World Heritage

CITIES

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Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Tourism Introduction 3
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Nature in the Cultural
Front Cover: Ibiza, Balearic Islands. Heritage Cities 45
Back cover: Casa Lis Art Nouveau and Art Deco
Museum, Salamanca. Photo: World Heritage Cities Parador Hotels in the
World Heritage Cities 48
Heritage Cities, accessibility 52

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Photo: World Heritage Cities

INTRODUCTION
aa ALCALÁ UNIVERSITY
ALCALÁ DE HENARES

Spain is one of the countries in the tory of Spain through their streets and
world with most assets acknowledged monuments. Visit the picturesque his-
by the UNESCO, and the 15 World torical old town of Cordoba and discov-
Heritage Cities are living proof of this. er its greatest treasure, the Mosque-
We'll take you on a journey to discover Cathedral, one of the finest examples
them and enjoy unforgettable experi- of Moorish art.
ences surrounded by culture, history,
architecture and customs dating back You'll also find the legacy of the Romans
over a thousand years. A heritage that awaiting you in Mérida and Tarragona
the UNESCO defines as an extraor- where you can walk amongst numerous
dinary legacy from our past which we archaeological remains such as amphi-
should take care of, maintain and pass theatres, circuses and theatres. Segovia
on to future generations. is also home to a real feat of engineer-
Toledo, a city famous historically for ing, the Roman aqueduct, one of the
the harmonious coexistence between best preserved in Europe. Ávila, with
Muslims, Jews and Christians, and its imposing city walls, and Cáceres,
Salamanca, renowned as the home of with its cobbled streets, medieval for-
one of the oldest universities in the tress-houses and towers, will transport
world, invite you to discover the his- you back in time to the Middle Ages.

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WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Alcalá de Henares, the birthplace of La Laguna in Tenerife offer an insight

Cervantes, is home to one of Europe's into the origins of Latin American town
oldest open-air theatres, while in planning. Finally, in the Mediterranean,
Santiago de Compostela you'll find the Balearic Island of Ibiza has been rec-
Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque treas- ognised by the UNESCO for its walled
ures. Other World Heritage cities not city along with other cultural and natu-
to be missed include Úbeda and Baeza, ral treasures.
with their incredible Renaissance pal-
aces and churches, and Cuenca, where
you'll see the astonishing Hanging In each of these cities you
Houses blending seamlessly with the
can appreciate extraordinary
natural surroundings.
artistic and archaeological
And you'll also find numerous priceless
cultural attractions in the islands. The gems of incalculable value,
streets in the city of San Cristóbal de enjoy the cuisine and
discover the history
and traditions of Spain.
Come and discover them!

aa EIVISSA-IBIZA
BALEARIC ISLANDS
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 Photo: World Heritage Cities
CITIES

CITIES
ALCALÁ DE HENARES
Just a short distance from Madrid, a vis-
it to the birthplace of Cervantes is like a
journey through the History of Europe.
A dazzling university town with numer-
ous palaces, surprising traditional tav-
erns and quiet streets, ideal for taking a
stroll on a sunny day.

A good place to start is at the

Archaeological Museum of the Madrid
Region, located in the old Convent of
La Madre de Dios. Take a journey in
time from prehistory to the present and
discover what life was like for the first
settlers, during the Roman occupation
and in the Middle Ages.
Your tour could finish with a visit to the
archaeological remains of the Roman
city of Complutum which eventually
became Alcalá. There you'll find the re-
mains of the forum, the baths, the mar-
ket and the House of Griffins. There
are a number of guided tours available,
which is the best way of discovering the
details of the city's historic past.
Alcalá enjoyed its period of greatest
splendour after the creation of the
prestigious Universitas Complutensis. In
the University it is worth visiting the
San Ildefonso Residential College, a
15th century building with beautiful
cloisters and patios in the interior. The
Auditorium is a place of great political
and cultural significance and where the
Cervantes Award is presented each
year, one of the most important literary
awards in the Spanish language.

`` CHAPEL OF SAN ILDEFONSO

 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Photo: World Heritage Cities

The name of Alcalá de
Henares is engraved in
aa MONUMENT TO DON QUIXOTE AND SANCHO PANZA
universal literature. This is
where Miguel de Cervantes,
the illustrious author of
Don Quixote, was born
Nearby you'll find the College of San
Jerónimo, which is home to the Trilingual and spent his childhood.
Patio, so called because Latin, Greek
and Hebrew classes were given here. Then there's the Cervantes Birthplace
You could also stop by the Hostería del Museum, a typical 17th century
Estudiante, now part of the Parador Castilian dwelling which houses a splen-
Hotel network. Here you can try some did collection of editions of works by
of the very best Castilian cuisine. Cervantes. From here, it's just a short
Part of the walled enclosure of Alcalá walk to the Plaza de Cervantes where
de Henares lies in the area around you'll find the Corral de Comedias, an
the  Archbishop's Palace, formerly the open-air theatre where plays by great
residence of monarchs and archbish- authors of Spanish classical theatre like
ops. If you're visiting in November, you Lope de Vega and Calderón de la Barca
can attend a performance in the cen- were performed. The Town Hall, the
tral courtyard of Don Juan Tenorio, Universos de Cervantes Visitor Centre
an ­emblematic play from the Spanish and the Convent of Santa Úrsula are
Golden Age. also located in the surrounding area.

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 CITIES

This tour full of history continues To travel from Madrid to Alcalá de

through the colonnade in the Calle Henares, take the Cervantes Train which
Mayor. It leads to the Gothic Cathedral leaves from Atocha station. During the
of Los Santos Niños Justo y Pastor. journey, you'll be entertained by actors
The bell tower and the roofs of other performing some of the best-known
buildings in the city are nesting sites for episodes from Don Quixote.
storks, the city's most iconic birds.
LLFor further information go to:
www.turismoalcala.es

CALLE MAYOR
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES
Photo: World Heritage Cities

ÁVILA
To get an extraordinary panoramic view of Ávila,
which still looks very much like a medieval city,
it is best to visit the religious monument of "Los
Cuatro Postes" on the outskirts of the city at dusk.
If you find it stunning from the outside, you should
experience the hustle and bustle of the Great
Market and the tapas bars in the interior.

aa ÁVILA

The unmistakable symbol of Ávila is to be the first to be built in the Gothic

the medieval city wall, one of the best style in Spain. It is an austere temple
preserved in Europe. It features bat- which looks very much like a fortress,
tlements and defence towers. There a blend of warlike fervour and religious
are four access points, including one feeling typical of Ávila. It houses the
for persons with reduced mobility (the Cathedral Museum which has a valua-
Gate of El Puente). ble collection of religious art.
Once inside the walls you enter the his- Within the city walls you'll find areas
toric town centre which is a series of with a very medieval aspect, like the
churches, convents and Renaissance Plaza de Pedro Dávila interspersed
palaces. Most of them date back to with dozens of Renaissance mansions
which used to be the residences of no-
the  16th century, when the textile in-
ble families. The fact is, the full name
dustry was largely responsible for city's
of the city is Ávila de los Caballeros
prosperity.
or the "City of Knights". Examples are
One of the main entrances is through the mansion of the Velada family, the
the Gate of Los Leales, which leads di- Palace of Valderrábanos, that of Núñez
rectly to the El Salvador Cathedral, said Vela and that of the Dávila family.

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 CITIES

It's a short walk to the fortified tow- Outside the city walls you should visit
er of Los Guzmanes, which is current- the stately Casa de los Deanes. It cur-
ly the headquarters of the Provincial rently houses the Ávila Museum, which
Government. You can then continue has fascinating sections dedicated to
as far as the Plaza del Mercado Chico archaeology, ethnography and fine arts.
in the centre of the city where the old You could also visit the Post-Medieval
Roman forum used to be located. There Hornos or Ovens, interesting remains of
you'll see the beautiful façades of the a pottery workshop located in the Calle
Town Hall and of the Church of San del Marqués de Santo Domingo. And
Juan Bautista. While you're there you outside the walls towards the north, the
should try one of the restaurants around Sepharad Memorial Garden, in grounds
the square where they serve local spe- where there the city's Jewish cemetery
cialities like the renowned Ávila T-bone used to stand.
steak, casseroles, white beans from El Next comes the Royal Monastery of
Barco and desserts like Yemas de Ávila Santo Tomás, the construction of which
(typical local pastries). Or you could try was finished during the reign of the
the famous tapas, delicious aperitifs to Catholic Monarchs. It was once the seat
accompany a beer or a glass of wine. of the inquisition and a university, and
Ávila is the provincial capital locat- what were once its royal rooms are now
ed at the highest altitude in Spain. home to the Museum of Oriental Art.
Throughout its history, Ávila has been Your visit to this ancient city ends at the
the birthplace of famous Spanish mys- Los Cuatro Postes lookout point. From
tics such as San Juan de la Cruz and here you'll have the very best view of
Santa Teresa de Jesús. To learn more this extraordinary medieval complex.
about the person known locally as La
Santa, or the "Saintess", you should LLFor further information go to:
visit the Monastery of La Encarnación www.avilaturismo.com
where the abbess spent most of her life.
bb ÁVILA
Photo: World Heritage Cities

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WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Photo: World Heritage Cities

BAEZA
From a distance you can already ap-
preciate the beauty of this Andalusian
city, with a profile perfectly crowned
by the tower of the cathedral. Take
a stroll through this splendid, walled
city and at each step discover a mon-
umental complex where each street,
building and square is imbued with
art and history.
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__ BAEZA
 CITIES

Baeza has been inhabited since remote

Photo: World Heritage Cities

times by Iberians, Romans, Visigoths
and Moors. Its golden age was in the
16th and 17th centuries, when it was
a great ecclesiastical and education-
al centre, one of the most important
Renaissance communities in Spain.
Your tour starts in the Plaza de Santa
María, dominated by a magnificent
stone fountain and the Cathedral of La
Natividad de Nuestra Señora. A number
of buildings will catch your eye in this
area, like the San Felipe Neri Seminary
and the Jabalquinto Palace. Opposite
the palace you'll find the Church of
La Santa Cruz, the best-preserved
Romanesque church in Andalusia, and
the old university, where you can visit
the classroom where the poet Antonio
Machado used to teach.
You really shouldn't miss the pictur-
esque Plaza del Pópulo, dominated by
the Fountain of Los Leones. Here you'll
find the Casa del Pópulo, which hous-
es the tourist office, and the Antiguas
Carnicerías or Ancient Slaughterhouses.
This iconic square is also where the
Villalar Arch and the Jaén Gateway
aa JABALQUINTO PALACE
stand, they are the remains of the old
city wall which protected the city during
the Moorish era.
To learn about the city's remote past
From here it's just a short walk to the you should visit the Cerro del Alcázar
gardened Plaza de la Constitución, archaeological site and then you could
where local residents come for a stroll enjoy the atmosphere and some de-
and to meet and which is flanked by por- licious Andalusian cuisine in the busy
ticoes where the old craft guilds used to Plaza de España. We recommend the
be. The most representative and prom- cod with tomato and pine nuts, the wal-
inent of its monuments include the nut tarts and the different jams.
Alhóndiga or Grain Market, the Balcón
del Concejo or Council House and the LLFor further information go to:
Fountain of La Estrella. www.ubedaybaezaturismo.com

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 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

CÁCERES
Any time of the year is ideal for visiting The historical old town is bordered on
this monumental city in Extremadura two sides by a wall which was originally
and its medieval town centre. You Roman and then Moorish and in which
can stroll through the cobbled streets many of the defence towers have been
and see incredible fortress houses and preserved. You could start by visiting
Renaissance palaces either by day or the Plaza Mayor where you'll find the
in the late evening when all the lights remarkable Bujaco Tower. From the
are  turned on to highlight each little battlements there are amazing views
corner and monument. It's an unfor- over the city.
gettable experience which will take you There is a magnificent stairway leading
back in time. In fact, the city has been up to the Gateway of La Estrella, which
used as a location for countless films is the main point of access to the wall.
and TV series. Once inside the medieval town centre
there are palaces and stately houses
Cáceres is known as the City of the everywhere you turn. The peaceful, nar-
row streets are ideal for strolling around
Thousand and One Crests because of the amongst these extraordinary buildings.
incredible number of coats of arms to be
seen outside the mansions and palaces.
bb CÁCERES
Photo: World Heritage Cities

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 CITIES
Photo: Jewish Quarter Network

aa PALACE OF LOS GOLFINES DE ABAJO

The Plaza de Santa María is surround- The city's prehistoric origins can be ex-
ed by palaces and dominated by the plored in the Maltravieso Cave Visitor
Co-Cathedral of Santa María, a 15th Centre where there are some spectac-
century Gothic building with a beau- ular engravings and cave paintings.
tiful Plateresque altarpiece. The build- An ideal end to the tour would sure-
ings around this square include the ly be a visit to the Sanctuary of La
Mayoralgo Palace, one of the largest in Virgen de la Montaña, the patron saint
the city, and the Carvajal Palace. It has of Cáceres, from where you can enjoy
a unique corner balcony and a charm- a spectacular panoramic view of this
ing patio with a fig tree which is over monumental city.
400 years old.
In Cáceres there are countless experi-
Nearby stands the Golfines de Abajo ences for you to enjoy. For a little ad-
Palace, with a Renaissance façade with venture you could fly over Cáceres in
Gothic and Mudéjar features and it is a hot-air balloon. Or you could take
where the Catholic Monarchs used to a dramatised night tour of the city to
stay over five centuries ago.  learn about its history in an original and
There is so much of interest within the entertaining way.
walled city of Cáceres, but special men-
tion should go to the Veletas Palace,
which houses a historical water cistern
and the Cáceres Museum.

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WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Photo: World Heritage Cities

14

FESTIVAL OF THE PATIOS

 CITIES

CÓRDOBA
The origins of Córdoba are lost in the
depths of time. On the border between
the East and the West, during the
Middle Ages it became Europe's princi-
ple metropolis, a point of reference as a
cultural and political guiding light, home
to the great scientists, philosophers, as-
tronomers and mathematicians of the
time.
For one of the most beautiful views of
this Andalusian city you should go to the
Calahorra Tower just to get a preview
of this extraordinary, spectacular city.
There you can visit the Living Museum
of al-Andalus which demonstrates
the co-existence of the three cultures;
Jewish, Christian and Moorish.
Photo: World Heritage Cities

Cross the Roman Bridge over the

Guadalquivir River and enter the city
through the Puerta del Puente gateway.
It's just a short distance to the heart
and soul of the city, the Great Mosque-
Cathedral which you reach via the Puerta aa GREAT MOSQUE-CATHEDRAL

del Perdón gateway. The beautiful Patio

de los Naranjos leads to the incredible
forest of columns with two-tone arches
Visit the Alcázar Viejo neighbourhood
in the interior. The Catholic Cathedral,
and admire the numerous patios which
which is a blend of Gothic, Renaissance
you can visit on your own or accompa-
and Baroque, stands proudly in the cen-
nied by a guide. Check the timetables
tre of the mosque.
because they are not always open to
As you leave the Great Mosque- the public.
Cathedral you enter the Jewish Quarter,
You can also visit the Alcázar de los
with cobbled streets and white-washed
Reyes Cristianos, an ancient fortress
houses, one of the most popular imag-
where the discovery of America was
es of the city, and you can visit the only
planned and has Moorish gardens which
medieval synagogue in Andalusia. In this
are a true delight. In the same square
neighbourhood you'll find some of the
you'll find the Royal Stables, where you
oldest patios in Córdoba, they are espe-
can attend equestrian performances.
cially beautiful at the beginning of May
when the Festival of the Patios is held, To try some of the typical cuisine from
an event declared an Intangible Cultural Córdoba, like salmorejo (chilled tomato
Heritage. soup similar to gazpacho) and fried au-

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 Photo: Cordoba Tourism
WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

The Medina Azahara

archaeological complex
aa MEDINA AZAHARA
has been declared a
World Heritage Site.
bergines with honey, you should go to
the monumental Plaza de las Tendillas, garden, the rooms and the twelve pati-
a traditional meeting point and venue os, which are splendidly decorated with
for events. Stop at the remains of the flowers in the springtime.
Roman Temple and enjoy the Plaza de
la Corredera, the only one in this style If you'd like to delve deeper into the
in Andalusia. history of this place, then very near the
centre of Córdoba you'll find the ar-
In the middle of the hidden Plaza de los chaeological site of Medina Azahara,
Capuchinos stands the statue known as which was one of the most beautiful
the Cristo de los Faroles (Christ of the Palatine cities in al-Andalus. Visit it on
Lanterns), one of the iconic symbols of your own or take a guided tour to dis-
the city. You can also visit the Museum cover the roots of its magnificent past.
of Julio Romero de Torres, one of
Andalusia's most characteristic artists, LLFor further information go to:
and the Viana Palace, a stately mansion www.turismodecordoba.org
with a Mannerist façade. You'll love the

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 CITIES

CUENCA
This fortified city is noted for its steep On the way down you come to a look-
hills, so the best place to start your out point with wonderful views over the
tour is the area around the castle. Your other river which encircles Cuenca, the
first stop could be the ruins of this old, Hoz del Júcar. Then you come down
Moorish fortress at the highest point in a stone stairway to an esplanade with
the city's historical old town. From high lush trees and the Sanctuary of Nuestra
up there are beautiful views of the Hoz Señora de las Angustias, a delightful
del Río Huécar, the bend in the river 17th century chapel built over the ruins
that almost encircles the city. of a previous one.

The city is a maze of medieval

alleyways, hills and squares and
is surrounded by a spectacular
bb HANGING HOUSES

natural environment dominated

Photo: Juan Jiménez Fernández/123rf.com

by pine forests and water.

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 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Photo: World Heritage Cities

aa PLAZA MAYOR

Stroll around the streets and discover built in the 15th century, with wooden
the delights of medieval Cuenca. The balconies leaning out over cliffs above
main streets converge on the Plaza the Huécar River. In the interior of
Mayor where you'll find the Cathedral these extraordinary buildings you'll find
of Santa María y San Julián, built in the Museum of Spanish Abstract Art
the 12th and 13th centuries over an which is also well worth visiting.
old mosque. The structure is a blend
of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque There you just need to cross the San
styles. The monumental façade is ac- Pedro Bridge, another of the city's
companied by the colourful walls and iconic symbols uniquely designed in
wrought iron balconies of the adjoining iron and wood, to reach the Convent
stately mansions. of San Pablo which has been restored
and is now a Parador Hotel.
You can stop for a rest and try some of
the city's typical dishes, like morteruelo The area surrounding Cuenca is a nat-
(pâté made from pig's liver, spices and ural paradise as well as providing the
breadcrumbs) and ajoarriero (cod with visitor with an open window onto the
potatoes, garlic, olive oil and parsley) past in the archaeological sites of
on the terrace of one of the bars in the Segóbriga, Valeria and Ercávica with
square. the remains of forums, a necropolis and
buildings from the Roman era.
It's less than a minute's walk to the city’s
greatest distinguishing feature: The LLFor further information go to:
Casas Colgadas, or Hanging Houses, turismo.cuenca.es

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 Photo: World Heritage Cities
CITIES

EIVISSA-IBIZA
The city of Eivissa (Balearic Islands) is lo-
cated on the east of the island of Ibiza.
It was founded by the Carthaginians
and throughout history has been oc-
cupied by a number of civilisations:
Punic, Roman, Moorish and Christian.
The historical old town consists of the
fishing and crafts neighbourhoods of La
Marina and Sa Penya and the monu-
mental area located in the upper part of
the city, called Dalt Villa. On top of the
Puig de Vila hill stands the Almudaina
Castle, the tallest monument in the city
which was built before there were any
walls.
If you climb up to Dalt Vila you'll have
fantastic panoramic views, with the old
town and the port at your feet. This
district is completely surrounded by im-
pressive Renaissance city walls which
were built to protect the town against
pirates and have been recognised by
the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The most monumental of the five access
gates is the Portal de ses Taules, next to
the Mercado Viejo or Old Market.
It is a real pleasure just to stroll through
the maze of squares and narrow streets.
The most striking features are the de-
fensive bulwarks, the Ayuntamiento
or Town Hall (in what used to be a
Dominican Convent) and the tiled vaults
of the Church of Santo Domingo.
All roads lead to the Cathedral of Santa
María de las Nieves which was built
over the old Moorish walls. It shares
the cathedral square with the Episcopal
Palace and the Casa de la Cúria (me-
dieval courthouse) with a typical white-
washed façade.

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`` SES TAULES GATEWAY

 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

aa EIVISSA-IBIZA

Not to be missed is the Monographic

Photo: World Heritage Cities

Museum and Punic Necropolis in Puig

des Molins. Over 3,500 tombs have
been discovered in this Phoenician-
Punic cemetery which is one of the best
preserved in the world. The next most
significant ­archaeological sites on the
island are those of Ses Païsses de Cala
d'Hort and Sa Caleta. 
Also well worth a visit are the modern art
museum or Museu d’Art Contemporani
DALT VILA
d’Eivissa (MACE), the Puget Museum
and the Madina Yabisah Visitor Centre.
You can take a walk through the live-
restaurants where you can sample the
ly Paseo Vara de Rey and the Plaza del
island's cuisine on a terrace right by
Parque in the centre of the town and the sea. Then you can really enjoy the
recently turned into a large pedestrian world-famous Ibiza nightlife. Or you
area, and then along the edge of the could just relax in one of the sandy coves
port area until you come to the Botafoc or beaches like Ses Figueretes, Platja
lighthouse. The refurbished Marina d’en Bossa, Es Viver and Talamanca.
neighbourhood, what used to be the
fishing quarter, and nowadays has be- LLFor further information go to:
come a hive of activity with shops and turismo.eivissa.es

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 CITIES

MÉRIDA
Travel back in time to a city that flour- Its greatest attraction, a true architec-
ished during the Roman Empire. If tural gem, is the Roman Theatre. It was
you come in June you can take part built in the 1st century BC and it still
in Emerita Ludica, a festival recreating serves the purpose for which it was de-
history in which local residents dress signed. It is amazingly well preserved
up in Roman costumes and organise and its magnificent appearance will sur-
cultural activities which will take you prise you. Behind it there is a beautiful
back to this era. arcaded garden.
It was the starting point for the Nearby you'll find the amphitheatre.
ancient Silver Route and the capital Both venues spring to life every summer
of the Roman province of Lusitania, during the Mérida Classical Theatre
making it one of the most prosperous Festival, one of the most important fes-
cities in the Empire. tivals organised in Europe.

bb FESTIVAL OF GRECO-ROMAN THEATRE

Photo: World Heritage Cities

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WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

From here it is just a short walk to one

of the best-preserved Roman Circuses
in Mainland Spain. There is a visitor cen-
tre where you can see what it used to
look like and what it was used for. This
tour finishes with a visit to the National
Museum of Roman Art, designed by
the  Spanish architect Rafael Moneo,
where you'll find a splendid collection of
exhibits which will help you understand
what day-to-day life was like in a Roman
colony.
The town centre is the site of the
Temple of Diana and Trajan's Arch, one
of the ancient gateways into the city.
Take a stroll around the adjacent streets
and stop for a rest in one of the bars
or restaurants in the Plaza de España.
Delicious local dishes include lamb cas-
serole, exquisite cheeses and Iberian
cured ham.
In the evening you can visit the Moorish
Alcazaba, a fortified enclosure sur-
rounded by a great ditch. In the patio
of the fortress there's a section of the
main Roman road and remains of the
city wall. Inside there's a splendid water
cistern decorated with Visigoth pilas-
ters.
From here you'll have beautiful views
over the Guadiana River, over which
there are a number of bridges including
the Lusitania Bridge, a modern design
by the architect Santiago de Calatrava,
and the Roman Bridge, said to be the
longest still remaining in Spain.

LLFor further information go to:

www.turismomerida.org

__ NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ROMAN ART

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 CITIES
Photo: World Heritage Cities

aa CASA DE LAS CONCHAS HOUSE

SALAMANCA The gateways to the square lead to the

most interesting buildings. These in-
Salamanca is an open, vibrant city. Life clude the Church of La Clerecía. Here
revolves around the University, one of you can purchase an entry ticket for the
the first to be founded in Spain and one Scala Coeli exhibition which includes
of the oldest in Europe. It still attracts a guided tour of the building. The tour
thousands of students from all over the ends at the top of the La Clerecía
world who come to learn Spanish. Towers from where you'll have a spec-
Take a walk through the historical city tacular panoramic view over the old
centre known as the ciudad vieja or "old town.
town". A good place to start is in the fa- Right opposite you'll see the Casa de
mous Baroque-style Plaza Mayor, the las Conchas, a building decorated with
heart and soul of Salamanca, an ideal more than 300 ornamental stone shells.
place to have a bite to eat and do some Legend has it that there is a treasure
shopping. You'll find everything from fa- hidden behind one of them. Very near-
mous fashion brands to traditional craft by you'll find Salamanca's architectural
work and delicatessens selling the fan- gem, the University. The Plateresque
tastic cold-meat products from the re- façade is in extraordinary stone filigree,
gion. This is where you'll hear the surpris- where it is traditional to look for a frog.
ing, cheerful music of La Tuna, groups of Here's clue: it's sitting on a skull, which
young university students who do the symbolises the fate awaiting bad stu-
rounds playing traditional popular sings, dents. Inside there's a great library, a pa-
dressed as they would have looked in tio, a staircase and the splendid Escuelas
times gone by. Mayores and Escuelas Menores, where
the lecture theatres are located.

23
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Then cross the Plaza de Anaya which You should experience Salamanca by
leads to a magnificent complex com- day and at dusk. This is when the setting
prising the Cathedral of La Asunción sun gives a golden hue to the material
de la Virgen and the Cathedral of Santa used to build the monuments, sedimen-
María, popularly known as the New tary clay-based rock from Villamayor.
Cathedral and the Old Cathedral. In And when night falls, you can stroll
the first of these, you should look care- amongst the brightly-lit buildings in the
fully at the Puerta de Ramos doorway, old town and enjoy the atmosphere of
in which the figure of an astronaut is the student nightlife.
hidden. From there you walk down
the Calle Tentenecio to the Casa Lis LLFor further information go to:
Art Nouveau and Art Decó Museum. www.salamanca.es
This is a delightful museum, located in
a Modernist building with stained-glass
windows.

bb NEW CATHEDRAL

24
 CITIES

SAN CRISTÓBAL
DE LA LAGUNA
The island of Tenerife is not only idyllic
beaches and unspoiled nature. It is also
the colonial layout of its colourful first
city, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, which
was founded over five centuries ago.
You'll love the pedestrian streets, the pal-
aces, the religious buildings and the laid-
back lifestyle of the Tenerife people.
Photo: World Heritage Cities

aa SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LA LAGUNA

You'll see how the city is laid out like

Photo: World Heritage Cities

a grid, designed using maritime naviga-

tional instruments. As you stroll through
the elegant streets in the centre of the
town you can't help but notice the live-
ly presence of students from the two-
hundred-year-old University, the first
to be founded in the archipelago.
The city was also a powerful ecclesi-
astical centre and a number of church-
es were built here. The most signifi-
cant of these are the Parish Church of
Nuestra Señora de la Concepción and
the Holy Cathedral Church of Nuestra
Señora de los Remedios. You can also
visit the austere Convent of Santa aa HOUSE OF SALAZAR

Catalina de Siena and the Chapel of

San Miguel Arcángel, which is now a
Cultural Centre. One of the best preserved is the Casa
Everywhere you look there'll be pal- de Salazar with strange, zoomorphic
aces and stately houses with brightly gargoyles which remind you of Pre-
coloured façades and stone porches. Hispanic Mexican art.

25
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Photo: World Heritage Cities

aa SAN CRISTÓBAL DE LA LAGUNA

Other examples of stately architec- by Spain): La Barranquera and Barranco

ture are the Palace of Lercaro (now de Agua de Dios.
the Tenerife Museum of History and The city is also proud of its magnif-
Anthropology), the Palace of Nava and icent coastal area and the Anaga
the Casa del Corregidor (the Town Hall). Rural Park which is home to one of
You could also visit its two important our greatest treasures: the laurel for-
archaeological sites, ancient Guanche est. An ­extraordinary area, declared a
settlements (the inhabitants of the Biosphere Reserve, which nobody visit-
Canary Islands before being conquered ing La Laguna should miss.

26
 CITIES

SANTIAGO
DE COMPOSTELA
Legend has it that it was the discovery of
the remains of Saint James the Apostle
that led to the creation of Santiago
de Compostela, the capital of Galicia.
It would soon become a holy city to-
gether with Jerusalem and Rome, and a
destination for pilgrims that eventually
gave rise to the Way of Saint James.
Each year thousands of pilgrims from
all over Spain and the world come to
reach the incredible cathedral, the final
destination of the Way of Saint James.

`` PLAZA DEL OBRADOIRO

An excellent way to start in the morn- atmosphere. Before you continue, head
ing is to stroll around the streets of the for any of the bars and restaurants in
historic town centre. Here you'll find a the area. There you can sample some
series of narrow streets, squares and of Galicia's delicious dishes: pulpo á fei-
granite buildings with centuries of his- ra (spicy octopus), pastries and Padrón
tory, many of them dating from the peppers, followed by a slice of Santiago
Middle Ages. Special mention should go tart for dessert.
to the cathedral with a majestic façade
towering above the Plaza del Obradoiro It's a good idea to spend the first few
Square. In the interior, you can not only hours of the afternoon in one of the
see the extraordinary Gloria Gateway many beautiful parks and gardens to
and the Apostle's tomb, you can also be found in Santiago. The most central
experience the pilgrim's mass. In some is the Alameda Park, with wonderful
of the religious services the ­botafumeiro views of the historic town centre.
(gigantic incense burner) swings over Another possible route in the north of
the temple's central aisle. You should the city starts in the Plaza Cervantes,
also visit the cathedral's Archive and known in the 12th century as the Forum
Library which houses documentary as it was a popular meeting place. Nearby
gems like the Codex Calixtinus. you'll find the market called the Mercado
The other three squares surrounding de Abastos, one of the most visited at-
the cathedral, Quintana, Inmaculada tractions in Santiago. Here you can buy
and Praterías, provide a good example fresh produce at the stalls and take it to
of the blend of styles in a city which lives the bar in the market where they'll pre-
and breathes its history and university pare it for you to eat right there.

27
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

In the evening you can visit the nearby

Pobo Galego Museum, which encapsu-
lates Galician ethnography in a section
dedicated to archaeological finds with-
in the region. Next door, there's the
Centro Galego de Arte Contemporánea
(Galician Contemporary Art Centre),
famous not only for the exhibits but
for the building itself, designed by the
Portuguese architect Álvaro Siza.
If you're staying for more than one day
you should take a bus and visit the huge
City of Culture on Mount Gaiás. This is
an architectural complex designed by
the New York architect Peter Eisenman,
which has an interesting programme of
cultural activities throughout the year
aa PLAZA DE CERVANTES
and facilities include museums, a library,
an opera theatre and a research centre.

LLFor further information go to:

www.santiagoturismo.com

bb LA GLORIA DOORWAY

Photo: World Heritage Cities

28
 SEGOVIA CITIES

Apart from its icon, the incredible

Roman Aqueduct, in Segovia you can
lose yourself in the maze of streets
which make up the Jewish quarter,
see extraordinary stately houses and
enjoy a stroll in the green belt under
the sunshine.

`` ROMAN AQUEDUCT
Photo: World Heritage Cities

29
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES
Photo: Carlos Soler Martínez/123rf.com

aa SEGOVIA

The Aqueduct, which marks the en- Your tour should include significant re-
trance to the historical old town via the ligious buildings like the Church of San
Plaza de Azoguejo, will be your com- Martín and the Church of San Miguel,
panion during your tour of the medieval where Isabel the Catholic Monarch was
streets. The Casa de los Picos is easy crowned queen of Castile. Just a short
to find, as the façade is unusually deco- walk from the porticoes in the Plaza
rated with granite points. Other surpris- Mayor you'll find the superb late Gothic
ing buildings are La Alhóndiga, formerly Cathedral of Santa María. It is known
a Gothic granary, and the Torreón de as the Lady of all Cathedrals due to
Lozoya, a palace which is now a cultural its large dimensions and elegant style.
centre. It has an interesting programme You'll also find the Cathedral Museum
of temporary exhibitions. interesting, with a considerable collec-
tion of religious art and the first book
that was ever printed in Spain.

30
 CITIES

You then move on to the neighbour- You should always spare some time to
hood called the Barrio de los Caballeros, visit the House-Museum of Antonio
which in the past used to be the home Machado, where the distinguished
of wealthy families of noble lineage. The Spanish poet lived, and the Esteban
buildings that have been well preserved Vicente Contemporary Art Museum,
include the Palace of Valdeláguila, the dedicated to the internationally re-
Residence of the Marquises of Lozoya nowned artist.
and the Casa de las Cadenas. In the If you visit at Easter you can enjoy de-
maze of streets which make up the me- lightful concerts of sacred music in the
dieval old town you'll find Romanesque religious buildings. In July, the patios in
gems like the Church of San Juan de the palaces and other charming venues
los Caballeros (which now houses the become the scenario for the Festival
Zuloaga Museum) and the Church of of Segovia. And in springtime you
La Santísima Trinidad. shouldn't miss Titirimundi, a magical
From here you should look towards event which fills the streets with pup-
the end of the walled enclosure. On pets and marionettes.
the horizon, beyond the Reina Victoria Both the modern Parador Hotel and
Eugenia Gardens you'll see the amaz- the traditional restaurants are ide-
ing Alcázar. This extraordinary medieval al for sampling the dish for which the
fortress stands high on a rock and looks city has become famous: roast suck-
just like a fairy-tale castle. You can visit ling pig. A wonderful way to end the
numerous patios and royal rooms full of day is to take a walk along the banks
legends, you can even climb to the top of the Eresma River to the Pradera de
of the tower and enjoy the magnificent San Marcos, an ideal place to rest and
countryside. where you'll get possibly the best view
of the amazing Alcázar.
LLFor further information go to:
bb SEGOVIA PARADOR HOTEL
www.segoviaturismo.es

31
WORLD HERITAGE CITIES
TARRAGONA
Discover the goddess who protect-
ed the gladiators in the Tarragona
National Archaeological Museum, feel
the sea breeze as you look out from
the Balcón del Mediterráneo and enjoy a
stroll through the streets and alleyways
of the historical old town. In Tarragona
there is so much to choose from.

In its streets, squares and buildings, an-

cient Tarraco has some of the best-pre-
served remains of ancient Rome in the
Iberian peninsular. The historical old
town of the ancient capital of Hispania
is surrounded by a great 2nd century
BC wall, alongside which there is an
Archaeological Walkway that will take
you far back in time in a hospitable city
which is open to the sea.
The Roman tour starts in the walkway
itself and at the Tarragona Museum of
History, then along the Rambla Vella
towards the Vía Augusta. This leads to
the lower part of the city where you'll
find the spectacular Roman amphithe-
atre, from where you'll have wonderful
picture postcard views of the sea and
the city.
The Tarraco Circus is in the upper part
of the city. Some of the vaults that sup-
ported the grandstands have been pre-
served as have the pillars of numerous
building, and this leads to such iconic
places as the Plaza de la Font, full of
terraces and with a fantastic atmos-
phere both day and night.
This square is dominated by the Town
Hall and is a good spot for watching the
castells (human towers) at certain times
like the Festival of Santa Tecla, which
takes place in September.
Photo: World Heritage Cities

32

__ FESTIVAL OF SANTA TECLA

 CITIES

Another attraction not to be missed in CATHEDRAL

the old town is the Cathedral of Santa
Tecla and its enormous rose window,
one of the city's icons. It was built dur-
ing the 12th century and is basically
Romanesque but finished in the Gothic
style with a majestic main façade. In the
interior there is a surprising gardened
cloister and you should climb up to the
bell tower where you'll have magnifi-
cent views of the city. The beautiful lit-
tle streets and alleyways around the ca-
thedral lead to the Plaza del Rey where
Photo: Juan Bautista Cofreces/123rf.com
you'll find the splendid Roman tower of
El Pretori.
Tarragona is a perfect blend of the past
and the present. The Rambla Nova
is a broad avenue ideal for taking a
pleasant stroll and doing a little shop-
ping. You then come to the Balcón del
Mediterráneo, a lookout point with a
splendid panoramic view over the El
Miracle beach and the amphitheatre. AMPHITHEATRE

Spanish Modernism has a strong

presence throughout the length and
breadth of the city. The Modernist tour
includes the tower and tribune of the
Casa Ripoll, the iron construction of
the Central Market and the chapel of
the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora del
Sagrado Corazón which bears the un-
mistakable mark of Antoni Gaudí. Proof
that Tarragona is not tied down to its
glorious past, but has evolved to be-
come a modern city which is very proud
of its history.

LLFor further information go to:

www.tarragonaturisme.cat

33
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

TOLEDO
You're standing in a true open-air
museum of history. The first thing you
notice are the narrow winding streets
that used to be home to mosques, baths
and bustling bazaars when it was under
Moorish rule.
After the Christian Reconquista, Toledo
became the City of the Three Cultures.
Christians, Jews and Moors coexist-
ed here for centuries, a time of peace
and splendour when the city was the
seat of the court and the capital of the
Castilian monarchy. This was when the
renowned Toledo School of Translators
Photo: World Heritage Cities
was founded and which is now a re-
search centre.

aa ALCÁNTARA BRIDGE AND THE ALCÁZAR FORTRESS

Each of these three communities be- Christians) in Toledo meanwhile left

queathed its own architectural legacy a legacy of profusely decorated art.
on the city, and this can be appreciat- You'll love the Church of Santiago del
ed throughout the labyrinthine historic Arrabal which is known as the Mudejar
town centre. The main access is through Cathedral. The Church of Santo Tomé
the Puerta de Bisagra gateway. This is in the same style and is renowned
leads to the picturesque, bustling Plaza for being home to the painting entitled
de Zocodover, surrounded by arcades. The Burial of the Count of Orgaz by the
You should look out for the little shops world-famous painter, El Greco. Some
selling finely crafted gold, Damascene of his masterpieces are on display in the
objects. El Greco Museum. located in the Paseo
Then visit the Mosque of El Cristo de del Tránsito.
la Luz which predates the Christian re- You can also visit the remains of the
conquest. Good examples of Mozarabic Jewish community, like the Synagogue
architecture (by Christians living in the of Santa María la Blanca and the
Moorish kingdom) are the Churches Synagogue of El Tránsito which houses
of San Sebastián and Santa Eulalia. an interesting Sephardic Museum.
The Mudejars (Muslims living amongst

34
 CITIES
Photo: World Heritage Cities

aa SYNAGOGUE OF SANTA MARÍA LA BLANCA

The finest example of the Catholic leg- Your tour ends with a visit to the medie-
acy is the Gothic Cathedral of Santa val Alcázar or fortress. Behind its sturdy
María de Toledo. It is particularly nota- walls you'll find a military museum and
ble for the main façade which consists of one of the largest libraries in Spain. It
three doorways: the doorway of Hell, of also has a lookout point with magnifi-
Forgiveness and of the Last Judgement. cent panoramic views over the Tagus
The cathedral houses a great treasure, River and the area surrounding the city.
the Sacred Processional Receptacle of
Arfe, which plays a leading role in the
traditional procession to celebrate the
Santísimo Corpus Christi.

35
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

ÚBEDA
Surrounded by the valleys of the Plaza de Vázquez de Molina where
Guadalquivir and Guadalimar Rivers, in you'll find some of the cities most out-
the midst of a sea of olive trees, this standing buildings. The Sacred Chapel
Andalusian city amasses a treasure of El Salvador, the Deán Ortega Palace,
trove of incredible monuments which is now a Parador Hotel, and the Vázquez
unique in Spain. In the historical town de Molina Palace, all works by the ar-
centre you'll find some of the finest chitect Andrés de Vandelvira, are well
architectural gems of the Andalusian worth your close attention.
Renaissance. Right opposite the latter stands the
As you walk through the streets and magnificent Collegiate Church of Santa
squares you'll feel like you're back in the María de los Reales Alcázares. On the
same spot where Bronze Age remains,
16th century. At the heart of the Route
a Roman temple dedicated to the god-
of the Andalusian Renaissance and the
dess Diana and a Moorish mosque
Nasrid Route, it's an ideal base from
were found, they built what would be
which to explore the whole ­region.
the Principle Church in Úbeda from the
Beautiful Úbeda, with a backdrop of 13th century onwards. It has splendid
palaces and towers, is an extraordinary façades, a beautiful cloister and interior
city with a cultured and courtly past. chapels which are a blend of a number
The best place to start your tour is the of different artistic styles.

bb SACRED CHAPEL OF EL SALVADOR.

Photo: World Heritage Cities

36
 CITIES

Photo: World Heritage Cities

aa PLAZA VÁZQUEZ DE MOLINA

In this square you should climb up to breath away. To appreciate the blend of
the San Lorenzo Lookout Point where cultures which have left their mark on
you'll have extraordinary views of the the city, you should visit the extraordi-
olive groves and the Sierra Mágina nary Archaeological Museum, located
mountains. in a 14th century Mudejar building.
The city is full of architectural wonders Úbeda has a very busy cultural agen-
where Moorish, Gothic and Baroque da. Examples of this are the Theatre
elements blend in perfect harmony. Forum which is held from September
You'll find remains of the Moorish leg- to December and the City of Úbeda
acy in the Granada Gateway and in the International Music and Dance Festival
city walls surrounding the historical old which takes place in May and June.
town. The mysterious Synagoga del
Agua or Synagogue of the Water, hid- LLFor further information go to:
den away for centuries, will take your ubedaybaezaturismo.com

37
WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

HISTORY
THROUGH CUISINE
Enjoy the finest Spanish cuisine in each of the World Heritage Cities and discover
the incredible variety of their traditional dishes and gastronomic specialities. You
could start with some papas arrugadas con mojo picón, baby potatoes boiled in
their skins and served with a spicy Canary Island sauce, or some excellent e ­ xtra
virgin olive oil from Úbeda and Baeza, the foundation of the Mediterranean diet.

PAPAS ARRUGADAS (WRINKLY POTATOES) WITH MOJO PICÓN (SPICY SAUCE)

For lovers of fresh, local produce there splendid Parador Hotel. Or you could
are plenty of exquisite products for try the cold meats from Salamanca,
you to try. Meat from the centre of where the Guijuelo designation of ori-
the Spanish mainland will leave you gin is a guarantee of quality.
asking for more. There's T-bone steak Toledo is proud of its game and there
from Ávila, which is so big it is usual- they serve delicious casseroled par-
ly served on a large platter because tridge and venison with wild mush-
it doesn't fit on a plate. Then there's rooms, while Cuenca is renowned
roast lamb, kid goat and suckling pig for its casseroled lamb and offal
from Segovia, where you'll find numer- dishes like zarajos (marinated sheep's
ous top-class restaurants as well as a intestines).

38
 HISTORY THROUGH CUISINE

aa IBERIAN CURED HAM

Vegetables are a very important part ham. Or flamenquín, which consists of

of the Mediterranean diet. Special diced cured ham rolled into pork loin
mention should go to white beans and fried in breadcrumbs.
with designation of origin from Ávila,
In cities like Santiago de Compostela,
lentils from Armuña in Salamanca
Ibiza and Tarragona, the fruits of the
and chick peas which are traditional
sea take on special importance. The
in most parts of mainland Spain. You
seafood in Galicia is truly first-class,
can try them in the famous cocido
madrileño (traditional chick pea stew) with an extraordinary variety of excel-
whilst you're in Alcalá de Henares or in lent products: scallops, goose barna-
a broad bean and chick pea casserole cles, spider crabs... Accompanied by
in Baeza. Albariño and Ribeiro wines for per-
fection. pulpo á feira" (spicy octopus),
The king of Spanish gastronomy must with potatoes, olive oil and paprika,
surely be Iberian cured ham. Nowhere is another of the delicious dishes you
in the world will you find one better
could try in Santiago de Compostela.
than in Córdoba, Salamanca, Mérida
or Cáceres, each with its own par- Tarragona is outstanding for ancho-
ticular flavour and denomination of vies and sardines with the Tarragona
origin. In Córdoba it is also an impor- Blue Fish designation of origin. Try
tant ingredient in dishes like salmorejo, the fish or seafood in Romesco (nut
a chilled tomato broth similar to gaz- and red-pepper based sauce) in the
pacho and served with fine slivers of Serrallo fishing quarter.

39
WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

In Ibiza, the menu includes deli- You should try one in any restaurant
cious scorpion fish cooked with fine or pastry-shop, they're delicious.
herbs,  lobster casserole and Ibiza- The World Heritage cities are also
style tuna. famous for their traditional des-
You'll also find good fish in the cit- serts. You really shouldn't miss out
ies in Spain's interior. Cáceres is re- on Ensaimada, an exquisite, sugared
nowned for its tench, usually fried pastry-cake with different fillings, for
but also served pickled or in a deli- breakfast or afternoon tea in Ibiza.
cious casserole. In Mérida and Cáceres you have to
try the buñuelos, local doughnuts.
You should try Baeza-style cod, Other specialities are alajú (sweet,
which is traditionally served in Baez almond-based tart) in Cuenca, yemas
at Easter, floured and fried, accom- de Ávila (sweetened egg yolks), tarta
panied by a pepper sauce, tomato de Santiago (almond-based tart) from
and fresh peas. Or andrajos de Úbeda, Santiago de Compostela, gachas
casserole of cod, clams, prawns and dulces (aniseed-flavoured sweets) in
vegetables, thickened with cake flour. Úbeda and virolos (light, flaky pastry)
Hornazo or pastry turnovers are in Baeza.
served all over Spain but they are And you really shouldn't leave San
especially traditional in Salamanca. Cristóbal de la Laguna without trying
They are made with bread dough and the Canary Island bananas and the
filled with chorizo sausage, pork loin amazing variety of tropical fruits that
and sometimes with hard-boiled egg. are grown in the islands.

HORNAZO PASTRIES FROM SALAMANCA

40
 FESTIVITIES BY SEASON
IN THE WORLD
HERITAGE CITIES

aa MÉRIDA CLASSICAL THEATRE FESTIVAL

SUMMER
During the Mérida International ditional festivities. The streets are full
Classical Theatre Festival, which is held of people dressed up as devils and
in July and August, you can enjoy the dragons, testing your reflexes by throw-
splendid 1st century BC Roman theatre, ing firecrackers, which is what they
an incredible scenario for performanc- call the Correfoc. Or you can marvel at
es of Greco-Latin based works, but also the amazing ability of the castellers, hu-
open to the performing arts in general, man towers which can reach up to nine
including music and films. For the Stone levels.
& Music Festival which takes place in Summer is the best season for visit-
August and September, the Roman the- ing the coastal areas of the islands
atre welcomes top Spanish and interna- and learning about history in Ibiza and
tional artists. San Cristóbal de la Laguna. Starting on
If you visit Tarragona in the second 30 July Ibiza celebrates its Festes de
fortnight in September you can attend la Terra, a summer festival with con-
the Santa Tecla Festival which includes certs, children's activities and shows all
some of Catalonia's most symbolic tra- around the city.

41
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

In San Cristóbal de la Laguna music plays AUTUMN

a leading role with an International Jazz
Week and a Music Festival which take The cultural side of Andalusia is most
place in a number of venues in the his- prominent in September, October and
torical old town throughout the month November. Visit Úbeda during these
of June. months to enjoy the Autumn Theatre
Forum. This is a cycle consisting of per-
A good time to visit Santiago de formances of both classical and con-
Compostela is 25 July to celebrate the temporary works by the best Spanish
Festivity of Saint James the Apostle, theatre companies.
the patron saint of Galicia and Spain.
You'll see how the whole city becomes At the same time, in neighbouring
an enormous festival. Festivities include Baez, you can discover the secrets of
a number of fantastic music, dance and Flamenco singing and dance at the
theatre shows, and close with a great Flamenco Cultural Autumn Festival.
firework display. The city's Flamenco club organises liter-
ary gatherings, exhibitions and concerts
LLUseful links: around this typically Spanish art form.
www.festivaldemerida.es In October, Alcalá de Henares celebrates
stoneandmusicfestival.com Cervantes Week, a great opportunity
jazzlalaguna.com to take a closer look at the legacy left
to the city by Miguel de Cervantes, the
author of Don Quixote. The streets are
filled with literature, leisure and gastron-
bb CERVANTES WEEK
omy, including a Medieval Cervantes
Market where you'll find local products
and lovely craft work souvenirs.

WINTER
Carnival is especially colourful all over
Spain, but in cities like Santiago de
Compostela it is especially enchanting.
The capital city of Galicia shows its vo-
cation for masks, make-up and fancy
dress especially during the parade on
Carnival Tuesday, with the participa-
tion of floats and troupes of friends and
neighbours parading through the city.
A special feature of the Compostela
Carnival is the Entroidos dos Xenerais,
a tradition in which a number of people
dress up and ride through the streets
on horseback, accompanied by a veri-
table army of people with flags, choirs
and pageants.
42
 FESTIVALS AND FAIRS IN THE WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Photo: Cordoba Tourism (IMTUR)

aa FESTIVAL OF THE CÓRDOBA PATIOS

Each November the Medieval Market SPRING

of the Three Cultures is set up in the
historical town centre of Cáceres, If you visit Córdoba in May you'll
where you are invited to travel back see the extraordinary Popular Cross
in time and discover the extraordinary Competition. Large crosses are set up
blend of Moorish, Jewish and Christian in patios and squares and decorated
with flowers and Manila shawls. All to
traditions. Apart from visiting the stalls
the sound of sevillanas and Flamenco
selling craft work, you can enjoy a broad
dance shows in the evenings.
programme of street entertainment, in-
cluding falconry and a snake charmer May is also the time for the Festival of
as well as theatrical and musical perfor- the Cordoba Patios, declared Intangible
mances. Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO.
For two weeks, the people of the city
At the end of November, beginning of
proudly open the gates to their patios in
December the Úbeda and Baez Ancient
the historical old town and deck them
Music Festival takes place, which each
out specially for the occasion with pots
year commemorates a specific aspect of
full of geraniums, carnations and jas-
historical music from a number of per-
mines. They can be visited at practical-
spectives. Apart from concerts in some
ly any time of the day and you also get
of the most beautiful auditoriums and
the chance to taste delicious tapas from
Renaissance palaces in both cities, the
Cordoba and Montilla-Moriles wine.
programme includes top-level exhibi-
tions, presentations, courses and con- The Festival of San Jorge (the Spanish
ferences. name for Saint George) on 23 April is
celebrated in many parts of Spain, but
LLUseful links it has special significance in Cáceres. It
festivalubedaybaeza.com is a day for watching theatrical perfor-

43
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

mances of the battle between Moors Towards the end of spring you can at-
and Christians, seeing how they burn a tend the festivity of Corpus Christi
great paper and cardboard dragon and in Toledo. A solemn parade in a city
taking part in an entertaining search for adorned for the occasion with ancient
the golden hens, with two golden eggs standards and tapestries on the balco-
hidden in the city. nies of the houses and flower arrange-
In March and April, Cuenca gets ready ments in the streets.
to solemnly celebrate Easter Week. LLUseful links
There you can attend the procession www.corpustoledo.org
known as the Camino del Calvario ('the patios.cordoba.es
Road to Calvary') to the sound of Las
Turbas. This is what they call the incred-
ible din made by drums and trumpets
parading in front of the image of Jesus
Christ in the processions through the
steep streets of the historical old town
of Cuenca.

bb EASTER WEEK

44
NATURE IN
THE CULTURAL HERITAGE CITIES
aa LOS BARRUECOS NATURE RESERVE

Buildings and remains from ancient ing the Proserpina Reservoir you'll find
times are the very soul of our Cultural an irresistible blend of Roman archae-
Heritage Cities, but many of them have ological remains, local biodiversity and
wonderful green areas inside and out- Mediterranean vegetation. A little near-
side their walled enclosures. er to Cáceres, in a Special Protection
In Alcalá de Henares, O'Donnell Park is Area for Birds, you have the Llanos de
the nearest green lung to the historical Cáceres and Sierra de Fuentes and the
town centre. You'll love the spectacular extraordinary rock formations of Los
rose garden and the lake full of ducks. Barruecos.
From there you can go to the Pasillo Córdoba is one of the best examples
Verde del Camarmilla, a green walkway when talking of natural wealth. From
where the ecosystem surrounding the the Roman bridge you can look out
stream which runs around Alcalá has over the Sotos de Albolafia, the islets
been recovered. and banks of the Guadalquivir River
The parks in Mérida are mostly on the populated by an amazing variety of spe-
banks of the Guadiana River. If you're cies of trees. Wend your way through
looking for really large natural areas, the the maze of palm, orange and lemon
best of them will be found a few kilo- trees in the gardens of the Alcázar de
metres from the city. In the Cornalvo los Reyes Cristianos. It's a great idea to
Nature Reserve and the area surround- take a guided night tour during the sum-

45
WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

mer months. Near the Cruz Conde Park

you have the Córdoba Royal Botanical
Gardens and the so-called Ciudad de
los Niños, a park with endless attrac-
tions and swings for little children, ideal
if you're travelling with the family.
Salamanca, Ávila, Toledo and Segovia,
in the middle of mainland Spain, are all
surrounded by extensive natural areas.
In the Salamanca region, the Sierras
de Béjar y Francia mountains and the
Arribes del Duero Nature Reserve have
both been declared Biosphere Reserves
by the UNESCO in recognition for their
environmental qualities. In Salamanca
itself there are plenty of green areas.
Take a walk in the Huerto de Calixto y
Melibea and you'll get an incredible view
of the cathedral, or in the Los Jesuitas
Park in the heart of the city, and enjoy
the peace and calm amongst the trees.
In the province of Segovia, apart from
the green areas within the city like the
Dehesa Park and the beautiful Zuloaga
Gardens, you'll love the amazing nature
reserves like the Hoces del Duratón.
the Sierra de Guadarrama National
Park and the Sierra de Ayllón.
To see Toledo from a different perspec-
tive, you should take the Ecological
Path, which starts at the Puente de
Alcántara bridge and provides spec-
tacular views of the city and the Tagus
River. Further north, outside the histor-
ical town centre, you'll find the Three
Cultures Park, with spacious gardens.
The natural wealth of Spain's islands is
extraordinary. Ibiza not only has won-
derful, fine sandy beaches, it also fea-
tures dense forests of Mediterranean
pine. The great variety of flora and
fauna is especially evident in the Ses
Salines Nature Reserve. This is a pro-

46

__ SIERRA DE GUADARRAMA NATIONAL PARK

 NATURE IN THE CULTURAL HERITAGE CITIES

BOROSA RIVER

tected area that includes the salt pans all feature in their own right amongst
which are home to flamingos and ex- the most iconic and visited attractions
tensive fields of posidonia oceanica on in the city.
the seabed. In the Canary Islands, near
Both Cuenca, Úbeda and Baeza, the
San Cristóbal de La Laguna, you can vis-
smallest of Spain's World Heritage
it the Anaga Rural Park. Hike along the
paths amongst the lush forests of lau- Cities, can be proud of the natural ar-
risilva until you reach the lookouts from eas around them. Let your imagination
where you see the gigantic Teide. hold sway as you admire the Ciudad
Encantada, the incredible rock forma-
In Tarragona you have the Mediterranean tions in the Sierra de Cuenca Nature
sea and great natural spaces in the sur-
Reserve. A surprising geological phe-
rounding area. Just a few kilometres
nomenon which gives the natural sur-
from the historical town centre you
roundings an air of magic in an area
can cross the Roman aqueduct of Les
Ferreres also known as Puente del which also features the source of the
Diablo or Devil´s Bridge, surrounded by Cuervo River.
nature. You'll simply love the Sierras de Cazorla,
The countryside around Santiago de Segura y Las Villas Nature Reserve
Compostela is noted for the green for- and the valleys, rivers and forests very
ests surrounding the city. The presence near Úbeda and Baeza. Take a boat trip
of nature is highlighted by the historic on the Tranco Reservoir, enjoy a lit-
gardens of the Parque de la Alameda hiking alongside the Borosa River
tle ­
and the Santo Domingo de Bonaval and take a close look at the Chorro Gil
and Belvís Parks in the city centre. They ­waterfall.

47
WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

PARADOR HOTELS IN THE

WORLD HERITAGE CITIES
Spain has an extensive network of Parador Hotels which are ideal for rest, re-
laxation and enjoying memorable experiences. They are located in delightful
historical buildings with up-to-date facilities and blend perfectly with their
picturesque surroundings. The excellence of their cuisine and the variety of
services are a guarantee of top quality and comfort for the visitor.

ALCALÁ DE HENARES ÁVILA

Located in a 17th century col- The Piedras Albas Palace, the Parador
lege-convent, the Parador Hotel is Hotel in Ávila, backs onto one of the
ideal accommodation when staying best-preserved city walls in Europe
in the city of Cervantes. The hotel and is very near this medieval city's
is a blend of tradition with elegant, most iconic attractions. The rooms
minimalist décor. are spacious, ideal for relaxation and
decorated in a cosy, intimate style.
The dining room has lovely views of
the garden and the city walls through
a glass-covered patio.
bb ALCALÁ DE HENARES PARADOR HOTEL

48
 PARADOR HOTELS IN THE WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

CÁCERES
Spend the night in a Renaissance palace
in the heart of the historical city cen-
tre. The Parador Hotel is in a complex
of three, refurbished stately buildings
which have been interconnected re-
specting their original style. The archi-
tecture is truly beautiful and you'll real-
ly enjoy the delicious cuisine served in
the cosy garden restaurant. Sleep sur-
rounded by vaults and pointed arches
and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of
this extraordinarily beautiful building.

49

CÁCERES PARADOR HOTEL

WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

CÓRDOBA MÉRIDA
The city's Parador Hotel stands over The hotel is an old, 18th century con-
what used to be the ruins of the sum- vent, built over the remains of a temple
mer palace belonging to Abd al-Rah- dedicated to the Concord of Augustus.
man I, the first independent emir of Here you'll find a perfect combination
Córdoba. It is an elegant building with of tradition, comfort and good service.
magnificent views of the city and has a Within the beautiful interior cloister a
delightful garden. The interior consists Garden of Antiquities has been creat-
of bright, spacious rooms, decorated ed, an archaeological complex consist-
simply and in good taste. ing of Mudejar, Roman and Visigoth
elements.  

CUENCA
The hotel occupies what used to be SALAMANCA
a convent with an extraordinary loca- The Salamanca Parador Hotel stands
tion overlooking a bend in the Huécar on a hillock facing the monumental
River, with views of the magical Casas town centre. There are panoramic
Colgadas or Hanging Houses. There is views over the city from the lounges,
a delightful, glass-enclosed cloister and a swimming pool and most of the
the former chapel, now a cosy café. rooms are simply some of the best in
It also features a swimming pool and the city. After spending the day stroll-
there are incredible panoramic views ing around the streets and visiting mu-
of the city from the superior rooms. seums, there's nothing like just coming
back here and enjoying the sunset.

SANTIAGO DE
COMPOSTELA
It stands in the Plaza del Obradoiro
and is regarded as one of the oldest
hotels in the world. It started out as
the Royal Hospital in 1499 and was
used as lodgings for pilgrims on their
way to Santiago. In the interior a ho-
tel-museum awaits you with four de-
lightful cloisters, spectacular rooms
and a luxurious dining room.

aa CUENCA PARADOR HOTEL

50
 PARADOR HOTELS IN THE WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

aa TOLEDO PARADOR HOTEL

SEGOVIA umental architecture. You'll feel right

at home enjoying the cosy, friendly
The Parador Hotel has incomparable atmosphere of the splendid facilities.
views of the city of Segovia and the
surrounding mountains from the spa-
cious gardens and the balconies in the ÚBEDA
rooms. In winter you can take a dip in
This 16th century Renaissance palace
the heated indoor pool and in summer
is in the heart of the historical town
cool off in the fantastic outdoor pool.
centre. There is a beautiful interior
patio tucked away behind the façade.
TOLEDO Most of the rooms in this Parador
Hotel have spectacular panoramic
The City of the Three Cultures is views of the square in which it stands,
best enjoyed by strolling around the very near the city's main attractions.
cobbled streets. The location of the
Parador Hotel makes it ideal for re- LLFurther information and bookings,
laxing after a hard day's tourism and go to www.parador.es
for admiring the extraordinary mon-

51
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

HERITAGE CITIES,
ACCESSIBILITY
The top priority of Spain's World Heritage Cities is accessibility for those with any
kind of disability and with this in mind specific routes have been created which you'll
find on the app for mobile phones and tablets called Accessible Cities or on the
following website:
www.ciudadespatrimonio.org/accesibilidad
bb ÁVILA CATHEDRAL
Photo: World Heritage Cities

In most tourist offices you'll find In Alcalá de Henares the recommend-

­guidebooks for accessible tourist ed circular route, adapted for all kinds
­resources with information on hotels, of accessibility, departs from the tourist
restaurants, transport and monuments. office in the Plaza Cervantes. From their
You can also book guided tours, find it takes in all the main tourist attractions
parking spaces reserved for those with in the historical town centre in the fol-
reduced mobility and taxis with wheel- lowing order: Town Hall, Corral de
chair facilities. Comedias Open Air Theatre, Cervantes

52
 HERITAGE CITIES, ACCESSIBILITY

Birthplace Museum, Archaeological

Museum, Madrid Gateway, Plaza de Los
Santos Niños, and returns via the Calle
Mayor to the Plaza de Cervantes.
The tour in Ávila, specially recommend-
ed for those with impaired mobility and
hearing, departs from the Visitor Centre
and follows the city wall as far as the
Calle de San Segundo. From there it
continues through the Puerta del Peso
de la Harina gateway which leads di-
rectly to the square in which the cathe-
dral stands. On leaving the walled city
through the Puerta del Alcázar gateway,
you then visit the Plaza de Santa Teresa
Photo: World Heritage Cities

and the Mercado Grande or Great

Market. The route continues alongside
the city wall to Rastro Park and then to
the Puerta de la Santa gateway to ac-
cess the Convent of Santa Teresa.
Mérida also has an interesting tour to bb SALAMANCA CATHEDRAL
help those with reduced mobility dis-
cover the city's Roman past. It starts
in Mérida's Museo Abierto or Open near the famous Casa de las Conchas
Museum and continues with the am- or House of Shells and the end of the
phitheatre and the Roman Art Museum, tour in the Plaza del Corrillo. In addition
with stops at the Pórtico del Forum ar- to this route there is also a programme
cade and the Trajan Arch. The tour fin- called "Salamanca for all the senses"
ishes in the Plaza de Las Méridas del which includes special adapted pass-
Mundo, opposite the Roman bridge. es for dramatised tours of squares and
In Salamanca there is a tour adapted patios, personalised visits to the Cerro
to all kinds of accessibility. It departs de San Vicente Archaeological Park and
from the Municipal Tourist Office in the some of the performances in the Keys
Plaza Mayor, and takes you out through to the City programme.
the archway which leads to the Plaza The city of San Cristóbal de La Laguna is
del Corrillo. It continues along the Rúa flat and has a grid-plan layout, ideal for
Mayor pedestrian street as far as Calle those with reduced mobility. Also, the
Cardenal Pla y Deniel. On the left you historical town centre is pedestrian and
have the entrance to the cathedral vehicle access is severely restricted. You
and on the right the access points for could start your tour in the tourist office
the University of Salamanca. The route in the Casa de Alvarado de Bracamonte.
then takes you along the Calle Libreros From there you have easy access to the
to the Plaza de San Isidro which is very city's main attractions by taking the par-

53
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

Photo: Santiago de Compostela Tourism

aa ALAMEDA, SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA

allel streets of San Agustín, Obispo Rey and the Plazas de Praterías, Quintana
Redondo and Herradores where you'll and Abastos squares. At the start of the
find most of the churches and stately tour you can turn off into the Alameda
houses. Park and visit the beautiful botanical
In Santiago de Compostela a route has gardens.
also been created in which most of the In Segovia, the tour specially recom-
streets are pedestrian and quite flat, so mended for those with impaired mobil-
it is specially recommended for those ity and hearing departs from the Visitor
with reduced mobility. It takes in the Centre facing the Aqueduct, then along
main monuments in Santiago and de- the Calle Real leading to the Plaza Mayor.
parts from the Hotel Compostela. From It continues along the Calle Marqués del
there it is easy to reach the Plaza del Arco and the route ends at the incredi-
Obradoiro, where the cathedral stands, ble Alcázar de Segovia fortress.

54
 HERITAGE CITIES, ACCESSIBILITY

As you can see, Spain's World Heritage

Cities are extremely well prepared for
receiving visitors with different kinds of
impairment. In 2014 and 2017, Cáceres
and Úbeda were officially recognised as
Accessible Tourist Destinations. In spite
of the cobbled streets, both Toledo and
Tarragona have special routes.
bb TOLEDO

55
 WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

MINISTERIO
DE INDUSTRIA, COMERCIO TURESPAÑA
Y TURISMO

56

@spain @spain Spain.info /spain