Spain’s second largest city has a cosmopolitan heart – and its feet in the sand. This modern city is famed for its architecture, both modern and historic, the latter most visible in the medieval quarter. And Barcelona of course is most famous thanks to its fabulous cathedral, yet the impressive work of Antoni Gaudí is not limited to the Sagrada Familia whose towers scratch the clouds above; Parc Güell is just as emblematic, and equally as enjoyable to spend time in.
Tradition and cutting-edge modernity join forces in the capital of Euskadi. The arrival of the striking Guggenheim Museum, with its twisting titanium plates that cover a giant limestone structure, helped modernize the image of this city, though its past is still visible in for example the 15th century Stock Exchange building and the 19th century Arriaga Theater; both examples of historic structures that have been rescued by conservation efforts. And the mix of old and new can also be tasted in the city’s cuisine that employs much of north Spain’s excellent produce to beautiful effect – especially when paired with an excellent Basque wine.
Known as the “city of three cultures” thanks to the peaceful coexistence of Christians, Muslims and Jews for thousands of years, Toledo’s medieval image is still strong today. Time stops as you walk its streets. The city’s cathedral is considered to be one of the finest pieces of Gothic architecture in all of Spain, and the abundance of watchtowers and town walls around you really help preserve the feeling of life under Carlos I during Imperial Spain.
Segovia offers abundant curiosities to anybody who crosses its imposing 28 meter high Roman aqueduct. Start with the Casa de los Picos and its grand facade complete with 617 granite spikes, before flocking to the 16th century cathedral on top of which storks like to congregate. Next stop should be the ancient Major Synagogue (now a convent) that conveys the city’s rich culture in architectural form. And we wouldn’t be surprised if you’re feeling hungry after all that; Segovia’s traditional roasted piglet always does the trick.
Segovia offers abundant curiosities to anybody who crosses its imposing 28 meter high Roman aqueduct. Start with the Casa de los Picos and its grand façade complete with 617 granite spikes, before flocking to the 16th century cathedral on top of which storks like to congregate. Next stop should be the ancient Major Synagogue (now a convent) that conveys the city’s rich culture in architectural form. And we wouldn’t be surprised if you’re feeling peckish after all that; Segovia’s traditional roasted piglet always does the trick.
Salamanca’s 18th century Plaza Mayor has become one of the most recognizable images in all of Spain. Equally as impressive is the picturesque “Casa de las Conchas”, whose façade has been decorated with over 300 shell-shaped figures, and the cathedral of the city is a fabulous blend of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles. And if you get a chance, seek out the hidden frog among the cathedral’s rich decorations. Legend has it that if you find it inside this university town’s cathedral, you shall succeed with your studies and get married.
