Alcala de Henares
If you’re near Madrid or plan to go on a holiday there, try ALCALA DE HENARES, the oldest university town and also the home town of Miguel de Cervantes. It was the home of one of the best universities in the sixteenth century. But in the mid 18th century, the facilities were shifted to Madrid at which time the decline started.
It’s not a place where you would like to spend a lot of time, but it is good for sightseeing. You can visit any time since the trains leave every 15 to 30 minutes from 5.30am to 11.45pm. You can also get a bus from Madrid that runs every 15 minutes all day.
You might also wish to visit the Universidad Antigua, which is located in the De San Diego Plaza. In the early sixteenth century it was donated by Cardinal Cisneros. Behind the university you will find the Paraninfo restaurant where the ceiling has been well decorated. Capilla de San lldefonso also has a decorated ceiling, as well as the Cardinal Cisneros tomb made from Italian marble.
The Monasterio de San Bernardo was founded in the early sixteenth century and is a relic of the monasteries of that time, with cells and kitchens properly done up in a representative way.
The Cervantes Theatre is one of the oldest theatres in the whole of Europe. You can visit it; there are tours from 10am to 2pm and 5 to 7pm in summer and winter, but it is closed on Mondays in July and September.
You will find a vast variety of eating places in Alcala de Henares and you don’t need to worry about accommodation since many hotels and pensions are located on the De Cervantes Plaza. They are quite close to the train station, so transport is no big concern either.
Sercotel Isla de la Garena is the choice of many who visit. Here every guest can enjoy the free spa as well as the parking. If you love to surf, then you are in luck. Free Wi-Fi is available and every room has an attached balcony, not to mention a warm water swimming pool.
If you like to exercise, there is also a gym and an outdoor pool. You can take a walk in the gardens or a sun bath on the terrace. The room service is outstanding. Perhaps you can see why this city is a favorite of those who want to enjoy their holidays in style.