Salamanca (Photo by afloresm)
Salamanca is located in the western part of Spain, between Madrid and Portugal. Due to its aesthetic charm and cultural significance, Salamanca holidays are becoming a popular destination for those visiting central Spain. The city is most famous for its historic university, the University of Salamanca, which is one of the oldest universities in the world. One of the earliest academic buildings, which opened in the early 1500s, can still be toured today. The façade over the entrance to the old university is one of the main tourist attractions in Salamanca and features a frog hidden amongst the carvings that is said to bring good fortune to those who can find it.
Salamanca also features two stunning cathedrals, the art deco museum Casa Lis, and the still-usable Puente Romano, a bridge constructed by the Romans. The most important site for visitors and locals alike is the breathtaking Plaza Mayor, a large open-air area filled with shops, restaurants, and people. Located in the heart of the city, the Plaza is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and frequently hosts festivals and performances. Visitors to Salamanca should be sure to sample some of the pork products the region is famous for, such as Iberian ham and the sausage-like chorizo. Nightlife and dining, especially in the form of Spain’s famous tapas, are very reasonably priced in Salamanca. Like the rest of Spain, Salamanca uses the Euro as its currency. The weather is generally mild and sunny, with temperatures generally between 30-50 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter and 70-90 degrees in the summer.
