located in the heart of Salamanca, Spain. It is one of the most important Romanesque churches in the city and a must-see for any visitor.

The church was founded in the 12th century by King Ferdinand II of León and was built over the remains of a former Visigothic church. The original Romanesque structure was later modified in the 16th and 17th centuries, resulting in a blend of architectural styles that gives the church its unique character.

The exterior of the church is characterized by its simple and austere facade, which is adorned with a beautiful rose window and a series of blind arches. The interior is more elaborate, with a nave divided into three aisles by rows of columns and a series of side chapels. The church also features a magnificent choir stalls and a beautiful altarpiece.

The Church of San Benito is located in the Plaza de San Benito, which is a small square in the center of the city, and is easily accessible by foot from the main tourist attractions. The church is open to the public and offers guided tours in several languages.

Anecdote: According to legend, the church was built on the site where a young Benedictine monk named Benito was martyred by the Moors in the 9th century. Benito was a shepherd who was tending his flock when he was attacked by a group of Moorish soldiers. He was killed and his body was thrown into a well. The next day, his body was found by a group of Christian villagers who buried him on the site of the church.

Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor is one of the most beautiful squares in Spain. It was built in the 18th century on the site of the old Jewish quarter. The square is surrounded by three-story buildings with arcades and balconies.

The Plaza Mayor is a popular tourist destination and is often used for concerts, markets, and other events. It is also home to a number of restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Anecdote

In the 19th century, the Plaza Mayor was used as a bullfighting ring. The last bullfight was held in the square in 189

New Cathedral

The New Cathedral of Salamanca, also known as the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary, is a stunning example of Spanish Gothic architecture. Its construction began in the 16th century and continued for over 200 years. The cathedral boasts an impressive facade adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures and a soaring interior with ribbed vaults and stained-glass windows.

History

The New Cathedral was built as an addition to the existing Romanesque cathedral, which had become too small for the growing population of Salamanca. The new cathedral was designed by several architects, including Juan de Álava, Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón, and Juan de Herrera. It was finally consecrated in 173

Architecture

The New Cathedral is a magnificent example of Spanish Gothic architecture. It features a rectangular floor plan with a nave, two aisles, and a transept. The nave is covered by a ribbed vault, while the aisles are covered by a simpler barrel vault. The cathedral's exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, including gargoyles and grotesques.

Location

The New Cathedral is located in the heart of Salamanca, on the Plaza Mayor. It is surrounded by other historic buildings, including the City Hall, the University of Salamanca, and the San Esteban Convent.

Anecdote

The New Cathedral is home to a number of interesting anecdotes. One story tells that a workman accidentally dropped a hammer from the top of the cathedral. The hammer fell all the way to the ground without hitting anyone. This was seen as a miracle, and the workman was spared from punishment.

Old Cathedral

The Old Cathedral of Salamanca, also known as the Cathedral of Santa María de la Sede, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a must-see for any visitor.

History: - Construction began in the 12th century and continued for over 200 years, resulting in a fascinating mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance architectural styles. - It was declared a National Monument in 1887 and is considered one of Spain's most important cultural and historical treasures.

Architecture: - The cathedral's exterior is characterized by its intricate carvings and sculptures, depicting biblical scenes and figures. - The interior is equally impressive, featuring a magnificent altarpiece, a stunning vaulted ceiling, and beautiful stained-glass windows. - The cloister, with its peaceful atmosphere and lush gardens, is another highlight of the cathedral.

Location: - The Old Cathedral is located in the heart of Salamanca's historic center, just a short walk from the Plaza Mayor and other major attractions.

Anecdote: - Legend has it that the cathedral was built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to the goddess Minerva. - During the construction of the cathedral, a mysterious stone was discovered, which is said to be the remains of the temple. - This stone, known as the "Piedra de la Mora," is now displayed in the cathedral's cloister, attracting visitors and pilgrims alike.

Casa de las Conchas

The Casa de las Conchas is a magnificent palace in Salamanca, Spain. It was built in the 15th century by Rodrigo Arias Maldonado, a wealthy merchant and knight of the Order of Santiago. The palace is named for the over 300 scallop shells that decorate its façade.

The Casa de las Conchas is a unique example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. It is made of sandstone and has a square floor plan. The façade is divided into three sections by two towers. The central section is decorated with the scallop shells, which are arranged in rows and columns. The towers are decorated with pinnacles and gargoyles.

The interior of the palace is just as impressive as the exterior. It has a large courtyard with a fountain in the center. The courtyard is surrounded by a two-story arcade. The palace also has a number of rooms, including a ballroom, a dining room, and a library.

The Casa de las Conchas is located in the Plaza Mayor, the main square of Salamanca. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about its history and architecture.

University of Salamanca

The University of Salamanca is one of the oldest universities in the world, founded in 1218 by King Alfonso IX of León. It is also one of the most prestigious universities in Spain, and its alumni include many famous figures, such as Ignatius of Loyola, Miguel de Cervantes, and Christopher Columbus.

The university is located in the heart of the city of Salamanca, and its buildings are some of the most iconic landmarks in the city. The most famous building is the Patio de Escuelas, a beautiful courtyard surrounded by arcades and galleries. Other notable buildings include the Escuelas Mayores, the Escuelas Menores, and the Hospital del Estudio.

The university is still a major center of learning, and it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is also a popular tourist destination, and visitors can take guided tours of the university's buildings and grounds.

Anecdote

One of the most famous legends about the University of Salamanca is the story of the frog. According to the legend, a student was studying in the library late one night when he saw a frog sitting on his desk. The frog spoke to the student and told him that he could help him pass his exams if the student would agree to give him his soul. The student agreed, and the frog helped him to pass all of his exams. However, the student soon realized that he had made a mistake, and he tried to get his soul back from the frog. The frog refused, and the student was forced to live the rest of his life in servitude to the frog.

Caves of Salamanca

The Caves of Salamanca are a series of underground chambers and tunnels located beneath the city of Salamanca, Spain. They are said to have been used for a variety of purposes over the centuries, including as a prison, a meeting place for witches and sorcerers, and a storage facility for stolen goods.

The caves are believed to have been created by the Moors, who ruled Salamanca from the 8th to the 13th centuries. The Moors were known for their engineering skills, and they are thought to have built the caves as a way to store food and water in case of a siege.

The caves were later used by the Christians, who converted them into a prison. The prison was used to hold prisoners of war, as well as criminals and debtors. The conditions in the prison were harsh, and many prisoners died from disease or starvation.

In the 16th century, the caves were said to have been used by a group of witches and sorcerers. The witches and sorcerers were said to have met in the caves to perform rituals and cast spells. The caves were also said to have been used as a meeting place for the Inquisition, which was a Catholic court that persecuted people who were accused of heresy.

The caves were eventually closed in the 18th century, and they were forgotten for many years. In the 19th century, the caves were rediscovered, and they were opened to the public as a tourist attraction.

Today, the Caves of Salamanca are a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the caves on a guided tour, and they can learn about the history of the caves and the people who used them.

Anecdote

One of the most famous legends about the Caves of Salamanca is the legend of the Devil's School. According to the legend, the Devil opened a school in the caves in the 16th century. The school was said to have been attended by students from all over the world, who came to learn about magic and the occult. The Devil was said to have been a very strict teacher, and he often punished his students severely.

One day, a young student named Clemente was expelled from the school. Clemente was determined to get revenge on the Devil, so he went to the caves and challenged him to a duel. The Devil accepted the challenge, and the two of them fought for hours. In the end, Clemente was victorious, and he forced the Devil to leave the caves.

Roman Bridge

The Roman Bridge is undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks of Salamanca. Built over the River Tormes during the 1st century AD, it is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in Spain. The bridge is 176 meters long and consists of 26 arches and two towers. The arches are semi-circular and made of granite blocks, while the towers are square and made of brick. The bridge is decorated with various sculptures and inscriptions, including a dedication to the Emperor Augustus.

The Roman Bridge is a popular tourist attraction and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It is also a popular spot for swimming and fishing. The bridge is located in the historic center of Salamanca, near the Plaza Mayor and the University of Salamanca.

Anecdote:

The Roman Bridge is said to be haunted by the ghost of a Roman soldier who was killed during the construction of the bridge. The soldier is said to appear on the bridge at night, dressed in full armor and carrying a sword. According to legend, the soldier is searching for his lost love, who was killed in a battle shortly after the bridge was completed.

Salamanca Museum

The Salamanca Museum is a must-see for art and history enthusiasts. Founded in 1941 as a successor to an earlier museum dating back to 1842, it showcases a rich collection of artifacts, paintings, sculptures, and archaeological finds that span different eras and cultures.

History The museum's history is deeply intertwined with the artistic and cultural heritage of Salamanca. It was initially established as part of the University of Salamanca in the 19th century but later became an independent institution in the 20th century. Over the years, the museum has expanded its collection through donations, acquisitions, and excavations, becoming a premier cultural destination in the region.

Architecture The museum is housed in a beautiful Renaissance-style building, the Casa de Salinas, which was constructed in the 16th century. The building's facade features intricate carvings and sculptures, reflecting the artistic influences of the period. Inside, the museum's galleries and exhibition spaces are designed to complement and enhance the artifacts on display, creating a visually appealing and educational environment.

Location The Salamanca Museum is strategically located in the heart of the city's historic center, close to other major landmarks such as the Plaza Mayor and the University of Salamanca. This convenient location makes it easy for visitors to integrate a visit to the museum into their exploration of the city's cultural and historical attractions.

Anecdote One of the most fascinating anecdotes associated with the Salamanca Museum is the story of the "Lady of Elche." This iconic Iberian sculpture, dating back to the 4th century BCE, was discovered in 1897 near Elche, a city in southeastern Spain. It was initially displayed in the Louvre Museum in Paris but was later returned to Spain in 1941 and is now a highlight of the Salamanca Museum's collection.

La Clerecía

History: This magnificent building, with its Baroque façade and twin towers, was built in the 17th century as the headquarters of the Jesuits in Salamanca.

Architecture: It is considered to be one of the most significant examples of Baroque architecture in Spain and is characterized by its intricate carvings and sculptures.

Location: La Clerecía is situated in the heart of the city, on the Plaza Anaya.

Anecdote: The construction of La Clerecía was a monumental undertaking, requiring the labor of hundreds of workers over several decades. The result is a building of extraordinary beauty and grandeur that is considered to be one of the masterpieces of Baroque architecture in Spain.

Insider Tip

Best time to visit: The best time to visit Salamanca is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) when the weather is mild and there are fewer tourists. However, Salamanca is a popular destination year-round, so it's always a good idea to book your accommodation and activities in advance.
How to get there: Salamanca is well-connected by train and bus to other major cities in Spain. The city also has an airport, but it is only served by a few airlines.
Where to stay: There are a variety of hotels and hostels to choose from in Salamanca. If you're on a budget, you can find a decent hostel for around €15 per night. If you're looking for something more luxurious, you can expect to pay around €100 per night for a hotel room.
What to eat: Salamanca is known for its delicious cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include cochinillo asado (roast suckling pig), jamon serrano (dry-cured ham), and hornazo (a type of pork pie).

Church of San Benito

A City of Golden Stone