The Cultural Attractions of Salamanca
The Alhambra
This is located at Calle Real. From April to October it is open all days of the week from 8.30 to 20.00. During the winter, which runs from November to March, it is open all days of thew eek from 8.30 to 18.00.
This important attraction was built in 1238 by the Nazaris. It was originally intended to be a combination of a fortress and residential area. That is why it was constructed on the strategic hill top location, at the Sierra Elvira in Granada. Today the Alhambra is found in a small and picturesque town full of gorgeous gardens and lavish decorations.
The Alhambra was expanded over several centuries as the ruling parties constructed more and more buildings next to the original fortress. For example the Generalife palace was built in the fourteenth century alongside the Alhambra. It was used as the home of the kings and was suitably bedecked in the most lavish furniture. Today the Moorish architecture, sculptures and gardens are truly a cultural treasure. You can buy the tickets ahead of time at the BSCH banks.
The Cathedral
The Cathedral is found at the Gran Vía 5. and is open from 10.30 to13.30 and 16.00 to 19.00 from Mondays to Saturdays, and from 16.00 to19.00 on Sundays.
The cathedral was built at the behest of the Catholic Kings, approximately around 1503. This was after they had defeated the Moors. The architect responsible for the construction was the great San Juan Evangelista who chose to combine elements from Gothic and Renaissance styles. The catholic kings were eventually laid to rest in 1521 at the Cathedral’s royal chapel.
Royal Chapel
This is found at Oficios 3 at the northern part of the Cathedral. During April to October it is open from 10.30 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 19.00 from Mondays to Sundays. During Sundays, however, it is open from 11.00 to 13.00 and 16.00 to 19.00. During the winter the opening hours are shorter. From Monday to Saturday you can visit it at 10.30 to 13.00 and 15.30 to 18.30. On Sundays, its doors are open from 11.00 to 13.00 and 15.30 to18.30.
The Chapel was built in the 1500s and holds the tombs of the Catholic Kings. Its walls also display the works of Van der Weyden and interesting cultural artficats such as the crown of Queen Isabel and the sword of Fernando.