Enchanting Madrid
It can be quite daunting to be sure that you are really visiting Madrid, as it is not confined to just a city or district, but could be a conglomeration of areas which are historically and culturally mingled and interlinked.
There is the historical Madrid town which displays the Moorish influences through its quarters and churches at the Santa Barbara and Montserrat areas with the magnificent view of the La Casa de Campo gardens near the Orient Palace, Villahermosa Palace, El Prado Museum, and the Casón del Buen Retiro.
Next, there is Madrid which is full of culture offerings displayed through world-renowned museums such as the Museo del Prado together with the splendid 18th century palace of Royal Madrid along with its botanical gardens.
Then, there is the offering of modern Madrid, the bustling city is always booming with businesses and happenings, whether with the locals or visitors, in its transactions, restaurants, bars, and other modern attractions.
Attractions of Madrid
Whichever facet of Madrid you will be visiting, your attention would probably be cast on the city center where lies Puerta del Sol. This connects to the city’s major and interesting sites such as the Ciudad Antigua, Plaza Mayor, Encarnacion convent and Descalzas Reales convent.
There are many splendid architectural pieces in Madrid which are housed in the Prado Museum that established Madrid as a definite stop on European art tours, with modern homes and Spanish paintings by both American and European painters.
Location of Madrid
The city of Madrid was chosen to be the capital of Spain based on its strategic location. Felipe II aimed to unite and centralize the country from a strategic location of administration and that was how Madrid, in Iberia center, was appointed capital.
Madrid is placed on a plateau that is 650 meters high at 300 kilometers above sea level. Its weather is quite extreme with a freezing winter and a burning summer. Nevertheless, Madrid developed into a modern city with about 3 million people. The city is quite an interesting sight of old medieval and new modern buildings, with narrow quaint streets and unique shops splattered with 18th century Bourbon squares.
But it is the locals - the madrileños – who stand as the key attraction of the capital as they hang out at the cafes, terrazas, Sunday flea markets, or enjoying themselves in bars, discos, clubs or tascas.
The transport network in Madrid has been improved tremendously which includes extensions and new road constructions so as to relieve the city of its traffic congestion.
It is very easy to get around the city as all places of interests center around Sol, the city center which is the main sightseeing area for a tourist.
There is no worry about the accommodation selection here in Madrid as there is a wide selection of stays that fit every budget.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option luxury villa pollensa, rent villa javea and villas pals are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
There is the historical Madrid town which displays the Moorish influences through its quarters and churches at the Santa Barbara and Montserrat areas with the magnificent view of the La Casa de Campo gardens near the Orient Palace, Villahermosa Palace, El Prado Museum, and the Casón del Buen Retiro.
Next, there is Madrid which is full of culture offerings displayed through world-renowned museums such as the Museo del Prado together with the splendid 18th century palace of Royal Madrid along with its botanical gardens.
Then, there is the offering of modern Madrid, the bustling city is always booming with businesses and happenings, whether with the locals or visitors, in its transactions, restaurants, bars, and other modern attractions.
Attractions of Madrid
Whichever facet of Madrid you will be visiting, your attention would probably be cast on the city center where lies Puerta del Sol. This connects to the city’s major and interesting sites such as the Ciudad Antigua, Plaza Mayor, Encarnacion convent and Descalzas Reales convent.
There are many splendid architectural pieces in Madrid which are housed in the Prado Museum that established Madrid as a definite stop on European art tours, with modern homes and Spanish paintings by both American and European painters.
Location of Madrid
The city of Madrid was chosen to be the capital of Spain based on its strategic location. Felipe II aimed to unite and centralize the country from a strategic location of administration and that was how Madrid, in Iberia center, was appointed capital.
Madrid is placed on a plateau that is 650 meters high at 300 kilometers above sea level. Its weather is quite extreme with a freezing winter and a burning summer. Nevertheless, Madrid developed into a modern city with about 3 million people. The city is quite an interesting sight of old medieval and new modern buildings, with narrow quaint streets and unique shops splattered with 18th century Bourbon squares.
But it is the locals - the madrileños – who stand as the key attraction of the capital as they hang out at the cafes, terrazas, Sunday flea markets, or enjoying themselves in bars, discos, clubs or tascas.
The transport network in Madrid has been improved tremendously which includes extensions and new road constructions so as to relieve the city of its traffic congestion.
It is very easy to get around the city as all places of interests center around Sol, the city center which is the main sightseeing area for a tourist.
There is no worry about the accommodation selection here in Madrid as there is a wide selection of stays that fit every budget.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option luxury villa pollensa, rent villa javea and villas pals are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Serene Coastal Resort of Las Galletas
LAS GALLETAS may be just a coastal town that is not very big with a splatter of bars, shops, and restaurants on its main street which allows pedestrians only; but the tourism industry has impacted it like other Spanish coastal resorts.
Las Galletas’ Development
There are many expatriate businesses happening around this region through bars and restaurant businesses catering to a complex-oriented style holiday which have spurred the tourism industry here since 1960s.
Though this place was named COSTA DEL SILENCIO, or ‘Coast of Silence’, this misnomer hears the constant sounds of cement mixers and pneumatic drills on developing buildings, as well as the flying buzzes of airplanes at its international airport since 1978. However, these happenings occur mainly on weekdays at the east side of the town.
There is still a quiet and reserved area which displays the natural rocky landscape with impressive cacti near Montaña Amarilla that gives some respite. Similarly, one can enjoy the nature reserve of Rasca at the west side of the town.
Overview Highlights
This coastal town of Las Galletas still draws many tourists to its huge resort area, the Costa del Silencio which is next to it. There is an adjoining harbor which encourages a stroll while the inland holds the major shopping district, Calle Central that has numerous narrow streets catering to pedestrians only. Further away is the avenue of La Rambla with trees lined along its side, although not frequented much by pedestrians. There are some restaurants here that overlook a slim promenade as well as a narrow stretch of pebbled beach with waves crashing in on the rocks along the shoreline that challenges both body-boarders and local surfers.
Along the beach, you will find big concrete walls in the sea which was set up to protect the local fishing boats in the small harbor. This place attracts a lot of divers and sunbathers.
The point of focus at the town is the major road in this resort town. There are 3 commercial centers close to each other that offer malls, shops, supermarkets and travel services as well as bars and restaurants.
Night Life
Though it may not offer a feisty nightlife as with other Spanish resorts, there are still some bars which serve drinks until the early morning hours, as the locals congregate to watch TV sports while enjoying their tapas out in the cool of the night. There are many themed pubs at the commercial centers for your choosing, such as ‘Peanut Disco Bar’ or ‘Disco Lord’. At the eastern side stands the Coralmar Square which is mainly a British bar that provides some live cabaret entertainment to its few patrons.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in pollensa, villas javea and villa pals are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Las Galletas’ Development
There are many expatriate businesses happening around this region through bars and restaurant businesses catering to a complex-oriented style holiday which have spurred the tourism industry here since 1960s.
Though this place was named COSTA DEL SILENCIO, or ‘Coast of Silence’, this misnomer hears the constant sounds of cement mixers and pneumatic drills on developing buildings, as well as the flying buzzes of airplanes at its international airport since 1978. However, these happenings occur mainly on weekdays at the east side of the town.
There is still a quiet and reserved area which displays the natural rocky landscape with impressive cacti near Montaña Amarilla that gives some respite. Similarly, one can enjoy the nature reserve of Rasca at the west side of the town.
Overview Highlights
This coastal town of Las Galletas still draws many tourists to its huge resort area, the Costa del Silencio which is next to it. There is an adjoining harbor which encourages a stroll while the inland holds the major shopping district, Calle Central that has numerous narrow streets catering to pedestrians only. Further away is the avenue of La Rambla with trees lined along its side, although not frequented much by pedestrians. There are some restaurants here that overlook a slim promenade as well as a narrow stretch of pebbled beach with waves crashing in on the rocks along the shoreline that challenges both body-boarders and local surfers.
Along the beach, you will find big concrete walls in the sea which was set up to protect the local fishing boats in the small harbor. This place attracts a lot of divers and sunbathers.
The point of focus at the town is the major road in this resort town. There are 3 commercial centers close to each other that offer malls, shops, supermarkets and travel services as well as bars and restaurants.
Night Life
Though it may not offer a feisty nightlife as with other Spanish resorts, there are still some bars which serve drinks until the early morning hours, as the locals congregate to watch TV sports while enjoying their tapas out in the cool of the night. There are many themed pubs at the commercial centers for your choosing, such as ‘Peanut Disco Bar’ or ‘Disco Lord’. At the eastern side stands the Coralmar Square which is mainly a British bar that provides some live cabaret entertainment to its few patrons.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in pollensa, villas javea and villa pals are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Nature Trails Of Lanjaron
LANJARÓN has enjoyed great tourism and nods of approval from the outside world more than any other place in Alpujarras because of its curative powers, presumably from its spa waters, which are being sold in all of Spain in bottles. Lanjaron’s famous spa baths are usually open from March to December, with the town flocked by the old and the infirmed.
Impressive Strolls
The little town has many modern buildings beautifully decorated, lining the main road and its main hotel, the Avenida Alpujarra. The Alpujarras which was some Moorish castle located at Lanjarón's foothills, marks as a gateway to this medieval town, although it is in a dilapidated condition that is not too distinct to the passing eye. However, a slow stroll of about 10 minutes will unveil its dramatic location by going downhill directly to the terraces and lush flat lands below.
It is an impressive stroll around Lanjaron’s mountains and countryside that might take a day, but is well worth the time spent, as you enjoy the natural beauty and sights all around. As you walk through the town’s alleyways, you might notice a steep track that leads you to the spacious reserved national park called Reserva Nacional de la Sierra Nevada.
For those who love strolls and trekking, Lanjaron holds many opportunities for exercising your love of nature. An easy walk around Lanjaron includes crossing the river bridge on the eastside of town, and uphill on a cobbled path which goes parallel with the river.
There are refreshing sights of small farms, nature views and landscapes before crossing a stone bridge to get back to Lanjarón. This trek takes at least 6 hours to complete.
Refreshing Baths & Massages
This little town also provides relaxation of various kinds, especially after a trek or stroll. There are simple soaks for just 9 Euros, with massages as add-ons, plus mud baths with all types of exotic names.
Places to Stay
There are plenty of good hotels and places to stay in this town, ranging from the up market and grand Hotel España with a pool, to the delightful apartments down the hill. There are studio apartments for rent that come with a kitchenette, as well as beautiful views from the balcony overlooking the castle at the town’s foothill. At the east side of town are some budget rooms that also provide excellent meals or a little walk away, like 1 kilometer. There are quiet affordable en-suite rooms that come with beautiful views of nature and the surrounding landscape.
There are mountain bikes for hire or horse-riding facilities to enjoy a trek around the mountains, as well as rock-climbing activities for the more adventurous.
Gastronomy
Lanjaron’s plentiful restaurants are usually found at the hotels or other places to stay, as with the tapas bars with prices ranging from decent to up market, depending on the menu. There are lots of seafood, meat or even vegetarian dishes to suit your palate.
At night, it is not all quiet as the town’s latest discotheque cum bar belts out its music, competing with the Noche Azul nightclub just at the main square corner.
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Impressive Strolls
The little town has many modern buildings beautifully decorated, lining the main road and its main hotel, the Avenida Alpujarra. The Alpujarras which was some Moorish castle located at Lanjarón's foothills, marks as a gateway to this medieval town, although it is in a dilapidated condition that is not too distinct to the passing eye. However, a slow stroll of about 10 minutes will unveil its dramatic location by going downhill directly to the terraces and lush flat lands below.
It is an impressive stroll around Lanjaron’s mountains and countryside that might take a day, but is well worth the time spent, as you enjoy the natural beauty and sights all around. As you walk through the town’s alleyways, you might notice a steep track that leads you to the spacious reserved national park called Reserva Nacional de la Sierra Nevada.
For those who love strolls and trekking, Lanjaron holds many opportunities for exercising your love of nature. An easy walk around Lanjaron includes crossing the river bridge on the eastside of town, and uphill on a cobbled path which goes parallel with the river.
There are refreshing sights of small farms, nature views and landscapes before crossing a stone bridge to get back to Lanjarón. This trek takes at least 6 hours to complete.
Refreshing Baths & Massages
This little town also provides relaxation of various kinds, especially after a trek or stroll. There are simple soaks for just 9 Euros, with massages as add-ons, plus mud baths with all types of exotic names.
Places to Stay
There are plenty of good hotels and places to stay in this town, ranging from the up market and grand Hotel España with a pool, to the delightful apartments down the hill. There are studio apartments for rent that come with a kitchenette, as well as beautiful views from the balcony overlooking the castle at the town’s foothill. At the east side of town are some budget rooms that also provide excellent meals or a little walk away, like 1 kilometer. There are quiet affordable en-suite rooms that come with beautiful views of nature and the surrounding landscape.
There are mountain bikes for hire or horse-riding facilities to enjoy a trek around the mountains, as well as rock-climbing activities for the more adventurous.
Gastronomy
Lanjaron’s plentiful restaurants are usually found at the hotels or other places to stay, as with the tapas bars with prices ranging from decent to up market, depending on the menu. There are lots of seafood, meat or even vegetarian dishes to suit your palate.
At night, it is not all quiet as the town’s latest discotheque cum bar belts out its music, competing with the Noche Azul nightclub just at the main square corner.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas majorca pollensa, villa javea and villas calella are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Discovering Jimena And Its Surroundings
JIMENA DE LA FRONTERA is more like an open hill town which lies 20 kilometers north of another town, Castellar de la Frontera. It is quite a big town with a majestic Moorish castle that boasts of a triple gateway for its entrance.
Around Jimena
Outside of Jimena town, there lies Gaucin, which is about 23 kilometers away that you can reach by the highway or on foot which is a 16 kilometer climb. The path to Gaucin runs through a string of beautiful cork oak woods and olive groves before reaching the quaint mountain village, which commands majestic views to as far away as Gibraltar as well as the coast of Morocco on a clear day. It is a neat little place for a stop-over as there are plenty of boarding and food choices to satiate your appetite.
The little town is even equipped with a small gas station; there is the Nacional, a quaint little restaurant that serves simple foods, which was established 125 years ago with plenty of history.
Journey to Jimena
There are several ways to reach Jimena; by bus or by train. The latter will require a walk of 13 kilometers before reaching the village, although it is more of an uphill climb. However, there is a place to rest near the train station before taking the hike which serves food and drinks.
Bars are available for one’s refreshing after reaching this region. But if you want to take a rain-check on the hike, there is always the taxi ride for your convenience. The hike is an adventure in itself as it passes through the nature reserve of Cortés.
The train journey from Ronda to Gaucín is also another lovely way to view the countryside lined with splatters of charming small villages. You can stop off at a particular station, Benaoján-Montejaque, to trek an hour before reaching the very ancient Cueva de la Pileta.
Food, Stay and Bars
There is no difficulty in getting a good place to stay around Jimena as there are everything from budget-friendly choices to up-market hotels complete with restaurants and swimming pools located on their rooftops. Bars are also in abundance with small restaurants called ‘fonda’ which locals recommend. There is a hostel right at the train station which may be a bit out of the way from the town. The Restaurante-Bar Cuenca is one of the best restaurants that serve delicious tapas and hearty meals at a charming terrace patio in the backyard.
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Around Jimena
Outside of Jimena town, there lies Gaucin, which is about 23 kilometers away that you can reach by the highway or on foot which is a 16 kilometer climb. The path to Gaucin runs through a string of beautiful cork oak woods and olive groves before reaching the quaint mountain village, which commands majestic views to as far away as Gibraltar as well as the coast of Morocco on a clear day. It is a neat little place for a stop-over as there are plenty of boarding and food choices to satiate your appetite.
The little town is even equipped with a small gas station; there is the Nacional, a quaint little restaurant that serves simple foods, which was established 125 years ago with plenty of history.
Journey to Jimena
There are several ways to reach Jimena; by bus or by train. The latter will require a walk of 13 kilometers before reaching the village, although it is more of an uphill climb. However, there is a place to rest near the train station before taking the hike which serves food and drinks.
Bars are available for one’s refreshing after reaching this region. But if you want to take a rain-check on the hike, there is always the taxi ride for your convenience. The hike is an adventure in itself as it passes through the nature reserve of Cortés.
The train journey from Ronda to Gaucín is also another lovely way to view the countryside lined with splatters of charming small villages. You can stop off at a particular station, Benaoján-Montejaque, to trek an hour before reaching the very ancient Cueva de la Pileta.
Food, Stay and Bars
There is no difficulty in getting a good place to stay around Jimena as there are everything from budget-friendly choices to up-market hotels complete with restaurants and swimming pools located on their rooftops. Bars are also in abundance with small restaurants called ‘fonda’ which locals recommend. There is a hostel right at the train station which may be a bit out of the way from the town. The Restaurante-Bar Cuenca is one of the best restaurants that serve delicious tapas and hearty meals at a charming terrace patio in the backyard.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas puerto pollensa, villas in ibiza and villa calella are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Quaint Little Town of Jerez de la Frontera
JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA was also known previously as Xerez, which was a Moorish name. This elegant town is home to Spain’s famous brandy known as sherry. It is a prosperous town surrounded by plenty of wine bodegas and other sights.
It is a peaceful and slow-paced life enjoyed by the locals except for the two annual festivals; namely the May Horse Fair, and the vintage celebration near the September month end.
Jerez Fame
Jerez is famous for its distinguished ancient flamenco tradition, and sherry tours on brandy processing with unlimited free samples. There are many sherry manufacturers around this region, although many producer firms are British Catholic refugees’ start-ups from when they were exiled here. This clan formed a distinct class of their own with tweed-wearing styles and an aristocracy through polo play, which is most conspicuous at the annual Horse Fair.
Attractions of The Town
The main attraction in town is the impressing and looming cathedral of Gothic-Renaissance era, the Catedral de San Salvador, which is open daily. Other attractions include the impressive Moorish Alcazar that was built in the 11th century and the archeological museum which exhibits many unique and historical artifacts such as a 7th century Greek military helmet, a sarcophagus that is supposedly of Visi Gothic origin, as well as the antique bottle vase of Caliphal.
Jerez holds a high enthusiasm for horses that is very evident from the town’s famous equestrian school, the Royal Andalucian School. There are performances with music as well as rehearsals and stable visits to enlighten the visitor.
Cuisine
As with any Spanish town, there are plenty of tapas bars and eateries where prices are decent. There are many traditional Mediterranean cuisines from various restaurants in town.
Accommodations
There are many hotels to choose from, according to your budget or comfort expectation; from luxurious to modest establishments. Some are equipped with outdoor swimming pools and sun loungers for the visitor to laze around in the Spanish sunshine. Others have spa facilities that are distinct with swan neck shaped springs and ice cabins that come with an indoor pool.
Yet again, there are top-quality hotels which provide modern amenities as well as business transaction facilities which are located in the commercial district.
There is a hotel which has been splendidly converted from a noble house in the 19th century, located in the charming San Miguel area. In this previous palace hotel, there are beautiful rooms and elegant dining rooms that are worth a look.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa pollensa, villas ibiza and rent villas spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
It is a peaceful and slow-paced life enjoyed by the locals except for the two annual festivals; namely the May Horse Fair, and the vintage celebration near the September month end.
Jerez Fame
Jerez is famous for its distinguished ancient flamenco tradition, and sherry tours on brandy processing with unlimited free samples. There are many sherry manufacturers around this region, although many producer firms are British Catholic refugees’ start-ups from when they were exiled here. This clan formed a distinct class of their own with tweed-wearing styles and an aristocracy through polo play, which is most conspicuous at the annual Horse Fair.
Attractions of The Town
The main attraction in town is the impressing and looming cathedral of Gothic-Renaissance era, the Catedral de San Salvador, which is open daily. Other attractions include the impressive Moorish Alcazar that was built in the 11th century and the archeological museum which exhibits many unique and historical artifacts such as a 7th century Greek military helmet, a sarcophagus that is supposedly of Visi Gothic origin, as well as the antique bottle vase of Caliphal.
Jerez holds a high enthusiasm for horses that is very evident from the town’s famous equestrian school, the Royal Andalucian School. There are performances with music as well as rehearsals and stable visits to enlighten the visitor.
Cuisine
As with any Spanish town, there are plenty of tapas bars and eateries where prices are decent. There are many traditional Mediterranean cuisines from various restaurants in town.
Accommodations
There are many hotels to choose from, according to your budget or comfort expectation; from luxurious to modest establishments. Some are equipped with outdoor swimming pools and sun loungers for the visitor to laze around in the Spanish sunshine. Others have spa facilities that are distinct with swan neck shaped springs and ice cabins that come with an indoor pool.
Yet again, there are top-quality hotels which provide modern amenities as well as business transaction facilities which are located in the commercial district.
There is a hotel which has been splendidly converted from a noble house in the 19th century, located in the charming San Miguel area. In this previous palace hotel, there are beautiful rooms and elegant dining rooms that are worth a look.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa pollensa, villas ibiza and rent villas spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Why Spain Should Be Visited
A Special Place in Europe
Spain is situated in Europe; to be more exact, it is situated in the Iberian Peninsula, together with Portugal. Spain is a very often-visited country. A few years ago, it occupied the second place spot on the list of the most visited countries in the whole world. Spain is a very beloved country for many reasons. One of these reasons is the weather. Some regions in Spain enjoy a temperate climate, and others are very happy to be bathed in a subtropical climate. It does not matter where in Spain you decide to go, it is sure that you will have fine weather that will allow you to enjoy your holiday. You won’t have any trouble concerning the weather.
Great Cities
Another reason why Spain is a country that enjoys such a big number of tourists is the beauty of its cities. Each city is different from the others, each city has something unique about it. Madrid, for example, the capital of this wonderful country, is famous and popular for the cultural impact that it always has on anybody that visits it. Palacio Real, Plaza Mayor, Descalzas Reales and the Prado Museum are some of the sightseeing places that any tourist dreams about. Barcelona attracts tourists thanks to the Cathedral, La Sagrada Familia, and for the museums that evoke the life of some very important artists. Pablo Picasso is one of them.
Wonderful Traditions
Some tourists choose to go to Spain because they have heard about the special traditions and the unique customs that represent Spain. This country is the mother of flamenco and passo doble, passionate styles of dance that make your blood rush through your veines. One other custom that characterizes Spain and the Spaniards is the bullfight. Bullfighting is a dangerous custom, but one that was implemented into the tradition of these people for centuries. Courage, tact, and a lot of strategy are the ingredients that make the matador win the fight with the bull.
Delicious Food
The cuisine in Spain is very tasty. A lot of ingredients stand on the list that the Spanish dishes use; seafood is one of them. Almonds, tomatoes, pork, apples, strawberries, cherries, nuts, and cheese are all very often used in the Spanish dishes. The delicious food differs from region to region, but it mainly uses many of these ingredients. I personally think that all these sound very attractive, and I recommend you to try it for yourself!
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Spain is situated in Europe; to be more exact, it is situated in the Iberian Peninsula, together with Portugal. Spain is a very often-visited country. A few years ago, it occupied the second place spot on the list of the most visited countries in the whole world. Spain is a very beloved country for many reasons. One of these reasons is the weather. Some regions in Spain enjoy a temperate climate, and others are very happy to be bathed in a subtropical climate. It does not matter where in Spain you decide to go, it is sure that you will have fine weather that will allow you to enjoy your holiday. You won’t have any trouble concerning the weather.
Great Cities
Another reason why Spain is a country that enjoys such a big number of tourists is the beauty of its cities. Each city is different from the others, each city has something unique about it. Madrid, for example, the capital of this wonderful country, is famous and popular for the cultural impact that it always has on anybody that visits it. Palacio Real, Plaza Mayor, Descalzas Reales and the Prado Museum are some of the sightseeing places that any tourist dreams about. Barcelona attracts tourists thanks to the Cathedral, La Sagrada Familia, and for the museums that evoke the life of some very important artists. Pablo Picasso is one of them.
Wonderful Traditions
Some tourists choose to go to Spain because they have heard about the special traditions and the unique customs that represent Spain. This country is the mother of flamenco and passo doble, passionate styles of dance that make your blood rush through your veines. One other custom that characterizes Spain and the Spaniards is the bullfight. Bullfighting is a dangerous custom, but one that was implemented into the tradition of these people for centuries. Courage, tact, and a lot of strategy are the ingredients that make the matador win the fight with the bull.
Delicious Food
The cuisine in Spain is very tasty. A lot of ingredients stand on the list that the Spanish dishes use; seafood is one of them. Almonds, tomatoes, pork, apples, strawberries, cherries, nuts, and cheese are all very often used in the Spanish dishes. The delicious food differs from region to region, but it mainly uses many of these ingredients. I personally think that all these sound very attractive, and I recommend you to try it for yourself!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option calpe villas to rent, villas rent moraira and villas costa blanca are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
The North East Of Spain
A Very Special Place
From the Basque fishers’ villages to the isolated communities of farmers, the spread orchards and the Pyrenees, the north east of Spain is one of the most diverse regions in Spain. You can go sky diving, hike, taste wines, visit monasteries or admire the contemporary art in Bilbao. The mountainous barrier that separates Spain from France is bordered by four autonomous regions: Euskadi, Navarra, Aragon and Catalonia. Traditionally, this region hasn’t been the most popular among tourists, but its cities are now starting to become more and more attractive for tourists from all around the world.
Euskadi and Navarra
These two autonomous regions have always been connected by a common language, euskera, which is still alive in some of the dialects spoken by the locals. The most interesting cities here are Euskadi, Bilbo (Bilbao), Donostia, and Iruna. Bilbao is very famous for the Guggenheim Museum. Since its opening, Bilbao has lived a cultural rebirth which brought the increase in the number of tourists. Bilbao is a very beautiful city; if you are in Bilbao, you musn’t miss the casco viejo (the old city, the Vasco Museum, the Plaza Nueva and the Arriaga Theatre. The Guggenheim Museum must definitely be among your stops. The building is absolutely spectacular; the tourists are impressed by the steel and titanium walls which are curved, creating a special and unique view.
Other Places to Visit
The north-east of Spain is a very beautiful holiday destination, because it is one of the parts of Spain that offers a little bit of everything. The old city of Gasteiz is also a place that is worth your interest. It is situated on very picturesque hills and almost every little part of the city is the perfect viewpoint for those who love spectacular landscapes. The historic nucleus of the city contains the El Portalon, a wood and brick building named Torre de los Anda, the Museo de Arqueologia and the extraordinary Museo Fournier.
These monuments will take you into a unique journey inside the culture and the history of this part of Spain. Also explore the Basque cities situated along the coast, but also travel inside the region if you want to get contact with one of the most beautiful rural areas in Spain. Choose this part of the country as your holiday destination, and you won’t regret your choice. It will be one of the most amazing experiences you’ve ever had.
A Very Special Place
From the Basque fishers’ villages to the isolated communities of farmers, the spread orchards and the Pyrenees, the north east of Spain is one of the most diverse regions in Spain. You can go sky diving, hike, taste wines, visit monasteries or admire the contemporary art in Bilbao. The mountainous barrier that separates Spain from France is bordered by four autonomous regions: Euskadi, Navarra, Aragon and Catalonia. Traditionally, this region hasn’t been the most popular among tourists, but its cities are now starting to become more and more attractive for tourists from all around the world.
Euskadi and Navarra
These two autonomous regions have always been connected by a common language, euskera, which is still alive in some of the dialects spoken by the locals. The most interesting cities here are Euskadi, Bilbo (Bilbao), Donostia, and Iruna. Bilbao is very famous for the Guggenheim Museum. Since its opening, Bilbao has lived a cultural rebirth which brought the increase in the number of tourists. Bilbao is a very beautiful city; if you are in Bilbao, you musn’t miss the casco viejo (the old city, the Vasco Museum, the Plaza Nueva and the Arriaga Theatre. The Guggenheim Museum must definitely be among your stops. The building is absolutely spectacular; the tourists are impressed by the steel and titanium walls which are curved, creating a special and unique view.
Other Places to Visit
The north-east of Spain is a very beautiful holiday destination, because it is one of the parts of Spain that offers a little bit of everything. The old city of Gasteiz is also a place that is worth your interest. It is situated on very picturesque hills and almost every little part of the city is the perfect viewpoint for those who love spectacular landscapes. The historic nucleus of the city contains the El Portalon, a wood and brick building named Torre de los Anda, the Museo de Arqueologia and the extraordinary Museo Fournier.
These monuments will take you into a unique journey inside the culture and the history of this part of Spain. Also explore the Basque cities situated along the coast, but also travel inside the region if you want to get contact with one of the most beautiful rural areas in Spain. Choose this part of the country as your holiday destination, and you won’t regret your choice. It will be one of the most amazing experiences you’ve ever had.
A Very Special Place
From the Basque fishers’ villages to the isolated communities of farmers, the spread orchards and the Pyrenees, the north east of Spain is one of the most diverse regions in Spain. You can go sky diving, hike, taste wines, visit monasteries or admire the contemporary art in Bilbao. The mountainous barrier that separates Spain from France is bordered by four autonomous regions: Euskadi, Navarra, Aragon and Catalonia. Traditionally, this region hasn’t been the most popular among tourists, but its cities are now starting to become more and more attractive for tourists from all around the world.
Euskadi and Navarra
These two autonomous regions have always been connected by a common language, euskera, which is still alive in some of the dialects spoken by the locals. The most interesting cities here are Euskadi, Bilbo (Bilbao), Donostia, and Iruna. Bilbao is very famous for the Guggenheim Museum. Since its opening, Bilbao has lived a cultural rebirth which brought the increase in the number of tourists. Bilbao is a very beautiful city; if you are in Bilbao, you musn’t miss the casco viejo (the old city, the Vasco Museum, the Plaza Nueva and the Arriaga Theatre. The Guggenheim Museum must definitely be among your stops. The building is absolutely spectacular; the tourists are impressed by the steel and titanium walls which are curved, creating a special and unique view.
Other Places to Visit
The north-east of Spain is a very beautiful holiday destination, because it is one of the parts of Spain that offers a little bit of everything. The old city of Gasteiz is also a place that is worth your interest. It is situated on very picturesque hills and almost every little part of the city is the perfect viewpoint for those who love spectacular landscapes. The historic nucleus of the city contains the El Portalon, a wood and brick building named Torre de los Anda, the Museo de Arqueologia and the extraordinary Museo Fournier.
These monuments will take you into a unique journey inside the culture and the history of this part of Spain. Also explore the Basque cities situated along the coast, but also travel inside the region if you want to get contact with one of the most beautiful rural areas in Spain. Choose this part of the country as your holiday destination, and you won’t regret your choice. It will be one of the most amazing experiences you’ve ever had.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in calpe, villa in moraira and villa costa blanca are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
From the Basque fishers’ villages to the isolated communities of farmers, the spread orchards and the Pyrenees, the north east of Spain is one of the most diverse regions in Spain. You can go sky diving, hike, taste wines, visit monasteries or admire the contemporary art in Bilbao. The mountainous barrier that separates Spain from France is bordered by four autonomous regions: Euskadi, Navarra, Aragon and Catalonia. Traditionally, this region hasn’t been the most popular among tourists, but its cities are now starting to become more and more attractive for tourists from all around the world.
Euskadi and Navarra
These two autonomous regions have always been connected by a common language, euskera, which is still alive in some of the dialects spoken by the locals. The most interesting cities here are Euskadi, Bilbo (Bilbao), Donostia, and Iruna. Bilbao is very famous for the Guggenheim Museum. Since its opening, Bilbao has lived a cultural rebirth which brought the increase in the number of tourists. Bilbao is a very beautiful city; if you are in Bilbao, you musn’t miss the casco viejo (the old city, the Vasco Museum, the Plaza Nueva and the Arriaga Theatre. The Guggenheim Museum must definitely be among your stops. The building is absolutely spectacular; the tourists are impressed by the steel and titanium walls which are curved, creating a special and unique view.
Other Places to Visit
The north-east of Spain is a very beautiful holiday destination, because it is one of the parts of Spain that offers a little bit of everything. The old city of Gasteiz is also a place that is worth your interest. It is situated on very picturesque hills and almost every little part of the city is the perfect viewpoint for those who love spectacular landscapes. The historic nucleus of the city contains the El Portalon, a wood and brick building named Torre de los Anda, the Museo de Arqueologia and the extraordinary Museo Fournier.
These monuments will take you into a unique journey inside the culture and the history of this part of Spain. Also explore the Basque cities situated along the coast, but also travel inside the region if you want to get contact with one of the most beautiful rural areas in Spain. Choose this part of the country as your holiday destination, and you won’t regret your choice. It will be one of the most amazing experiences you’ve ever had.
A Very Special Place
From the Basque fishers’ villages to the isolated communities of farmers, the spread orchards and the Pyrenees, the north east of Spain is one of the most diverse regions in Spain. You can go sky diving, hike, taste wines, visit monasteries or admire the contemporary art in Bilbao. The mountainous barrier that separates Spain from France is bordered by four autonomous regions: Euskadi, Navarra, Aragon and Catalonia. Traditionally, this region hasn’t been the most popular among tourists, but its cities are now starting to become more and more attractive for tourists from all around the world.
Euskadi and Navarra
These two autonomous regions have always been connected by a common language, euskera, which is still alive in some of the dialects spoken by the locals. The most interesting cities here are Euskadi, Bilbo (Bilbao), Donostia, and Iruna. Bilbao is very famous for the Guggenheim Museum. Since its opening, Bilbao has lived a cultural rebirth which brought the increase in the number of tourists. Bilbao is a very beautiful city; if you are in Bilbao, you musn’t miss the casco viejo (the old city, the Vasco Museum, the Plaza Nueva and the Arriaga Theatre. The Guggenheim Museum must definitely be among your stops. The building is absolutely spectacular; the tourists are impressed by the steel and titanium walls which are curved, creating a special and unique view.
Other Places to Visit
The north-east of Spain is a very beautiful holiday destination, because it is one of the parts of Spain that offers a little bit of everything. The old city of Gasteiz is also a place that is worth your interest. It is situated on very picturesque hills and almost every little part of the city is the perfect viewpoint for those who love spectacular landscapes. The historic nucleus of the city contains the El Portalon, a wood and brick building named Torre de los Anda, the Museo de Arqueologia and the extraordinary Museo Fournier.
These monuments will take you into a unique journey inside the culture and the history of this part of Spain. Also explore the Basque cities situated along the coast, but also travel inside the region if you want to get contact with one of the most beautiful rural areas in Spain. Choose this part of the country as your holiday destination, and you won’t regret your choice. It will be one of the most amazing experiences you’ve ever had.
A Very Special Place
From the Basque fishers’ villages to the isolated communities of farmers, the spread orchards and the Pyrenees, the north east of Spain is one of the most diverse regions in Spain. You can go sky diving, hike, taste wines, visit monasteries or admire the contemporary art in Bilbao. The mountainous barrier that separates Spain from France is bordered by four autonomous regions: Euskadi, Navarra, Aragon and Catalonia. Traditionally, this region hasn’t been the most popular among tourists, but its cities are now starting to become more and more attractive for tourists from all around the world.
Euskadi and Navarra
These two autonomous regions have always been connected by a common language, euskera, which is still alive in some of the dialects spoken by the locals. The most interesting cities here are Euskadi, Bilbo (Bilbao), Donostia, and Iruna. Bilbao is very famous for the Guggenheim Museum. Since its opening, Bilbao has lived a cultural rebirth which brought the increase in the number of tourists. Bilbao is a very beautiful city; if you are in Bilbao, you musn’t miss the casco viejo (the old city, the Vasco Museum, the Plaza Nueva and the Arriaga Theatre. The Guggenheim Museum must definitely be among your stops. The building is absolutely spectacular; the tourists are impressed by the steel and titanium walls which are curved, creating a special and unique view.
Other Places to Visit
The north-east of Spain is a very beautiful holiday destination, because it is one of the parts of Spain that offers a little bit of everything. The old city of Gasteiz is also a place that is worth your interest. It is situated on very picturesque hills and almost every little part of the city is the perfect viewpoint for those who love spectacular landscapes. The historic nucleus of the city contains the El Portalon, a wood and brick building named Torre de los Anda, the Museo de Arqueologia and the extraordinary Museo Fournier.
These monuments will take you into a unique journey inside the culture and the history of this part of Spain. Also explore the Basque cities situated along the coast, but also travel inside the region if you want to get contact with one of the most beautiful rural areas in Spain. Choose this part of the country as your holiday destination, and you won’t regret your choice. It will be one of the most amazing experiences you’ve ever had.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in calpe, villa in moraira and villa costa blanca are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
The Altamira Cave: The Wonder Of Spain
The Fantastic European Country
Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. This European country has a little bit of everything: thousands of museums that host impressive art collections, unique architectural styles, amazing cities and breathtaking landscapes. Every person that has visited Spain says that they will definitely try to go back there, at least one more time. This means that Spain charms you with its special spirit, with its traditions and customs. Doesn’t it sound interesting and attracting? Here is what you can do while in Spain.
The Altamira Cave
The most difficult decision that you have to make after you decide that Spain should be your holiday destination is where to go. This is why we are here: to help you into taking the right decision. A very special place in Spain is the Altamira cave. The cave is famous for the paintings that date back to the Paleolithic, representing wild mammals, but also human hands. There are other caves in which the Paleolithic paintings can be admired, but the Altamira cave was the first cave where these paintings were discovered. The cave will charm you with the beauty of its chambers and winding passages, real paths into the history of the country; and why not, into the history of humanity too! Archeologists have discovered a few decades ago, many deposits of artifacts belonging to the Upper Solutrean and to the Mower Magdalean. These artifacts are very attractive for tourists, who come in huge numbers to visit the cave. Besides the fact that the cave is a little journey into the history of the country, tourists have more things to see in the region. Because the cave couldn’t be visited by a big number of tourists every day, a replica cave has been built, as well as a museum. Tourists that don’t have time to wait in the long lines can visit instead the replica.
The Cultural Impact of The Cave
The cave is not only a natural monument; it is of greater importance for Spain. Several painters have declared that some of their creations are inspired by the paintings on the walls of the cave. Even the great Picasso often used to quote: ” after Altamira, all is decadence”. The landscapes around the cave are fantastic; it will definitely impress you, and the region itself is really impressive. You should definitely go there!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas in calpe, villas in moraira and villa rental spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. This European country has a little bit of everything: thousands of museums that host impressive art collections, unique architectural styles, amazing cities and breathtaking landscapes. Every person that has visited Spain says that they will definitely try to go back there, at least one more time. This means that Spain charms you with its special spirit, with its traditions and customs. Doesn’t it sound interesting and attracting? Here is what you can do while in Spain.
The Altamira Cave
The most difficult decision that you have to make after you decide that Spain should be your holiday destination is where to go. This is why we are here: to help you into taking the right decision. A very special place in Spain is the Altamira cave. The cave is famous for the paintings that date back to the Paleolithic, representing wild mammals, but also human hands. There are other caves in which the Paleolithic paintings can be admired, but the Altamira cave was the first cave where these paintings were discovered. The cave will charm you with the beauty of its chambers and winding passages, real paths into the history of the country; and why not, into the history of humanity too! Archeologists have discovered a few decades ago, many deposits of artifacts belonging to the Upper Solutrean and to the Mower Magdalean. These artifacts are very attractive for tourists, who come in huge numbers to visit the cave. Besides the fact that the cave is a little journey into the history of the country, tourists have more things to see in the region. Because the cave couldn’t be visited by a big number of tourists every day, a replica cave has been built, as well as a museum. Tourists that don’t have time to wait in the long lines can visit instead the replica.
The Cultural Impact of The Cave
The cave is not only a natural monument; it is of greater importance for Spain. Several painters have declared that some of their creations are inspired by the paintings on the walls of the cave. Even the great Picasso often used to quote: ” after Altamira, all is decadence”. The landscapes around the cave are fantastic; it will definitely impress you, and the region itself is really impressive. You should definitely go there!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas in calpe, villas in moraira and villa rental spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Interesting History Offerings At Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is the Tenerife Islands’ largest shipping port for containers as well as for several oil refineries. It may not be aesthetic to many seeking natural beauty and wonders, but it has an urban vibrancy that is typical of the Canary Islands.
Santa Cruz has been a port since its first conquerors with Tenerife being the regular stopover for replenishing supplies before continuing the last leg to the final destination of the New World.
Spanish galleons stopped regularly at this town which offered protection due to its fortified port. Even today, Santa Cruz still functions as a popular port of convenience to the world’s tankers, Atlantic trawlers and navies. It is quite busy not only as the capital of the island but also as the Canary Islands’ financial and administrative center. It is now a bustling Spanish town that is modern, with many narrow streets, plazas, and parks intersecting some wide avenues which are just as bustling with activity, both commercial and shopping.
Town Attractions
The town center can be explored easily on foot where one can enjoy the splendid ancient churches and museums, but the better sights here are the plazas and parks which are pretty and pleasant for a relaxing stroll as these places are usually void of large tourist volumes.
Town History
The major history piece of Santa Cruz has to be Admiral Nelson who lost his own right arm when he bungled an unsuccessful attack on this town in 1797, causing many of his men to be killed.
Admiral Nelson acted arrogantly in wanting to capture Santa Cruz for the gold that was in the Spanish galleon, but bad weather fouled his attack, causing his defeat. The strong winds caused the town inhabitants to move out to La Laguna while Admiral Nelson continued with his intention of conquest. In the bad weather, his men mistook the town’s position and fired aimlessly from the loose and rocky Jurada slopes instead of the town proper.
The heavy firing from the shore’s cannons separated the British army coming on and this was where Nelson’s right arm was hit by grapeshot, wounding it severely. Although he had it amputated to save his own life, he still wanted to force the town to surrender; but it was his holed up soldiers, numbering 700, that wanted to surrender with full military honors which the town governor consented on compassionate grounds. Nelson reacted to this remarkable and honorable conduct with gifts of cheese and beer in which a barrel of wine was returned as a token of ceasefire and friendship. There were 150 British soldiers killed, while only 12 Spanish soldiers died.
Hence, Santa Cruz continued to prosper.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas calpe, villas moraira and rent villas in spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Santa Cruz has been a port since its first conquerors with Tenerife being the regular stopover for replenishing supplies before continuing the last leg to the final destination of the New World.
Spanish galleons stopped regularly at this town which offered protection due to its fortified port. Even today, Santa Cruz still functions as a popular port of convenience to the world’s tankers, Atlantic trawlers and navies. It is quite busy not only as the capital of the island but also as the Canary Islands’ financial and administrative center. It is now a bustling Spanish town that is modern, with many narrow streets, plazas, and parks intersecting some wide avenues which are just as bustling with activity, both commercial and shopping.
Town Attractions
The town center can be explored easily on foot where one can enjoy the splendid ancient churches and museums, but the better sights here are the plazas and parks which are pretty and pleasant for a relaxing stroll as these places are usually void of large tourist volumes.
Town History
The major history piece of Santa Cruz has to be Admiral Nelson who lost his own right arm when he bungled an unsuccessful attack on this town in 1797, causing many of his men to be killed.
Admiral Nelson acted arrogantly in wanting to capture Santa Cruz for the gold that was in the Spanish galleon, but bad weather fouled his attack, causing his defeat. The strong winds caused the town inhabitants to move out to La Laguna while Admiral Nelson continued with his intention of conquest. In the bad weather, his men mistook the town’s position and fired aimlessly from the loose and rocky Jurada slopes instead of the town proper.
The heavy firing from the shore’s cannons separated the British army coming on and this was where Nelson’s right arm was hit by grapeshot, wounding it severely. Although he had it amputated to save his own life, he still wanted to force the town to surrender; but it was his holed up soldiers, numbering 700, that wanted to surrender with full military honors which the town governor consented on compassionate grounds. Nelson reacted to this remarkable and honorable conduct with gifts of cheese and beer in which a barrel of wine was returned as a token of ceasefire and friendship. There were 150 British soldiers killed, while only 12 Spanish soldiers died.
Hence, Santa Cruz continued to prosper.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas calpe, villas moraira and rent villas in spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Good Offerings From Sanlucar De Barrameda
SANLÚCAR is famous for its sherry production as with Santa Maria. It is located at the Guadalquivir River mouth where it functions as the major depot for the dry and pale Manzanilla wine, which is very popular in the bars around here. There are lots of opportunities for free sampling and visits, which may need advanced bookings with the local bodegas who are also major producers.
Significances of Sanlucar
Besides wine, Sanlucar is also famous for adrenalin pumping horse races which occur on the beach at the end of August. Other than these, the town does not have much to offer except for its ancient quarter at the upper section of the town, known as Barrio Alto. This place is quite interesting and worthy of a visit, however quick it may be.
Sanlucar's port has a colorful standing with historical maritime happenings, such as this was the spot where Magellan started off to check out the world, Pizarro set forth to Peru on a conquest mission and further upriver about 4 kilometers away, Columbus set sail to America from Bonanza, a fishing harbor, which was his third voyage.
The Medina Sidonia palace which was built by Montpensier dukes who decorated it according to the precarious neo-Mudéjar style, makes for a good visit while at Sanlucar. Whereas 13th century Nuestro Señora church showcases its extricate Gothic-Mudéjar structures as can be seen in its portal with the remnants of Castillo de Santiago of Moorish designs still observable high up at the main town area of Barrio Alto.
Natural Beauty
Sanlúcar also offers nature’s best through its unique shell-filled beach of warm waters just about 2 kilometers from the town by walking. Opposite the shore, one can spy the nature park, the Coto Doñana, which has been designated as the area’s National Park with its plentiful marshes that halt the coastline.
Boat cruises are available to view these marshy expanses, although serious exploration is not permitted to safeguard nature’s beauty and inhabitants. The boat cruise takes about 4 hours while 2 guided walks are available for nature lovers. There is also an exhibition center which opens daily to display the natural species in the area, which serves as a very good educational focal point.
Accommodations
Places to stay are usually limited during the summer; hence, advanced booking is advisable to avoid disappointment. There is a tourist center located near the sea which can offer a town map that is full of tourist information.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa calpe, villa moraira and villas in spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Significances of Sanlucar
Besides wine, Sanlucar is also famous for adrenalin pumping horse races which occur on the beach at the end of August. Other than these, the town does not have much to offer except for its ancient quarter at the upper section of the town, known as Barrio Alto. This place is quite interesting and worthy of a visit, however quick it may be.
Sanlucar's port has a colorful standing with historical maritime happenings, such as this was the spot where Magellan started off to check out the world, Pizarro set forth to Peru on a conquest mission and further upriver about 4 kilometers away, Columbus set sail to America from Bonanza, a fishing harbor, which was his third voyage.
The Medina Sidonia palace which was built by Montpensier dukes who decorated it according to the precarious neo-Mudéjar style, makes for a good visit while at Sanlucar. Whereas 13th century Nuestro Señora church showcases its extricate Gothic-Mudéjar structures as can be seen in its portal with the remnants of Castillo de Santiago of Moorish designs still observable high up at the main town area of Barrio Alto.
Natural Beauty
Sanlúcar also offers nature’s best through its unique shell-filled beach of warm waters just about 2 kilometers from the town by walking. Opposite the shore, one can spy the nature park, the Coto Doñana, which has been designated as the area’s National Park with its plentiful marshes that halt the coastline.
Boat cruises are available to view these marshy expanses, although serious exploration is not permitted to safeguard nature’s beauty and inhabitants. The boat cruise takes about 4 hours while 2 guided walks are available for nature lovers. There is also an exhibition center which opens daily to display the natural species in the area, which serves as a very good educational focal point.
Accommodations
Places to stay are usually limited during the summer; hence, advanced booking is advisable to avoid disappointment. There is a tourist center located near the sea which can offer a town map that is full of tourist information.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa calpe, villa moraira and villas in spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
World Heritage Cities In Spain
The Beautiful Country
Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. Millions of people come to Spain every year, attracted by its wonders. The cities impress with their unique architectural style, influenced by the numerous civilizations that came into contact with Spain, the landscapes are breathtaking, the traditions and the customs are passionate and the locals fight to keep them alive. These are just some of the reasons why you should visit Spain.
World Heritage Cities
Spain has an amazing number that have been designated a World Heritage by the UNESCO. Not just a building, not just a monument or a square, but the entire city has been designated a World Heritage. Caceres, Merida, Salamanca, Ibiza, Toledo, Cordoba, Avila, Segova, and Santiago de Composetela are just a few of them.
Salamanca is situated in the centre of the country, just 212 kilometers away from Madrid. It is a magnificent city, the city where the first University in Spain was founded. This makes Salamanca a center of learning excellence. Salamanca is also known as the city of the Spanish language. It is here where the first Grammar of the Castillan Language appeared, some time around the 15th century. The last special thing about Salamanca is that the Via de la Plata passes through the city. It is one of the reasons why Salamanca has been designated a World Heritage by the UNESCO.
Toledo and Merida
Of course, all the thirteen cities are worth visiting, but if you don’t have the time to visit them all, at least try not to take out from your list Toledo or Merida. Toledo is the city in Spain with one of the greatest number of monuments. The most special thing about Toledo is that the city is known as the “city of the three cultures”. Its name comes from the fact that for many centuries three different cultures lived together behind its walls: the Arabs, the Jews and the Christians. Merida, just like Salamanca, is situated on the route of Via de la Plata (the Silver Route). Its uniqueness comes from the fact that the city is the heir of a great Roman legacy.
Accommodations
If you choose to visit some or all of the thirteen cities of Spain that have been designated a World Heritage, you should choose to rent villas. They can be found at every step and they are cheap, but very comfortable; decorated in a traditional manner that will delight you, making you feel like you are really in Spain.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villa mallorca, luxury villas javea and villas to rent in spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Spain is one of the most visited countries in the world. Millions of people come to Spain every year, attracted by its wonders. The cities impress with their unique architectural style, influenced by the numerous civilizations that came into contact with Spain, the landscapes are breathtaking, the traditions and the customs are passionate and the locals fight to keep them alive. These are just some of the reasons why you should visit Spain.
World Heritage Cities
Spain has an amazing number that have been designated a World Heritage by the UNESCO. Not just a building, not just a monument or a square, but the entire city has been designated a World Heritage. Caceres, Merida, Salamanca, Ibiza, Toledo, Cordoba, Avila, Segova, and Santiago de Composetela are just a few of them.
Salamanca is situated in the centre of the country, just 212 kilometers away from Madrid. It is a magnificent city, the city where the first University in Spain was founded. This makes Salamanca a center of learning excellence. Salamanca is also known as the city of the Spanish language. It is here where the first Grammar of the Castillan Language appeared, some time around the 15th century. The last special thing about Salamanca is that the Via de la Plata passes through the city. It is one of the reasons why Salamanca has been designated a World Heritage by the UNESCO.
Toledo and Merida
Of course, all the thirteen cities are worth visiting, but if you don’t have the time to visit them all, at least try not to take out from your list Toledo or Merida. Toledo is the city in Spain with one of the greatest number of monuments. The most special thing about Toledo is that the city is known as the “city of the three cultures”. Its name comes from the fact that for many centuries three different cultures lived together behind its walls: the Arabs, the Jews and the Christians. Merida, just like Salamanca, is situated on the route of Via de la Plata (the Silver Route). Its uniqueness comes from the fact that the city is the heir of a great Roman legacy.
Accommodations
If you choose to visit some or all of the thirteen cities of Spain that have been designated a World Heritage, you should choose to rent villas. They can be found at every step and they are cheap, but very comfortable; decorated in a traditional manner that will delight you, making you feel like you are really in Spain.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villa mallorca, luxury villas javea and villas to rent in spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Winter In Spain
SPAIN is a country placed in the south-east of Europe and next to Portugal, forming the Iberian Pensinula. Having mainly a temperate and Mediterranean climate, Spain has hot summers and cold winters. Although it is a country with few snowfalls, the biggest country in the Iberian Peninsula has many traditions regarding winter holidays and Christmas.
CHRISTMAS IN SPAIN
In this country, Christmas is really a religious holiday. The spiritual protector of Spain is the Virgin Mary , and the winter holiday season begins very early for Spanish people: it officially starts on December 8th. The Christmas Eve night is known in Spain as ”Noche Buena” (the good night). The whole family gathers around the manger scene with baby Jesus. This is a scene present in most of the Spanish countries, and as a good idea for doing shopping, you can buy one for yourself as a souvenir from Spain. The preparations and food are also special. Christmas dinner s are highly influenced by the Arabic culture. In this way, the Arabs brought in the traditional dinner products like rice, oranges, or almonds. There is a specific cake, made with almonds, nuts, or dried fruits; this is one of the other dishes that cannot be absent from Spaniards’ table on Christmas Eve.
A HAPPY MOMENT FOR SPANISH CHILDREN
In Spain, the Christmas presents are brought by the wise men, moving in procession of courtiers, knights and fiddlers. Spanish children receive gifts twice, during this period: on the 26th of December and on the 6th of January. On December 26th, they are given gifts by ”Papa Noel” (Santa Clause), and on January 6th, they are given gifts by ”Los Reyes Magos” (the three kings). On this January night, children leave their boots in front of the door, full of carrots, barely, and straw. They consider these to be gifts for the kings’ horses, that are supposed to be very tired after traveling all over the country. The most beloved magician is Balthazar; he comes on a donkey and gives the children that were good and steady during the year lots of toys and sweets. To conclude, children can wait for the coming winter holidays in Spain.
CHOOSE CHRISTMAS AS A PERIOD TO VISIT SPAIN
With all these traditions, Spain is visited every year by lots of tourists during this period, all waiting to learn more about Spanish customs and to understand better the lifestyle in Spain. Behave yourself, book some tickets to Spain this winter and be sure that Balthazar has a gift for you too.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option luxury villas mallorca, villa rental javea and villa holiday spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
CHRISTMAS IN SPAIN
In this country, Christmas is really a religious holiday. The spiritual protector of Spain is the Virgin Mary , and the winter holiday season begins very early for Spanish people: it officially starts on December 8th. The Christmas Eve night is known in Spain as ”Noche Buena” (the good night). The whole family gathers around the manger scene with baby Jesus. This is a scene present in most of the Spanish countries, and as a good idea for doing shopping, you can buy one for yourself as a souvenir from Spain. The preparations and food are also special. Christmas dinner s are highly influenced by the Arabic culture. In this way, the Arabs brought in the traditional dinner products like rice, oranges, or almonds. There is a specific cake, made with almonds, nuts, or dried fruits; this is one of the other dishes that cannot be absent from Spaniards’ table on Christmas Eve.
A HAPPY MOMENT FOR SPANISH CHILDREN
In Spain, the Christmas presents are brought by the wise men, moving in procession of courtiers, knights and fiddlers. Spanish children receive gifts twice, during this period: on the 26th of December and on the 6th of January. On December 26th, they are given gifts by ”Papa Noel” (Santa Clause), and on January 6th, they are given gifts by ”Los Reyes Magos” (the three kings). On this January night, children leave their boots in front of the door, full of carrots, barely, and straw. They consider these to be gifts for the kings’ horses, that are supposed to be very tired after traveling all over the country. The most beloved magician is Balthazar; he comes on a donkey and gives the children that were good and steady during the year lots of toys and sweets. To conclude, children can wait for the coming winter holidays in Spain.
CHOOSE CHRISTMAS AS A PERIOD TO VISIT SPAIN
With all these traditions, Spain is visited every year by lots of tourists during this period, all waiting to learn more about Spanish customs and to understand better the lifestyle in Spain. Behave yourself, book some tickets to Spain this winter and be sure that Balthazar has a gift for you too.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option luxury villas mallorca, villa rental javea and villa holiday spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Traditional Dances In Spain
SPAIN TODAY
The typical Spanish individual has disappeared decades ago. In the XIXth century, the writers and artists were describing images about a coast inhabitated by voluptous women, with long black hair and fire eyes, and mustached men, with picturesque appearance. Ifyou look for that type of people, you will be disappointed, being given that Spain occupies a high place in the process of globalization. Although, beneath the surface there is a complex structure of regional differences and deeply rooted traditions, that even young people with mobile phones have not abandoned. ”Flamenco” dance is one of those traditions.
FLAMENCO IS STILL ALIVE
Flamenco is a combination of song, guitar sound, and dance that summarizes the complex spirit of Andaluzia, a region in Spain. Arabic, oriental and gypsy influences have mixed, forming this characteristic sound in its most raw state means spontaneous outbursts. The flounces, jerky movements and the dancer’s claps are easily accessible to foreigners, but give birth often to disappointing mechanical performances, supported for the tourists on ”costas.” With all these, the real ”flamenco ” is still alive and since the 80’s, it began to reinvent itself.
FLAMENCO’S ORIGINS
Most of the specialists consider that flamenco’s origins descend form the XVth century, when gypsies came from the north of India through Egypt, and their music knitted with that of the Moors and the Jews from Andalusia. Sevilla, Jerez, and Cadiz were the first three cities where the schools of flamenco appeared. Regardless of its variations, flamenco’s purpose is to reach ”duente,” an intense and interactive communication with the public, that participates through shouts of appreciation. Like an unwritten tradition, it is considered that the loss, mourning or injustice is much more important than the tonal clarity and it is often interpreted as ”a capella”.
HOW IS IT DANCED?
In this dance, mezmerizing movements of the legs is paramount, this being also an explanation for the long dresses with flounces, that have a huge cut in front. In the 70’s, Manuela Carrasco carried this technique to its highest peaks. Whoever saw the movie ”Carmen” (1983), by Carlos Saura, must remember the amazing dancing feet of Cristina Hoyos, dancing next to Antonio Gades. Their generation is now sunset, but the torch is carried on by Joaquin Cortes, Eva ”La Yerbabuena,” and later by young Nino de los Reyes. In the point of view of interpretation, flamenco has its traditional interpretors, most of them gypsy. So if you want to experience such passion, visit Spain. It is really worth your interest.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option luxury villas ibiza, villas in javea and spanish villas are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
The typical Spanish individual has disappeared decades ago. In the XIXth century, the writers and artists were describing images about a coast inhabitated by voluptous women, with long black hair and fire eyes, and mustached men, with picturesque appearance. Ifyou look for that type of people, you will be disappointed, being given that Spain occupies a high place in the process of globalization. Although, beneath the surface there is a complex structure of regional differences and deeply rooted traditions, that even young people with mobile phones have not abandoned. ”Flamenco” dance is one of those traditions.
FLAMENCO IS STILL ALIVE
Flamenco is a combination of song, guitar sound, and dance that summarizes the complex spirit of Andaluzia, a region in Spain. Arabic, oriental and gypsy influences have mixed, forming this characteristic sound in its most raw state means spontaneous outbursts. The flounces, jerky movements and the dancer’s claps are easily accessible to foreigners, but give birth often to disappointing mechanical performances, supported for the tourists on ”costas.” With all these, the real ”flamenco ” is still alive and since the 80’s, it began to reinvent itself.
FLAMENCO’S ORIGINS
Most of the specialists consider that flamenco’s origins descend form the XVth century, when gypsies came from the north of India through Egypt, and their music knitted with that of the Moors and the Jews from Andalusia. Sevilla, Jerez, and Cadiz were the first three cities where the schools of flamenco appeared. Regardless of its variations, flamenco’s purpose is to reach ”duente,” an intense and interactive communication with the public, that participates through shouts of appreciation. Like an unwritten tradition, it is considered that the loss, mourning or injustice is much more important than the tonal clarity and it is often interpreted as ”a capella”.
HOW IS IT DANCED?
In this dance, mezmerizing movements of the legs is paramount, this being also an explanation for the long dresses with flounces, that have a huge cut in front. In the 70’s, Manuela Carrasco carried this technique to its highest peaks. Whoever saw the movie ”Carmen” (1983), by Carlos Saura, must remember the amazing dancing feet of Cristina Hoyos, dancing next to Antonio Gades. Their generation is now sunset, but the torch is carried on by Joaquin Cortes, Eva ”La Yerbabuena,” and later by young Nino de los Reyes. In the point of view of interpretation, flamenco has its traditional interpretors, most of them gypsy. So if you want to experience such passion, visit Spain. It is really worth your interest.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option luxury villas ibiza, villas in javea and spanish villas are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Spain- Tarragona
If you wish to have a great holiday and learn many interesting things at the same time, Spain is the ideal country to visit. Sharing the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal, it is a country full of history and wonderful places to visit; and Spaniards are very kind and sociable. As you can see, you will definitely enjoy your stay here.
“The most pleasant place to rest”
The biggest and the most productive fishing port in Catalonia, Tarragona has a population of approximately 100 000 inhabitants. Three centuries ago, this city, known by the Romans as Tarraco, became the capital of this vast empire. The Roman poet Virgilius said about Tarragona that it is “the most pleasant place to rest”. Nowadays, people here earn their living from oil, the petrochemical industry and, last but not least, from tourism.
Why Tarragona?
Contemporary Tarragona lies to the west of the cathedral located on the hill, and the Roman memory is lost in a network of streets from the XIXth and the XXth centuries. This is a provincial city that has never known the architectural projects of modern structures, like Barcelona or Girona, for example. Archaeologists keep finding all kinds of monuments in this region. In 2000, this region became recognized as a UNESCO heritage. A temperate climate, sandy beaches and a large number of fisherman’s dishes are only a few of the extra points in favor of this calm city. As you climb the walls from the IIIrd or the IInd centuries BC and you follow “Passeig Arqueologic”, you begin to understand the importance of the largest and oldest Roman province in Iberia. These sandstone blocks, about 12 meters high, and entirely restored, surrounded three terraced levels in the past: a huge temple, the forum (known also as the square) and the vast Roman circus. This circus hosted about 30 000 out of the 40 000 of inhabitants of Torraco in good times.
Magnificent views
For a beautiful panorama, go and visit Pretoria (Praetorium), a stone tower and the former palace of the counts in Barcelona. An elevator will take you to the top of this tower where the city panorama opens. Don’t miss the small-scale reproduction of the city and take a look on the first floor to admire the splendid engraved sarcophagus that shows the legend of Hippolytus. All history lovers should go and see “Museo Arqueologic”, to admire the beautiful Roman artifacts. The aqueduct in Tarragona, the cathedral or the large number of mosaics must definitely please your eye in Spain, and even more so in these counties!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villas in ibiza, villas javea and spanish villa are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
“The most pleasant place to rest”
The biggest and the most productive fishing port in Catalonia, Tarragona has a population of approximately 100 000 inhabitants. Three centuries ago, this city, known by the Romans as Tarraco, became the capital of this vast empire. The Roman poet Virgilius said about Tarragona that it is “the most pleasant place to rest”. Nowadays, people here earn their living from oil, the petrochemical industry and, last but not least, from tourism.
Why Tarragona?
Contemporary Tarragona lies to the west of the cathedral located on the hill, and the Roman memory is lost in a network of streets from the XIXth and the XXth centuries. This is a provincial city that has never known the architectural projects of modern structures, like Barcelona or Girona, for example. Archaeologists keep finding all kinds of monuments in this region. In 2000, this region became recognized as a UNESCO heritage. A temperate climate, sandy beaches and a large number of fisherman’s dishes are only a few of the extra points in favor of this calm city. As you climb the walls from the IIIrd or the IInd centuries BC and you follow “Passeig Arqueologic”, you begin to understand the importance of the largest and oldest Roman province in Iberia. These sandstone blocks, about 12 meters high, and entirely restored, surrounded three terraced levels in the past: a huge temple, the forum (known also as the square) and the vast Roman circus. This circus hosted about 30 000 out of the 40 000 of inhabitants of Torraco in good times.
Magnificent views
For a beautiful panorama, go and visit Pretoria (Praetorium), a stone tower and the former palace of the counts in Barcelona. An elevator will take you to the top of this tower where the city panorama opens. Don’t miss the small-scale reproduction of the city and take a look on the first floor to admire the splendid engraved sarcophagus that shows the legend of Hippolytus. All history lovers should go and see “Museo Arqueologic”, to admire the beautiful Roman artifacts. The aqueduct in Tarragona, the cathedral or the large number of mosaics must definitely please your eye in Spain, and even more so in these counties!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villas in ibiza, villas javea and spanish villa are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Madrid And Its Beauty
The capital of Spain
Madrid is spread out on the meseta, central Spain’s highlands. Its location is perfect for its function, that is, to coordinate the eighteen autonomous regions of Spain. Madrid doesn’t have a very long history; it was only in 1561 that it became the capital of Spain. But those four hundred years have been enough to transform it into one of the most attractive cities in Spain. The cultural identity of Madrid was born with the Paseo del Arte (a kilometer of museum space), so the city is now the perfect place for tourists to find out many interesting facts about Spain’s art, culture, architecture, and customs.
Why Madrid?
Madrid is on the list of many touristic itineraries and many people ask themselves why. Well, the answer is simple: Madrid is spectacular. Among Spanish cities, it has one of the biggest number of sightseeing objectives. Visiting the impressive number of museums and monuments requires a lot of time and energy because they are all worth visiting. In addition, Madrid is a very modern city with excellent food, fashion and a very impressive night life.
Sightseeing in Madrid
Number one on your sightseeing list should definetely be the Royal Palace. The building is not one of the most refined palaces in Spain, but it stands out for its opulence. The Palace is a product of the court of Bourbon, so the furniture is almost entirely designed in Baroque and Roccoco style, typical for the XVIIIth century. You should also take a walk to the Plaza Mayor. This will direct you to the centre of the historical part of Madrid, where the curved streets pass in front of cathedrals and bars that serve tapas will give you an introduction into the history of the Spanish Royalty. Then go to the Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales, a Franciscan monastery where you can meditate in peace without being disturbed. If you want a cultural escape, go to the Prado Museum. Here you’ll find fine collections of Roman art, as well as several collections by artists such as El Greco, Goya or Velasquez.
Accommodation
The capital of Spain is packed with hotels and villas for all tastes. However, if you choose to visit Madrid for its special flavor, the best choice would be to look for a villa to rent. All villas are extremely comfortable, decorated in such a way that they respect tradition and are situated in picturesque locations, real paradises on earth.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa rental ibiza, majorca villas rent and holiday villas spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Madrid is spread out on the meseta, central Spain’s highlands. Its location is perfect for its function, that is, to coordinate the eighteen autonomous regions of Spain. Madrid doesn’t have a very long history; it was only in 1561 that it became the capital of Spain. But those four hundred years have been enough to transform it into one of the most attractive cities in Spain. The cultural identity of Madrid was born with the Paseo del Arte (a kilometer of museum space), so the city is now the perfect place for tourists to find out many interesting facts about Spain’s art, culture, architecture, and customs.
Why Madrid?
Madrid is on the list of many touristic itineraries and many people ask themselves why. Well, the answer is simple: Madrid is spectacular. Among Spanish cities, it has one of the biggest number of sightseeing objectives. Visiting the impressive number of museums and monuments requires a lot of time and energy because they are all worth visiting. In addition, Madrid is a very modern city with excellent food, fashion and a very impressive night life.
Sightseeing in Madrid
Number one on your sightseeing list should definetely be the Royal Palace. The building is not one of the most refined palaces in Spain, but it stands out for its opulence. The Palace is a product of the court of Bourbon, so the furniture is almost entirely designed in Baroque and Roccoco style, typical for the XVIIIth century. You should also take a walk to the Plaza Mayor. This will direct you to the centre of the historical part of Madrid, where the curved streets pass in front of cathedrals and bars that serve tapas will give you an introduction into the history of the Spanish Royalty. Then go to the Monasterio de las Descalzas Reales, a Franciscan monastery where you can meditate in peace without being disturbed. If you want a cultural escape, go to the Prado Museum. Here you’ll find fine collections of Roman art, as well as several collections by artists such as El Greco, Goya or Velasquez.
Accommodation
The capital of Spain is packed with hotels and villas for all tastes. However, if you choose to visit Madrid for its special flavor, the best choice would be to look for a villa to rent. All villas are extremely comfortable, decorated in such a way that they respect tradition and are situated in picturesque locations, real paradises on earth.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa rental ibiza, majorca villas rent and holiday villas spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Town of Apostle Santiago, Spain
Santiago is numbered among the best cities in Spain and is especially famous because of the religious value it holds. It is home to the Way of Saint James which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s name actually comes from the belief that the apostle Saint James is buried here.
The city has splendid pieces of architecture and is considered to have the best seafood cuisine in the country. This is indeed a wonderful place to visit on your tour of Spain.
Attractions in Santiago
Among the major attractions in the area is the center of the town, the famous square La Plaza Del Obradoiro whose name means “work of gold”. There are several cathedrals and chapels of historical value located here and their construction is truly amazing. The styles used on the buildings are attractive and quite rare. Art lovers will be intrigued with the architecture here.
Plaza de la Quintana is another attractive square which has a “Royal Door “ that is only opened when the Apostle Festival is held in a Holy Year. The Plaza has a monastery as well which is among the list of Santiago’s oldest buildings. It was constructed to entomb the mortal remains of the apostle James.
Another attractive square is Plaza de la Azabacheria which is the entrance that pilgrims of the past used when entering the cathedral. These attractive sites have great value to staunch Catholics to this day. They represent great personalities and periods in the history of the Roman Catholic Church.
Santiago’s University District attracts people because of its surroundings, which could be called poetic. Beautiful palaces in this district which were built using different magnificent architectural styles are quite entrancing.
It is clear now why Santiago is considered “the town of apostle” and why it still has great attraction to many believers. Those who love their religion and have a passion to know more about the origins and history of their religion will find important proofs of their faith here, some of which they never knew existed.
This town is definitely one of those you don’t want to miss visiting. People find it relaxing and interesting to see and learn a few things about religion after having fun on the sandy beaches and trekking amid the natural wealth of Spain.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas rent ibiza, villas costa blanca and mallorca villas rent are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese blog.
The city has splendid pieces of architecture and is considered to have the best seafood cuisine in the country. This is indeed a wonderful place to visit on your tour of Spain.
Attractions in Santiago
Among the major attractions in the area is the center of the town, the famous square La Plaza Del Obradoiro whose name means “work of gold”. There are several cathedrals and chapels of historical value located here and their construction is truly amazing. The styles used on the buildings are attractive and quite rare. Art lovers will be intrigued with the architecture here.
Plaza de la Quintana is another attractive square which has a “Royal Door “ that is only opened when the Apostle Festival is held in a Holy Year. The Plaza has a monastery as well which is among the list of Santiago’s oldest buildings. It was constructed to entomb the mortal remains of the apostle James.
Another attractive square is Plaza de la Azabacheria which is the entrance that pilgrims of the past used when entering the cathedral. These attractive sites have great value to staunch Catholics to this day. They represent great personalities and periods in the history of the Roman Catholic Church.
Santiago’s University District attracts people because of its surroundings, which could be called poetic. Beautiful palaces in this district which were built using different magnificent architectural styles are quite entrancing.
It is clear now why Santiago is considered “the town of apostle” and why it still has great attraction to many believers. Those who love their religion and have a passion to know more about the origins and history of their religion will find important proofs of their faith here, some of which they never knew existed.
This town is definitely one of those you don’t want to miss visiting. People find it relaxing and interesting to see and learn a few things about religion after having fun on the sandy beaches and trekking amid the natural wealth of Spain.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas rent ibiza, villas costa blanca and mallorca villas rent are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese blog.
Fully Occupied in Toledo
Titus Livius, a Roman author, put Toledo on the European map when he wrote about this medieval, fortified town with its grand monuments and famed steel production. Spain’s capital until 1560, Toledo was of Gothic epoch with really splendid medieval architecture and middle ages history. Toledo boasts of some very refined artistry and cuisine. It is near to Madrid.
Sightseeing in Toledo
Toledo is considered one huge museum, being declared Spain’s National Monument, as it has maintained its historical style so intricately. A thorough walk through the city will uncover many treasures for the visitor.
The various Epochs
There are different epochs, such as the Romans, Goths, Moors, and Christians, existing in Toledo. There are synagogues standing with cathedrals from these varied historical periods, which make Toledo famous on the world map as these structures are very well preserved.
Artistically, there are invaluable painting collections of famous artists through the eras.
The La Mancha region contains Paleolithic to Middle Ages history stored in its various monuments in the form of towers, doors, and churches.
Esquivias and Tembleque contain many interesting Roman remains and Renaissance era buildings, such as palaces and churches, with intrinsic art pieces in impressive galleries. There are the majestic and renowned La Mancha windmills and the famous Cervantes figures.
Castle Sights
Toledo has many ancient castles from Guadamur, with the most impressive medieval fortresses in the whole of Spain.
There is a Gothic style castle at Barciense, with a splendid portal at the Colegiata, in the ancient town of Torrijos. A 15th century castle can also be found in Maqueda, over an ancient Arabian fortress with unique Mudejar elements. The ruins of Alcazar are found in the hometown of the famous Don Juan, in manorial Escalona.
Handicraft
Toledo is famous for its ceramics, textile products, and high quality swords. Many of these handicrafts from the 15th century are displayed in the Museum Ruiz de Luna. Puente Del Arzobispo may be a simple medieval town, but it is renowned for its production of ceramics. Oropesa laces and embroideries have graced a Lady’s wardrobe since the medieval times.
Folklore and Fiestas
There are many interesting and traditional festivities celebrated in Toledo, such as the Romería de la Virgen del Valle, a popular pilgrimage festival in May, the Fiesta del Olivo, or Olive Festival, on the last Sunday in April, and the Festival of San Isidr of Talavera, which is held between 15th - 18th May every year. These festivities are accompanied by traditional folk dances and processions.
Toledo Cuisine
Toledo is famous for its traditional recipes due to the long practice of cattle. Quails form some of the delectable dishes, which are served stuffed or with some special beans.
Another favorite meat is lamb, which is either boiled or fried with a potato omelette, known as Tortilla a la Magra.
But Toledo’s cuisine is made internationally famous with Queso Manchego, which is a very old form of cheese made from ewe's milk, and high quality marzipan, which is locally produced and exported.
The region’s wines are of high quality and include D.O.C. La Mancha and Mentrida.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in ibiza, villa costa blanca and villas in mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese blog.
Sightseeing in Toledo
Toledo is considered one huge museum, being declared Spain’s National Monument, as it has maintained its historical style so intricately. A thorough walk through the city will uncover many treasures for the visitor.
The various Epochs
There are different epochs, such as the Romans, Goths, Moors, and Christians, existing in Toledo. There are synagogues standing with cathedrals from these varied historical periods, which make Toledo famous on the world map as these structures are very well preserved.
Artistically, there are invaluable painting collections of famous artists through the eras.
The La Mancha region contains Paleolithic to Middle Ages history stored in its various monuments in the form of towers, doors, and churches.
Esquivias and Tembleque contain many interesting Roman remains and Renaissance era buildings, such as palaces and churches, with intrinsic art pieces in impressive galleries. There are the majestic and renowned La Mancha windmills and the famous Cervantes figures.
Castle Sights
Toledo has many ancient castles from Guadamur, with the most impressive medieval fortresses in the whole of Spain.
There is a Gothic style castle at Barciense, with a splendid portal at the Colegiata, in the ancient town of Torrijos. A 15th century castle can also be found in Maqueda, over an ancient Arabian fortress with unique Mudejar elements. The ruins of Alcazar are found in the hometown of the famous Don Juan, in manorial Escalona.
Handicraft
Toledo is famous for its ceramics, textile products, and high quality swords. Many of these handicrafts from the 15th century are displayed in the Museum Ruiz de Luna. Puente Del Arzobispo may be a simple medieval town, but it is renowned for its production of ceramics. Oropesa laces and embroideries have graced a Lady’s wardrobe since the medieval times.
Folklore and Fiestas
There are many interesting and traditional festivities celebrated in Toledo, such as the Romería de la Virgen del Valle, a popular pilgrimage festival in May, the Fiesta del Olivo, or Olive Festival, on the last Sunday in April, and the Festival of San Isidr of Talavera, which is held between 15th - 18th May every year. These festivities are accompanied by traditional folk dances and processions.
Toledo Cuisine
Toledo is famous for its traditional recipes due to the long practice of cattle. Quails form some of the delectable dishes, which are served stuffed or with some special beans.
Another favorite meat is lamb, which is either boiled or fried with a potato omelette, known as Tortilla a la Magra.
But Toledo’s cuisine is made internationally famous with Queso Manchego, which is a very old form of cheese made from ewe's milk, and high quality marzipan, which is locally produced and exported.
The region’s wines are of high quality and include D.O.C. La Mancha and Mentrida.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in ibiza, villa costa blanca and villas in mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese blog.
Pamplona – more than Bullfights
Pamplona is famous for its bullfighting event, which takes place in this town. Hemingway, a famous American author, was taken in completely with this spectacle, which happens every year in the San Fermin festival.
However, if you are not into that kind of adrenalin-flowing activity, there are always the historical aspects that this town of north Spanish culture can offer. Alternatively, there is Navarra, a magnificent mountain range with an abundance of Spanish folklore and gourmet food complete with high quality fine wines.
Highlights of Pamplona
A medieval town, with 16th century walls, adapts to the 21st century beautifully. To preserve its culture and integrity while embracing urbanization is pretty amazing. The wide avenues lined by modern parks serve as the town’s backbone leading to the region’s ancient monuments.
Infamous bullfights
The Plaza de Toros bullring is situated at the far side of town, close to the Arga River. It is renowned as the popular bullfighting venue in Spain, especially at the San Fermin festival, where thousands flock to Pamplona for the spectacular event. These bullfights started in 1893. It was noted that this activity was Ernest Hemingway’s favorite event in Spain.
Cathedrals and Citadels
There are many impressive cathedrals in Pamplona, which are of Gothic origin, and have been built as early as 1397. There is also a resplendent, neoclassical façade from the 18th century that was built by Ventura Rodriguez. It is considered one of Spain’s most significant religious structures with its invaluable claustrum. Right in the center is the 1415, alabastic, Kings' Mausoleum.
Many remarkable old structures and relics, such as chapels, citadels, altars, and tombs, can be found in Pamplona and date back to the 14th century. A 16th century citadel in that area in the shape of a pentagon has been fortified and beautified with interior gardens. This venue is frequently used for holding concerts and exhibitions.
Charming medieval buildings around parks
Town wall towers, charming squares, and baroques line the serene and well kept Tejera Park where a medieval document Fuero, from 1129, has been archived at the Town Hall. At the same time, an ancient hospital with an archaic portal has been converted into a museum storing Neolithic to Gothic epochs’ remains as well as valuable wall paintings and Moorish caskets.
Further away stands Taconera Park with famous personalities’ monuments as well as a fountain from the neoclassic era, the Fountain of Neptune, which was designed and built by Luis Paret.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas in ibiza, villas to rent in spain and villa majorca are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese blog.
However, if you are not into that kind of adrenalin-flowing activity, there are always the historical aspects that this town of north Spanish culture can offer. Alternatively, there is Navarra, a magnificent mountain range with an abundance of Spanish folklore and gourmet food complete with high quality fine wines.
Highlights of Pamplona
A medieval town, with 16th century walls, adapts to the 21st century beautifully. To preserve its culture and integrity while embracing urbanization is pretty amazing. The wide avenues lined by modern parks serve as the town’s backbone leading to the region’s ancient monuments.
Infamous bullfights
The Plaza de Toros bullring is situated at the far side of town, close to the Arga River. It is renowned as the popular bullfighting venue in Spain, especially at the San Fermin festival, where thousands flock to Pamplona for the spectacular event. These bullfights started in 1893. It was noted that this activity was Ernest Hemingway’s favorite event in Spain.
Cathedrals and Citadels
There are many impressive cathedrals in Pamplona, which are of Gothic origin, and have been built as early as 1397. There is also a resplendent, neoclassical façade from the 18th century that was built by Ventura Rodriguez. It is considered one of Spain’s most significant religious structures with its invaluable claustrum. Right in the center is the 1415, alabastic, Kings' Mausoleum.
Many remarkable old structures and relics, such as chapels, citadels, altars, and tombs, can be found in Pamplona and date back to the 14th century. A 16th century citadel in that area in the shape of a pentagon has been fortified and beautified with interior gardens. This venue is frequently used for holding concerts and exhibitions.
Charming medieval buildings around parks
Town wall towers, charming squares, and baroques line the serene and well kept Tejera Park where a medieval document Fuero, from 1129, has been archived at the Town Hall. At the same time, an ancient hospital with an archaic portal has been converted into a museum storing Neolithic to Gothic epochs’ remains as well as valuable wall paintings and Moorish caskets.
Further away stands Taconera Park with famous personalities’ monuments as well as a fountain from the neoclassic era, the Fountain of Neptune, which was designed and built by Luis Paret.
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Behold the Beauty of Gran Canaria
This island is filled with different European, American, and African vegetation landscapes. Its mountain range is as high as 2000 meters with bizarre canyons, making it a very diverse landscape, with different climates across different geographical zones.
Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
This capital, with 352,641 inhabitants, has a highly unique architecture which displays the 5 continents’ influence together with its colorful houses. The feisty ambience is proof of the slow pace of cool climate living. Its great culture and delectable cuisine sets this city on the international map.
Places of Interest
This city boasts a Gothic cum Neoclassic cathedral, which was constructed after America was discovered. At the square of Santa Ana are the Archiepiscopal Palais and Canarian architecture buildings.
The Barrio de la Vegueta holds many Latin-American manorial houses of colonial design. There is a contemporary art collection at the local museum.
La Casa de Colón, or Columbus’ home, houses Columbus’ ships that stopped here while on the way to America.
The Canarian Museum or Museo Canario exhibits the entire exposition of the Guanches, the islands' first inhabitants.
We have Pueblo Canario at Doramas Park, which is a beautiful garden. It was created by Néstor de la Torre, who was a Canarian artist, and it represents the typical architecture of the island. There are colorful, traditional performances every Thursday and Sunday.
Other places of interest include the Art Museum, the Pérez Galdós Museum, and the Nestor-Museum. Also available is the Canarian Garden, Jardin Canario, just 8km away from Las Palmas. This garden displays no less than 500 species of island flora.
Tracking the Guanches
The original inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches, and they were known by the Tenerife natives as Guan Chenech. These mysterious natives are thought to have been very fair skinned and tall. Nothing more can be determined by the historians. Las Palmas Canarian Museum houses some interesting findings from the Guanches. There are traces of their presence on the island, such as Cueva Pintada, a cave with wall paintings of polychrome geometry style, the ‘Holy Mountain’ of the Guanches, Montaña Sagrada, with many archaeological findings in Malpais, as well as fishing villages and bays.
Sight Seeing
There is an astounding landscape known as ‘the petrified storm’ around Tejeda. It has green valleys and almond trees at the foothills of the mountainous peaks of Bentayga and Roque Nubo.
Teror is a mesmerizing village, that seems to be ‘floating in the air’, as it is 575m above sea level. It has awesome mountain ranges all around. This place is renowned for pilgrimages.
Arucas is an old town with a magnificent high coast and quaint bays, together with acres of banana plantations.
Santa María de Guia, in the north of the island, holds many caves full of petrified lava.
From Agaete, you will see a breath-taking canyon landscape of papaya, coffee, banana, and avocado plantations, as well as thermal springs.
At the island’s south lies a dreamy fishing village, with a great view, as well as a splendid valley of tropical fruit trees.
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Las Palmas de Gran Canaria
This capital, with 352,641 inhabitants, has a highly unique architecture which displays the 5 continents’ influence together with its colorful houses. The feisty ambience is proof of the slow pace of cool climate living. Its great culture and delectable cuisine sets this city on the international map.
Places of Interest
This city boasts a Gothic cum Neoclassic cathedral, which was constructed after America was discovered. At the square of Santa Ana are the Archiepiscopal Palais and Canarian architecture buildings.
The Barrio de la Vegueta holds many Latin-American manorial houses of colonial design. There is a contemporary art collection at the local museum.
La Casa de Colón, or Columbus’ home, houses Columbus’ ships that stopped here while on the way to America.
The Canarian Museum or Museo Canario exhibits the entire exposition of the Guanches, the islands' first inhabitants.
We have Pueblo Canario at Doramas Park, which is a beautiful garden. It was created by Néstor de la Torre, who was a Canarian artist, and it represents the typical architecture of the island. There are colorful, traditional performances every Thursday and Sunday.
Other places of interest include the Art Museum, the Pérez Galdós Museum, and the Nestor-Museum. Also available is the Canarian Garden, Jardin Canario, just 8km away from Las Palmas. This garden displays no less than 500 species of island flora.
Tracking the Guanches
The original inhabitants of the Canary Islands were the Guanches, and they were known by the Tenerife natives as Guan Chenech. These mysterious natives are thought to have been very fair skinned and tall. Nothing more can be determined by the historians. Las Palmas Canarian Museum houses some interesting findings from the Guanches. There are traces of their presence on the island, such as Cueva Pintada, a cave with wall paintings of polychrome geometry style, the ‘Holy Mountain’ of the Guanches, Montaña Sagrada, with many archaeological findings in Malpais, as well as fishing villages and bays.
Sight Seeing
There is an astounding landscape known as ‘the petrified storm’ around Tejeda. It has green valleys and almond trees at the foothills of the mountainous peaks of Bentayga and Roque Nubo.
Teror is a mesmerizing village, that seems to be ‘floating in the air’, as it is 575m above sea level. It has awesome mountain ranges all around. This place is renowned for pilgrimages.
Arucas is an old town with a magnificent high coast and quaint bays, together with acres of banana plantations.
Santa María de Guia, in the north of the island, holds many caves full of petrified lava.
From Agaete, you will see a breath-taking canyon landscape of papaya, coffee, banana, and avocado plantations, as well as thermal springs.
At the island’s south lies a dreamy fishing village, with a great view, as well as a splendid valley of tropical fruit trees.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas ibiza, villas majorca and vacation rentals spain are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese blog.
Gothic culture at Burgos
The charming town of Burgos is very typically medieval, exuding Northern Castilian ambience. Since its foundation in 884, its historical, monumental heritage always entices the visitor.
Gothic monuments, such as the impressive cathedrals Monastery of Las Huelgas and the Cartuja de Miraflores, dominate the scenery.
Sightseeing Burgos
With its well preserved town center, holding famous, medieval, historical Spanish personalities, this town has places of attraction such as:
The Cathedral – this is a 13th century Gothic structure, with a magnificent portal, that is most admired in the world. Another splendid architectural 15th century structure is the Capilla del Condestable chapel.
The Monasterio de las Huelgas is a Gothic style monastery with a Romanesque cloister; it is one of Spain’s treasured monuments and was founded by Alfonso the eighth in 1187. He was buried in this vicinity along with other members of Spanish royalty. The monastery opens daily except on Mondays.
La Casa del Cordón is an outstanding and exceptional, civil architectural palace in Burgos, and it has a remarkable portal display.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora La Antigua de Gamonal is a Gothic church from the 4th century with a portal of ‘Mudéjar’ design.
Iglesia de San Esteban is a 13th century church of Gothic origins. Nearby stands a 12th century arc of Arabic design, called the Arco de San Esteban.
Iglesia de San Gil is another church of Gothic design from the 14th century and it has chapels and intrinsic artistic tombs on the inside. Two particular chapels, the Lost Encinas and Los Castros are located here.
Iglesia de San Lesmes is another church, of Gothic design, built between the 14th and 16th centuries. It is the resting place or burial ground for the locals.
Iglesia de San Nicolas is a splendid Gothic church, which was built in the 16th century, with a Gothic cum Renaissance altar inside. The altar was the work of the famous San Francisco de Colonia.
Cartuja de Miraflores is a church, which was built in the 15th century, and opens its doors to visitors on a daily basis. It houses the tombs of the royal couple, King Juan II and his queen, Doña Maria.
Puerta de Santa Maria is considered the town’s door. It is from the 16th century and has an impressive 14th century tower that is totally Arabian in design and style at the side.
The town’s Archaeological Museum is open on work days, half days on Saturdays, and closed on Sundays. The town has many quaint and ancient city walls that have been conserved properly.
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Gothic monuments, such as the impressive cathedrals Monastery of Las Huelgas and the Cartuja de Miraflores, dominate the scenery.
Sightseeing Burgos
With its well preserved town center, holding famous, medieval, historical Spanish personalities, this town has places of attraction such as:
The Cathedral – this is a 13th century Gothic structure, with a magnificent portal, that is most admired in the world. Another splendid architectural 15th century structure is the Capilla del Condestable chapel.
The Monasterio de las Huelgas is a Gothic style monastery with a Romanesque cloister; it is one of Spain’s treasured monuments and was founded by Alfonso the eighth in 1187. He was buried in this vicinity along with other members of Spanish royalty. The monastery opens daily except on Mondays.
La Casa del Cordón is an outstanding and exceptional, civil architectural palace in Burgos, and it has a remarkable portal display.
Iglesia Nuestra Señora La Antigua de Gamonal is a Gothic church from the 4th century with a portal of ‘Mudéjar’ design.
Iglesia de San Esteban is a 13th century church of Gothic origins. Nearby stands a 12th century arc of Arabic design, called the Arco de San Esteban.
Iglesia de San Gil is another church of Gothic design from the 14th century and it has chapels and intrinsic artistic tombs on the inside. Two particular chapels, the Lost Encinas and Los Castros are located here.
Iglesia de San Lesmes is another church, of Gothic design, built between the 14th and 16th centuries. It is the resting place or burial ground for the locals.
Iglesia de San Nicolas is a splendid Gothic church, which was built in the 16th century, with a Gothic cum Renaissance altar inside. The altar was the work of the famous San Francisco de Colonia.
Cartuja de Miraflores is a church, which was built in the 15th century, and opens its doors to visitors on a daily basis. It houses the tombs of the royal couple, King Juan II and his queen, Doña Maria.
Puerta de Santa Maria is considered the town’s door. It is from the 16th century and has an impressive 14th century tower that is totally Arabian in design and style at the side.
The town’s Archaeological Museum is open on work days, half days on Saturdays, and closed on Sundays. The town has many quaint and ancient city walls that have been conserved properly.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa ibiza, villa spain and villa mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese Articles & also read my blog on Dan Cortese blog.
Spain- Soria
Known as the oldest continent, Europe has always been a preferred holiday destination. Spain, a country in the south of Europe, has a lot of historical places and beautiful old monuments, and there are millions of tourists crossing the borders of this country annually. Its territory is divided into provinces, each of these provinces having different features and special places to visit.
Beautiful panorama in Soria
Although it is not one of the most convincing provincial capitals in Spain, Soria is famous for the unique garlic soup that you can taste here, which has the consistency of “liquid gold”, as the inhabitants use to say. Above all, it is a region situated in the heart of some of the most beautiful views in this Iberian country. The province is a transition region between Castilla, Aragon and La Rioja. In the northwest part, the magnificent Sierra de Urbion is located, famous for the richness of the hunting and trout fishing. On the other side, to the east is the extremely damaged Sierra De Moncayo.
A lot of monuments may be visited here
Soria is a town where history can be felt at every step. The red tile roofs of the houses of golden sandstone, praised by the poet Antonio Machado, string out on the streets of this town. In the southern part of the geometric park, called Parque Alamed de Cervantes, through squares and pedestrian streets, is located the Plaza Mayor, the focus of the entire town. In the network of streets, the facades with Renaissance motifs lead you to the Roman church Santo Domingo, where the statues of its founders greet you right at the entrance. There are some other churches in this area, around the Duero River. San Pedro Cathedral is mostly Gothic, but it also has some Roman galleries. Crossing this river, you will admire the ruins of San Juan de Duero Monastery, considered to have many Moorish influences from the XIIIth century. From this point, the panorama is magnificent: you can see the Parque Del Castillo, a cultivated hill. The Romans rebuilt Numancia in 133 BC, after its Celtic inhabitants had destroyed it, in order to avoid its capture. The ruins are an attraction for archaeology and history lovers, but in the town, the Museo Numantino, together with Alameda de Cervantes Park, contain a lot of Roman artifacts, which are an attraction for tourists from all over the world. Enjoy your holiday in the Iberian country, Spain.
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Beautiful panorama in Soria
Although it is not one of the most convincing provincial capitals in Spain, Soria is famous for the unique garlic soup that you can taste here, which has the consistency of “liquid gold”, as the inhabitants use to say. Above all, it is a region situated in the heart of some of the most beautiful views in this Iberian country. The province is a transition region between Castilla, Aragon and La Rioja. In the northwest part, the magnificent Sierra de Urbion is located, famous for the richness of the hunting and trout fishing. On the other side, to the east is the extremely damaged Sierra De Moncayo.
A lot of monuments may be visited here
Soria is a town where history can be felt at every step. The red tile roofs of the houses of golden sandstone, praised by the poet Antonio Machado, string out on the streets of this town. In the southern part of the geometric park, called Parque Alamed de Cervantes, through squares and pedestrian streets, is located the Plaza Mayor, the focus of the entire town. In the network of streets, the facades with Renaissance motifs lead you to the Roman church Santo Domingo, where the statues of its founders greet you right at the entrance. There are some other churches in this area, around the Duero River. San Pedro Cathedral is mostly Gothic, but it also has some Roman galleries. Crossing this river, you will admire the ruins of San Juan de Duero Monastery, considered to have many Moorish influences from the XIIIth century. From this point, the panorama is magnificent: you can see the Parque Del Castillo, a cultivated hill. The Romans rebuilt Numancia in 133 BC, after its Celtic inhabitants had destroyed it, in order to avoid its capture. The ruins are an attraction for archaeology and history lovers, but in the town, the Museo Numantino, together with Alameda de Cervantes Park, contain a lot of Roman artifacts, which are an attraction for tourists from all over the world. Enjoy your holiday in the Iberian country, Spain.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas tossa de mar, luxury villas spain and villas in begur are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Pontevedra And Its Surroundings
The northwest of Spain
When you go to the northwest of Spain, one image will remain in your mind, and that is a clam shell. You’ll find them everywhere while in this region: on the plates, on the signs that show the direction towards the most important pilgrimage place in Spain and those that show the direction towards Santiago de Compostela. This is also the region where you can visit Pontevedra and its beautiful surroundings.
About Pontevedra
Pontevedra is one of the most seductive cities in Galicia. According to legend, Pontevedra was founded by the Greek warrior Teucro, who fought in Troy. Historians say that the city developed thanks to the sardine fishing until the middle of the 16th century when the port was completely covered by sand. As a result of its former prosperity, Pontevedra has numerous old buildings, very refined, built in granite, especially in the old part of the city. Nowadays, this part of the city is pedestrian. Squares like Praza de Teucro and Praza de Verdura are still full of traditional products that tourists can buy at good prices. Prazza de Herreria is another place where tourists can go sightseeing. The square has a lot of gardens supervised by the monastery and by the Church of San Francisco, dating back to the 14th century. Opposite may be found the unusual Neo-Classic church Virgen la Peregrina, built in an elliptical form in order to host the statue of the city’s patron. To the west, in the old fishing district, the Plateresque church Santa la Mayor is located. The powerful guild of fishermen built it in the 16th century. Some biblical scenes are easily brought into relief on the western facade. These scenes impress tourists by their purity and beauty. The remarkable museum Museo de Pontevedra is located in five distinct places; three of them are oriented towards the Praza da Lena. The 17th century mansion that used to belong to Castro Monteagudo exposes splendid Celtic jewellery dating back to 700 before Christ, as well as a collection of Spanish, Italian and Flemish Renaissance paintings. The museum continues in a beautiful house next door, now completely restored, that used to belong to Garcia Florez.
A beautiful holiday
Choosing Pontevedra as a holiday destination is a wonderful idea for anyone because it is sure that there are a lot of sightseeing places and many relaxing things to do, so take advantage of it!!!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa tossa, villa holiday spain and villas begur are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
When you go to the northwest of Spain, one image will remain in your mind, and that is a clam shell. You’ll find them everywhere while in this region: on the plates, on the signs that show the direction towards the most important pilgrimage place in Spain and those that show the direction towards Santiago de Compostela. This is also the region where you can visit Pontevedra and its beautiful surroundings.
About Pontevedra
Pontevedra is one of the most seductive cities in Galicia. According to legend, Pontevedra was founded by the Greek warrior Teucro, who fought in Troy. Historians say that the city developed thanks to the sardine fishing until the middle of the 16th century when the port was completely covered by sand. As a result of its former prosperity, Pontevedra has numerous old buildings, very refined, built in granite, especially in the old part of the city. Nowadays, this part of the city is pedestrian. Squares like Praza de Teucro and Praza de Verdura are still full of traditional products that tourists can buy at good prices. Prazza de Herreria is another place where tourists can go sightseeing. The square has a lot of gardens supervised by the monastery and by the Church of San Francisco, dating back to the 14th century. Opposite may be found the unusual Neo-Classic church Virgen la Peregrina, built in an elliptical form in order to host the statue of the city’s patron. To the west, in the old fishing district, the Plateresque church Santa la Mayor is located. The powerful guild of fishermen built it in the 16th century. Some biblical scenes are easily brought into relief on the western facade. These scenes impress tourists by their purity and beauty. The remarkable museum Museo de Pontevedra is located in five distinct places; three of them are oriented towards the Praza da Lena. The 17th century mansion that used to belong to Castro Monteagudo exposes splendid Celtic jewellery dating back to 700 before Christ, as well as a collection of Spanish, Italian and Flemish Renaissance paintings. The museum continues in a beautiful house next door, now completely restored, that used to belong to Garcia Florez.
A beautiful holiday
Choosing Pontevedra as a holiday destination is a wonderful idea for anyone because it is sure that there are a lot of sightseeing places and many relaxing things to do, so take advantage of it!!!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa tossa, villa holiday spain and villas begur are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Places To Visit In Aragon
About Aragon
Aragon is the northeastern province of Spain that presents a great diversity of beautiful sights: high, snowy peaks belonging to the Pyrrenees, valleys full of green grass, lonely sierras and arid plains that stretch to the meseta (the central plain). The vast zone that occupies 10% of Spain’s territory hosts a rich assortment of works of art from Roman and Moorish times, and even from the Middle Ages. The region is extremely beautiful and would be one of the best holiday destinations you have ever chosen.
Albarracin
Albarracin is the most spectacular city in lower Aragon, situated in the arid region of Sierra de Albarracin, dominated by the Guadalaviar river. Albarracin has been designated a National Monument and the restoration has been carefully developed. If you visit Albarracin, you’ll have the opportunity to see the ramparts built by the Moors in the 10th century. They can be seen from miles away. In the centre of the city, wooden houses with red balconies fill the streets. You must visit the Cathedral, built in Renaissance style; its museum hosts Flemish tapestries and beautiful liturgical objects.
Anso
One of the most beautiful cities in the Pyrrenees is situated in a splendid region, an isolated one, just 7 kilometers away from the Navarra border. This isolation has led to the appearance of a separate dialect and culture. You’ll find more on the subject if you visit the small Etnologico Museum.
Sos del Rey Catolico
This city with a special name is defended by gates with cannons; the name comes from the fact that the city is the birthplace of King Fernando de Aragon. Sos is located in the harsh region of Sierra de la Pena and can easily be visited starting from the Monasterio de Leyne (Leyne Monastery). Sos was, in the Middle Ages, a fortress that was protecting against the possible invasions from Navarra. Here you can still visit the ruins of the castle and, right under them, the Sant Esteban Church. Inside the church your eyes will be delighted by the Capilla del Pilar (old Renaissance style), the crypt and the special decorations on the walls. In Sos you can also admire the beautiful Renaissance buildings: Palacio de los Sada where King Fernando was born and the harmonious residencies connected by arched vaults. I am sure that you will love the region, so consider choosing it as a holiday destination!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas benissa, villa rental spain and villa begur are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Aragon is the northeastern province of Spain that presents a great diversity of beautiful sights: high, snowy peaks belonging to the Pyrrenees, valleys full of green grass, lonely sierras and arid plains that stretch to the meseta (the central plain). The vast zone that occupies 10% of Spain’s territory hosts a rich assortment of works of art from Roman and Moorish times, and even from the Middle Ages. The region is extremely beautiful and would be one of the best holiday destinations you have ever chosen.
Albarracin
Albarracin is the most spectacular city in lower Aragon, situated in the arid region of Sierra de Albarracin, dominated by the Guadalaviar river. Albarracin has been designated a National Monument and the restoration has been carefully developed. If you visit Albarracin, you’ll have the opportunity to see the ramparts built by the Moors in the 10th century. They can be seen from miles away. In the centre of the city, wooden houses with red balconies fill the streets. You must visit the Cathedral, built in Renaissance style; its museum hosts Flemish tapestries and beautiful liturgical objects.
Anso
One of the most beautiful cities in the Pyrrenees is situated in a splendid region, an isolated one, just 7 kilometers away from the Navarra border. This isolation has led to the appearance of a separate dialect and culture. You’ll find more on the subject if you visit the small Etnologico Museum.
Sos del Rey Catolico
This city with a special name is defended by gates with cannons; the name comes from the fact that the city is the birthplace of King Fernando de Aragon. Sos is located in the harsh region of Sierra de la Pena and can easily be visited starting from the Monasterio de Leyne (Leyne Monastery). Sos was, in the Middle Ages, a fortress that was protecting against the possible invasions from Navarra. Here you can still visit the ruins of the castle and, right under them, the Sant Esteban Church. Inside the church your eyes will be delighted by the Capilla del Pilar (old Renaissance style), the crypt and the special decorations on the walls. In Sos you can also admire the beautiful Renaissance buildings: Palacio de los Sada where King Fernando was born and the harmonious residencies connected by arched vaults. I am sure that you will love the region, so consider choosing it as a holiday destination!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas benissa, villa rental spain and villa begur are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Places For Winter Sports In Spain
Although it is known best for its high temperatures and its long hot summers, Spain can also be proud about its many places to go skiing. This country has many different ski trails, with lots of attractions regarding this sport. The snow is amazing and the trails are prepared and in very good condition in order to offer you a wonderful winter holiday.
The Pyrenees, a magnificent destination
We all know that the most important mountain chain in Spain is the chain of the Pyrenees. What we know less is perhaps the fact that among these spectacular mountain ridges are a lot of well equipped ski trails. The Pyrenees are a very attractive destination for tourists from all over the world, and it has very populated resorts. As a first destination, you may choose „Estacion Invernal de Baquiera Beret” where you can enjoy a lot of winter activities located in „Valle de Aran”. If you decide to go to „Pirineo Aragones”, you will also find many possibilities to have fun, starting with the mountain resorts of „Astun”, „Candanchu”en Jaca, and continuing with „Formigal” or „Panticosa” in Lerida. These resorts are good destinations for those who love to practice snowboard since there are also trails for this entertaining sport.
Sierra Nevada
In southern Spain, the wonderful winter destination of Sierra Nevada should be mentioned; it is the highest mountain resort of all of southern Europe, and therefore of southern Spain. In this area, there are also numerous possibilities: „Veleta”, ”Laguna de las Yeguas”, „Parador”, „Monachil”, “Loma Dilar” or „Parque de Nieve Sulayr” will assure you a holiday full of fun moments and, at the same time, it will give you a portion of andrenaline to last you for the rest of the year. Located two hours away from Costa del Sol, Sierra Nevada has always been a curiosity for tourists all over the world because you can go skiing or snowboarding in the morning,for example, and for the rest of the day, you may choose to take a sunbath in this sea resort that is Costa del Sol.
Spain, a recommended winter destination
With all these suggestions and ideas, you should enjoy your stay in Spain in the cold season. If you don’t have the proper equipment for this type of sports, don’t worry; you can rent it in every resort just mentioned!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa benissa, rent villas in spain and villas estartit are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
The Pyrenees, a magnificent destination
We all know that the most important mountain chain in Spain is the chain of the Pyrenees. What we know less is perhaps the fact that among these spectacular mountain ridges are a lot of well equipped ski trails. The Pyrenees are a very attractive destination for tourists from all over the world, and it has very populated resorts. As a first destination, you may choose „Estacion Invernal de Baquiera Beret” where you can enjoy a lot of winter activities located in „Valle de Aran”. If you decide to go to „Pirineo Aragones”, you will also find many possibilities to have fun, starting with the mountain resorts of „Astun”, „Candanchu”en Jaca, and continuing with „Formigal” or „Panticosa” in Lerida. These resorts are good destinations for those who love to practice snowboard since there are also trails for this entertaining sport.
Sierra Nevada
In southern Spain, the wonderful winter destination of Sierra Nevada should be mentioned; it is the highest mountain resort of all of southern Europe, and therefore of southern Spain. In this area, there are also numerous possibilities: „Veleta”, ”Laguna de las Yeguas”, „Parador”, „Monachil”, “Loma Dilar” or „Parque de Nieve Sulayr” will assure you a holiday full of fun moments and, at the same time, it will give you a portion of andrenaline to last you for the rest of the year. Located two hours away from Costa del Sol, Sierra Nevada has always been a curiosity for tourists all over the world because you can go skiing or snowboarding in the morning,for example, and for the rest of the day, you may choose to take a sunbath in this sea resort that is Costa del Sol.
Spain, a recommended winter destination
With all these suggestions and ideas, you should enjoy your stay in Spain in the cold season. If you don’t have the proper equipment for this type of sports, don’t worry; you can rent it in every resort just mentioned!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa benissa, rent villas in spain and villas estartit are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
A Holiday In Cordoba
Why Cordoba?
Situated just off the tourist route between Sierra Morena, in the north, and the agricultural plains of Campina, in the south, there is something special about Cordoba. A myriad of souvenir shops surrounds Mezquita and if you enter the winding alleys you will be on the side streets that will lead you into the true Andalusian spirit. Having a population of only 300,000 people, Cordoba is a small city; it used to be the capital of Roman and Moorish Spain. The vestiges of these two cultures can still be seen in Cordoba. Cordoba has to endure suffocating summer days; this is why tourists will find lots of shady patios, real paradises on earth where they can cool off and have a relaxing, quality time.
The history
Cordoba was built in 169 BC by the Romans, but it reached its peak in 756 when the Muslims took over the city. 756 is the year when Abd ar Rahman named Cordoba the capital of Moorish Spain. Until the year 929, when Abd ar Rahman the 3rd proclaimed himself caliph, Cordoba had been the envy of all of Europe. Almost a thousand mosques, six hundred public baths, public street lighting and a famous university were the pride of the city. The decilne started with the harsh rule of Al Mansur. Cordoba is now a city where you can easily find your way; however, the old Jewish district, juderia, is still a place where you can get lost. The city extends radially from the Guadalquivir River towards the maze of the juderia. The eastern district of the city is worth visiting because its simple houses have hosted many toreadors and flamenco artists over time.
Having fun
Although the city is very hot in the summer, tourists can enjoy the wonderful patios where the locals organize long flamenco nights. The flamenco night is the perfect opportunity for tourists to penetrate the passionate tradition and culture of this wonderful country: Spain. If you are an art lover, visit all the districts, because they will provide nice surprises to your eye: special buildings, each having its distinct architectural characteristics, legacies of the two cultures that once occupied Cordoba: the Romans and the Moors. Last but not least, since you are there, choose a villa for accommodation. Some of the owners offer food services, so you will have the opportunity to taste the traditional local dishes.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa calonge, spanish villas and villa estartit are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Situated just off the tourist route between Sierra Morena, in the north, and the agricultural plains of Campina, in the south, there is something special about Cordoba. A myriad of souvenir shops surrounds Mezquita and if you enter the winding alleys you will be on the side streets that will lead you into the true Andalusian spirit. Having a population of only 300,000 people, Cordoba is a small city; it used to be the capital of Roman and Moorish Spain. The vestiges of these two cultures can still be seen in Cordoba. Cordoba has to endure suffocating summer days; this is why tourists will find lots of shady patios, real paradises on earth where they can cool off and have a relaxing, quality time.
The history
Cordoba was built in 169 BC by the Romans, but it reached its peak in 756 when the Muslims took over the city. 756 is the year when Abd ar Rahman named Cordoba the capital of Moorish Spain. Until the year 929, when Abd ar Rahman the 3rd proclaimed himself caliph, Cordoba had been the envy of all of Europe. Almost a thousand mosques, six hundred public baths, public street lighting and a famous university were the pride of the city. The decilne started with the harsh rule of Al Mansur. Cordoba is now a city where you can easily find your way; however, the old Jewish district, juderia, is still a place where you can get lost. The city extends radially from the Guadalquivir River towards the maze of the juderia. The eastern district of the city is worth visiting because its simple houses have hosted many toreadors and flamenco artists over time.
Having fun
Although the city is very hot in the summer, tourists can enjoy the wonderful patios where the locals organize long flamenco nights. The flamenco night is the perfect opportunity for tourists to penetrate the passionate tradition and culture of this wonderful country: Spain. If you are an art lover, visit all the districts, because they will provide nice surprises to your eye: special buildings, each having its distinct architectural characteristics, legacies of the two cultures that once occupied Cordoba: the Romans and the Moors. Last but not least, since you are there, choose a villa for accommodation. Some of the owners offer food services, so you will have the opportunity to taste the traditional local dishes.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa calonge, spanish villas and villa estartit are few of best options. And you can also read my article on Dan Cortese articles & also read my bookmark on Dan Cortese Bookmarks.
Spain’s Popular Culture
Apart from the natural and manmade structures that appeal to many people visiting Spain, the country’s culture plays a role in the attraction as well. It is always a nice thing to learn a few cultural and customary values of a country you are visiting. By doing so, you will be familiar with the ongoing activities around you and you will also enjoy, what the locals there treasure and enjoy doing.
Flamenco
This is a Spanish art that is very genuine. It involves the art of dance Baile, song Cante and the art of guitar playing Guitarra. These shows are held very often in the different cities of Spain and attract quite a large number of people who love the performances. The fathers of Flamenco are the gypsies, who contributed largely to the creation of this art. Andalusia’s popular dances and songs also influenced the art in its initiation stages.
The different cultures that dominated Spain and the different epochs of history were other influences, which gave rise to Flamenco. Legendary occupations, such as the Tartessos and the Muslim left their traces, which are represented in the exciting shows.
Bullfighting
Bull fights in Spain have been a big attraction to the locals, visitors and even calls for attention from neighboring European countries. The shows are held in specific bullfighting rings and begin with the people involved entering and introducing themselves to the anxious public.
After permission is granted by the presidency, the bulls are released into the ring and the showdown begins. This is a very dangerous game that can end up with the bullfighter being torn by the dangerous horns of the bull. Only trained professionals get involved in the exciting but dangerous game, though sometimes they too have accidents.
The fight can be quite spectacle and there is a festival mainly and is dedicated to a famous American writer who loved bullfights. This festival attracts a large number of tourists annually and serves as a Spanish culture.
These two activities are among the most treasured cultures in Spain and which hold great importance to the Spaniards. Exploration brings about knowledge and therefore, the two cultures should be considered, on any tour to Spain. You may end up enjoying more than you thought you could.
Spain is indeed a place with great wonderful things, which is why it’s the second most visited country of the world. It has a little bit of everything and something for everyone.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villa, luxury villa pollensa and villas pals are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Flamenco
This is a Spanish art that is very genuine. It involves the art of dance Baile, song Cante and the art of guitar playing Guitarra. These shows are held very often in the different cities of Spain and attract quite a large number of people who love the performances. The fathers of Flamenco are the gypsies, who contributed largely to the creation of this art. Andalusia’s popular dances and songs also influenced the art in its initiation stages.
The different cultures that dominated Spain and the different epochs of history were other influences, which gave rise to Flamenco. Legendary occupations, such as the Tartessos and the Muslim left their traces, which are represented in the exciting shows.
Bullfighting
Bull fights in Spain have been a big attraction to the locals, visitors and even calls for attention from neighboring European countries. The shows are held in specific bullfighting rings and begin with the people involved entering and introducing themselves to the anxious public.
After permission is granted by the presidency, the bulls are released into the ring and the showdown begins. This is a very dangerous game that can end up with the bullfighter being torn by the dangerous horns of the bull. Only trained professionals get involved in the exciting but dangerous game, though sometimes they too have accidents.
The fight can be quite spectacle and there is a festival mainly and is dedicated to a famous American writer who loved bullfights. This festival attracts a large number of tourists annually and serves as a Spanish culture.
These two activities are among the most treasured cultures in Spain and which hold great importance to the Spaniards. Exploration brings about knowledge and therefore, the two cultures should be considered, on any tour to Spain. You may end up enjoying more than you thought you could.
Spain is indeed a place with great wonderful things, which is why it’s the second most visited country of the world. It has a little bit of everything and something for everyone.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villa, luxury villa pollensa and villas pals are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Castles In Castilla And Leon
The history of Spain is full of important events that have marked Spanish people’s life for decades. It is a very old history, and dates back to the time when their ancestors crossed the Strait of Gibraltar for the first time, coming from Africa.
HISTORICAL CIRCUMSTANCES
The old Castilla is simply overrun with castles. There are more than 600 such constructions. Fortified settlements were bulit upon the Roman military outposts. The Moors built these castles in order to defend their court against the Christians from Austria. Once the reconquest was underway, the noble Christians rebulit them and used them as a base to reject the Moors to the south. Others were used as ground; about 90 castles have survived until today in Castilla and Leon.
CASTLES IN THIS REGION
The Castle of Coca is probably considered the greatest building of the brick castles, with poligonal towers that rise majestically over the plains, only 30 miles from Segovia. It was built in 1453, in gothic style for Alfonso de Fonseca, an archbishop from Sevilla; after a while, it was given to the Marquis of Ayala, and in the end was the property of the Duke of Alba (the castle still belongs to these families, and is now used as a school). Located up in the fortress, the Castle of Cuellar (mid XVth century), made many people desire it. Its initial owner, Juan the Second, left it as an inheritance to his daughter, Isabel, but it was soon conquered by her brother-in-law, Enriwue the IVth. In the castle you can now see a huge collection of antique weapons. The Castle of Mota is one of the biggest castles in Castilla and Leon, with castellated walls and a dungeon in the highest tower. The construction of the castle was begun in the XIIIth century by the Moors, and it was finished in the XVth century by Fernando and Isabel de Aragon. Nowadays, it is used as a prison; Caesar Borgis was one of its prisoners. The austere Castle Pedraza of Sierra was built between the XIVth and the XVIth centuries. It is one of the most beautiful castles in this area. It was the property of the counts of Castilla, Fernando de Velasco’s family. The actual owners are the descendants of Ignacio Zuloga, and some of this painter’s works are exposed here. These castles are only a very few and an insignificant number of the beautiful moments you can visit in Castilla and Leon. The place is full of history, and expects thousands of tourists every year.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option vacation rentals spain, villa in pollensa and villa pals are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
HISTORICAL CIRCUMSTANCES
The old Castilla is simply overrun with castles. There are more than 600 such constructions. Fortified settlements were bulit upon the Roman military outposts. The Moors built these castles in order to defend their court against the Christians from Austria. Once the reconquest was underway, the noble Christians rebulit them and used them as a base to reject the Moors to the south. Others were used as ground; about 90 castles have survived until today in Castilla and Leon.
CASTLES IN THIS REGION
The Castle of Coca is probably considered the greatest building of the brick castles, with poligonal towers that rise majestically over the plains, only 30 miles from Segovia. It was built in 1453, in gothic style for Alfonso de Fonseca, an archbishop from Sevilla; after a while, it was given to the Marquis of Ayala, and in the end was the property of the Duke of Alba (the castle still belongs to these families, and is now used as a school). Located up in the fortress, the Castle of Cuellar (mid XVth century), made many people desire it. Its initial owner, Juan the Second, left it as an inheritance to his daughter, Isabel, but it was soon conquered by her brother-in-law, Enriwue the IVth. In the castle you can now see a huge collection of antique weapons. The Castle of Mota is one of the biggest castles in Castilla and Leon, with castellated walls and a dungeon in the highest tower. The construction of the castle was begun in the XIIIth century by the Moors, and it was finished in the XVth century by Fernando and Isabel de Aragon. Nowadays, it is used as a prison; Caesar Borgis was one of its prisoners. The austere Castle Pedraza of Sierra was built between the XIVth and the XVIth centuries. It is one of the most beautiful castles in this area. It was the property of the counts of Castilla, Fernando de Velasco’s family. The actual owners are the descendants of Ignacio Zuloga, and some of this painter’s works are exposed here. These castles are only a very few and an insignificant number of the beautiful moments you can visit in Castilla and Leon. The place is full of history, and expects thousands of tourists every year.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option vacation rentals spain, villa in pollensa and villa pals are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Spain- Caceres
ITS LOCATION IN SPAIN
Caceres is located in Extremadura. It is the city of storks, where the large nests are part of the old city. In spring and summer, the white storks nest on the tower, chimneys and TV antennas. You can meet these beautiful birds everywhere in Castilla de la Mancha and Extremadura. Caceres shows its noble past in a district surrounded by huge walls, where the facade chevrons, the seaworthy towers, the arcades and the crooked cobbled streets create an inimitable atmosphere. The only shortcoming is that nowadays the historical centre is almost empty. As you can see, there are many places to visit while in Caceres.
THE DOWNTOWN AND ITS BEAUTIES
To really enjoy your stay in this region of Spain, you must explore the downtown with its attractive environment , which revolves around a large „Plaza Mayor”, dominated by the Town Hall, where the stairs lead you to the original Moorish walls. At the „Arco de la Estrela”, a huge arch built by Manuel Lara de Churriguiera in the XVIIIth Century , you can enter „Torre de Bujaco” to see the exhibition about the town’s history, and, once you are informed, you can climb the battlements to admire the wonderful city. Then enter the heart of the venerable old district, „Plaza de Santa Maria” .Enter the „Santa Maria Cathedral” to admire the Gothic arches and the Renaissance details. Just behind stands the „Palacio de Carvajal”, the local tourist office. Enter the beautiful yard and visit the garden behind : take my advice, do not forget to admire the Moorish tower with its fragments of frescoes from the XVIth century. Next to this cathedral are three Renaissance mansions: Palacio de Hernando de Ovando, Palacio de M
oyoralgo and Palacio Episcopal. Another construction type can be seen while admiring the Jesuit church „San Francisco Javier”. Painted all in white, it was built in the XVIIIth century and has some nice photography exhibitions. „Plaza de Valeta”, „Museo de Caceres”, and San Mateo” Churches are other places full of history; this may be a good way of spending time while you are on holiday.
HOW TO END YOUR VISIT
To conclude, before you leave the „Plaza Mayor ” in Caceres, take a look at the „Torre de los Plata”, the ivy dressed tower behind the „San Mateo” Church and then go down Calle Ancha until you get to the „parador”. It’s an ideal place to have dinner or to stop and drink something, in an environment relating to what you have just visited.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option holiday villas spain, villas majorca pollensa and villas calella are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Caceres is located in Extremadura. It is the city of storks, where the large nests are part of the old city. In spring and summer, the white storks nest on the tower, chimneys and TV antennas. You can meet these beautiful birds everywhere in Castilla de la Mancha and Extremadura. Caceres shows its noble past in a district surrounded by huge walls, where the facade chevrons, the seaworthy towers, the arcades and the crooked cobbled streets create an inimitable atmosphere. The only shortcoming is that nowadays the historical centre is almost empty. As you can see, there are many places to visit while in Caceres.
THE DOWNTOWN AND ITS BEAUTIES
To really enjoy your stay in this region of Spain, you must explore the downtown with its attractive environment , which revolves around a large „Plaza Mayor”, dominated by the Town Hall, where the stairs lead you to the original Moorish walls. At the „Arco de la Estrela”, a huge arch built by Manuel Lara de Churriguiera in the XVIIIth Century , you can enter „Torre de Bujaco” to see the exhibition about the town’s history, and, once you are informed, you can climb the battlements to admire the wonderful city. Then enter the heart of the venerable old district, „Plaza de Santa Maria” .Enter the „Santa Maria Cathedral” to admire the Gothic arches and the Renaissance details. Just behind stands the „Palacio de Carvajal”, the local tourist office. Enter the beautiful yard and visit the garden behind : take my advice, do not forget to admire the Moorish tower with its fragments of frescoes from the XVIth century. Next to this cathedral are three Renaissance mansions: Palacio de Hernando de Ovando, Palacio de M
oyoralgo and Palacio Episcopal. Another construction type can be seen while admiring the Jesuit church „San Francisco Javier”. Painted all in white, it was built in the XVIIIth century and has some nice photography exhibitions. „Plaza de Valeta”, „Museo de Caceres”, and San Mateo” Churches are other places full of history; this may be a good way of spending time while you are on holiday.
HOW TO END YOUR VISIT
To conclude, before you leave the „Plaza Mayor ” in Caceres, take a look at the „Torre de los Plata”, the ivy dressed tower behind the „San Mateo” Church and then go down Calle Ancha until you get to the „parador”. It’s an ideal place to have dinner or to stop and drink something, in an environment relating to what you have just visited.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option holiday villas spain, villas majorca pollensa and villas calella are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
A Car Ride Through The Pueblos Blancos
Nature and Simple Beauty
An original holiday idea would be a car ride through the pueblos blancos. The pueblos blancos are the famous white villages situated in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. The beauty of the villages is very simple, pure, and combined with the beauty of the nature that surrounds them, will give tourists a breathtaking image of one of the most amazing regions of Spain. The ride will take you from the eastern part of the park to its western part, the place where you will find the most attractive village - Ronda.
Getting on an Unbelievable Journey
The journey starts with Arcos de la Frontera. The village represents the western point of entrance into the region. Arcos de la Frontera is a typical Roman village, with narrow and winding streets. Driving on these streets is an art, so it would be better to take your time and walk to the main square. The main square is the focal point of Arcos de la Frontera, the place where you can admire the Santa Maria Church, a beautiful Gothic Mudejar construction, decorated with a few Plateresque details. The church has a balcony from where tourists can admire the idylic view of the orchards and the olive groves. Arcos de la Frontera has a few more important things to offer as well: the Moorish walls of Castillo de los Duques, and the numerous Baroque and Renaissance facades.
Leave Arcos de la Frontera for El Bosque, a small village crouched at the foot of the mountains. The landscape is spectacular here. The village has just a few coffee shops and a rustic mill, but it is the center point for hikings, trekking, trout fishing, and paragliding in the area. The village also hosts the touristic center of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park.
Right after El Bosque comes Benamahoma. The road to the village will make you think you are in paradise: it climbs up through pine and eucalyptus forests, on a limestone ground. You can make a stop in the Puerto del Boyar passing, because you have a wonderful viewpoint here: the granite peak of Monte Simancon. The winding road will take you to Grazalema and from there, through Zahara, you will finally get to Ronda.
Accommodations
Since you have experienced the simplicity and the pure beauty of the region, you shoudn’y spoil it by choosing modern hotels for your accommodations. Choose villas: they are very picturesque, they offer wonderful accommodation conditions and they are very private. Here sre some suggestions: El Santiscal, Chiva or Gaucin.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villas spain, villas puerto pollensa and villa calella are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
An original holiday idea would be a car ride through the pueblos blancos. The pueblos blancos are the famous white villages situated in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park. The beauty of the villages is very simple, pure, and combined with the beauty of the nature that surrounds them, will give tourists a breathtaking image of one of the most amazing regions of Spain. The ride will take you from the eastern part of the park to its western part, the place where you will find the most attractive village - Ronda.
Getting on an Unbelievable Journey
The journey starts with Arcos de la Frontera. The village represents the western point of entrance into the region. Arcos de la Frontera is a typical Roman village, with narrow and winding streets. Driving on these streets is an art, so it would be better to take your time and walk to the main square. The main square is the focal point of Arcos de la Frontera, the place where you can admire the Santa Maria Church, a beautiful Gothic Mudejar construction, decorated with a few Plateresque details. The church has a balcony from where tourists can admire the idylic view of the orchards and the olive groves. Arcos de la Frontera has a few more important things to offer as well: the Moorish walls of Castillo de los Duques, and the numerous Baroque and Renaissance facades.
Leave Arcos de la Frontera for El Bosque, a small village crouched at the foot of the mountains. The landscape is spectacular here. The village has just a few coffee shops and a rustic mill, but it is the center point for hikings, trekking, trout fishing, and paragliding in the area. The village also hosts the touristic center of Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park.
Right after El Bosque comes Benamahoma. The road to the village will make you think you are in paradise: it climbs up through pine and eucalyptus forests, on a limestone ground. You can make a stop in the Puerto del Boyar passing, because you have a wonderful viewpoint here: the granite peak of Monte Simancon. The winding road will take you to Grazalema and from there, through Zahara, you will finally get to Ronda.
Accommodations
Since you have experienced the simplicity and the pure beauty of the region, you shoudn’y spoil it by choosing modern hotels for your accommodations. Choose villas: they are very picturesque, they offer wonderful accommodation conditions and they are very private. Here sre some suggestions: El Santiscal, Chiva or Gaucin.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villas spain, villas puerto pollensa and villa calella are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Less Known Places In Spain
Beautiful Cities
You probably know that Spain is a very popular country. Millions of tourists are attracted by it every year, so deciding to explore and discover it are two of the reasons why they go to Spain. The charm, the uniqueness, and the beauty are the features that characterize this terrain so blessed by Gods from many points of view. Bullfighting, flamenco, delicious cuisine, imposing architecture, they all form the group of attractions that drive people towards Spain. Although many things are known about the country, there are a few that not anyone knows about, and it is a pity.
These are some hidden parts of the country, parts that always impress the tourists when discovered by them. A lot of cities are less known by people, but are so beautiful that it is a loss not to visit them. The mudejar cities are some of them: Daroca, Tarazona, Teruel. They are special because they are very representative for the mudejar architectural style, the style that combines Moorish architecture with Roman architecture; two different cultures that had a great impact upon the territory of Spain. The ”pueblos blancos,” the villages in which white dominates the landscape, the views, everything, are also very inviting. Their appearance is special, you won’t find another place in the world that looks like the pueblos blancos.
Rural Spain
The cities are not the only places where tourists can go when they visit Spain. These cities are connected by what is known as rural Spain; landscapes that contain mountains, valleys, long beaches along the coasts of the seas that bathe the Spanish shore, high hills dominated by the color of blood, infinite olive groves, and fruits orchards. They form a color palette that will invite you to spend more time in these places. You will love the country, with everything that it has to offer.
A Country For Any Taste
Whether you are an active person who loves to travel, who loves the life that wakes at night; or a more calm one, who prefers the silence and the tranquility that you can experience in a Spanish museum or the one in a natural park, you will find a place to love in this country. Families, friends, and lovers all enjoy the experience they have when visiting this place. Just try it and you will dream about going back there, at least one more time.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in spain, villa pollensa and villa tossa de mar are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
You probably know that Spain is a very popular country. Millions of tourists are attracted by it every year, so deciding to explore and discover it are two of the reasons why they go to Spain. The charm, the uniqueness, and the beauty are the features that characterize this terrain so blessed by Gods from many points of view. Bullfighting, flamenco, delicious cuisine, imposing architecture, they all form the group of attractions that drive people towards Spain. Although many things are known about the country, there are a few that not anyone knows about, and it is a pity.
These are some hidden parts of the country, parts that always impress the tourists when discovered by them. A lot of cities are less known by people, but are so beautiful that it is a loss not to visit them. The mudejar cities are some of them: Daroca, Tarazona, Teruel. They are special because they are very representative for the mudejar architectural style, the style that combines Moorish architecture with Roman architecture; two different cultures that had a great impact upon the territory of Spain. The ”pueblos blancos,” the villages in which white dominates the landscape, the views, everything, are also very inviting. Their appearance is special, you won’t find another place in the world that looks like the pueblos blancos.
Rural Spain
The cities are not the only places where tourists can go when they visit Spain. These cities are connected by what is known as rural Spain; landscapes that contain mountains, valleys, long beaches along the coasts of the seas that bathe the Spanish shore, high hills dominated by the color of blood, infinite olive groves, and fruits orchards. They form a color palette that will invite you to spend more time in these places. You will love the country, with everything that it has to offer.
A Country For Any Taste
Whether you are an active person who loves to travel, who loves the life that wakes at night; or a more calm one, who prefers the silence and the tranquility that you can experience in a Spanish museum or the one in a natural park, you will find a place to love in this country. Families, friends, and lovers all enjoy the experience they have when visiting this place. Just try it and you will dream about going back there, at least one more time.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa in spain, villa pollensa and villa tossa de mar are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Places Of Interest in Spain- Menorca
Far exceeded by the evident attractions of the Mallorca or Ibitza Islands, this is a more quiet and peaceful place consisting of about 702 square kilometers; however, it is slowly gaining popularity. Declared a biosphere reserve, it has a slightly hilly landscape. A long history of occupations by numerous series of invaders, and almost a whole century of British domination have endowed this island with a special atmosphere and a different cuisine. Here you can try African kouskous with British puddings, and also visit Mao, the place where French mayonnaise was made for the first time.
A great holiday destination
Mao, the capital of this wonderful island, can be found at 5 kilometers into the interior; it is one of the few Mediterranean ports. Life here spins around its many restaurants and coffee shops in „Plaza del Ejercito”; the shops are concentrated on the streets here, but also may be found in „Plaza de Espana”. The old houses bear signs of British occupation between 1713 and 1802. In the town called Es Castell, 3 kilometers further, Fort Marlborought offers you an image of old times. Even more memorable are the 500 megalithic monuments, scattered all over Menorca Island. There are three main types: talayots (conical mounds of stone), taules (constructions with the shape of the letter „T” )and navetes (high gutters that look like a boat). These monuments date from the second millennium BC and used to be altars or funerary monuments.
Two impressive places
On Menorca island there are two impressive places, that bring tourists to visit them annually. The first is the habitat in Trepuc, with a taul high of about 5 meters, located immediately at the exit of the island’s capital. The second important place is Naveta des Tudons, located at 5 kilometers from Ciutadella. Naveta des Tudons is the old capital of Menorca, an absolutely charming town.
The beach in Menorca
The beaches on the North coast of the island have reddish sand and pebbles. The South beaches, that attract the most tourists, have a finer sand. Although the south is more populated in terms of beaches, you still may enjoy a bit of solitude at „Son Saura”or „Cala Mitjana” .
A small inconvenience
The only disadvantage of this beautiful island is the wind, so prepare for it. Take appropriate clothing because the wind blows frequently and forcefully on this Spanish island. Enjoy all these beauty and have a nice holiday in Menorca!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa costa brava, villas rent moraira and villa in denia are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
A great holiday destination
Mao, the capital of this wonderful island, can be found at 5 kilometers into the interior; it is one of the few Mediterranean ports. Life here spins around its many restaurants and coffee shops in „Plaza del Ejercito”; the shops are concentrated on the streets here, but also may be found in „Plaza de Espana”. The old houses bear signs of British occupation between 1713 and 1802. In the town called Es Castell, 3 kilometers further, Fort Marlborought offers you an image of old times. Even more memorable are the 500 megalithic monuments, scattered all over Menorca Island. There are three main types: talayots (conical mounds of stone), taules (constructions with the shape of the letter „T” )and navetes (high gutters that look like a boat). These monuments date from the second millennium BC and used to be altars or funerary monuments.
Two impressive places
On Menorca island there are two impressive places, that bring tourists to visit them annually. The first is the habitat in Trepuc, with a taul high of about 5 meters, located immediately at the exit of the island’s capital. The second important place is Naveta des Tudons, located at 5 kilometers from Ciutadella. Naveta des Tudons is the old capital of Menorca, an absolutely charming town.
The beach in Menorca
The beaches on the North coast of the island have reddish sand and pebbles. The South beaches, that attract the most tourists, have a finer sand. Although the south is more populated in terms of beaches, you still may enjoy a bit of solitude at „Son Saura”or „Cala Mitjana” .
A small inconvenience
The only disadvantage of this beautiful island is the wind, so prepare for it. Take appropriate clothing because the wind blows frequently and forcefully on this Spanish island. Enjoy all these beauty and have a nice holiday in Menorca!
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Spain- Logrono
LA RIOJA is one of the most popular regions in Spain, the area situated on the Iberian peninsula. With its locations full of history, the prosperous capital of the region of Rioja is Logrono. Located next to the river, it is neither the most picturesque town, nor the oldest one, but it compensates these aspects through its dynamism and friendly attitude, and also with the fact that it may easily be considered the capital of „tapas”. Crossing the centre of the town, the modern artery „Gran Via” separates the new part of the town from the old . It is an artery opened for pedestrians too, so you can enjoy the views whether you are a driver or not.
WHAT CAN BE ADMIRED IN LOGRONO
Right next to the access road to „Puente de Hierro”, you will find the oldest church in Logrono, „Santiago el Real”, that was initially a Gothic construction, but was rebuilt in the XIVth century. Look above the main portral and you will see the statue of Saint Jacob riding a horse and slaughtering the Moors. In front of this statue stands a fountain of pilgrims, dating back to the XVth century; in the church there is a sanctuary built in the Renaissance style. The cathedral in Logrono, Santa Maria de la Redonda, is just a few steps further. The twin towers, in Baroque style, whose peaks are inhabited by nesting storks, may be seen from the coffe shop that is right in front of the cathedral. The third church that deserves to be visited is „Santa Maria del Palacio”, noticed above all because of its high towers in pyramidal shape. To the west, the „Museo de la Rioja” exposes religious art and pictures from the XIXth and XXth centuries. Nobody should leave Logrono without visiting the „Mercado San Blas”, a squae built in art deco style, full of the most beautiful and glamourous things from La Rioja, and you can try the restaurants where you can taste the best tapas in the world.
FUN IN LOGRONO?
The grape harvest festival in Logrono takes place in the second half of September, with the bullfights so specific to Spain, parades, folk songs and long parties with tapas. Enjoy your stay here, dance, smile and communicate with the warm soul of the latins in Spain. You wil definitely have a wonderful experience.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas costa blanca, villa in moraira and villas in denia are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
WHAT CAN BE ADMIRED IN LOGRONO
Right next to the access road to „Puente de Hierro”, you will find the oldest church in Logrono, „Santiago el Real”, that was initially a Gothic construction, but was rebuilt in the XIVth century. Look above the main portral and you will see the statue of Saint Jacob riding a horse and slaughtering the Moors. In front of this statue stands a fountain of pilgrims, dating back to the XVth century; in the church there is a sanctuary built in the Renaissance style. The cathedral in Logrono, Santa Maria de la Redonda, is just a few steps further. The twin towers, in Baroque style, whose peaks are inhabited by nesting storks, may be seen from the coffe shop that is right in front of the cathedral. The third church that deserves to be visited is „Santa Maria del Palacio”, noticed above all because of its high towers in pyramidal shape. To the west, the „Museo de la Rioja” exposes religious art and pictures from the XIXth and XXth centuries. Nobody should leave Logrono without visiting the „Mercado San Blas”, a squae built in art deco style, full of the most beautiful and glamourous things from La Rioja, and you can try the restaurants where you can taste the best tapas in the world.
FUN IN LOGRONO?
The grape harvest festival in Logrono takes place in the second half of September, with the bullfights so specific to Spain, parades, folk songs and long parties with tapas. Enjoy your stay here, dance, smile and communicate with the warm soul of the latins in Spain. You wil definitely have a wonderful experience.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas costa blanca, villa in moraira and villas in denia are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Jerez De La Frontera
The characteristic features of a small city
Jerez de la Frontera is a lively small city resembling Sevilla; it is, in fact, just 100 kilometers to the north of Sevilla. Even though in many respects it resembles the older brother, Jerez de la Frontera has its typical features that show its uniqueness. These features are the sherry, the flamenco and the horses. In Jerez de la Frontera you’ll find no less than nine sherry bodegas opened to visit, and the Royal Andalusia Equestrian Art School famous around the world for its horse shows; but you will also find the two gipsy districts, San Miguel and Buleria. These are the districts that carry on the traditions of the legendary Lola Flores, the famous flamenco dancer, who was born in Jerez.
Around Jerez de la Frontera
These are the features that differentiate Jerez de la Frontera from other Spanish cities, but the city also has an impressive Alcazar surrounded by old walls, with a well kept mosque, beautifully restored baths and shady gardens. Alcazar is a neighbor to the Baroque Villavicencia Palace, where you can climb into an obscure chamber; the chamber offers a perfect view over the landscape and the city. The Palacio Atalaya hosts a clock museum, Museo de Rejoles, where 302 clocks dating back to the XVIIth and the XIXth centuries beat simultaneously at noon. The pedestrian centre has many beautiful Baroque houses and old, but very interesting churches. The Cathedral is an excellent combination of Baroque styles. The Centro Andaluz de Flamenco is both a flamenco school and a museum where tourists can watch videos of former flamenco stars. The horses and the bulls are part of the landscape of the city; you can even visit the museum dedicated to bulls: Museo Taurino.
Having fun
Andalusia is very proud of its sherry. In Jerez de la Frontera, just as in Sevilla, at the entrance of every bar, there is a barrel of sherry. Out of the nine bodegas in Jerez de la Frontera, Bodega Gonzales Byass is the most famous one. Situated near Alcazar, this bodega is the place where you can admire a construction conceived by Gustav Eiffel, as well as numerous barrels signed by great personalities such as Orson Welles, Winston Churchill, General Franco, Steven Spielberg and the entire Spanish Royal Family. As you can imagine, Jerez de la Frontera is one of the many beautiful places in Spain where you can spend a pleasant holiday.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas in spain, villas in moraira and villas denia are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Jerez de la Frontera is a lively small city resembling Sevilla; it is, in fact, just 100 kilometers to the north of Sevilla. Even though in many respects it resembles the older brother, Jerez de la Frontera has its typical features that show its uniqueness. These features are the sherry, the flamenco and the horses. In Jerez de la Frontera you’ll find no less than nine sherry bodegas opened to visit, and the Royal Andalusia Equestrian Art School famous around the world for its horse shows; but you will also find the two gipsy districts, San Miguel and Buleria. These are the districts that carry on the traditions of the legendary Lola Flores, the famous flamenco dancer, who was born in Jerez.
Around Jerez de la Frontera
These are the features that differentiate Jerez de la Frontera from other Spanish cities, but the city also has an impressive Alcazar surrounded by old walls, with a well kept mosque, beautifully restored baths and shady gardens. Alcazar is a neighbor to the Baroque Villavicencia Palace, where you can climb into an obscure chamber; the chamber offers a perfect view over the landscape and the city. The Palacio Atalaya hosts a clock museum, Museo de Rejoles, where 302 clocks dating back to the XVIIth and the XIXth centuries beat simultaneously at noon. The pedestrian centre has many beautiful Baroque houses and old, but very interesting churches. The Cathedral is an excellent combination of Baroque styles. The Centro Andaluz de Flamenco is both a flamenco school and a museum where tourists can watch videos of former flamenco stars. The horses and the bulls are part of the landscape of the city; you can even visit the museum dedicated to bulls: Museo Taurino.
Having fun
Andalusia is very proud of its sherry. In Jerez de la Frontera, just as in Sevilla, at the entrance of every bar, there is a barrel of sherry. Out of the nine bodegas in Jerez de la Frontera, Bodega Gonzales Byass is the most famous one. Situated near Alcazar, this bodega is the place where you can admire a construction conceived by Gustav Eiffel, as well as numerous barrels signed by great personalities such as Orson Welles, Winston Churchill, General Franco, Steven Spielberg and the entire Spanish Royal Family. As you can imagine, Jerez de la Frontera is one of the many beautiful places in Spain where you can spend a pleasant holiday.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas in spain, villas in moraira and villas denia are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Granada: A Beautiful City
Granada, A Different Experience
If you want to see the real influence that the Muslims had upon some regions of Spain, then go to Granada. The Alhambra Palace and its gardens represent the apogee of the Muslim architecture.
Sightseeing in Granada
The center of Granada is one place worth visiting. Gran Via de Colon is the artery that crosses the center of Granada from one part to the other. The artery is packed with beautiful monuments, exquisite examples of different architectural styles: Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance and even Mudejar. The heart of the city is represented by the Plaza de Isabel la Catolica, a square that hosts in the center of it, an imposing Cathedral. The square is surrounded by other monuments: museums, other cathedrals, and many sculptures. The impressive Cathedral dominates the south-western corner of Granada. Its most important part is the Capilla Real.
The Catholic kings of Spain wanted Capilla Real to be the place that hosts their graves. It resulted a beautiful buiding in an Isabelian Gothic style, generous enough for its royal guests. The beautiful graves of Fernando and Isabela belong to the architect Domenico Fancelli. The cathedral has been built on the exact place where the Great Mosque used to be. From the Cathedral, go to the Monasterio de San Jeronimo.
The Monastery is a Renaissance jewel, that stands out with a beautiful gallery, the work of Diego de Siloe, the Cathedral’s architect. Your next stop should be the La Cartuja Monastery, the biggest Baroque monument in Granada. The monastery has generous ornaments: gold, marble, venitian mirrors, mural paintings, they all decorate the monastery. If you want to turn your attention to the Spanish literature and poetry, visit the former vacation house of Federico Gracia Lorca. The house has been transformed into a museum where you can see some of his works, the original pieces of furniture, paintings made by some of hise friends, like Salvador Dali, and lost of photographs.
Alhambra
You need a lot of time and energy in order to visit Granada’s biggest attractions: the Alhambra Palace. The splendor is visible from any part of the city; its walls and its towers dominate the entire view of the city. On the alley of its gardens you will find a private place where you can meditate about the past of this fantastic country. Enjoy Granada, and enjoy this wonderful country.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas spain, villas moraira and villa denia are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
If you want to see the real influence that the Muslims had upon some regions of Spain, then go to Granada. The Alhambra Palace and its gardens represent the apogee of the Muslim architecture.
Sightseeing in Granada
The center of Granada is one place worth visiting. Gran Via de Colon is the artery that crosses the center of Granada from one part to the other. The artery is packed with beautiful monuments, exquisite examples of different architectural styles: Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance and even Mudejar. The heart of the city is represented by the Plaza de Isabel la Catolica, a square that hosts in the center of it, an imposing Cathedral. The square is surrounded by other monuments: museums, other cathedrals, and many sculptures. The impressive Cathedral dominates the south-western corner of Granada. Its most important part is the Capilla Real.
The Catholic kings of Spain wanted Capilla Real to be the place that hosts their graves. It resulted a beautiful buiding in an Isabelian Gothic style, generous enough for its royal guests. The beautiful graves of Fernando and Isabela belong to the architect Domenico Fancelli. The cathedral has been built on the exact place where the Great Mosque used to be. From the Cathedral, go to the Monasterio de San Jeronimo.
The Monastery is a Renaissance jewel, that stands out with a beautiful gallery, the work of Diego de Siloe, the Cathedral’s architect. Your next stop should be the La Cartuja Monastery, the biggest Baroque monument in Granada. The monastery has generous ornaments: gold, marble, venitian mirrors, mural paintings, they all decorate the monastery. If you want to turn your attention to the Spanish literature and poetry, visit the former vacation house of Federico Gracia Lorca. The house has been transformed into a museum where you can see some of his works, the original pieces of furniture, paintings made by some of hise friends, like Salvador Dali, and lost of photographs.
Alhambra
You need a lot of time and energy in order to visit Granada’s biggest attractions: the Alhambra Palace. The splendor is visible from any part of the city; its walls and its towers dominate the entire view of the city. On the alley of its gardens you will find a private place where you can meditate about the past of this fantastic country. Enjoy Granada, and enjoy this wonderful country.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas spain, villas moraira and villa denia are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
Spain – the Perfect Holiday Destination
The world’s second country to receive thousands of tourists happens to be Spain. Foreigners come to have some time alone, to have fun or to relax; they find this country very beautiful and appealing. This is because Spain has everything you would wish for in a tour or vacation, which is meant to bring you some happiness and joy.
There are numerous beautiful and relaxing beaches whose climatic conditions are friendly. Most people come to the beaches to bask in the wonderful sun as they enjoy some interesting water sports. Some of the beaches have spas and resorts that make anybody’s stay here very enjoyable. Apart from all this, there are boats docking here offering cruises to the Mediterranean Sea or the Atlantic Ocean, depending on which side of Spain you are.
Water sports, such as scuba diving and surfing, are magical in the crystalline waters. Some islands have contrasting mountains in their vicinity some of which are snowy and perfect for skiing. You will also have a chance to visit some famous museums without having to leave your beach of choice.
Those looking for some time alone can find just that in lonely coves and bays on some of the Spanish islands. In short, you will find whatever you are looking for when in Spain. If you are not much of a beach person, you can consider choosing to visit cities displaying great historic monuments and art galleries. Most of the monuments are in the form of churches, cathedrals and even museums. Historic remains from the different epochs are scattered all over Spain; you just have to decide which ones you prefer to visit.
Spain also has magical rivers and valleys. There are natural parks and reserves, as well as botanical gardens. All of these have much to offer to anybody visiting the country. There are parks containing rare species of birds and plants. It is also very interesting to see wild animals in their natural, undisturbed grounds in the natural parks.
Amazingly, there are volcanoes that are still active to date in Spain and you can take the opportunity to get near them. Others that have long been inactive have museums built in them and restaurants that are just exquisite.
To conclude, Spain is the perfect holiday destination that will have you coming back again and again. There is a lot to do and a lot to see in Spain, give it a try and see for yourself.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas costa brava, villa lloret and villas calonge are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
There are numerous beautiful and relaxing beaches whose climatic conditions are friendly. Most people come to the beaches to bask in the wonderful sun as they enjoy some interesting water sports. Some of the beaches have spas and resorts that make anybody’s stay here very enjoyable. Apart from all this, there are boats docking here offering cruises to the Mediterranean Sea or the Atlantic Ocean, depending on which side of Spain you are.
Water sports, such as scuba diving and surfing, are magical in the crystalline waters. Some islands have contrasting mountains in their vicinity some of which are snowy and perfect for skiing. You will also have a chance to visit some famous museums without having to leave your beach of choice.
Those looking for some time alone can find just that in lonely coves and bays on some of the Spanish islands. In short, you will find whatever you are looking for when in Spain. If you are not much of a beach person, you can consider choosing to visit cities displaying great historic monuments and art galleries. Most of the monuments are in the form of churches, cathedrals and even museums. Historic remains from the different epochs are scattered all over Spain; you just have to decide which ones you prefer to visit.
Spain also has magical rivers and valleys. There are natural parks and reserves, as well as botanical gardens. All of these have much to offer to anybody visiting the country. There are parks containing rare species of birds and plants. It is also very interesting to see wild animals in their natural, undisturbed grounds in the natural parks.
Amazingly, there are volcanoes that are still active to date in Spain and you can take the opportunity to get near them. Others that have long been inactive have museums built in them and restaurants that are just exquisite.
To conclude, Spain is the perfect holiday destination that will have you coming back again and again. There is a lot to do and a lot to see in Spain, give it a try and see for yourself.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas costa brava, villa lloret and villas calonge are few of best options. And you can also read my other bookmarks on Dan Cortese Bookmarks & also read my other blog on Dan Cortese Blog.
The Spanish Treat
It is very healthy and normal for a human being to have the urge of taking a break to unwind and relax. There are times when we all feel lazy and worn out and just need some peace and quietness. These are the desperate times, which leave you feeling a great need to get away and change environment, to experience new things and explore new grounds. This is where taking holidays and vacations come in.
There are those who chose to visit African countries, others would rather go to the American side of the world, while other prefer Europe or Asian countries. These preferences are greatly influenced by the amount of knowledge one has about the country of destination, or the different stories he or she has heard about the country. The historical value of the country also matters a lot.
Spain happens to be one of the most visited countries of the world, because of its wonderful nature. Its great attractions do not only appeal to foreigners, but to Spaniards themselves as well. This country is largely dominated by monuments and museums of great value. There are also art galleries spread across the country, some of which contain the works of the world famed artist Pablo Picasso. Such kind of galleries, museums and monuments representing great personalities including the famous explorer Christopher Columbus, call all kinds of people from all over the world.
Natural parks and reserves are great sites to behold in Spain. It is also home to numerous rivers and beautiful mountain ranges and landscapes that can take anyone’s breath away. The splendid natural occurrences are a real attraction and have streams of people coming into the country to have contact with nature at its best.
Another major attraction of this country is the wondrous beautiful islands full of beaches. Spain has been blessed with both the Mediterranean Sea coast and the Atlantic Ocean coast, which have numerous islands and beaches. The climatic conditions of these islands differ to suit everybody’s taste and preference, making them quite attractive to many. There are also bays and ports to complete the beautiful outlook of the islands.
Here, you will get to enjoy the Spanish cuisine and exciting sports, such as kayaking, skiing on the snowy mountains and other very exciting and relaxing sports, as you learn a little about the history of the country.
There is no greater place to spend your holiday than Spain; it has something for everyone and every time.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa costa blanca, villa moraira and calpe villas to rent are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other blog on Dan cortese blog.
There are those who chose to visit African countries, others would rather go to the American side of the world, while other prefer Europe or Asian countries. These preferences are greatly influenced by the amount of knowledge one has about the country of destination, or the different stories he or she has heard about the country. The historical value of the country also matters a lot.
Spain happens to be one of the most visited countries of the world, because of its wonderful nature. Its great attractions do not only appeal to foreigners, but to Spaniards themselves as well. This country is largely dominated by monuments and museums of great value. There are also art galleries spread across the country, some of which contain the works of the world famed artist Pablo Picasso. Such kind of galleries, museums and monuments representing great personalities including the famous explorer Christopher Columbus, call all kinds of people from all over the world.
Natural parks and reserves are great sites to behold in Spain. It is also home to numerous rivers and beautiful mountain ranges and landscapes that can take anyone’s breath away. The splendid natural occurrences are a real attraction and have streams of people coming into the country to have contact with nature at its best.
Another major attraction of this country is the wondrous beautiful islands full of beaches. Spain has been blessed with both the Mediterranean Sea coast and the Atlantic Ocean coast, which have numerous islands and beaches. The climatic conditions of these islands differ to suit everybody’s taste and preference, making them quite attractive to many. There are also bays and ports to complete the beautiful outlook of the islands.
Here, you will get to enjoy the Spanish cuisine and exciting sports, such as kayaking, skiing on the snowy mountains and other very exciting and relaxing sports, as you learn a little about the history of the country.
There is no greater place to spend your holiday than Spain; it has something for everyone and every time.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa costa blanca, villa moraira and calpe villas to rent are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other blog on Dan cortese blog.
Spanish Paradise
Spain can only be described as a wondrous beautiful country that is really favored by nature. It has a bunch of interesting beautiful things that attract people from all over the world, just to behold the magnificent site. It is no wonder that this is a hot region for tourists.
Among the things that attract thousands of foreigners to this country are the romantic beautiful beaches. Honeymooners find the country so beautiful suiting they getaway moments and making them memorable. People, who want to soul search and take some personal time off from their jobs, families or the daily hustles of life, will find it very relaxing in the Spanish beaches, which are natural paradises.
Formentera Island
This island is one of the many, which compose the Balearic group of islands. It occupies 90 square kilometers from Ibiza’s coast on the south east. The inhabitants of this area number 5200 and amaze people with their hospitality and friendliness.
What makes this island quite a paradise is the fact that, you can view the sea from any point and the numerous beautiful beaches, grottos and lonely bays it has. The lonely bays especially are great spots to sit and think without much activity going on around you.
The climate is very friendly, as it has springtime temperatures almost throughout the year. People who love sun bathing will find this place perfect. Pines and palms vegetations complete the beautiful landscapes with a relaxed quiet ambience that is truly wonderful.
Things to see
Apart from the beautiful beaches, you should make a point of visiting the town hall and the villages found here. The only port here is at La Savina, which is a village with very interesting typical houses that are white washed. The island’s narrowest part is Las Salinas, whose unique landscape beauty is amazing.
Formentera also has a fortified church surrounded by white beautiful houses, as San Francisco Javier. This will give you a true touch of Spanish typical culture. Visiting beaches such as Playa de Tramuntana and En Baster is recommendable to add a spice into your relaxation endeavor. On the western side of Formetera there are virgin landscapes that have never been touched or tampered by human activities and here you will find a beautiful beach Cala Saona.
There is no other better place to spend your holidays, than being on the beautiful sandy beaches found on Spain’s magnificent islands.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas to rent in spain, rent villa javea and villa in calpe are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmark.
Among the things that attract thousands of foreigners to this country are the romantic beautiful beaches. Honeymooners find the country so beautiful suiting they getaway moments and making them memorable. People, who want to soul search and take some personal time off from their jobs, families or the daily hustles of life, will find it very relaxing in the Spanish beaches, which are natural paradises.
Formentera Island
This island is one of the many, which compose the Balearic group of islands. It occupies 90 square kilometers from Ibiza’s coast on the south east. The inhabitants of this area number 5200 and amaze people with their hospitality and friendliness.
What makes this island quite a paradise is the fact that, you can view the sea from any point and the numerous beautiful beaches, grottos and lonely bays it has. The lonely bays especially are great spots to sit and think without much activity going on around you.
The climate is very friendly, as it has springtime temperatures almost throughout the year. People who love sun bathing will find this place perfect. Pines and palms vegetations complete the beautiful landscapes with a relaxed quiet ambience that is truly wonderful.
Things to see
Apart from the beautiful beaches, you should make a point of visiting the town hall and the villages found here. The only port here is at La Savina, which is a village with very interesting typical houses that are white washed. The island’s narrowest part is Las Salinas, whose unique landscape beauty is amazing.
Formentera also has a fortified church surrounded by white beautiful houses, as San Francisco Javier. This will give you a true touch of Spanish typical culture. Visiting beaches such as Playa de Tramuntana and En Baster is recommendable to add a spice into your relaxation endeavor. On the western side of Formetera there are virgin landscapes that have never been touched or tampered by human activities and here you will find a beautiful beach Cala Saona.
There is no other better place to spend your holidays, than being on the beautiful sandy beaches found on Spain’s magnificent islands.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas to rent in spain, rent villa javea and villa in calpe are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmark.
Cultural Town of Cordoba in Spain
Once an important capital in the whole of Europe in the 11th century, Cordoba is still as surprising and impressive as it was years ago. This town has a mix of cultures: Christians, Muslims and Jews used to live peacefully here. It was home to different philosophers, artists, and scientists making it of great importance.
The famous Moorish mosque Mesquita happens to be one of the most interesting aspects you will find during your visit. This mosque has gained world fame and people come from all the corners of the world to see it. It also has a museum that is very interesting. Cordoba is also famous because of the bullfighting and Flamenco Andalusia traditions. This makes it a very hot tourist destination on Spain’s Southern side.
What to see in Cordoba
When in this town, you cannot afford to miss taking a look at the great Mosque and Cathedral found here. This monument occupies a large portion of land and happened to be the world’s third biggest. This beautiful monument is Spain’s most beautiful original building.
The Archiepiscopal Palais preserves the Gothic epoch and holds the great historical value of the Taifas. The Roman Bridge Puente Romano has a monument that completes its beauty. This monument, San Rafael, is situated at the bridge’s centre.
Cordoba has an Archaeological Museum inside a Renaissance palace that is a must to visit. It has treasures of Roman and Arabic origin that are really amazing. There is also a Museum of Arts in this town which contains a sculpture and painting collection. Art lovers will be mesmerized by the works exhibited here.
Another museum worth visiting is the Museum of Julio Romero de Torres. This particular museum is a dedication to Julio the painter who did the famous picture, Woman from Cordoba. The Palace of Viana museum has porcelains, tapestries, ceramics, paintings and furniture that are quite extraordinary. This museum also has beautiful gardens completing its wondrous look.
Plaza de las Tendillas and Plaza de la Corredera, which are famous for the guitar sounding clock and bullfights respectively, are worth checking out to add spice to your tour. Cordoba is also home to Roman ruins that are of great historical value. These include Torre de la Malmuerta Tower and a Roman Temple.
The above are some of the things that attract tourists to this region and are worth visiting even by first timers. Apart from enjoying your time here, you will also learn a lot about Spain’s history.
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The famous Moorish mosque Mesquita happens to be one of the most interesting aspects you will find during your visit. This mosque has gained world fame and people come from all the corners of the world to see it. It also has a museum that is very interesting. Cordoba is also famous because of the bullfighting and Flamenco Andalusia traditions. This makes it a very hot tourist destination on Spain’s Southern side.
What to see in Cordoba
When in this town, you cannot afford to miss taking a look at the great Mosque and Cathedral found here. This monument occupies a large portion of land and happened to be the world’s third biggest. This beautiful monument is Spain’s most beautiful original building.
The Archiepiscopal Palais preserves the Gothic epoch and holds the great historical value of the Taifas. The Roman Bridge Puente Romano has a monument that completes its beauty. This monument, San Rafael, is situated at the bridge’s centre.
Cordoba has an Archaeological Museum inside a Renaissance palace that is a must to visit. It has treasures of Roman and Arabic origin that are really amazing. There is also a Museum of Arts in this town which contains a sculpture and painting collection. Art lovers will be mesmerized by the works exhibited here.
Another museum worth visiting is the Museum of Julio Romero de Torres. This particular museum is a dedication to Julio the painter who did the famous picture, Woman from Cordoba. The Palace of Viana museum has porcelains, tapestries, ceramics, paintings and furniture that are quite extraordinary. This museum also has beautiful gardens completing its wondrous look.
Plaza de las Tendillas and Plaza de la Corredera, which are famous for the guitar sounding clock and bullfights respectively, are worth checking out to add spice to your tour. Cordoba is also home to Roman ruins that are of great historical value. These include Torre de la Malmuerta Tower and a Roman Temple.
The above are some of the things that attract tourists to this region and are worth visiting even by first timers. Apart from enjoying your time here, you will also learn a lot about Spain’s history.
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Barcelona- The Amazing City
THE PERFECT HOLIDAY
Barcelona is the city of Spain that bathes in history, culture, and art; a memorable city that will make you love it. The city came into the attention of people from all around the world with the Olympic games in 1992. The city fought to keep its culture and tradition alive and it seems like it has succeeded - until now.
A RELAXING WALK IN BARRI GOTHIC
The first thing you have to do while in Barcelone is visit Barri Gotic. Barri Gotic is the oldest quarter of the city. The alleys of the quarter are tight and winding, but that is their charm. Important monuments such as the Cathedral and the medieval palace tell the tourist the history of the century.
LA RIBERA AND EL BORN
If you liked the Gothic quarter , you will definetly love the neighbour quarter. La Ribera has been, si nce the Middle Ages, a residential quarter . You will find here the Picasso Museum, which might not host the most impressive art collections in the world, but it surely hosts some of the most representative ones. The Gothic Palaces Berenguer de Aguilar and Baron de Catellet also host a few art galleries. El Born is also known as the fashion maze. The fashion shops are numerous, but so are the tapas restaurants that attract tourists.
LA RAMBLA
The La Rambla part of the city is very animated. You need a lot of time and energy to explore it from one side to the other. You will find here an interesting combination of styles in architecture, but a very inspired one. Visit here the Contemporary Art Museum, the Palau de la Virreina, built in a Baroque and Rococo style, the Santa Monica Monastery and the Reial Plaza.
THE PORT
Barcelona is a city that has a beautiful exit to the sea. The port is one of the most visited areas of the city. You’ ll find here the biggest medieval naval shipyard in the world, the Maritim Museum and the History of Catalunya Museum. Between the main port and the Vila Olimpica lies the Barceloneta, a network of streets that represented, in the 18th century. This is the quarter where sailors used to spend their free time. This part of the city is also the place where you will find the IMAX Theatre; a popular attraction, especially among young tourists. Enjoy your stay ! Barcelona is really worth visiting!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa holiday spain, villa rental javea and villas calpe are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmark.
Barcelona is the city of Spain that bathes in history, culture, and art; a memorable city that will make you love it. The city came into the attention of people from all around the world with the Olympic games in 1992. The city fought to keep its culture and tradition alive and it seems like it has succeeded - until now.
A RELAXING WALK IN BARRI GOTHIC
The first thing you have to do while in Barcelone is visit Barri Gotic. Barri Gotic is the oldest quarter of the city. The alleys of the quarter are tight and winding, but that is their charm. Important monuments such as the Cathedral and the medieval palace tell the tourist the history of the century.
LA RIBERA AND EL BORN
If you liked the Gothic quarter , you will definetly love the neighbour quarter. La Ribera has been, si nce the Middle Ages, a residential quarter . You will find here the Picasso Museum, which might not host the most impressive art collections in the world, but it surely hosts some of the most representative ones. The Gothic Palaces Berenguer de Aguilar and Baron de Catellet also host a few art galleries. El Born is also known as the fashion maze. The fashion shops are numerous, but so are the tapas restaurants that attract tourists.
LA RAMBLA
The La Rambla part of the city is very animated. You need a lot of time and energy to explore it from one side to the other. You will find here an interesting combination of styles in architecture, but a very inspired one. Visit here the Contemporary Art Museum, the Palau de la Virreina, built in a Baroque and Rococo style, the Santa Monica Monastery and the Reial Plaza.
THE PORT
Barcelona is a city that has a beautiful exit to the sea. The port is one of the most visited areas of the city. You’ ll find here the biggest medieval naval shipyard in the world, the Maritim Museum and the History of Catalunya Museum. Between the main port and the Vila Olimpica lies the Barceloneta, a network of streets that represented, in the 18th century. This is the quarter where sailors used to spend their free time. This part of the city is also the place where you will find the IMAX Theatre; a popular attraction, especially among young tourists. Enjoy your stay ! Barcelona is really worth visiting!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa holiday spain, villa rental javea and villas calpe are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmark.
Asturia And Cantabria
TWO BEAUTIFUL REGIONS
Asturia and Cantabria are two regions squeezed between some of the highest peaks of Spain and the Cantabrian Sea. The regions, if gone through by car, will offer the tourists amazing landscapes of green valleys, abrupt peaks and winding roads. If you choose to visit this part of Spain, you will be taken into a journey that leads you back to the Paleolithic Era (the Stone Era), from about 12,000 years ago when the region was occupied for the first time.
PLACES TO VISIT IN ASTURIA AND CANTABRIA
Oviedo should be the first place you visit while in Asturia. When you first go to Oviedo, you wont’t consider it one of the most seducing cities in Spain. However , the capital of Asturia is the oldest Christian city in Spain, amd its citizens make the cider pour every night in the ”sidrerias” situated in the old town.
LOS OSCOS is the perfect place to visit if you want to escape of the unbeliaveble dryness from the other parts in Spain. The town is situated between the mountains, in a valley from where tourists can see the rich landscapes, the rivers and the waterfalls. Los Oscos is a place where you will find good food, powerful traditions and welcoming people. The rural tourism dominates the region, offering the tourists the possibility to hike, horse ride or fish for trout. Costa Verde borders Asturia, from Rio Eo to the border with Galicia. Characteristic for Costa Verde are the discreet resorts, the fisher’s village and the sandy beaches. Santillana Del Mar (the Saint Next To The Sea) is neither a saint place, nor situated next to the sea, but it is a place with a 1,200 years history, a harmonious and unique architectural assembly. Picos De Europa is the place where you will find idylic pastures that lead you to breathtaking high peaks. If you are here, you should know that you are situated in a national park and you
will have to share your space with the bears, the black goats, the tuskers and the wolves.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Visiting Asturia and Cantabria requires a lot of time and energy. Accommodation is not a problem. You will find enough villas in these remote areas, villas that offer wonderful conditions, spectacular viewes and the opportunity to taste the delicious local cuisine prepared by the owners of the villas; real home-made traditional cuisine.
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Spanish Countryside
Something new on the block
Holidays are perfect occasions to relax and have some quality time to spend with your family and friends. Tourism agencies are full of offers and have found something new as a holiday opportunity: visiting the countryside. Spain is one of the countries with the most beautiful countryside in the whole world. Lush gardens, exquisite beaches with delicate sand and imposing mountains are part of the package.
What should one choose?
One can choose the Andalucian countryside which is very cool and tranquil and rich in culture and history. Hacienda De San Rafael is set right in the heart of the Andalucian countryside, offering the possibility to explore its richness and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
Montserrat can be another perfect countryside destination, especially for those who enjoy pilgrimages. Driving through very picturesque villages will take you to the Royal Basilica of Montserrat, a Romanesque church built in honor of the lady whose image was found carved in the cave: Lady of Montserrat. If you are a fan of spectacular beaches, Nerja Frigiliana is the right place for you. Here you have a remarkably beautiful view of nature from the terrace and can also enjoy the coquette white villages situated along the seashore. The prehistoric caves in the region are also worth visiting and accommodation should not be a problem as the villagers are very welcoming and tourists can easily find cheap, but very elegant villas.
Spain can also offer a jeep safari for those who love adventure. Tourists can enjoy the routes around Menorca, driving on rough terrain in charming rural areas. There is also the opportunity to explore the surroundings on foot. Last but not the least, Valencia is the perfect place to visit the romantic vineyard areas famous for the cava wine they produce; here you can also taste delicious oranges picked with your own hands.
The advantages
A countryside holiday in Spain has numerous advantages: it has been described by the tourists who have already experienced it as the most pleasant holiday they have ever had. In addition to that, the views are spectacular, worth seeing more than once in a lifetime. The accommodation is very accessible for any type of tourists because besides the numerous luxurious hotels, they can choose villas which are cheaper than hotels, very private and elegant. Doesn’t it sound tempting? Buckle up and enjoy the experience that only Spain can offer!!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villas in spain, villas lloret de mar and mallorca villas rent are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmark.
Holidays are perfect occasions to relax and have some quality time to spend with your family and friends. Tourism agencies are full of offers and have found something new as a holiday opportunity: visiting the countryside. Spain is one of the countries with the most beautiful countryside in the whole world. Lush gardens, exquisite beaches with delicate sand and imposing mountains are part of the package.
What should one choose?
One can choose the Andalucian countryside which is very cool and tranquil and rich in culture and history. Hacienda De San Rafael is set right in the heart of the Andalucian countryside, offering the possibility to explore its richness and enjoy the breathtaking surroundings.
Montserrat can be another perfect countryside destination, especially for those who enjoy pilgrimages. Driving through very picturesque villages will take you to the Royal Basilica of Montserrat, a Romanesque church built in honor of the lady whose image was found carved in the cave: Lady of Montserrat. If you are a fan of spectacular beaches, Nerja Frigiliana is the right place for you. Here you have a remarkably beautiful view of nature from the terrace and can also enjoy the coquette white villages situated along the seashore. The prehistoric caves in the region are also worth visiting and accommodation should not be a problem as the villagers are very welcoming and tourists can easily find cheap, but very elegant villas.
Spain can also offer a jeep safari for those who love adventure. Tourists can enjoy the routes around Menorca, driving on rough terrain in charming rural areas. There is also the opportunity to explore the surroundings on foot. Last but not the least, Valencia is the perfect place to visit the romantic vineyard areas famous for the cava wine they produce; here you can also taste delicious oranges picked with your own hands.
The advantages
A countryside holiday in Spain has numerous advantages: it has been described by the tourists who have already experienced it as the most pleasant holiday they have ever had. In addition to that, the views are spectacular, worth seeing more than once in a lifetime. The accommodation is very accessible for any type of tourists because besides the numerous luxurious hotels, they can choose villas which are cheaper than hotels, very private and elegant. Doesn’t it sound tempting? Buckle up and enjoy the experience that only Spain can offer!!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villas in spain, villas lloret de mar and mallorca villas rent are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmark.
Places of tourist interest in Spain – Zaragoza
A part of the Aragon province, Zaragoza traces its history to the Roman period. According to historians, a tribe called Iberians was living in Zaragoza which was just a village then. Now this tiny village has grown into a tourist centre with many historical buildings and is one of the moderately populated cities of Spain. The city has a semi arid climate and temperature touches 40 degree centigrade during summer. However, the city has all the amenities to beat the heat of the summer and to make the tour memorable. Now let us go round the city of Zaragoza:
Cathedral La Seo:
Every tourist makes it a point to visit this beautiful Cathedral which is the best example of typical Gothic architecture. Interestingly, part of the cathedral also reflects Romanic, Arab and Renaissance architecture. This suggests that additions have been made to the cathedral in later years. According to historical records, the cathedral has been built during the years 1119 to 1520. The interior of the cathedral is richly decorated. The museum which is a part of the cathedral has in its possession some priceless works of painting by some of the most renowned painters and artists of Spain like Fransisco Gova and Fransico Bavea. The towers of the cathedral are luxuriously illuminated which presents a most spectacular view during night time.
Moorish Palace:
The best example of Moorish architecture, the palace is believed to have been built by Arab Sultans in the 11th century. Historical records also mention that King Ferdinand installed one of the most fabulous thrones in this palace. The palace has an inner court yard, pools, mosque and fountains. The palace is popular for its interlocking arches. This beautifully designed palace is luxuriously decorated.
Basilica de Nuestra Senora del pilar:
Located on the banks of River Ebro, this Basilica has been built in the 16th century. The Basilica is one of the most important religious destinations for many people visiting Zaragoza. A tiny but immaculately beautiful statue of Virgin Mary has been installed in this Basilica. The legend says that Virgin Mary stood on a pillar while she was appearing before St James while giving instructions for building a church. In fact, the Basilica takes its name from the pillar on which Virgin Mary stood. The interior of the Basilica has some of the rarest works of art and artifacts. The annual festival of Basilica is held on October 12 and it attracts large number of tourists from far and wide.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villas, villa lloret de mar and rent villa mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other blog on Dan cortese blog.
Cathedral La Seo:
Every tourist makes it a point to visit this beautiful Cathedral which is the best example of typical Gothic architecture. Interestingly, part of the cathedral also reflects Romanic, Arab and Renaissance architecture. This suggests that additions have been made to the cathedral in later years. According to historical records, the cathedral has been built during the years 1119 to 1520. The interior of the cathedral is richly decorated. The museum which is a part of the cathedral has in its possession some priceless works of painting by some of the most renowned painters and artists of Spain like Fransisco Gova and Fransico Bavea. The towers of the cathedral are luxuriously illuminated which presents a most spectacular view during night time.
Moorish Palace:
The best example of Moorish architecture, the palace is believed to have been built by Arab Sultans in the 11th century. Historical records also mention that King Ferdinand installed one of the most fabulous thrones in this palace. The palace has an inner court yard, pools, mosque and fountains. The palace is popular for its interlocking arches. This beautifully designed palace is luxuriously decorated.
Basilica de Nuestra Senora del pilar:
Located on the banks of River Ebro, this Basilica has been built in the 16th century. The Basilica is one of the most important religious destinations for many people visiting Zaragoza. A tiny but immaculately beautiful statue of Virgin Mary has been installed in this Basilica. The legend says that Virgin Mary stood on a pillar while she was appearing before St James while giving instructions for building a church. In fact, the Basilica takes its name from the pillar on which Virgin Mary stood. The interior of the Basilica has some of the rarest works of art and artifacts. The annual festival of Basilica is held on October 12 and it attracts large number of tourists from far and wide.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villas, villa lloret de mar and rent villa mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other blog on Dan cortese blog.
Malaga- a holiday destination
Why Malaga?
One should choose Malaga as a holiday destination as it is one of the most beautiful provinces in Andalucia, considered by some as the heart of the region. Lying on the Costa del Sol next to the Mediterranean Sea, Malaga is bathed in a subtropical climate which makes it enjoy the warmest winters in Europe, with temperatures of 20 degrees Celsius in December or March. Malaga is a strange mixture of different cultures but an utterly pleasant one; this is due to the rule of Muslims who were followed by the Christians, around 1487.
Main sights
There are lots of things to do as a tourist in Malaga. You can take advantage of the warm, tender sun on the beach or if you are a more active person, you can practice sports like parasailing, riding on jet skies or windsurfing. This is what one can do when going to the beach, but the mountains are also very close. Hiking or climbing can be very invigorating, not to mention the outstanding landscapes that tourists can enjoy while exploring the cones of the mountains in Malaga. The town has a spectacular historic center, where you can visit the oldest remains belonging to the Roman theatre dating back to the 1st century BC. The Malaga Cathedral constructed in 1528 is a combination of baroque, renaissance and neoclassic elements which make it an attraction for tourists. La Alcazaba is a Roman fortress that also attracts the interest of tourists, an impressive construction that was used for defense. The Arab monument makes you feel like stepping into another world once you visit it.
Accommodation
Malaga is a luxurious yet cheap holiday destination. Comfortable accommodation is affordable in hotels but most of all in villas. Periana is the perfect choice for those who love nature as it is surrounded on three sides by mountains. Cala san Vicente can be the perfect choice for families with an easy access to the beach, the shops and the restaurants. San Pedro de Alcantara offers luxurious apartments situated in the middle of a valley rich in gardens. Prices in villas are not as high as in hotels and the facilities are similar, if not superior. One can choose from a long list according to their interests and expectations as the offer is rich. Malaga can be the perfect holiday destination for a honeymoon, for a family vacation or a vacation spent in the company of friends.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villas, villa lloret de mar and rent villa mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmarks.
One should choose Malaga as a holiday destination as it is one of the most beautiful provinces in Andalucia, considered by some as the heart of the region. Lying on the Costa del Sol next to the Mediterranean Sea, Malaga is bathed in a subtropical climate which makes it enjoy the warmest winters in Europe, with temperatures of 20 degrees Celsius in December or March. Malaga is a strange mixture of different cultures but an utterly pleasant one; this is due to the rule of Muslims who were followed by the Christians, around 1487.
Main sights
There are lots of things to do as a tourist in Malaga. You can take advantage of the warm, tender sun on the beach or if you are a more active person, you can practice sports like parasailing, riding on jet skies or windsurfing. This is what one can do when going to the beach, but the mountains are also very close. Hiking or climbing can be very invigorating, not to mention the outstanding landscapes that tourists can enjoy while exploring the cones of the mountains in Malaga. The town has a spectacular historic center, where you can visit the oldest remains belonging to the Roman theatre dating back to the 1st century BC. The Malaga Cathedral constructed in 1528 is a combination of baroque, renaissance and neoclassic elements which make it an attraction for tourists. La Alcazaba is a Roman fortress that also attracts the interest of tourists, an impressive construction that was used for defense. The Arab monument makes you feel like stepping into another world once you visit it.
Accommodation
Malaga is a luxurious yet cheap holiday destination. Comfortable accommodation is affordable in hotels but most of all in villas. Periana is the perfect choice for those who love nature as it is surrounded on three sides by mountains. Cala san Vicente can be the perfect choice for families with an easy access to the beach, the shops and the restaurants. San Pedro de Alcantara offers luxurious apartments situated in the middle of a valley rich in gardens. Prices in villas are not as high as in hotels and the facilities are similar, if not superior. One can choose from a long list according to their interests and expectations as the offer is rich. Malaga can be the perfect holiday destination for a honeymoon, for a family vacation or a vacation spent in the company of friends.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villas, villa lloret de mar and rent villa mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmarks.
Bilbao For Everyone
Why Bilbao?
Tourists from all around the world visit Spain, attracted by its beauty. The cities are rich in architectural and cultural heritages, the sea is warm, the beaches are delicate, the high mountains offer the possibility to practice winter games for those who love them; and as for the landscapes - they are breathtaking. In this earthly paradise lies Bilbao. Bilbao is at the heart of a one million person metropolis, the centre of the Bay of Biscay. It is situated in a very special region, being surrounded by mountains and forests on one side, and the sea and its coasts on the other side.
In Bilbao One Can…
First of all, visit the city. Discover it step by step, and try not to lose any piece, any corner; it is absolutely fantastic. Seven hundred years of history lie in Bilbao so take advantage of it. One of the main attractions is the spectacular Guggenheim Museum. The building covered with titanium panels hosts one of the most impressive collections of modern, contemporary art. The Fine Arts Museum is another main attraction in Bilbao. It hosts three galleries: the old art (El Greco, Goya), the contemporary art (Gauguin) and the Basque art. The list of museums in Bilbao continues with the Basque Museum, the Diocesan Museum of Religious Art, and the Maritime Museum. There is even the Bullfighting Museum (very typical for Spain).
Once you are done with the museums, go to the Santiago Cathedral, a place for peace. It is a Gothic church, built by the Jacobeans. The shows, the cultural activities in Bilbao, are directed towards adults, but this doesn’t mean that if you have children you can’t go there. They can be entertained by the shows especially created for them all year round: musicals, theatre, the three week festival in August that charms them with the parades, the fireworks, the circus, the Christmas Children’s Park that is open throughout December; they all are available in Bilbao. In addition, at just a 50 minute drive away from Bilbao, the Karbin Abentura theme park is a very special place for children. It has animated dinosaur recreations, exhibitions, and restaurants. It is a place for both fun and education.
Villas in Bilbao
When you go to Bilbao, you should try staying in a villa. Albergue Residencia and Villa de Bilbao are two of the best choices in the city. They are comfortable, and they offer privacy and wonderful accommodation conditions. Besides that, they are situated in picturesque places; in the paradise on earth.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villa, luxury villas ibiza and luxury villas mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other blog on Dan cortese blog.
Tourists from all around the world visit Spain, attracted by its beauty. The cities are rich in architectural and cultural heritages, the sea is warm, the beaches are delicate, the high mountains offer the possibility to practice winter games for those who love them; and as for the landscapes - they are breathtaking. In this earthly paradise lies Bilbao. Bilbao is at the heart of a one million person metropolis, the centre of the Bay of Biscay. It is situated in a very special region, being surrounded by mountains and forests on one side, and the sea and its coasts on the other side.
In Bilbao One Can…
First of all, visit the city. Discover it step by step, and try not to lose any piece, any corner; it is absolutely fantastic. Seven hundred years of history lie in Bilbao so take advantage of it. One of the main attractions is the spectacular Guggenheim Museum. The building covered with titanium panels hosts one of the most impressive collections of modern, contemporary art. The Fine Arts Museum is another main attraction in Bilbao. It hosts three galleries: the old art (El Greco, Goya), the contemporary art (Gauguin) and the Basque art. The list of museums in Bilbao continues with the Basque Museum, the Diocesan Museum of Religious Art, and the Maritime Museum. There is even the Bullfighting Museum (very typical for Spain).
Once you are done with the museums, go to the Santiago Cathedral, a place for peace. It is a Gothic church, built by the Jacobeans. The shows, the cultural activities in Bilbao, are directed towards adults, but this doesn’t mean that if you have children you can’t go there. They can be entertained by the shows especially created for them all year round: musicals, theatre, the three week festival in August that charms them with the parades, the fireworks, the circus, the Christmas Children’s Park that is open throughout December; they all are available in Bilbao. In addition, at just a 50 minute drive away from Bilbao, the Karbin Abentura theme park is a very special place for children. It has animated dinosaur recreations, exhibitions, and restaurants. It is a place for both fun and education.
Villas in Bilbao
When you go to Bilbao, you should try staying in a villa. Albergue Residencia and Villa de Bilbao are two of the best choices in the city. They are comfortable, and they offer privacy and wonderful accommodation conditions. Besides that, they are situated in picturesque places; in the paradise on earth.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option spanish villa, luxury villas ibiza and luxury villas mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other blog on Dan cortese blog.
An Unforgetable Experience: Granada
A Wonderful Holiday Destination
Granada lies at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, right between the Darro and Genil rivers. It is one of the most interesting cities in Spain, but most of all, one of the most beautiful. Those who have visited Granada say that it is paradise on earth. This is due to the Moorish essence, still present all around the city. Granada has been one of the last cities in Spain to be regained by the Catholics, in 1492. The past influences its planning, its gastronomy and its customs. All around the city you will be amazed by the fountains and the houses which are surrounded by gardens, giving the tourist the impression of paradise on earth. The old neighborhood has been designated World Heritage by UNESCO because of its architectural beauty. The last Moorish kingdom in Spain, built on a reddish hill, still holds the Alcazaba and Nasrid, two Royal Palaces of outstanding beauty. The rooms in these two palaces are connected by gardens, courtyards, and even fountains.
Another destination worth visiting is the Generalife Gardens, which used to be the summer residence for the Nasrid Kings. Among these Moorish constructions lies the Palace of Carlos V, a Renaissance construction that holds the Fine Arts Museum, as well as the Alhambra Museum. A fine example of art in architecture is the Granada Cathedral; built on a Gothic floor, the Cathedral has a Renaissance dome.
A Different Granada
Sightseeing is not everything in Granada. One special thing about the city is the Route of the Caliphate. Adventurous and spiritual, the route starts in Cordoba and ends in Granada, connecting two golden ages of the city and of the country, and two historical moments of great significance for the Spaniards. The route enabled commerce between the two cities and led to the constructing of castles and cities along it. Following the route is a unique experience for any tourist, and besides the fact that it is of great historical importance; it is also a delight for the eye and nourishment for the soul.
Where to Stay
It would be a pity to visit Granada and not completely feel the spirit of the city, to its most hidden corner. In order to do that, choose to stay in a villa. They are decorated in the traditional manner of the region, enabling the tourists to really feel what Granada is all about. If you don’t know what villa to choose, take a look at Palacio Los Jeronimos and San Matias. You won’t regret your choice!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option holiday villas spain, villa rental ibiza and villa majorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmarks.
Granada lies at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada Mountains, right between the Darro and Genil rivers. It is one of the most interesting cities in Spain, but most of all, one of the most beautiful. Those who have visited Granada say that it is paradise on earth. This is due to the Moorish essence, still present all around the city. Granada has been one of the last cities in Spain to be regained by the Catholics, in 1492. The past influences its planning, its gastronomy and its customs. All around the city you will be amazed by the fountains and the houses which are surrounded by gardens, giving the tourist the impression of paradise on earth. The old neighborhood has been designated World Heritage by UNESCO because of its architectural beauty. The last Moorish kingdom in Spain, built on a reddish hill, still holds the Alcazaba and Nasrid, two Royal Palaces of outstanding beauty. The rooms in these two palaces are connected by gardens, courtyards, and even fountains.
Another destination worth visiting is the Generalife Gardens, which used to be the summer residence for the Nasrid Kings. Among these Moorish constructions lies the Palace of Carlos V, a Renaissance construction that holds the Fine Arts Museum, as well as the Alhambra Museum. A fine example of art in architecture is the Granada Cathedral; built on a Gothic floor, the Cathedral has a Renaissance dome.
A Different Granada
Sightseeing is not everything in Granada. One special thing about the city is the Route of the Caliphate. Adventurous and spiritual, the route starts in Cordoba and ends in Granada, connecting two golden ages of the city and of the country, and two historical moments of great significance for the Spaniards. The route enabled commerce between the two cities and led to the constructing of castles and cities along it. Following the route is a unique experience for any tourist, and besides the fact that it is of great historical importance; it is also a delight for the eye and nourishment for the soul.
Where to Stay
It would be a pity to visit Granada and not completely feel the spirit of the city, to its most hidden corner. In order to do that, choose to stay in a villa. They are decorated in the traditional manner of the region, enabling the tourists to really feel what Granada is all about. If you don’t know what villa to choose, take a look at Palacio Los Jeronimos and San Matias. You won’t regret your choice!
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option holiday villas spain, villa rental ibiza and villa majorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article on Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark on Dan cortese bookmarks.
Monte Perdido - The Great Mountain of Spain
If you want to enjoy trekking and exploring a tall mountain, then there is no better place than Monte Perdido, Spain. This mountain, which is about 3300 meters in height, is a part of the Pyrenees mountains bordering Spain and France. This mountain range acts as a natural border between these two countries and is known for its unique and extensive plant and animal life.
Monte Perdido is located in the Huesca province and is a part of the Aragon community of Spain. It has four major valleys: Pineta, Ordesa, Tella and Anisclo. In terms of height, Monte Perdido is the third tallest mountain in this mountain range. But considering its strategic location this mountain has emerged prominently in the tourist map of Spain. The small village of Andorra is located in this area.
Monte Perdido is actually a huge mass of lime stone and is very rich in flora and fauna. Some of the areas of this mountain range remain impenetrable even to this day. This is the most beautiful mountain range of Europe. It is for this reason that the UNESCO has recognized Monte Perdido as a World Heritage Site. Recognizing its importance to the ecology of the region, the government of Spain has declared the entire Monte Perdido area a protected zone and has made the area a national park.
Interestingly there are an estimated 1500 species of flowers and about 171 species of birds inhabiting this particular mountain. There are also many species of reptiles as well as other species of animals. Mount Perdido has some of the rarest species of fauna and flora. It is certainly a feast for nature lovers and bird watchers. Impressive rock formations and vast areas of glaciers can be seen on the northeastern side of the mountain. It is the ideal place to enjoy mountain skiing and is normally open from January to May each year.
The total area of the national park is just about 21 square kilometers. However, in the interest of maintaining the biodiversity, the government of Spain has brought a total of 156 square kilometers into the biodiversity zone and has declared this entire area a national park.
This national park is well connected by road and tourists have been provided with all the amenities for a comfortable and most enjoyable tour.
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Monte Perdido is located in the Huesca province and is a part of the Aragon community of Spain. It has four major valleys: Pineta, Ordesa, Tella and Anisclo. In terms of height, Monte Perdido is the third tallest mountain in this mountain range. But considering its strategic location this mountain has emerged prominently in the tourist map of Spain. The small village of Andorra is located in this area.
Monte Perdido is actually a huge mass of lime stone and is very rich in flora and fauna. Some of the areas of this mountain range remain impenetrable even to this day. This is the most beautiful mountain range of Europe. It is for this reason that the UNESCO has recognized Monte Perdido as a World Heritage Site. Recognizing its importance to the ecology of the region, the government of Spain has declared the entire Monte Perdido area a protected zone and has made the area a national park.
Interestingly there are an estimated 1500 species of flowers and about 171 species of birds inhabiting this particular mountain. There are also many species of reptiles as well as other species of animals. Mount Perdido has some of the rarest species of fauna and flora. It is certainly a feast for nature lovers and bird watchers. Impressive rock formations and vast areas of glaciers can be seen on the northeastern side of the mountain. It is the ideal place to enjoy mountain skiing and is normally open from January to May each year.
The total area of the national park is just about 21 square kilometers. However, in the interest of maintaining the biodiversity, the government of Spain has brought a total of 156 square kilometers into the biodiversity zone and has declared this entire area a national park.
This national park is well connected by road and tourists have been provided with all the amenities for a comfortable and most enjoyable tour.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option rent villas spain, villas rent ibiza and villas javea are few of best options. And you can also read my other article Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark Dan cortese bookmarks.
The Gold Mine of Spain - Las Médulas
Spain is one of the most popular tourist spots of Europe. Beautiful natural areas, vast beaches, historical parks, museums, monumental buildings erected centuries ago and above all people with different religious backgrounds living in complete harmony are wonderful to experience. The city of Leon is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain.
When you visit the Leon, never forget to visit the historic gold mine Las Medulas. In Las Medulas mining was done by the Romans. In fact, according to historical records, Las Medulas was one of the most important mines with a very high yield of gold. The technology used was simple, although it called for patience to get the end result.
First the mountain containing gold deposits was identified. Then through the use of aquaducts, which were built to divert water from rivers hundreds of kilometers away, the river water was directed towards the mountain. After some time the mountain would collapse due to erosion by the water, gold was taken out and then the water was allowed to flow to the sea. This was an engineering marvel which did not involve huge amounts of digging or tunneling. It also did not involve use of gun powder or any other explosives. In fact, during the Roman period gun powder was unheard of. After gold was extracted, it was washed using the water flowing in streams.
If a gold deposit was located below a rock, then the rock would be heated by fire. Rock is easier to break when heated. When the rock was hot enough, it would be chiseled and the gold deposit removed.
The UNESCO has declared the area as a world heritage zone. The government of Spain has declared the area as a protected area of historical importance. Some of the mines where the rock has been broken for extraction of gold have been preserved even to this day.
The place is very well connected by road from both Castile and Leon. The gold mine is located in the midst of beautiful natural scenery. Apart from the gold mine, both Leon and Castile provinces have many historical monuments. The tall mountain range is an added attraction. Las Medulas is one of the most popular tourist spots not only because of its historical importance but also because of its strategic location. The tourist will certainly enjoy this historical spot.
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When you visit the Leon, never forget to visit the historic gold mine Las Medulas. In Las Medulas mining was done by the Romans. In fact, according to historical records, Las Medulas was one of the most important mines with a very high yield of gold. The technology used was simple, although it called for patience to get the end result.
First the mountain containing gold deposits was identified. Then through the use of aquaducts, which were built to divert water from rivers hundreds of kilometers away, the river water was directed towards the mountain. After some time the mountain would collapse due to erosion by the water, gold was taken out and then the water was allowed to flow to the sea. This was an engineering marvel which did not involve huge amounts of digging or tunneling. It also did not involve use of gun powder or any other explosives. In fact, during the Roman period gun powder was unheard of. After gold was extracted, it was washed using the water flowing in streams.
If a gold deposit was located below a rock, then the rock would be heated by fire. Rock is easier to break when heated. When the rock was hot enough, it would be chiseled and the gold deposit removed.
The UNESCO has declared the area as a world heritage zone. The government of Spain has declared the area as a protected area of historical importance. Some of the mines where the rock has been broken for extraction of gold have been preserved even to this day.
The place is very well connected by road from both Castile and Leon. The gold mine is located in the midst of beautiful natural scenery. Apart from the gold mine, both Leon and Castile provinces have many historical monuments. The tall mountain range is an added attraction. Las Medulas is one of the most popular tourist spots not only because of its historical importance but also because of its strategic location. The tourist will certainly enjoy this historical spot.
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The Stunning Beauty of Spain - Garajonay National Park
The Canary Islands are one of the most sought-after tourist spots in Spain. The Canary Islands are located off the northwestern coast of Africa, bordering Morocco. The beaches in the Canary Islands are known for their beauty, cleanliness and water sports. In fact it is considered to be the most ideal place for those who want to spend their holiday in the most entertaining environment possible. The uniqueness of the Canary Islands is that apart from the vast beaches there are also many hills or huge rock formations which run parallel to the beaches. One of the most popular rock formations is Garajonay Hill which is about 4000 feet high. This rock formation is located inland on the island of La Gomera which is one of the smaller of the Canary Islands.
This rock formation is covered by thick subtropical forest. Considering its ecological importance, the government of Spain has declared the Garajonay rock formation and the forest surrounding it as a National Park and has designated this protected area. UNESCO also has declared this area as a World Heritage Site. The Garajonay National Park has become a popular tourist spot because of its picturesque natural environment. Interestingly, if one views the picture of Garajonay National Park as taken from satellite, he would be surprised to find that the entire park looks like a piece of art made on a palm leaf.
The Garajonay hill also brings in good rainfall which has contributed to the abundant vegetation. The peak is normally covered by fog and the famous laurel trees can be found in abundance here. According to archeologists, this rock is of volcanic origin. The beautiful wooden statues of Gara and Jonay, which have a legend associated with them, are one of the most visited places in this park. The park has all the amenities for the tourist to enjoy his stay. ’Laurisilva’ is the major form of vegetation growing in this park. Apart from the massive rock formations some of the rare species of flora and fauna can also be found here. The forest has many reptiles as well as other wild animal species. It is also the home for many birds. The stripeless tree frog is a rare species of frog that can be found here. There are large footpaths which help the tourists to go trekking. It is suggested that the tourists should be accompanied by a trained tour guide while trekking.
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This rock formation is covered by thick subtropical forest. Considering its ecological importance, the government of Spain has declared the Garajonay rock formation and the forest surrounding it as a National Park and has designated this protected area. UNESCO also has declared this area as a World Heritage Site. The Garajonay National Park has become a popular tourist spot because of its picturesque natural environment. Interestingly, if one views the picture of Garajonay National Park as taken from satellite, he would be surprised to find that the entire park looks like a piece of art made on a palm leaf.
The Garajonay hill also brings in good rainfall which has contributed to the abundant vegetation. The peak is normally covered by fog and the famous laurel trees can be found in abundance here. According to archeologists, this rock is of volcanic origin. The beautiful wooden statues of Gara and Jonay, which have a legend associated with them, are one of the most visited places in this park. The park has all the amenities for the tourist to enjoy his stay. ’Laurisilva’ is the major form of vegetation growing in this park. Apart from the massive rock formations some of the rare species of flora and fauna can also be found here. The forest has many reptiles as well as other wild animal species. It is also the home for many birds. The stripeless tree frog is a rare species of frog that can be found here. There are large footpaths which help the tourists to go trekking. It is suggested that the tourists should be accompanied by a trained tour guide while trekking.
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Beautiful La Palma, Spain
This island, also referred to as the Green Island due to its countryside exuberance, is one of the Canary Islands on Spain’s Atlantic Ocean coast. Islands in Spain are major tourist attractions because of their warm and relaxing nature. They break the monotony of monuments and museums, which are very numerous in the country.
This island has a national park that is home to the highest mountain in the area. The park is mainly dedicated to the volcanoes and the various species of plant. UNESCO declared this island as a Biosphere Reserve because of its magnificent countryside.
If you have been to Spain and have not been to these beautiful islands, you have missed out a lot. The islands offer fine cuisines, beach sports, and an overall relaxing environment and climate. Most of the island is of volcanic origin with some having small active volcanoes.
La Palma Island has an amazing town called Santa Cruz, which consists of interesting inclining alleys, and it is very lively. The town has important monuments, such as the Iglesia Del Salvador church and the town hall, which dates back to the 16th century. Here you will also find a natural science museum, which is very interesting.
Things to see in La Palma
When visiting this beautiful Spanish island, you can visit the sandy beaches and small bays, which are very attractive and beautiful. Visiting the prehistoric cave full of engravings in Mazo can be exciting and from here you will have a view of the coastal area.
Volcanic craters and vineyards that are full of contrast can be quite a pleasure to see, along with the fishing villages, banana plantations, and the ports found here. Adventurous woods are also available for those who love exploring natural grounds.
Spain as a whole has a lot to be explored and redefined; this is becoming evident by the influx of foreigners who are out to tour the country for pleasure, business, or education. This is one country that you can’t exhaust in one vacation and, therefore, you may find yourself coming back over and over or even making it your home. There are tourists who never go back to their homelands after visiting the country.
Take time to have a feel of everything Spain has to offer: the monuments, beaches, islands, museums, and national parks just to mention a few. Time will be your only hindrance because hot spots are in plenty.
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This island has a national park that is home to the highest mountain in the area. The park is mainly dedicated to the volcanoes and the various species of plant. UNESCO declared this island as a Biosphere Reserve because of its magnificent countryside.
If you have been to Spain and have not been to these beautiful islands, you have missed out a lot. The islands offer fine cuisines, beach sports, and an overall relaxing environment and climate. Most of the island is of volcanic origin with some having small active volcanoes.
La Palma Island has an amazing town called Santa Cruz, which consists of interesting inclining alleys, and it is very lively. The town has important monuments, such as the Iglesia Del Salvador church and the town hall, which dates back to the 16th century. Here you will also find a natural science museum, which is very interesting.
Things to see in La Palma
When visiting this beautiful Spanish island, you can visit the sandy beaches and small bays, which are very attractive and beautiful. Visiting the prehistoric cave full of engravings in Mazo can be exciting and from here you will have a view of the coastal area.
Volcanic craters and vineyards that are full of contrast can be quite a pleasure to see, along with the fishing villages, banana plantations, and the ports found here. Adventurous woods are also available for those who love exploring natural grounds.
Spain as a whole has a lot to be explored and redefined; this is becoming evident by the influx of foreigners who are out to tour the country for pleasure, business, or education. This is one country that you can’t exhaust in one vacation and, therefore, you may find yourself coming back over and over or even making it your home. There are tourists who never go back to their homelands after visiting the country.
Take time to have a feel of everything Spain has to offer: the monuments, beaches, islands, museums, and national parks just to mention a few. Time will be your only hindrance because hot spots are in plenty.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villas spain, villa ibiza and villa mallorca are few of best options. And you can also read my other article Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark Dan cortese bookmarks.
Bully Pamplona city of Spain
Bullfighting lovers must make Pamplona town a must see destination. This town is the center of bull fights and it holds festivals to honor Ernest Hemingway, who was an American writer, who loved this town because of the fights.
The town is spectacular and has historical conservations and has mountain ranges of Navarra, which will definitely take your breath away. It has urbanized areas as well, dating back to the 16th Century. There are parks, monuments, and avenues which are very nice.
Attractions in Pamplona
Plaza de Toros is a hot spot for bullfighting lovers. This is the bullring and is located at the far end of the town walls, next to the Arga River. The tradition of bull fights has added to the popularity of the town and this has gained it world fame. San Fermin festival attracts thousands, who want to have the experience of this great spectacle each year. Plaza de Castillo, which was the bull ring in 1893, is close by and has wonderful cafeterias.
You can’t afford to miss a visit to the gothic cathedral of Pamplona, which has a façade of the 18th century neoclassical architecture. This building is of great religious value in Spain, with its mausoleum for the king being its most valuable asset.
Beautiful parks along the river Arga are wonderful and towers on the town walls spectacular. There are also several famous personality monuments in the park, with the Fountain of Neptune marking the end of one of the parks found just by the river.
The citadel dating back to the 16th century is amazing and consists of beautiful gardens. This pentagonal fortification is used for concerts and exhibitions today.
The Valleys in the East
Roncal Valley and Salazar Valley are beautiful places for excursions. There are mountain peaks surrounding the valleys making them very attractive. The environment here is typical and romantic making the mountainous landscape the perfect place for a getaway
Way of Saint James
The Holy Ghost chapel is found here and holds religious importance. This is a legendary monument that was the pilgrim way in the 12th century. Pilgrims who died during their journey are buried in a cave here. The mortal remains of Apostle Saint James are also believed to be buried here.
So, apart from bull fight, which can be very exciting and memorable, there are religious values held by this city making it worth checking out.
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The town is spectacular and has historical conservations and has mountain ranges of Navarra, which will definitely take your breath away. It has urbanized areas as well, dating back to the 16th Century. There are parks, monuments, and avenues which are very nice.
Attractions in Pamplona
Plaza de Toros is a hot spot for bullfighting lovers. This is the bullring and is located at the far end of the town walls, next to the Arga River. The tradition of bull fights has added to the popularity of the town and this has gained it world fame. San Fermin festival attracts thousands, who want to have the experience of this great spectacle each year. Plaza de Castillo, which was the bull ring in 1893, is close by and has wonderful cafeterias.
You can’t afford to miss a visit to the gothic cathedral of Pamplona, which has a façade of the 18th century neoclassical architecture. This building is of great religious value in Spain, with its mausoleum for the king being its most valuable asset.
Beautiful parks along the river Arga are wonderful and towers on the town walls spectacular. There are also several famous personality monuments in the park, with the Fountain of Neptune marking the end of one of the parks found just by the river.
The citadel dating back to the 16th century is amazing and consists of beautiful gardens. This pentagonal fortification is used for concerts and exhibitions today.
The Valleys in the East
Roncal Valley and Salazar Valley are beautiful places for excursions. There are mountain peaks surrounding the valleys making them very attractive. The environment here is typical and romantic making the mountainous landscape the perfect place for a getaway
Way of Saint James
The Holy Ghost chapel is found here and holds religious importance. This is a legendary monument that was the pilgrim way in the 12th century. Pilgrims who died during their journey are buried in a cave here. The mortal remains of Apostle Saint James are also believed to be buried here.
So, apart from bull fight, which can be very exciting and memorable, there are religious values held by this city making it worth checking out.
If you are planning for family vacations, staying at villas may be a great option villa spain, villas ibiza and villas malorca are few of best options.And you can also read my other article Dan cortese articles & also read my other bookmark Dan cortese bookmarks.
