SALAMANCA’S UNFORGETTABLE VIBE

When you travel to Salamanca you´ll fell a fascinating interplay of the new and the old, the romantic past and the exciting future, the history and culture and the dynamic party scene. This is a very uinique vibe that has earned it the ironic title of “the youngest old city in Spain.” While it is regal, full of interesting architecture and breathtaking works of art, it still has that kind of fun youthfulness. No, this city isn’t a museum!

GRAND HISTORY

Salamanca has a long history, filled with dramatic turning points. It was taken over by different armies over several centuries, and was even used as a fortress by the Celts. There are even stories of huge book burnings and mysterious executions, not to mention the role it played in the Spanish Inquisition and the fight for freedom from Napoleon’s rule. Today Salamanca is a centre of learning and culture, and there are many libraries and museums that showcase some of Spain’s most valuable artifacts.

THE EXCITING NIGHT LIFE

After touring the city the whole day, you can look forward to an exciting night. After the sun sets, the city seems to wake up and put on its best clothes. This is partly due to the large number of students both from the city and around the world, who have taken over this laid-back and sleepy city and turned it into party central. There are many bars, restaurants, dance clubs, and shot bars (which are called chupiterias).

THE PRESTIGIOUS SCHOOLS

The University of Salamanca was established in 1218 by King Alfonso VI. Some of its most prestigious faculty and students include the writer Miguel de Cervantes, the adventurer Christopher Columbus, the esteemed Jesuit Ignatius Loyola, Hernán Cortés, and Miguel de Unamuno. At one point it was counted as one of the “four leading lights” of the world, ranked with Oxford, Paris, and Bologna.

BREATHTAKING ARCHITECTURE

The city is primarily known for its Plateresque and Churrigueresque architecture, though the diverse designs include Romanesque churches to colossal Baroque plazas. The buildings are also made of sandstone, unique for the fact that age has imbued the material with a soft and ethereal golden glow (one reason why it’s called “the golden city.”

THE COSMOPOLITAN PLAZA MAYOR

Plaza Mayor is one of the grandest city squares you’ll ever find in Spain. Like some fantastic living room, people all gather here to talk, to explore, and to appreciate the fine surroundings. The place was constructed by a member of the Churrigueras family, who was behind the Churrigueresque Baroque style. The design features included iron balconies arcaded walkways, iron balconies, and several terrace cafés.

CULTURAL CAPITAL

Salamanca has many museums with exhibits that tackle everything from antique cars to the fascinating pieces from the art nouveau period.

AMAZING CUISINE

Salamanca’s fields and valleys are very fertile, and the quality of the fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses are amazing. Even the simplest delicious are unforgettable because of the sheer texture, flavor and color of the ingredients. Salamanca also has a wide variety of native dishes, although its known for its hearty roasts and stews.

CENTRAL LOCATION

Salamanca is conveniently located near Madrid and Portugal, allowing visitors to visit other areas with minimal fuss and waste of time. The transportation system I excellent and it is easy to travel both around and outside the city. If you want to visit the Canary islands, choose Tenerife with its wonderful landscape and beaches.