Toledo is definitely special and a rare place. Many people make their way here for group tours in Toledo to experience its special nature. Here, different religions and cultures thrived and intertwined. So, you can say it was Spain’s original melting pot, where Muslims, Christians and Jewish people lived together and worked together during medieval times. The impact that they left on Toledo can be seen in its architecture today, which makes it one of the most interesting Spanish cities you can ever visit. Plan group tours in Toledo or a trip here soon and don’t be afraid to take a private tour. Just make sure that it hits these amazing landmarks:
La Puerta de Bisagra
The Puerta de Bisagra is your gateway into the historical city of Toledo. It is included in many group tours in Toledo. A grand arch de triumph welcomes you, along with two beautiful semi-circular towers decorated by Toledo’s majestic coat of arms. Originally, it was built by the Arabs and then was reconstructed in the 16th century. However, some of the original parts can still be seen today, making it an amazing introduction to this wondrous medieval city.
Cross the Puente de San Martin
Toledo’s iconic medieval bridge, el Puente de San Martin, is a beautiful place to view the Tajo River flowing beneath the city. There’s also an excellent panorama of the picturesque old town, which is a perfect backdrop for a group selfie.
The Cathedral
One of most important places in Toledo is The Primate Cathedral of Saint Mary. Because of its importance it is part of many group tours in Toledo. The beautiful French influenced Gothic style makes it one of the most impressive architectural marvels in all of Spain. The tickets cost 11 euros to view its beautiful interior, which looks like it’s straight out of the heavens. The Cathedral’s florid alter piece is definitely a sight to see.
The Alcazar
The Alcázar, which means fortress, stands at the highest point of Toledo and boasts some wonderful panoramic views. In the third century, it was first used as a Roman palace and then passed onto Spanish royalty before the country’s Arab conquest. Take a tour of Alcazar’s museum and learn about Toledo’s medieval military strategy and how the city defended itself throughout centuries.
The Jewish Quarter
Wander through the place where Christians, Jews and Muslims coexisted in mutual respect and harmony. The architectural details of the Jewish Quarter detail graceful brickwork, colorful ceramic tiles, charming doors and rustic balconies. It’s easy to feel that you’ve stepped back in time to the Middle Ages when you take a visit. Definitely take time to relax in quiet courtyards, and get lost in narrow alleyways. There are several historic synagogues to see as well. One, called El Transito, houses a Sephardic museum that highlights centuries old Jewish history in Toledo.
Museo De Santa Cruz
This museums home is actually a 16th-century hospital. The beautiful building sets the scene for the Santa Cruz Museum’s beautiful art collections. There are three in total: Fine Arts, Decorative Arts, and Archaeology. In the Fine Arts collection, view works by El Greco and paintings of the 16th and 17th century School of Toledo. El Greco’s masterpiece The Assumption of the Virgin is a highlight of the museum along with Christ in Chains by Morales and the Crucifixion by Goya.
Castillo de San Servando
Another medieval marvel is the Castillo de San Servando. It is a castle, but it was originally built in the 14th century as a monastery, commissioned by the Spanish King Alfonso VI. However, due to its castle walls, it also served as a strategic military location from time to time. If you love the Spanish Mudéjar-style, you’ll love this fortress. Mudéjar refers to an architecture style in Spain that was strongly influenced by the Moorish empire.