Travel Diary culture

Explore Salamanca like a local

Here’s Everything You Need to know to uncover the fascinating history of Salamanca, also called “The Golden City”

Uncover the fascinating history of Salamanca, also called “The Golden City”, where every corner tells a story of its past centuries. The city is rich in architectural works of art of the Plateresque style, a Spanish movement that emerged at the end of the 15th century (between the Gothic and the Renaissance periods). Salamanca was elected as the "European City of Culture" in 2002. Since then, more and more visitors are interested in its cultural legacy.

No matter whether you are captivated by the Gothic and Renaissance splendor of its monuments or by its unique way of life, Salamanca always provides every traveler with an unforgettable experience. Feel Salamanca’s dynamic cultural atmosphere like a local, and taste its high-quality cuisine and snacks in tapas bars and traditional restaurants.

At SpainTop, we offer not only exclusive walking guided tours around the historical center but also bike routes (with regular or electric bicycles) along the river promenade, where you will enjoy fantastic views of the cathedral and the roman bridge.

Tailor your Spanish experience with us right now and discover the following amazing places:

Plaza Mayor

The Plaza Mayor, declared as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988, is one of the most beautiful squares in Spain. It was opened to the public in the 18th century after the completion of the original project by Alberto Churriguera, one of the best Spanish architects in the Baroque period. You will be impressed with its medallions of Spanish kings and celebrities. The City Hall and San Martin Church are next to the square.

 

University of Salamanca

Salamanca is also a vibrant university city which welcomes a large number of national and international students every year. Its university, one of the oldest in Spain, was founded by King Alfonso IX of León in 1218 and has been a higher education reference in the country since then.

The “Escuelas Mayores” building features a magnificent 16th century Plateresque facade with iconographic allusions to Emperor Charles V. Although not easy to find, the profusely decorated facade contains a small statue of a frog sat atop a human skull, which has become a distinctive symbol of the city. A statue of Fray Luis de León, one of the best poets of the Spanish Golden Age, is located in front of this building.

 

The Cathedral

Admire the contrasting architectural styles of the old and new parts of the cathedral. Both buildings are attached to each other with their main towers standing out in the area.

The beautiful basilica inside the Old Cathedral is impressive. It was originally built in Romanesque and Gothic styles between the 12th and 14th centuries.

The New Cathedral, which combines Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architectural styles, was built between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries. Curiously, many tourists are a bit surprised by a small figure of an astronaut which has recently been added on the facade, next to the main entrance.

 

Casa de las Conchas

Visit the Casa de las Conchas and admire the 300 shells on its outer walls. This historic Gothic building, with some Renaissance and Mudejar elements, was completed in the 15th century.

 

Other areas of interest

Walking along the pedestrian streets in the old part of the city it is possible to admire views of the following historical landmarks:

  • The Roman Bridge (a masterpiece of the 1st century A.D.).
  • The Convent of San Esteban.
  • The Palace of Monterrey.
  • “La Clerecía-Scala Coeli” towers.
  • Las Dueñas Convent.
  • The Archbishop Fonseca College.

 

In conclusion, Salamanca has an interesting offer for passionate foodies as well as for history and art fans. Your Salamanca journey starts here. Customize your tours with the advice of our experts and embark on an adventure that will leave you with amazing memories!