Located in western Spain and forming the capital of the province of Salamanca, the city of Salamanca is a highly historic one, and one whose cultural heritage has not gone unnoticed by those kind folk at UNESCO who have seen fit to give it World Heritage site status. The city offers an eclectic mix of historical attractions and modern amenities and entertainments, making it a viable holiday destination for visitors of all backgrounds.
Notable buildings include the city’s university, which is the oldest in the country, dating back to the 13th century (founded 1254) and with the current Gothic structures having been built in the 15th century. The city’s two cathedrals are also worth noting, with the respective old and new buildings standing side by side, while the Plaza Mayor, which includes the royal pavilion, cannot go without a mention.
The city is compact enough to be covered in a walking tour and on such, visitors should be sure to check out Mayor Street, where the Renaissance palaces of Anayana, Salina, and Orellana are located, as well as the House of Shells and the baroque monastery. The nearby Roman bridge crossing the River Tormes brings you to the Museum of Art Nouveau and Art Deco. In the evening the city center comes alive as the venues catering to the 40,000 student population fill with revellers and socialites.
Highlights
Casa Museo Unamuno: once the home of poet and philosopher Miguel de Unamuno. The former residence is now a small museum containing notebooks and artifacts relating to Unamuno’s life.
Catedral Nueva: Salamanca’s new cathedral dates back to 1513 and took over two centuries to complete. The church is a mix of late Gothic, baroque and Plateresque designs.
Catedral Vieja: The old cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is constructed in the Spanish Romanesque style. Be sure to check out the interesting chapels within the church.
Museo Art Nouveau-Art Deco: is home to the Manuel Ramos Andrade Foundation collection and displaying over 1,500 pieces of artwork including paintings, a porcelain doll collection and a bronze and marble figurine collection.
Universidad de Salamanca: Spain’s oldest university is full of interesting architectural sights, with its main structures dating back to the 15th century.