What to see in Spain

Salamanca

Located in western Spain, Salamanca is one of the country’s most enchanting cities, famous for its golden sandstone architecture that glows under the Castilian sun. It sits in the autonomous community of Castilla y León, about two hours from Madrid, and is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, the University of Salamanca, founded in 1218. The city’s heart beats in the Plaza Mayor, an 18th-century masterpiece often regarded as one of the most beautiful squares in Spain, surrounded by arcades, cafes, and a lively atmosphere that captures the essence of Spanish culture.

Beyond its monumental core, Salamanca offers a wealth of historical and cultural treasures. The twin cathedrals, the Old and the New, stand as a symbol of centuries of devotion and artistry, with their intricate carvings that even hide a modern astronaut sculpted into the stone, a curious addition from a 1992 restoration. Walking through its cobblestone streets feels like traveling back in time, where each corner tells a story and every building reflects the city’s enduring legacy as a hub of knowledge, elegance, and tradition.