A great day out in historic Cádiz.
Cadiz is situated on the south west coast of the Andalucian district of Spain.
Full of charm and character and suspected to be the oldest of European cities, dating from 1100 BC.
Established by the Phoenicians, who originally named it Gadir, Cadiz was a great trading place for amber, tin and silver.
It also became a naval base for the Romans and was later claimed from the Muslims by Alfonso X.
History and Discovery in Cadiz, Andalucia
In 1493, Columbus launched his ship from the port at Cadiz. Columbus’s discovery of America paved the way in the 18th century for a great period of trade between Cadiz and America. This can be seen today in the splendid architecture of this bygone era.
One of Cadiz’s most well known and loved architectual delights is the Cadiz Cathedral. The Cathedral faces North, with the sun always behind it’s facade creates heavenly shafts of light. It is mostly in the Baroque style, but with the touch and flavours of pretty and romantic Rococo.
Cadiz is famous for it’s watch towers, originally built as a security measure by the local Merchants. Overlooking the coast line, they have a perfect views of ships arriving and setting sail. The tallest of the surviving watch towers is Torre Tavira, a wonderful place to take in the city’s panorama.
Should you feel like a scenic walk, try a guided tour of Donana Natural Park. One of the largest and most beautiful nature reserves in Spain.
The Beaches of Cadiz
The sun-drenched beaches of Cádiz.
There are many Beaches along the coast of Cadiz, the most popular being Playa Del La Caleta close to the Barrio de la Vina ‘fisher mans corner’. Here you can sample the fabulous and fresh local seafood.
The beach fronts are home to some great Bar / Restaurants, with fun and friendly atmospheres with a homely feel.
