What to visit in Toledo?

Toledo, in the region of Castilla-La Mancha, is one of the most picturesque towns in Spain. Here, three cultures blend effortlessly.  From Catholic churches, to Moorish architecture with a touch of Sephardic flair, it is worthwhile to have a visit in Toledo.

A visit in Toledo: Cathedrals, mosques and synagogues

The first stop on your visit in Toledo should be to see some of the town´s architecture. Within the walls of the city, there are innumerable legends and tales. These not only tell the story of a town, but of a country.

The Iglesia Santiago del Arrabal is a perfect example of typical regional architecture. It is also fused with Moorish design, as many churches of Spain often are. This mudéjar style, so typical of Spain, is best exemplified here. Taking a walk around the exterior of the church, you see several walls adorned with figures and religious depictions. Inside the church, you will see Arabic influences, such as the hand of Fatima. You can also see Arabic inscriptions on the wooden roof. No visit in Toledo is complete without seeing the church.

After this, your visit in Toledo should stop by the Mezquita del Cristo de la Luz. This ancient mosque and it´s adjacent gardens offer a spectacular view over Toledo. Indeed, the mosque is a testament to the changes within Toledo over the years. To make a visit in Toledo you must see the urban development of this town. The mosque itself is part of a nave of a church, and is famed for it´s Islamic architecture.

After this, no visit in Toledo is complete without also seeing some of the Jewish culture of the town. You can visit Sinagoga del Tránsito. This itself perfectly displays three cultures within one building. It encompasses Sephardic and Gothic design, but also displays Islamic art in the courtyard. The stained glass windows are worth a look, and give the sinagogue an air of tranquility.

Visit in Toledo: museums and monuments

After surrounding yourself with culture, your visit in Toledo will take you past several museums. If art is your fancy, you can visit the El Greco Museum. This has several paintings by the artist, many of which feature Toledo. You can also visit the Iglesia Santo Tomé, which houses El Entierro del Señor de Orgaz. This is one of the most famous works of El Greco, so loved by Toledo.

Your visit in Toledo will also take you past the Hospital of Tavera. This is well-known as one of the emblems of the Spanish Renaissance. It is an art museum but also has a completely intact hospital pharmacy of that era.

Not to forget that Toledo also has an impressive garrison. The Alcazar now houses a military museum and is a fascinating insight into Spanish military history. It was also an important bastion during the Spanish Civil War, which can be seen in the museum.

To finish your visit in Toledo, take a trip up one of the towers of the cathedral. Toledo Cathedral is well-known for being of the grandest and most beautiful in Spain. The towers offer a breathtaking view over the town and is a worthy finish to your visit in Toledo. The cathedral itself bears resemblance to Notre Dame. Indeed, you can pass through several named doors, Forgiveness, Hell or Judgement. All of which have fascinating Gothic architecture and will truly make your visit in Toledo unforgettable.

Toledo has much to offer and this is only a short guide. A visit in Toledo needs to be seen to be believed.

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