Visit Toledo!

Written by http://www.thecultureclique.com

Toledo

Firmly sat on a mountain top in central Spain, Toledo served as the Spanish capital until the 16th century. Because it was inhabited by Christians, Muslims and Jews for many centuries, the city is sometimes called the “City of Three Cultures.”  Toledo in the present day is a popular destination for its wealth of  architecture and Historic Art that dates back as far as the Roman Empire. One of the most popular things to do in Toledo is to get lost amongst the medieval streets and admire the old architecture that includes a breathtaking cathedral, synagogue and mosque.

This great diversity of artistic styles makes the old quarter of the capital of Castile - La Mancha a real open-air museum, which has led to it being declared a World Heritage Site.

Toledo is steeped in rich history.  And modern Toledo embraces innovation and creativity - tangible in its active cultural and social scenes, which are all saturated with vibrant patrons and local zeal, welcoming visitors into a distinct and alluring community.

Sitting at the top of Toledo's highest hill, the Alcazar boasts the most sweeping and dramatic views of the city. At the Alcazar, rich history and imposing design combine with commanding views and grand scale to make it a place well worth discovering. Having served as a fortress in times of war, it now holds one of Europe's largest municipal libraries as well as Toledo's Military Museum
www.museo.ejercito.es

Among the typically narrow and lively streets of Toledo's old Jewish quarter, lies the home of the famous local painter, sculptor, and architect El Greco. The museum's two buildings share a beautiful courtyard and house many of the artist's priceless works as well as a number of works by other 17th century Spanish painters
www.museo.ejercito.es

Outside the city walls, the Roman Circus of Toledo was built during the 1st century, likely under the rule of Rome's first Emperor, Augustus. While history lovers wait for current restoration projects to return the place to some semblance of its original form, the site still makes for a beautiful and relaxing stroll – whether or not its distant past is your point of interest.


The Hospital of Tavera building is extremely beautiful and impressive from the outside, but the real treasures lie within its walls and Renaissance facades. Among works by El Greco, Titian, Rivera, and others, there are also remarkable tapestries, luxurious furniture and elegant 16th century décor. A small pharmacy museum is perhaps its most famous spectacle aside from the large marble sepulchre of Cardinal Tavera by Berruguete.
www.fundacionmedinaceli.org

For more information about places to visit in Spain, or Arts, Culture and events, please visit http://www.thecultureclique.com