HOLIDAY INFORMATION ON Toledo

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Belen and Totally Spain arranged a five-week, individualized trip to Spain, Andorra, and Lourdes for my wife and me. Belen handled our hotel, rental car, transfers, and experiences. Before we left, a giant package arrived with the reservations and...

Robert Lieberson, Pleasanton, CA USA
2024-05-20

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According to the Guardian, “the best way to see Toledo is through the eyes of its greatest artist, El Greco.” The city recently marked the 400th anniversary of its most famous resident, and you can see "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz" in situ here. But there’s much more than oils on canvas in Toledo. Conde Nast Traveller recommends “wandering its streets, taking part in the evening paseo, or sitting over a drink and a tapa in its many bars or cafés.” Toledo is the perfect place to daydream about what life was like in 16th-century Spain as you explore the streets, city gates, and walls.

Toledo's multicultural history is reflected in its palace-fortress, the Alcázar, which was the home of Castile’s kings until Philip II built the Escorial in 1563. The Santa María La Blanca church, which began as a synagogue in the 12th century, was built by Moorish craftsmen for Jewish use and is considered a symbol of coexistence from the Middle Ages. From 1411, it ceased to be a synagogue and remains empty today. The Sephardi Museum, housed in a synagogue built in 1355, is another must-see. UNESCO-listed, Toledo is known as the City of Three Cultures, referring to the historical coexistence of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian cultures.

Toledo was a former capital of Spain, and just before the expulsion, the city was the leading center of Jewry in Spain. We recommend a private tour that includes the Transito Synagogue, built in 1357 as a private family synagogue for Samuel ha-Levi Abulafia, treasurer to the Spanish King Peter the Cruel. It later became a Catholic Church but has been home to the Sephardic Museum since 1972, proudly displaying historic Hebrew inscriptions and a beautifully paneled wooden ceiling.

The Toledo Cathedral is one of the finest in Europe, with stained glass windows, intricate woodwork, and wrought-iron grilles, plus a sacristy that doubles as a fine arts museum. Take time to relax at the main square, Plaza de Zocodover, before touring outside the walls to capture the city’s dramatic profile, as immortalized on the canvases of El Greco.

Foodies should try the Castilian stews and game with wines from the region—La Mancha. Be sure to pick up some marzipan here too—it’s revered in Spain. If you’re looking for quality souvenirs, you’ll find legendary handmade swords, sabers, and medieval armor available here.

Toledo's rich history extends beyond its monuments and museums. The city’s narrow, winding streets are a joy to explore, with each turn revealing new architectural delights. The Puerta de Bisagra, an imposing gate dating back to the Moorish period, offers a grand entrance to the city. The Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, built by the Catholic Monarchs Ferdinand and Isabella, is another architectural gem with its stunning cloisters and intricate decoration.

For those interested in literature, the House of El Greco Museum provides a glimpse into the life of the renowned painter. Although El Greco never lived there, the museum recreates his environment and showcases many of his works. The nearby Museo del Greco also houses an extensive collection of his paintings.

Toledo’s vibrant cultural scene includes various festivals and events throughout the year. The Corpus Christi festival, one of the city’s most important celebrations, features elaborate processions and decorations. The Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions are equally impressive, with their solemn and evocative displays.

Nature lovers can enjoy the scenic views from the Mirador del Valle, a viewpoint that offers panoramic vistas of Toledo’s skyline and the Tagus River. For a relaxing stroll, the gardens of the Alcázar and the green spaces along the riverbanks provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city center.

Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, indulging in its culinary delights, or simply soaking up the unique atmosphere, Toledo offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Let us plan your visit to this enchanting city and discover its many treasures.