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This ancient city, famous for its
university founded by Alfonso IX in the early 1200s, is well
preserved, with turreted palaces, faded convents, Romanesque
churches, and colleges that have attracted scholars from all over
Europe. The only way to explore Salamanca conveniently is on foot,
so arm yourself with a good map and set out to explore. Nearly all
the attractions are within walking distance of the Plaza Mayor.
In its day, Salamanca was ranked with Oxford, Paris, and Bologna as
one of "the four leading lights of the medieval world." The
intellectual life continues to this day, and a large invasion of
American students brings added life to the town in summer. Its
population has swelled to 180,000 but a provincial aura lingers.
Still a youthful, spirited place because of the venerable Salamanca
University, the city has been named a "World Heritage City" by
UNESCO, one of six such cities in Spain. No country has more. |
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