To experience the magic, visit Toledo, also known as The Imperial City, at sunset.
Two medieval bridges cross the river, and on the left rises the 16th-century Alcazar, whereas, on the right, the spires and towers of the cathedral are silhouetted against the sinking sun.
Buildings and the narrow streets and houses below are illuminated.
Toledo is located approximately 70 kilometres south of Madrid and has a long history.
It flourished during Roman times, followed by the Visigoths, the Caliphate of Cordoba and the conquest by Alfonso VI of Castile in 1065.
Each culture left its marks and well-preserved buildings but the majority date from the Middle Ages and the Renaissance.
The cathedral, built between 1226 and 1493, combines many styles.
Most prominently, the seven-story high baroque altar.
The Alcazar opposite was the seat of the royal court until it was moved first to Valladolid and later to Madrid.
Tolerance and peaceful coexistence between Christians, Muslims and Jews were prominent features of the culture here until the Jews were expelled from Spain. During the good times, Toledo was also a centre for learning and translations.
Toledo Old Town
Dive into history by walking the steep cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
Many are so narrow that a car can hardly pass.
Discover the archways, churches, monasteries and medieval townhouses.
Since 500 BC, Toledo has been famous for producing the finest swords and weapons, a craft which extends to the present day, although the products are less lethal today.
Festivals in Toledo and nearby
Just 60 kilometres from Toledo, in Consuegra, is a unique festival last week of October every year.
It’s the Rose of Saffron Festival and can be worth a visit if you come here in late October.
In August, they also have their Medieval Festival in Consuegra.
El Greco
Crete-born painter, sculptor and architect Domenikos Theotokopoulos, better known as El Greco, moved to Toledo in 1577.
He lived and worked in Toledo until his death on 7th April 1614.
Works of art from all over the world have come to Toledo on loan and are exhibited in reconstructing the master´s house and other museums.
Visit the website of El Greco Foundation – More than 350 images of paintings, slideshow, biography and more!
Places to stay in Toledo
Of course, it must be a Hotel El Greco here, and it’s in a building from the 17th century, only some footsteps from the El Greco Museum.
Stay in a former palace.
Many of the old buildings and palaces have been converted into hotels.
The former palace of the Eugenia de Montijo Autograph Collection Hotel offers style and comfort.