Salamanca has many cathedrals but the most famous cathedral is actually two. The old cathedral was built in the 12th and 13th centuries and is Romanesque with some primitive Gothic. In comparison, the new cathedral is Gothic in architectural design and was built from the 16th century to 1733. You have to enter the new cathedral through the old cathedral, and the old cathedral is minuscule in size in comparison to the newer structure.

The old cathedral is best viewed from the Patio Chico, as it provides a lovely vantage point to appreciate the cathedral’s spires and architecture. Inside, the old cathedral has a magnificent alter piece from 1445 and it was created by Nicolas Florentino. This piece is a true highlight. The alter piece is featured on the High Alter and is made up of 53 painting depicting Christ’s life. The old cathedral cloisters showcase tombs and chapels and interesting carvings of gargoyes.

The new cathedral depicts Plateresque stone carvings and the entrance’s doorway is spectacular in it’s elaboration. The choir and the Cristo de las Batallas chapel are important to take notice of. The cathedral also has Churrigueresque architecture which was popularised during the 17th and 18th century, and was the work of three brothers Alberto, Jose, and Joaquin. The Churriguera brothers, born in Salamanca worked all through Spain’s colonies in the golden years, including Latin America. The architectural style is extremely elaborate Baroque and can be seen on alter pieces. Look out for the Torre del Gallo (Cock Tower) as this clearly stands out and is a notable Salamanca structure.

The Plaza Mayor is considered the loveliest plaza in Spain, it is also one of the biggest plazas and has Churrigueresque architecture. The Plaza Mayor is from 1733 and was built by Felipe V as a gift to the people for their support during the war of the Spanish Succession. The Plaza Mayor has many lovely buildings with Plateresque architecture. The town hall fronts the plaza, is from the 18th century, and has Baroque architecture.

The Plaza Mayor’s Royal Pavilion is also worth a visit and the Royal family used this building to watch the festivities held in the square. Once upon a time, bull fights were held in the plaza. Enjoy the plaza by resting at one of it’s cafes.

Other religious structures worthy of a visit are the Convento de San Esteban and the Convento de las Duenas. The 16th century, Convento de San Esteban has a beautiful Plateresque doorway and the alter piece was made by the Churriguera brothers. The Convento de las Dueñas has Plateresque architecture, is Gothic in style and has a cloister of Renaissance design.