Salamanca

After our lovely little diversion to Avila, Rita reprogrammed Sally and off we headed for Salamanca.  We are staying at several Parador Hotels over the next several days due to our stops being only one or two nights.  The Parador Hotel chain was established in 1928 by King Alphonso X111 to promote tourism in Spain and provide uses for historic buildings.  The one in Salamanca does not look like a historic building, in fact I would guess it was designed in the bland 1950's.  Our room however is very spacious and comfortable.  It was also walking distance from the historic center.

Salamanca has Spain's oldest university, a pair of buttress-sharing Cathedrals from different centuries, Spain's grandest plaza and a Roman bridge to access it all.  We had a beautiful day to go and explore and so we headed off after a hearty breakfast which was included in our room rate.

View of the New and Old Cathedrals across the Tormes River totally dominating the skyline.  The Old Cathedral was built in the 12th century while the New Cathedral was built from 1513-1733 along the side of the Old Cathedral and is much larger and taller.

 One of the many busy streets loaded with locals, students and tourists.  It is quite an eclectic mix and fun sitting down, having a coffee and listening to all the languages being spoken.  Of course the new Cathedral Tower always seems to be in sight

The University of Salamanca (front entrance) established in 1230 is the oldest in Spain and was one of Europe's leading centers of learning for 400 years.  Columbus even came here for travel tips.

Plaza Mayor (main square) was completed in 1755 and seems to always host some kind of activity.  Bullfights were held here until 1893, today it is much tamer as a massive book fair filled the square.  This upside down elephant was very popular with the kids.  Rita and I remember seeing the original in Paris, so could not resist taking the photo with the Town Hall in the background.  

Parroquia de San Marcos built in the 11th century is and unusual design as it is round on the outside but the inside is a cross design.  The church is located at the edge of old town and used to back up against the old city walls which are long gone.  It is still in use today as I entered to take some pictures only to find Mass was in progress!!!