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Guide to Toledo

 

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Of all the Spanish cities that we have visited, Toledo is one of our favourites. Toledo is both the capital of the province of the same name and the capital of the region of Castilla La Mancha. It is located 70km south of Madrid and although its a small city, its an important political and cultural centre. The city has a wealth of history and a wide array of architectural treasures. The city is based on the banks of the Tagus River which you will cross as you enter the city by means of an impressive bridge. You will enter the city centre by means of one of the huge stone gateways.
 

 

It is impossible to walk the streets without coming across an important building and we couldn't possibly write about them all on this one page. When you arrive in the city, you will find car parking a problem. Don't even think about taking your car into the historic centre. You should make your way to the Cathedral first, right in the centre for this is where you will find the tourist office who will give you a handful of information and a street plan.

 

The Cathedral (left) is described as one of the most extraordinary in Spain. Construction was begun in 1226 but it took 300 years to build. The result is a mainly Gothic style building but showing a multitude of influences. Make sure that you walk all the way round and examine all four sides as each is very different. If you have time, take a tour of the museum inside where you will see a multitude of Spain's most precious paintings and the Cathedral treasure.

Opposite the Cathedral is the Town Hall (right), beneath which is the tourist office. The building is of Renaissance style with two towers with Baroque spires. Close by is the Convent of Santa Isabel de los Reyes, dating from 1477, the church is usually open all year round and contains two palaces.

Perched on the highest point of the city is the Alcazar (left), a fortress that was once the imperial residence and later a military museum and library. This is the location where all the forts have been built since Roman times. On the eastern side you will see remains of the original castle. A terrace lookout offers wonderful views over the valley and the river. The Servando Castle across the river is also clearly visible. (below)
Throughout the city you will stumble across many churches, most of which are well preserved and quite unique. You will also discover the El Greco House Museum, an elegant building dedicated to the life of the celebrated painter. You will also notice the city walls and their various gateways. Crossing the river you will find the Alcantara Bridge, of Roman construction but later restored by the Arabs and Christians. It has a Mudejar tower and a10th century Moorish tower.

Wherever you walk around the edge of the city, you will obtain panoramic views and every angle is different.

 

Just outside the city walls you can visit the remains of a Roman circus (below). In the garden area near the Hospital de Tavera you will see what was once one of the largest in the Roman Empire and closest to the Circus Maximus in Rome which signifies the importance of Toledo in ancient times.

 

 

 

Toledo has its own specialities on offer for the tourist and there is a massive craft movement in the city. The city is famous for the production of marzipan, often moulded into little sweets of various shapes and sizes. Pictured below is a selection in a small shop.

 

 

Summary - Toledo is an easy excursion from Madrid, by coach or train. You must explore the city by foot and most places of interest are within easy walking distance. Wear suitable footwear as most of the roads are cobbled and walking can be tedious. The city offers ample accommodation of all grades and there is a wide selection of bars and restaurants. The city can become very crowded in the summer and can be very cold in the winter. If you do take your car, be careful where you park. Street parking is controlled by meters and traffic wardens are keen.

 

 

 

 

Other local crafts include top quality lace ware and Toledo jewellery.


Pictured right is a selection of swords for which Toledo is famous. Shops on every corner have hundreds to choose from.

One of the most famous names of Toledo is El Greco whose works are everywhere. There is also a museum dedicated to the painter. The Casa Museo de El Greco is located in C/Samuel Levi, Tel NÂș 925224046.

 

Eating out
Toledo is not a popular place for vegetarians; it is indeed serious hunting territory, with venison, partridge and wild boar on most menus. Toledo does however have a massive selection of restaurants to choose from, ranging from basic snacks to full, expensive meals.

 

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