Date of travel: Jun 18, 2024
Toledo, a picturesque historic city in central Spain, is a must visit place because of its scenic hilltop location (1700 ft) at the confluence of two rivers – Tagus and Alberche and stunning architecture.
Toledo is an UNESCO world heritage site and has a unique blend of Christianity, Muslim (Moors from North Africa) and Jewish culture which has tremendous influence on its cuisine, festivals, cultural celebrations and monumental architecture.
History
Toledo is a Pre Roman city and was very famous for its Roman Circus during 100 BCE to 4th century CE. The circus could hold up to 15000 spectators even at that time.
Today Toledo is a thriving and spectacular city but it was ruled by many, namely Romans, Visigoths, Moors and later Christians and amalgamation of these cultures are evident in this city of coexistence.
Major Attractions and Activities
While touring Madrid we booked a guided day trip to this magnificent city. Bus parking bay is at a distance from the city and the city can be seen high on the hill, but city centre is very easily accessible via lifts and escalators. First stop was city centre and then we visited all major sites of interests about which I am going to describe with short notes.
Toledo cathedral-a stunning 13th century cathedral of Gothic style and famous for stained glass windows, stone carvings and its museum of great paintings by world famous Goya and El Greco.
Synagogue –a beautiful 12th century architecture situated at a pleasant corner of the city.
Puerta Bisagra – a grand structure and historic city gate.
Plaza del Ayuntamiento –lovely picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings.
After the guided tour we were dropped near a charming shopping street known as Calles de los Alferez which is famous for all kinds of souvenirs, restaurants and bars and were told to try local delicacies at its market Mercado de San Augustin.
Local cuisine and delicacies
Toledo is very famous for its marzipan sweets and Manchego cheese. Olive oil and wine are also of excellent quality.
We tasted some sweet crispy pastries known as Torta de Aceite and roasted chestnuts with a glass of La Mancha wine. They were simply delicious. We also purchased small packets of colourful marzipan fruits and some marzipan cakes.
Here I would like to mention few words about marzipan. Marzipan is made of ground almonds and sugar and is available in various shapes, fruits, vegetables, cakes and pastries. Though it has origin in middle east but it is a traditional speciality in Toledo.
Some points of caution about carrying marzipan by flight -Sometimes it can be a security concern at the screening because of density and texture of Marzipan which can mimic explosives. It is better to carry in hand bags than in checked in luggage, better to read about airline’s restrictions or better ship it than carry with you.
While returning we stopped at two scenic spots – Near a medieval bridge over Tagus river, a beautiful photo stop offering breath taking views of surroundings. The bridge is known as Puente de San Martin.
Next view point is known as Mirador del Valle and view of Tagus river and the city at far was simply beyond description.
More activities at Toledo
Other than walking tour, one can enjoy hiking, boating or fishing in the river.
How to reach Toledo
By bus, private car, taxi or train. Distance is 75 kms. Day trips are available from Madrid and Segovia.
When to visit
Late April till middle of May and late September to middle of October are better choices to avoid tourist crowd.
