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 Pre-Roman art of Celtic origin |
Ribera del Puente Salamanca 37008 Spain |
This powerful image of a wild boar or a bull belonging to the Celtic period of history in Spain is probably the oldest work of art preserved in the province. When the Romans arrived they respected it as an indigenous totem that brought good harvests and they left it in place. However, during the 12th century it was thrown into the river. There is no record of when it was recovered, but it was referred to in the famous picaresque novel El Lazarillo del Tormes in the 15th century. The statue was once again mutilated and thrown into the river and remained there until 1864 when it was hauled out and placed at the entrance to the Roman Bridge. It has now become one of the city's symbols of identity and appears on the coat-of-arms alongside the evergreen oak and the Roman Bridge. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Mudéjar church in lovely setting |
Puente Romano Salamanca 37008 Spain |
On the way out of the city, on the banks of the River Tormes and by the Roman Bridge, stands the only 12th century Mudéjar church in Salamanca. Built in a strategic place -where the Way of St. James meets the La Plata Roman Road-, it's in a lovely setting. The church has been completely restored after being virtually abandoned for some time. Inside the main features are three decorative apses. Masses: Su 11a. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Andrea Kirkby  |
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Church dedicated to Thomas Beckett |
Rosario, s/n Salamanca 37001 Spain |
In a little square, just a few meters from the Paseo de Canalejas, one of the roads leading to the city center, you will find this Romanesque marvel dedicated to Saint Thomas Beckett, Archbishop of Canterbury. It's the first church in Europe dedicated to this saint. Its structure is very simple - it's on one level, with three apses. Also worth a look are the tomb of Diego de Velasco, the reclining statue and the lady chapel dedicated to the Virgen de la Consolación, with the tomb of its founder at the end. Visits by appointment only. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The simplicity of Romanesque architecture |
Plaza de San Juan Bautista, 1 Salamanca 37002 Spain |
In a little square of the same name, in a district which is full of people going round the bars drinking, you will find this simple little church founded in 1150 by the Castilian repobladores (Christians who returned to the city after the moors were expelled). Outside you'll see the apse enhanced by three windows, and an original door with trumpet-shaped glass panels lighting up the inside. You mustn't miss the two 15th and 16th statues of Our Lady, and the enormous Romanesque crucifix, which is almost 2 meters high and very basic. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Marvel of Spanish baroque |
Compañía, 1-5 Salamanca 37002 Spain |
This fine example of Spanish baroque architecture has belonged to the Pontificia University since 1941. King Felipe III was responsible for ordering its construction in 1617 and the work took almost 50 years to complete. The two commanding towers and the impressive baroque dome (designed by Andrés García de Quiñones in the mid-18th century) confuse some visitors into thinking that this great Jesuit church is the Cathedral. The interior galleries, side chapels and fluted Tuscan-style pilasters are all outstanding examples of their kind. The sculpture of the suffering Christ, created in 1760 by Luis Salvador Carmona, is magnificent. Admission is free. Mass: M-F 1:45p, Sa 7:30p, Su & holidays 12:30p. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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15th-century military fortification |
Consuelo, 32 Salamanca 37001 Spain +34 923 21 0039 http://www.usal.es/auip |
In the Plaza de Colón, next to a park of the same name, you can appreciate the charm of this eight-sided tower, which is an example of late 15th-century military architecture. In those days, the tower was part of the Palacio de Sotomayor, of which there are no remains. Many of these fortifications were demolished at the time of the Catholic Monarchs, Fernando and Isabel, but perhaps this one was saved because of its grace and beauty. Its base is square and ends in an octagonal shape, with eight boxes with the coats of arms of Anaya and Sotomayor. The public is not allowed inside, as it's used as a hall of residence by the Asociación Universitaria Iberoamericana de Postgrado. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Don McCain |
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Quiet Renaissance courtyard |
Fonseca, 4 Salamanca 37007 Spain http://www.usal.es/residen |
This college, which has hardly changed since it was built, is located opposite the San Fransciso Park. It was founded by Archbishop Fonseca and built in 1525 by Diego de Siloe and Gil de Hontanon to house poor students, and later Irish students. It includes a Renaissance courtyard of harmonious proportions, with a very calm atmosphere, and magnificent medallions (decorative relief mouldings) representing famous humanist characters. The building is a Gothic Renaissance chapel with a magnificent Alonso Berruguete altarpiece. It's currently a residence for teachers, and several personalities have eaten there. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Lovely Mudéjar stuccoed ceiling |
Úrsulas, 7 Salamanca 37002 Spain |
In this quiet street in the old part of the city, where there are lots of monuments, you will find this convent belonging to the Madres Adoratrices (Adoring Mothers) order of nuns. The convent was restored several times during the 16th and 18th centuries, and is very different from the original building. The main chapel in the church is decorated with a magnificent 16th-century altarpiece and a fine Mudéjar stuccoed ceiling. In 1742 a side chapel was built and outside, behind the apse, a pretty baroque window was fitted. Admission: free Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: M. Carmen Gutiérrez |
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Gothic church with spectacular altar |
Ronda Sancti Spíritus, 24 Salamanca 37001 Spain |
Going up one of the streets leading to the Gran Vía, an area where lots of young people are out at night, you will see this lovely 16th century Gothic church. Before going inside, you must look at the pinnacles, similar to those of the Catedral Nueva (New Cathedral), which give it an Italian look, and the fine plateresque filigree work. Inside there's a fantastic main altar, with an image of St. James at the battle of Clavijo. In the choir, which is within a chapel, there's a Mudejar stuccoed ceiling, and on the altar a statue of 'Cristo de los Milagros' (Christ the Miracle-Worker), to whom the locals like to pray. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Castilian Gothic mansion |
Plaza de los Bandos, 7 Salamanca 37002 Spain |
In the Plaza de los Bandos, very close to the Plaza Mayor, stands a 15th century Gothic mansion which belonged to Doña María de Monroy, dubbed la Brava because she was the heroine of one of the most tragic events in local history. After her two sons were killed by a rival gang she went after the murderers, not stopping until she had placed their heads on her sons' graves. On the façade, as is customary for Castilian noblemen's houses, there is a gate with a semi-circular arch with large keystones and a balcony with metal railings, which dates from the 18th century, flanked by the shields of noblemen. The house is not open to the public, as it belongs to the Official College of Pharmacists. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Marvellous plateresque mansion |
Bordadores, 6 Salamanca 37002 Spain |
From the quiet little Plaza de las Ursulas, with the magnificent apse of the Anunciación Convent in the background, you will see the marvelous plateresque façade of Juan de Alava's 16th century mansion. In the 18th century there were lots of tales about the name of this enigmatic house, which has a history of violent deaths connected with jealousy and love affairs. This must have had something to do with the four skulls under the upper windows of the façade. To the right of the façade, you'll see the house where Miguel de Unamuno lived and died (Casa Museo de Unamuno). If you like taking photographs, do take one of these two houses, with the statue of Unamuno in front. You can't visit the house, as it is privately owned. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Famous philosopher's home and museum |
Libreros, 25 Salamanca 37008 Spain +34 923 29 4400 |
This house was built in 1758 and it was the residence of Salamanca University's rectors. Here Miguel de Unamuno, the famous writer and philosopher from the Basque Country, lived from 1900 until 1914. Unamuno worked first as a professor of Greek and later as university rector. He was one of the most remarkable of modern Spanish thinkers. In this museum, you can visit the office and library containing more than 6000 books and manuscripts belonging to him. There is a 20min guided tour available. Moreover, researchers who want to study Unamuno's works and life will find that there are facilities available for this endeavor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Manuel Sanfuentes |
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Noble Renaissance palace |
Plaza de Monterrey, 1 Salamanca 37002 Spain |
This is one of the finest existing examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture and you'll find it in the pretty little Plaza de Monterrey. It rivals the royal palaces in Seville in terms of beauty. It was built for the aristocratic Monterrey family in 1539 by the architect, Rodrigo Gil de Hontañón and now belongs to the Alba family. The exterior is eye-catching: the two towers bear coats-of-arms belonging to noble families like the Fonseca, Zúñiga and Maldonado. Even the chimneys are outstanding works of art and display family shields in the corners. It is not open to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Liz Fidoe |
 Photo: martapaulina |
 Photo: Harriet Fesq |
 Photo: Jose Carlos |
 Photo: Sandra Goromi |
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Example of Spanish Romanesque architecture |
Patio Chico, 4 Salamanca 37001 Spain |
Work on this cathedral began in 1150 and was completed in the early 13th century. It takes the form of a Latin cross and has a dome called the Torre del Gallo on account of the weathercock on the top. Take a look at the beautiful murals in San Martín's chapel that were signed by the painter, Antón Sánchez de Segovia in 1262. The impressive 12th century altarpiece is dominated by the statue of Salamanca's patron saint, La Virgen de la Vega. The altarpiece has 53 panels describing the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary, created by the Italian artist, Dello Delli in 1422. The Gothic tombs, the cloister, the chapels and the chapter house where the museum is located are all worth visiting. You have to go through the Catedral Nueva (New Cathedral) to reach the Catedral Vieja (Old Cathedral). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: laurenh |
 Photo: Dr J Bowman |
 Photo: Jillian Woodruff |
 Photo: maulja17 |
 Photo: John Hunter |
 Photo: Jeff Dybdahl |
 Photo: Jolyon Leonard |
 Photo: Janet L. Moore |
 Photo: Sharon Frost |
 Photo: Michael Connelly |
 Inspired the tragicomedy La Celestina |
Patio Chico, s/n Salamanca 37001 Spain |
You'll find this famous orchard in the old town, close to the Catedral Vieja (Old Cathedral) and the defensive walls. It's an oasis of lush vegetation and tranquility in the midst of the city and is probably the place that inspired Fernando de Rojas to write his novel La Celestina. All manner of plants and trees grow here: olive trees, cypress trees, acacias and almonds. Try and visit when they're in bloom. The two wells that the character "Melibea" fetched water from to water the sweet-smelling herbs are still here today, and so are the herbs - bay leaves, rosemary and mint. It's worth taking a walk through here to enjoy the garden and the views of the two cathedrals and the majestic Torre del Gallo tower. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Deborah |
 Photo: N. Franco |
 Photo: Victoria Rachitzky |
 Photo: kike & laura |
 Photo: Daniel García Bañuelos |
 Photo: María Luisa Ferrando |
 Photo: Lucía Alonso |
 Photo: Alessio Roveri |
 Photo: Silvia Oviedo |
 Photo: gaelx |
 Photo: Paola Ramirez-Jelvez |
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The most beautiful public space in Spain |
Salamanca, Salamanca 37001 Spain +34 923 21 8342 (Tourist Information) |
Built between 1729 and 1755, the square is the city's central attraction, a masterpiece of Spanish Baroque architecture. Behind the impressive arches, there are numerous bars and cafés with terraces in the summer to enjoy daily city life passing by. It's an irregular square surrounded by three floors of buildings with symmetrical balconies above 88 semi-circular arches supported by solid stone pillars. The Royal Pavilion and the town hall are located here. There are decorative moldings that depict famous people who are somehow related to the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Natalie Wagner |
 Photo: chandra darjatmoko |
 Photo: hershome |
 Photo: Ignacio Alles |
 Photo: Rui Lebreiro |
 Photo: Andrew Macpherson |
 Photo: Caitlynn Husz |
 Photo: H@rry |
 Photo: Francesco |
 Photo: Adam Blicharski |
 Photo: J. Gachez |
 Photo: jorge glez |
 Photo: la legione di resistenza |
 Photo: timandangela.org.uk |
 Photo: gr@ss@pi@nt@ |
 Photo: Katherine Medina |
 Photo: Silvia Hachegé |
 Photo: Emma Bedford |
 Photo: fiona cooper |
 Photo: Nicolò Panzera rider |
 Photo: Mário José Martins |
 Photo: Alfonso Moure Ortega |
 Photo: La maldición de Sísifo |
 Photo: eltercero.net |
 Photo: Raquel Glz de Artaza |
 Photo: stoffelinchen |
 Photo: Daniel J. Guzman |
 Photo: Marco J |
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Roman heritage |
Ribera del Puente Salamanca 37008 Spain |
This bridge over the Tormes River, built in Roman times, linked Mérida to Astorga. Of the 26 early arches only the first 15 are left. The rest disappeared as a result of floods and the passage of time. The major flood was the San Policarpo flood in 1626, which destroyed eleven arches and resulted in rebuilding. There are no signs of battlements left, but it is still a wonderful spot where you can look down on the city immortalized by the famous writer, philosopher and professor, Miguel de Unamuno. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Björn Láczay |
 Photo: Bob @ Bridge Ink |
 Photo: Ricardo Fidalgo |
 Photo: Cristóbal Donoso Macaya |
 Photo: joelvegan |
 Photo: Mike Hoinowski |
 Photo: Christina Sebastian |
 Photo: Linda Rooney |
 Photo: Mack C Adams |
 Photo: David Tsvirinko |
 Photo: Michael Leftwich |
 Photo: Chris Oram |
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Simple Romanesque church |
Plaza de San Cristóbal, s/n Salamanca 37001 Spain |
In the center of Plaza de San Cristóbal, very close to the Gran Vía, you'll find this simple Romanesque solid-looking church. It was founded in the 12th century, and was used as a school for generations until it was restored. Don't miss the decorative capitals of the transept with vegetable themes, and the magnificent 17th century sculpture of the Santo Entierro (Holy Burial). Off to one side of the church the graves are also worth a look. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Romanesque with baroque interior |
Plaza de los Sexmeros, s/n Salamanca 37001 Spain |
Very close to the Plaza Mayor and facing the small, quiet Plaza de los Sexmeros, you will find this lovely little Romanesque church, founded when the city was repopulated. The church has been renovated a number of times and the only original feature is the north door, with archivolts, and above them a mythical animal with a mutilated head. Inside, the decor is baroque and the main altar has salomonic columns and an alabaster statue of the Virgen de los Remedios, the old patron saint of the city, in the middle. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Cicular Romanesque building |
Plaza de San Marcos, s/n Salamanca 37002 Spain |
At the Zamora Gate, one of the many gates in the medieval wall, stands this lovely Romanesque church whose origin dates back to the replobladores of Salamanca, Don Ramón of Burgundy and Doña Urraca of Castile. Its main feature is its round structure. It has semicircular apses, and during restoration two primitive altars with Gothic friezes, decorating the main part of the church, were discovered. There's also a lovely 16th-century statue of Our Lady. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Zahorí de Siritinga |
 Photo: Olivia Nuñez Hackman |
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Great example of Romanesque arquitecture |
Plaza del Corrillo, 2 Salamanca 37002 Spain |
As you leave Plaza Mayor, you'll see this lovely example of Romanesque architecture. Founded in 1103, and dedicated to St. Martín of Tours, it was, with the Catedral Vieja (old cathedral), the most important parish church in the city, and its clock ruled the lives of the people of Salamanca. Inside, there are some 15th and 16th century tombs belonging to the Santisteban family and an artistic Gothic choir. It still has two of the three original doors: the Romanesque door, which leads into Plaza Mayor and is really beautiful, and the one leading into the Rúa, which is Renaissance. The homes which are joined onto its walls are unique, and look as if they're part of the church. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Marietta Ouro |
 Photo: CRIS-ALCOI |
 Photo: eMecHe |
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Stately Gothic building |
Plaza de la Constitución, s/n Salamanca 37002 Spain |
In the little central square, away from the more touristic area and opposite the Castilla and León Assembly building, stands this imperial-looking tower belonging to the old 15th-century palace which the Fermoselles had built. It was thought for some time that the palace had originally had four towers, but this incorrect assumption was based on the fact that the tower had once been owned by the Barón de las Cuatro Torres (Baron of the Four Towers). Its unique Italian-style Gothic tower is beautiful, with many windows, some of them with flamboyant Gothic-style decorations, which seem asymmetrical. The palace is now occupied by a religious order and is not opened to the public. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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World famous plateresque architecture |
Patio de Escuelas, 1 Salamanca 37008 Spain +34 923 29 4400 http://www.usal.es/ |
The plateresque façade of this place is famous all over the world. The filigree work contains symbolic imagery that gives rise to numerous legends. If you can identify the image of a frog, you're sure to have good luck, so the story goes. The university's treasures include fabulous tapestries in the central hall, staircases with plateresque reliefs, paintings by Juan de Flandes in the high gallery and Europe's first university library. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: fernan81 |
 Photo: Andrew Castellano |
 Photo: Katie Goldstein |
 Photo: Dax Paz (Sunyat) |
 Photo: Olga Diez |
 Photo: maggieven |
 Photo: Jen & Cam Morrison |
 Photo: William B. Shofner |
 Photo: pericog |
 Photo: erinineurope |
 Photo: Luis Pineda |
 Photo: Lindsay Dinges |
 Photo: Rachel Mennies |
 Photo: Carolina Mejia |
 Photo: jason chan |
 Photo: JKD2006 |
 Photo: K. R. Williams |
 Photo: Roman Rubinstein |
 Photo: chinojos |
 Photo: Gil |