Our next stop is Salamanca (E) known as Spain’s ‘golden‘ city due its beautiful ornate sandstone architecture. As we arrive, we admire the amazing vista of the old and new cathedrals overlooking the river and the city.
This ancient university town 2 hours north-west of Madrid was first conquered by the Carthaginians in the 3rd century B.C. It then became a Roman settlement before being ruled by the Moors until the 11th century.
As we wander around the city, we are amazed at the changing colour of the buildings. The Cathedral of Salamanca is one of the most impressive cathedrals we’ve seen particularly as you watch the changing light on the building. The old and new Cathedrals were constructed between the 16th and 18th centuries in both late Gothic and Baroque architecture styles. This style of architecture is called Plateresque, which was developed in Spain and as you can see, is characterized by ornate decorative facades covered with floral designs, chandeliers, festoons, fantastic creatures and all sorts.
Just around the corner, we reach the main plaza; its one of the most beautiful in Spain. As you walk into the plaza, it’s grandeur really takes your breath away. Known as the ‘living room’ of Salamanca, the arcaded Plaza Mayor was built by the wealthy Churrigueras family in 1755 and it is a stunning example of the aptly named Churrigueresque Baroque style. The town hall is the focal point of the Plaza, which is a meeting point day and night. Initially used as a bull fighting arena, it’s now home to boutique shops which are perfect if you’re browsing for souvenirs or in non Covid times, it would be a great place to just soak up the atmosphere from the numerous bars and restaurants. However, it’s pretty quiet at this time of year.
Another cool building is the Casa de las Conchas.
Built from 1493 to 1517, the unique facade blends late Gothic and Plateresque architecture style and has over 300 carved stone shells. These shells are meant to symbolize the order of Santiago and the pilgrims who walk the celebrated Camino de Santiago.
As we meander the various streets and alleyways, we discover some other interesting buildings and shops.
As we continue our journey, heading north east, we stop for a look at the town of Burgos (F). Known as a pilgrimage stop on the French Camino, its another historical town – but then which ones aren’t here in Portugal?!?. Its most recognisable landmark is the French Gothic cathedral of St Mary and its ornamental doorways flanked by bell towers. It is really an impressive site.
Of course, no visit would be complete without a look around, and we came across a couple of interesting ‘personas’.
We continue our journey east, and end our day at the small town of Brinas (G) in the Rioja region of Spain… and we all know what Rioja is famous for….🍷😉.
Tomorrow, Pays Basque… here we come!
what a wonderful adventure and blog. Kathy you could be a travel writer. You already are. Love to Sinclair and safe travels my friend
Thanks me ol friend. Hope to speak to you soon xx
Looks like you two are the only people in town most of the time, very quiet times over there. Keep on taking care & hopefully destination NZ isn’t too far away with few hurdles. Tony & Marcia
You are right about it being quiet! Fingers crossed we leave on the 21rst – third time lucky. We will let you know once we are safely in quarantine🙄
Hi Kathy and Sinclair, it is great to see how far you went and what you saw
already. As I went the camino frances twice I remember the cathedral of
Burgos so well and I also loved it. There is so much to see. Will you go
through Pamplona? I would also recommend it.
Enjoy the good wine of Rioja and eat a lot of tapas !!!!
All the very best, stay safe…
love
Bettina
Hi Tina…yes there is just so many beautiful things! Hope you are well, you must be getting ready to return to the AFM. We don’t have much longer now, and are preparing for our 2 weeks in quarantine in NZ. Lots of love to you ❤️