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About Toledo
Toledo is home to many important cultural and historic landmarks and, as a result, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
The charming city of Toledo, in Central Spain, is the capital of the province of Toledo. It is a walled city located on a mountaintop above the plains of Castilla-La Mancha, surrounded on three sides by the Tajo River and lovely landscapes.
Having served as the royal court of King Charles I, Toledo is known as the “Imperial City,” and, due to the influences of Christianity, Judaism, and Islam which lived harmoniously there in the Middle Ages, it also became known as the “City of Three Cultures.”
Because of its strategic location, Toledo was used as a defensive position as far back as ancient Roman times. After the fall of the Roman Empire, Toledo served as the capital of the Visigoth Kingdom until, in 712, it came under Moorish rule which lasted until the end of the 11th century. During this period, it was the home of the Mozarab community of Arabic-speaking Christians. King Alfonso VI conquered the city in 1085, turning it into an important social and political center of Castile. It was during this time that the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim cultures co-existed and blended, and, in fact, this fusion of cultures plays a large role in the city’s allure.
As you tour Toledo’s Old Town, you’ll see remnants of its rich history. In fact, much has remained the same – the maze of narrow alleyways, interior courtyards, and beautiful patios – and you may feel as if you’re actually walking through history! There are monuments and architectural remains of the three cultures that lived there during medieval times, and magnificent, well-preserved Gothic and Renaissance buildings throughout the city.
The Alcázar, is an ancient Moorish fortress which was built on the site of an earlier Roman fort and then renovated by the Christian monarchy. It is the most famous building in Toledo and, from its imposing hilltop location, is visible even from a distance. It served in ensuing centuries as a palace for the Spain monarchs, a military camp, and a military academy, and today it is home to the National Library of Castilla La Mancha and the Army Museum.
The 13th century Toledo Cathedral is one of the most important Gothic buildings in Spain. Reflecting the city’s history, the cathedral combines many styles and is adorned with a soaring tower, magnificent stained glass windows, an impressive baroque altar, ornate columns, and a collection of masterpieces by Goya, El Greco, Raphael, and Rubens among other renowned artists.
The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes was built by the Catholic King Fernando and Queen Isabella in the 15th century. Originally planned also as their burial place, they chose the splendor of Granada instead after they conquered the city in 1492.
In the cobblestoned Jewish Quarter, La Juderia, there are remnants of the thriving medieval Jewish life that existed there until the Inquisition in 1492 when the Jews were expelled from Spain. One of the historic synagogues remaining, the Sinagoga del Transito, is among the most important examples of Sephardic architecture. Today is also houses the Museo Sefardi (the Sephardic Museum) which highlights the history and culture of Spain’s Jews.
The Santa Maria La Blanca is a 12th century Mudejar synagogue which had, at one time, housed at least 10 synagogues. The synagogue was converted to the Church of Santa Maria la Blanca in 1405 after the Christian re-conquest of Toledo. The pillars, arches, and columns, as well as the decorative wooden ceiling, are outstanding features, influenced by Moorish architecture.
You’ll also find the Casa and Museo El Greco in the Jewish Quarter. The former home of El Greco, who spent over half his life in Toledo, was renovated in 1906 and decorated with his furnishings and art. The Museo El Greco is located in an adjoining building, and there are many works of the artist displayed there, including some of his most famous. One of El Greco’s greatest masterpieces, the Burial of the Count of Orgaz, is displayed in the 12th Iglesia (Church) de Santo Tome. Originally a mosque, the building became a church and was renovated in the 14th century in Gothic style with a Mudejar tower.
The Museum of Santa Cruz is another highlight in Toledo located in the historic Old Town. The 16th century building itself is architecturally noteworthy, and its collections of art, archeology, and ethnographic are outstanding.
At the center of Toledo is a lively square called Plaza de Zocodover which is lined with shops, cafes, and elegant homes adorned with many arches.
Toledo is also known for its distinctive “Damasquinado” (Damascus art) which can be found in many shops in the city. The craft is made of blackened steel and is woven with gold, silver, and copper threads.
Last but not least, with all that culture, you’re sure to build up an appetite. Well, Toledo is also known for its delicious cuisine which blends both Castilian and Andalusian cooking. Some of the city’s popular dishes include handmade marzipan (sweet almond candies), partridge stew, and roast suckling pig. Be sure to sample the local wine, Manchego cheese, and the locally produced olive oil!
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Toledo
Toledo is home to many important cultural and historic landmarks and, as a result, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986.
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Looking for some interesting things to do in Toledo? Here are some recommended attractions and sights for you.
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art & culture
Attractions in Toledo
- Toledo Cathedral
- Old Town, Toledo
- Olive Groves, Toledo
- Synagogue of El Transito, Toledo
- Santa Cruz Museum, Toledo
- San Juan de los Reyes Monastery, Toledo
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