Old Cathedral of Salamanca
- A City of Golden Stone
- Plaza Mayor
- History
- Architecture
- Dimensions
- Anecdote
- Old Cathedral of Salamanca
- New Cathedral of Salamanca
- University of Salamanca
- Convento de San Esteban
- Huerto de Calixto y Melibea
- Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco
- Museo Taurino
- Cueva de Salamanca
- Puente Romano
- Parque de la Alamedilla
- Mercado Central
- Insider Tip
A City of Golden Stone
Salamanca is a city of golden stone, located in the heart of Spain and steeped in history and culture. Its streets, buildings, and plazas are a testament to the city's rich past and its enduring charm. Salamanca's history dates back to the Celts, who founded the city in the 3rd century BC. The Romans conquered the city in 218 BC and made it the capital of their province of Hispania Citerior. Salamanca was a major center of trade and culture during the Roman period, and its prosperity is reflected in the city's well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Roman bridge and the aqueduct. Following the fall of the Roman Empire, Salamanca was ruled by the Visigoths and then by the Moors. In the 11th century, the city was reconquered by the Christians and became part of the Kingdom of León. Salamanca's importance grew during the Middle Ages, and it became a major center of learning, with the founding of the University of Salamanca in 121The university is one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe, and it has played a major role in the city's intellectual and cultural development.
Salamanca's architecture is a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The city's most famous landmark is the Plaza Mayor, a large square that is surrounded by arcades and balconies. The Plaza Mayor was built in the 18th century and is one of the most beautiful and impressive squares in Spain.
Salamanca is located in the autonomous community of Castilla y León, in the northwest of Spain. The city is situated on the banks of the Tormes River, and it is surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. Salamanca's strategic location has made it an important crossroads throughout history, and it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
Anecdote: One of the most famous stories about Salamanca is the legend of the Salamanca cave. According to the legend, the cave was once home to a group of witches who taught magic and sorcery. The witches were so powerful that they were able to create storms, cast spells, and even fly. One day, a young student from the University of Salamanca decided to visit the cave and learn the secrets of magic. The witches agreed to teach him, but only if he promised to never reveal their secrets. The student agreed, and he soon became a powerful magician. However, he eventually broke his promise and told his friends about the witches. The witches were furious, and they cursed the student, turning him into a stone statue. The statue still stands in the cave, and it is said that anyone who looks at it will be turned to stone as well.
Plaza Mayor
History
The Plaza Mayor of Salamanca is the heart of the city and one of the most beautiful and iconic squares in Spain. It was built in the 18th century by order of King Philip V and designed by the architect Alberto Churriguera. The square was built on the site of a former market and was intended to be a place for public gatherings and celebrations.
Architecture
The Plaza Mayor is a large, rectangular square surrounded by three-story buildings with arcades on the ground floor. The buildings are all made of sandstone and feature a variety of architectural styles, including Baroque, Rococo, and Neoclassical. The square is also home to a number of statues and fountains, including a statue of King Philip V on horseback.
Dimensions
The Plaza Mayor is 84 meters long and 63 meters wide, making it one of the largest squares in Spain. It can accommodate up to 10,000 people and is often used for concerts, festivals, and other events.
Anecdote
The Plaza Mayor is said to be the site of a number of historical events, including the execution of the Comuneros, a group of rebels who fought against the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V in the 16th century. The square was also the site of a bullfight in 1790 that was attended by King Charles IV and his wife, Queen Maria Luisa.
Old Cathedral of Salamanca
The Old Cathedral of Salamanca, also known as the Catedral Vieja de Salamanca, is one of the city's most iconic landmarks and a testament to its rich history and architectural heritage. Its construction began in the 12th century and continued for over two centuries, resulting in a stunning blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles.
The history of the Old Cathedral is intertwined with that of Salamanca itself. It was built on the site of a former Roman temple and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the centuries. The cathedral's unique appearance reflects the influence of various architectural movements and the passage of time.
The architecture of the Old Cathedral is simply breathtaking. Its exterior features intricate carvings, delicate pinnacles, and a magnificent rose window that dominates the west facade. The interior is equally impressive, with soaring vaulted ceilings, elegant columns, and beautiful stained-glass windows that bathe the space in a kaleidoscope of colors.
One of the unique features of the Old Cathedral is its "Torre del Gallo" (Rooster's Tower). This slender, octagonal tower is topped with a weather vane in the shape of a rooster, which has become a symbol of Salamanca. According to legend, the rooster was placed on the tower to remind the students of the University of Salamanca to wake up early and attend their classes on time.
Anecdote: During the construction of the Old Cathedral, a dispute arose between the stonemasons and the architects over the design of the dome. The stonemasons wanted to build a dome with a pointed Gothic style, while the architects preferred a more rounded Renaissance style. To settle the dispute, a competition was held, and the stonemasons won. As a result, the Old Cathedral's dome features a unique blend of Gothic and Renaissance elements, reflecting the compromise between the two parties.
New Cathedral of Salamanca
The New Cathedral of Salamanca is a 16th-century Roman Catholic cathedral and one of the two cathedrals located in the city of Salamanca, Spain. It is considered a masterpiece of the Spanish Renaissance architecture and one of the most important Renaissance buildings in Spain.
The construction of the cathedral began in 1513, under the direction of the architect Juan Gil de Hontañón. It was completed in 1733, more than two centuries later. The cathedral was built on the site of an older Romanesque church, which was demolished to make way for the new building.
The New Cathedral is a large and imposing building, with a length of 109 meters and a width of 58 meters. It has a rectangular floor plan and a Latin cross layout. The exterior of the cathedral is decorated with a profusion of intricate carvings and sculptures. The main facade is particularly impressive, with its three large doorways and its rose window.
The interior of the cathedral is equally impressive, with its high vaults and its many side chapels. The main altarpiece is a masterpiece of the Spanish Renaissance, and it is considered one of the most important works of art in the cathedral.
Anecdote:
The New Cathedral of Salamanca is home to a number of legends and stories. One of the most famous stories is about a gargoyle that is said to come to life at night. The gargoyle is said to fly around the cathedral, and it is said that if you see it, you will have good luck.
University of Salamanca
The University of Salamanca is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It was founded in 1218 by King Alfonso IX of León and is located in the heart of the city of Salamanca. The university is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to over 30,000 students from all over the world.
The university's architecture is a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles. The main building, the Escuelas Mayores, is a beautiful example of Spanish Renaissance architecture. The university also has a number of other notable buildings, including the Patio de Escuelas, the Library, and the Chapel of San Jerónimo.
The University of Salamanca has a long and distinguished history. It was one of the first universities in Europe to offer degrees in law, medicine, and theology. The university was also a center of the Spanish Renaissance and was home to a number of famous scholars, including Antonio de Nebrija, Francisco de Vitoria, and Miguel de Cervantes.
Some of the famous alumni of the University of Salamanca include:
- Antonio de Nebrija (1444-1522): A Spanish humanist and scholar who is credited with writing the first grammar of the Spanish language.
- Francisco de Vitoria (1483-1546): A Spanish theologian and philosopher who is considered one of the founders of international law.
- Miguel de Cervantes (1547-1616): A Spanish writer who is best known for writing the novel "Don Quixote".
Anecdote: The University of Salamanca is home to a number of legends and stories. One of the most famous stories is the story of the "rana", or frog. According to the story, a frog was carved into the wall of the university in the 16th century as a reminder to students to be humble. The frog is said to be able to grant wishes to anyone who rubs its head.
Convento de San Esteban
The Convento de San Esteban is a Dominican friary in Salamanca, Spain. It was founded in 1255 by San Juan de la Cruz and is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in the city. The convent is home to a community of Dominican friars who live in accordance with the Rule of Saint Augustine.
The architecture of the convent is notable for its simplicity and elegance. The exterior is made of granite and features a number of decorative elements, including sculptures, gargoyles, and stained glass windows. The interior of the convent is equally impressive, with a number of chapels, cloisters, and other rooms that are decorated with beautiful frescoes, paintings, and sculptures.
One of the most unique features of the Convento de San Esteban is its cloister. The cloister is a large, open space that is surrounded by a series of arches and columns. The arches are decorated with a variety of sculptures, including representations of saints, animals, and plants. The cloister is a popular place for visitors to relax and enjoy the peace and tranquility of the convent.
Anecdote: According to legend, the Convento de San Esteban was once home to a group of monks who were able to perform miracles. One day, a group of pilgrims arrived at the convent and asked the monks to help them find their way to Santiago de Compostela. The monks agreed and gave the pilgrims a map that would lead them to the city. However, the pilgrims soon lost their way and found themselves lost in the forest. They prayed to the monks for help, and the monks appeared to them in a vision. The monks led the pilgrims out of the forest and showed them the way to Santiago de Compostela.
Huerto de Calixto y Melibea
The Huerto de15th century. The garden is said to be the setting for the novel's tragic love story.
The garden is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. It is a peaceful and relaxing place to stroll, and it offers stunning views of the city. The garden is also home to a variety of plants and flowers, making it a great place to learn about botany.
History
The Huerto de Calixto y Melibea was created in the 16th century by the Duke of Alba. The duke was a great admirer of La Celestina, and he wanted to create a garden that would reflect the novel's romantic and tragic atmosphere. The garden was designed by a team of landscape architects, and it was planted with a variety of trees, shrubs, and flowers.
Literature
The Huerto de Calixto y Melibea is mentioned several times in La Celestina. In the novel, the garden is described as a place of beauty and tranquility. It is a place where the two main characters, Calixto and Melibea, can meet in secret and express their love for each other. The garden is also a place where the novel's tragic events unfold.
Architecture
The Huerto de Calixto y Melibea is a beautiful example of Renaissance garden design. The garden is laid out in a symmetrical pattern, with a central fountain and a series of paths that lead to different areas of the garden. The garden is surrounded by a high wall, which helps to create a sense of privacy and seclusion.
Anecdote
According to legend, the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea is haunted by the ghosts of Calixto and Melibea. The two lovers are said to wander the garden at night, searching for each other. Some people claim to have seen the ghosts of Calixto and Melibea, and there are even stories of people who have been touched by them.
Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco
The Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of these two art movements. The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building, the Casa Lis, which was built in 190The museum's collection includes furniture, paintings, sculptures, and other decorative objects from the Art Nouveau and Art Déco periods.
History
The Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco was founded in 1995 by the collector Manuel Ramos Andrade. Ramos Andrade was a passionate collector of Art Nouveau and Art Déco objects, and he wanted to share his collection with the public. The museum opened its doors in 1997, and it has since become one of the most important museums of its kind in Spain.
Architecture
The Casa Lis, which houses the Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco, is a beautiful example of Art Nouveau architecture. The building was designed by the architect Miguel de Lis, and it was built between 1902 and 190The Casa Lis is made of red brick and sandstone, and it is decorated with intricate carvings and stained glass windows.
Collection highlights
The Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco's collection includes over 2,500 objects from the Art Nouveau and Art Déco periods. The collection includes furniture, paintings, sculptures, and other decorative objects. Some of the highlights of the collection include:
- A set of furniture by the French designer Emile Gallé
- A painting by the Austrian artist Gustav Klimt
- A sculpture by the Spanish artist Josep Llimona
- A stained glass window by the American artist Louis Comfort Tiffany
Anecdote
One of the most interesting stories about the Museo Art Nouveau y Art Déco is how it came to be founded. The museum's founder, Manuel Ramos Andrade, was a passionate collector of Art Nouveau and Art Déco objects. He was so passionate about his collection that he once refused to sell a piece of furniture to a museum in New York City. The museum offered Ramos Andrade a large sum of money for the piece of furniture, but he refused, saying that he wanted to keep his collection in Spain.
Museo Taurino
The Museo Taurino is a must-see for any fan of bullfighting or Spanish culture. The museum is housed in a former bullring, and it tells the story of bullfighting in Spain, from its origins to the present day.
The museum has a collection of over 3,000 artifacts, including bullfighting suits, posters, photographs, and paintings. There is also a section of the museum dedicated to the history of the bullring itself.
Bullfighting in Spain
Bullfighting is a controversial tradition in Spain, but it is also a deeply rooted part of the country's culture. The first bullfight in Spain was held in the 12th century, and it quickly became a popular form of entertainment. Bullfighting is still popular in Spain today, and there are over 1,000 bullfights held each year.
Museum highlights
Some of the highlights of the Museo Taurino include:
- A collection of bullfighting suits from different eras, including suits worn by famous matadors such as Juan Belmonte and Manuel Benítez.
- A collection of posters and photographs from the golden age of bullfighting in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
- A section dedicated to the history of the bullring, including a model of the original bullring that was built in 188
Anecdote
One of the most famous stories about the Museo Taurino is the story of the "ghost bull." According to legend, a bull that was killed in the bullring in the 19th century returned to haunt the museum. The bull is said to have been seen wandering the halls of the museum at night, and it is said that its ghost can still be seen today.
Cueva de Salamanca
The Cueva de Salamanca is a cave located in the city of Salamanca, Spain. It is said to be the place where the devil taught magic to seven students in exchange for their souls. The cave is also known as the Cave of San Ciprián, after the patron saint of Salamanca.
The legend of the Cueva de Salamanca is first mentioned in the 13th century by the Dominican friar Vicente de Beauvais. According to the legend, seven students from the University of Salamanca went to the cave to learn magic from the devil. The devil agreed to teach them, but only if they agreed to give him their souls. The students agreed, and the devil taught them how to perform all kinds of spells and tricks.
After seven years, the students had learned all that the devil could teach them. They were now ready to return to the world and use their new powers for their own gain. However, before they left, the devil demanded that they pay him the price for his teachings. The students refused, and the devil cursed them. He turned them into stone, and they were forever trapped in the cave.
The Cueva de Salamanca is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can tour the cave and see the seven stone students. The cave is also said to be haunted by the devil, and many people have reported seeing or hearing him there.
The Cueva de Salamanca is a fascinating place with a rich history and a lot of folklore surrounding it. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Salamanca or in the legend of the seven students.
Puente Romano
The Puente Romano, or Roman Bridge, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Salamanca and a testament to the city's rich history. Built by the Romans in the 1st century BC, it is one of the best-preserved Roman bridges in Spain. The bridge spans the Tormes River and connects the old city center with the newer part of town. It consists of 15 arches and is made of granite blocks.
The Puente Romano has stood the test of time and has survived numerous floods and wars. It has been declared a national monument and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Salamanca. Visitors can stroll across the bridge and admire the views of the river and the city. They can also visit the nearby Roman Wall, which is another well-preserved Roman structure.
Anecdote
According to legend, the bridge was built by the devil in a single night. He made a pact with a local woman, promising to build the bridge in exchange for her soul. However, the woman tricked the devil by throwing a rooster into the river, which caused the devil to flee before he could claim her soul.
Parque de la Alamedilla
The Parque de la Alamedilla is a beautiful and historic park located in the heart of Salamanca. It was founded in the 16th century and is one of the oldest parks in Spain. The park covers an area of over 14 hectares and is home to a variety of trees, flowers, and sculptures.
The park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the outdoors. There are several walking paths that wind through the park, as well as a playground for children. The park is also home to a number of historical monuments, including the Fuente de las Ranas (Fountain of the Frogs) and the Monumento a Colón (Monument to Columbus).
The Fuente de las Ranas is a beautiful fountain that was built in the 16th century. The fountain is made of bronze and features four frogs spouting water from their mouths. The Monumento a Colón is a monument that was built in the 19th century to commemorate the explorer Christopher Columbus. The monument is made of stone and features a statue of Columbus standing atop a globe.
The Parque de la Alamedilla is a beautiful and historic park that is a must-see for any visitor to Salamanca. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors, and it is also home to a number of historical monuments.
Anecdote:
In the 19th century, the Parque de la Alamedilla was a popular spot for duels. According to legend, one of the most famous duels that took place in the park was between the poet José de Espronceda and the writer Mariano José de Larra. The duel was fought over a woman, and Espronceda was killed.
Mercado Central
The Mercado Central is a must-visit for any foodie visiting Salamanca. This bustling market is a feast for the senses, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to cured meats, cheeses, and seafood. The market is also home to a number of restaurants and tapas bars, where you can sample the local cuisine.
The Mercado Central was built in the early 20th century and is a fine example of Art Nouveau architecture. The market is located in the heart of the city, just a short walk from the Plaza Mayor. It is open every day of the week, except for Sundays.
Anecdote
One of the most popular dishes at the Mercado Central is the "hornazo", a traditional pork pie made with pork, chorizo, and eggs. The hornazo is a popular snack or meal for locals and tourists alike.
If you are looking for a unique and authentic culinary experience, be sure to visit the Mercado Central. You won't be disappointed!
Insider Tip
Best time to visit Salamanca: Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for exploring the city and its surroundings.
Local dish to try: Hornazo, a traditional pork pie, is a must-try in Salamanca.
Hidden gem to explore: The Patio Chico, a hidden square located behind the New Cathedral, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets.
Special event to attend: The Festival de las Luces, held annually in December, transforms the city into a magical winter wonderland with stunning light displays and projections.
