What To See In Cádiz Capital, The Oldest City In Spain

Cádiz is known for being a province full of beaches ideal for surfers and nature lovers, with dunes, turquoise waters and golden sand. Meanwhile, Cádiz capital is a city that keeps a lot of history, for being the oldest in the peninsula.

Cádiz was the protagonist of the golden age in the times of trade with the Americas in the 18th century. But before, it was the cradle of influential civilizations such as the Roman and the Arab. For all this, you can get an idea of ​​the corners and beauty that this city keeps. Do you want to come and discover them?

What beautiful corners you cannot miss in Cádiz capital

1. The tower of Tavira

Due to its great influence on trade, various towers were built. They served to monitor the entry and exit of ships and, of these, the Tavira tower was the official tower of all due to its height and also because of its location.

This tower still stands and you can climb and enjoy from it the best views of the city, as well as a presentation in the camera obscura. If you choose to visit it at the beginning of your vacation in the city, you will be able to get to know the place a little, locate yourself and, of course, enjoy some great views.

2. Museum of Cádiz

If you want to find a place to learn more about the history of this province, this is the place you were looking for. Inside you can see Phoenician sarcophagi, Roman statues and paintings by famous artists such as Zurbarán or Murillo.

Sarcophagi have an interesting history. Pelayo Quintero, director of the Museum of Fine Arts in Cádiz, discovered the male sarcophagus in 1887. According to what he knew of history, there must have been a female sarcophagus. He spent his whole life looking for it without finding it. The funny thing about the story is that it appeared after his death just below the building in which he lived.

3. La Caleta Beach

Despite being very well known the beaches of the province, such as Tarifa or Bolonia, the capital also has spectacular beaches. This is the case of the Caleta beach,  which, although isolated, is close to the city.

From it we can get spectacular views of the historic center. And looking towards the sea we will enjoy a unique sunset. In fact, its beauty is such that it has inspired many poets and musicians to compose and write some of their best works.

4. Plaza de las Flores

Its real name is Plaza del Topete, although it is known as the Plaza de las Flores because it is full of vendors and flower stalls. Located in the historic center and at the foot of the beautiful Correros building and the Central Market, it is one of the most beautiful corners of the city.

In it you will find restaurants that serve the best known of Cádiz gastronomy, fried fish. So this is a place that will offer you unforgettable moments.

5. Its cathedral

Every city has a beautiful cathedral that beautifies its streets and gives a monumental touch to the city. There are two cathedrals in the capital Cádiz: one is the one that burned down in 1596 and the other is what is known today as the city’s cathedral.

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross took 116 years to build. The architect of the design was the same one who made the cathedral of Granada. Due to the years it took to get up, two different stones had to be used, something that is very clearly seen on its facade and that gives it a unique and special touch.

6. Barrio del Pópulo

Despite being recently renovated, it is the oldest area of ​​Cádiz capital. It still preserves beautiful narrow cobblestone streets and arches from hundreds of years ago. Today he meets one with a great area for tapas and to enjoy the night.

7. Genovés Park

One of the lungs of the city and one of the most relaxing and beautiful places to walk. A beautiful park made up of trees and plants that were brought from the Americas while Cádiz was a commercial city. Inside you can also see fountains and statues. A pleasure for the mind and for the eyes.

This has been our tour of one of the most beautiful cities on the Iberian Peninsula.  Cádiz capital is a city that was not talked about much and that sometimes seems forgotten, but that has a lot to offer. Do you dare to discover it for yourself?