Salamanca

Salamanca is a superb model city for its very attractive tourist offerings at all levels: it was European Capital of Culture in 2002, Main Square of Europe in 2005, held the Ibero-American Summit in 2005, and so on.

Salamanca stands out for its University, its numerous monuments, and its cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is a medium-sized city with 160,000 inhabitants, situated not far from cities like Madrid, Segovia, Avila, Toledo, and Zamora. It is located in the northwest of Spain and has a continental climate.

The General Studium was founded here in 1218, later to become the University of Salamanca, and related to famous figures such as Fray Luis de Leon, Miguel de Cervantes and many others. The Catholic Pontifical University also adds prestige to the city.

Apart from the capital city, the province of Salamanca is also very attractive. Beautiful areas such as Los Arribes del Duero, Ciudad Rodrigo, Campo Charro, Sierra de Francia and Bejar can all be visited.

Ranches with fighting bulls abound in the province, many of which offer tourists the possibility of trying their hand at fighting young bulls in the famous “capeas”.   

As far as gastronomy is concerned, the area has three Quality Denominations: the mountain cured ham of Guijuelo, the lentils of La Armuña, and Morucha Beef. Also typical are roasted meats, the cured cheeses of Hinojosa, pastries, and wines from the Arribes del Duero and from the Sierra de Salamanca.

Its university town atmosphere with both Spanish and international students combines with tourism to make Salamanca a very special place.