Toledo - A Step Back in Time

Seventy km south of Madrid lies the ancient citygate was built in the 4th century by the Moors
of Toledo, a city so steeped in history that it wasand later reinforced and rebuilt in the 16th century
declared a World Heritage Site in 1986 byby the Christians. With plenty of parking available
UNESCO. In Toledo you will find one of a kindat the main gate, known as Puerta Bisagra, this is
historic sites like no other in all of Europe. Thethe ideal starting point for your tour of Toledo.
Santa Maria la Blanca is the oldest synagogue inNo trip to Toledo would be complete without a
the whole of Europe. The synagogue was built invisit to the home of the famous artist El Greco.
1180 as arguably one of the most unique displaysInside this museum there is an impressive
of synagogue architecture in the world. Ironically itcollection of the artists' works in addition to other
was built in the Christian Kingdom of Castille forvarious Spanish artists.
Jewish use by Islamic architects. In 1405 it wasIn Medieval times Spanish Steel was known the
converted to a Christian church as it is to thisworld over. The weapon of the era was as much
day.a part of a man's ensemble as a pair of shoes
Toledos' most notable sight is Alcazar. Thisare today. Owning a sword crafted in Toledo was
massive castle has been used as a fortress byan object of conversation and displayed for
the Romans, Visigods, Arabs and Christians.everyone to see. Today visitors can still purchase
Alcazar has undergone several reconstructions inthe famous Toledo steel swords and knives for a
its tumulus history. After being destroyed in thetreasured addition to any collection.
18th century during the war of succession it wasIf you have the time make a reservation in a
rebuilt only to suffer a great fire a mere fewhotel in Toledo to completely enjoy the
years later. During the Spanish Civil War it onceatmosphere of the city. The nights in Toledo are
again suffered great damage and quickly rebuilt atexperience of their own. Seeing the whole city
the war's end.bathing in the many lights make the magic of
The ramparts around the city of Toledo are wellToledo shine even brighter. Your visit to Spain
worth the trek, starting at the main gate you willshould include this historic wonder called Toledo.
find it is actually two gates in one. The first stone