Salamanca is a destination famous for its culture. Declared World Heritage City by UNESCO, it was also chosen as a European City of Culture in 2002, along with Bruges in Belgium. You won’t want to miss out on a trip to this beautiful city, which also boasts a much sought after student atmosphere. In fact, the University of Salamanca is said to be the third oldest university in Europe, founded in 1218. It once even rivalled Oxford as one of the world’s principal seats of learning and still to this day it attracts students from around the world.
The rich history of the city makes it one of Spain’s most rewarding places to explore. Among its beauty you’ll find two gothic cathedrals, ravishing Renaissance architecture, the ancient Roman Bridge and La Casa de las Conchas – a house adorned with over 300 shells. Hacienda Zorita Wine Hotel and Spa is just a fifteen minute drive away, a 700 year-old converted convent on the river with its own vineyard, a vinotherapy spa and a celebrated restaurant overseen by Michelin-starred chef Victor Gutierrez. With views of the vineyard or the river, the spacious rooms exude understated elegance. Find ancient oak beams and original art to offer beauty like no other.
If you’re looking to explore the rich culture of the area, then this is the perfect destination for your holiday. Make sure to try all of the local delicacies too. The cured hams produced in Guijuelo, a village in the Southern part of Salamanca, are among the most famous in Spain. The most popular delicacy of this area is Hornazo, a meat pie. Chanfaina, steamed rice with pork, and Charreria, a slow-cooked casserole, are both classic dishes of the area too.
