Toledo is a city in Spain where it feels like you’re being brought back in time. It’s the historic capital of the Castilla La Mancha region located in central Spain and a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site for its cultural significance to the country.
The city of 3 cultures
Backed by history, Toledo is a city where Christian, Jewish, and Muslim co-existed despite the differences in traditions and beliefs. It traces back in 192 BC when the Romans first occupied the city who introduced Christianity. The Romans were also behind Toledo’s circus events, probably the biggest ones in Spain during that time. The grand circus featured chariot races for entertainment during the holidays and a way for the citizens to celebrate career achievements.
During the Fall of Roman Empire, however, Toledo was dominated by the Visigoths who reigned from 570-711 AD. Soon, their reign was short lived when the Moors conquered Toledo next who then brought Muslim influence though it's said to be the dark times as blood shed between Muslims and Christians.
Eventually, the Christians overruled, making Toledo more peaceful and a time called the “Golden Era." It was when the Moors built great architecture, the Jews arrived who held positions in the government, and Toledo became the seat of the Catholic Church.
Toledo now and what to see around
Despite the test of time, a lot of history has been kept in Toledo. For one, this is the
Santa Iglesia Catedral Primada de Toledo, or simply known as the
Toledo Cathedral. It’s one of the long standing proofs of Christian influence in the city where construction started early in 1226. It’s a huge church with Gothic style of architecture.
Not to far from the cathedral is this
Ayuntamiento de Toledo or the
Toledo City Hall. It’s an old medieval-looking building that looks very similar to the rest of the structures in the area. In front of the city hall is a spacious public square or
plaza, which serves as a meeting place or starting point of group tours in Toledo.
Located at the peak of Toledo, the
Alcázar de Toledo is a square-shaped fortress with towers on 4 corners. Back in the day, during Roman era, it served as a watch tower against intruders. Now, it serves as the
Army Museum of Toledo.
Toledo is located on top of a hill surrounded by the
Tagus River. This is why it’s no doubt that at several areas of Toledo, locally called as a
mirador, you can get a panoramic breathtaking view.
What to buy from Toledo
It’s said that a trip to Toledo won’t be complete without even trying or bringing home a box of
mazapán (marzipan), the most popular Christmas dessert in Spain. These cookies are sold all year round in Toledo, a testament of the strong and long tradition that started as early as the 1500s.
Also, Toledo has a long tradition of sword making and steel working. It began as early as 500 BC when Hannibal, a Roman warrior, used Toledan swords during the Punic Wars and won. From then on, Toledo supplied quality swords and other war weapons to the Romans. Up to now, steel shops are a common sight in Toledo. Steel products vary, from big to small, and are very popular souvenir items.
What do you think about Toledo's 3 cultures? Do you find Toledo as your next travel destination?
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