Places of interest in Spain – Salamanca
This historic city of Salamanca is located to the west of Spain and is about 200 kms of Madrid. The city is influenced by many popular tribes like Celts, Romans, visigoths and Moors. The place is known for its old buildings, parks, museums and of course, for its natural beauty. Salamanca is now on the top of the tourist map of Spain. Some of the important places of visit in Salamanca are briefly explained here:
Augustinian monastery:
This beautiful monastery is popular amongst people of Salamanca as also among visitors. No visitor misses to visit the tomb of the count and countess de Monterrey. Some of the works of arts by the renowned artists of Spain are also on display. The other place of interest is the White Chapel of the Trues Cross. This chapel is believed to have been constructed in the year 1700. It is in typical Baroque style and has Renaissance portal. The chapel has undergone several changes in later years.
Palza mayor:
This is located at a place called as ‘Central Square’ of Salamanca. This square is believed to have been built in the year 1800 by Andre Garcia. This is the most beautiful place and it has been recognized as Europe’s Best Square. The square is surrounded by beautiful garden. It is a place worth visiting. According to history, this was the place where bullfights were being held. But, now concerts are held here regularly. It has seating arrangement for about 20000 people. This plaza is just behind the Central Market. This market is popular for selling traditional goods like handicrafts, clothing, works of arts and artifacts.
old Romanesque cathedral:
According to historians, this cathedral was built in the year 1200. In order to provide protection during the spring season double arcade has been made on the windows. From this arcade the tourist can see the famous mosque Hagia Sophia in Insanbul, Turkey. This cathedral is an outstanding example of unchallenged architectural experience of those who built this masterpiece cathedral.
Golden City:
The city of Salamanca is better known as Ciudad Dorada which means ‘the Golden City’. This name has been derived because of the influence of Renaissance civilization. In the Renaissance period, people had perfected the art of constructing buildings using sandstones. The people of Salamanca perfected this technology and started producing the sandstone in large scale. These sandstones are manufactured from a quarry at a place near Salamanca. Many buildings have been constructed in Spain using these sandstones.