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SALAMANCA CASTILE AND LEON
SALAMANCA
The university city of Salamanca is one of Spain's most important historic places. The city was founded in pre Roman times and in 217 bc it was captured by the invading armies of Hannibal. The university goes
back to 1218 when it was founded by Alfonso XI . There are almost too many places of interest for the casual visitor. To get the most out of Salamanca's historic sites, at least a couple of days would be needed. The main square in Salamanca, the Plaza Major was designed in 1729 by the Churriguera
brothers, it was completed in 1755. The square is enclosed by beautiful baroque style buildings with an arched passageway containing many up market shops bars and restaurants running around the base. This magical place is where Salamancans gather for their morning coffees and evening
apertifs. Tables and umbrellas are laid out in the sun by the bar and restaurant owners. At one time the square was used for bullfighting. PLAZA MAJOR As well as a famous university, the city has a fine 16th century new cathedral. The old cathedral was built in the 12th and 13th centuries. Normally the old cathedral would have been demolished to make way for the new one but
luckily in Salamanca's case it wasn't and the two cathedrals were joined. The cathedral dominates the skyline of Salamanca. Inside the cathedral the fabulous alter piece bordered by fifty three painted panels houses a statue of the patron saint of Salamanca the Virgen de la Vega. SALAMANCA CATHEDRAL A good example
of a 15th century turret can be found on the Torre del Clavo , calle del consuelo. As you stroll into the centre of old Salamanca, you can't fail to miss the impressive facade and doors of the 16th century church Iglesia-Convento de San Esteban. The central panel of the facade shows the stoning
to death of Saint Steven. PHOTOGRAPH BY VICTORADRIANRAMOS CHURCH OF ST ESTEBAN Hotels Combined is the largest hotel comparison site on the internet. It checks hotel prices from over thirty of the internet's top hotel reservation sites in a matter of seconds, whether you're looking for
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