Cadiz takes you back in time to one of the world’s most ancient cities. Plus, this lovely port on the southwestern coast of Spain is a compact town, designed for exploring afoot. As an Acupuncturist-at-Sea, I visited this port-of-call many times. So, read on to learn about Cadiz walking tour highlights and background.
Over 3,100 years ago, the Phoenicians discovered Cadiz. Later, Cadiz became ruled by other great nations, such as, the Carthaginians and the Moors. It’s been an important Spanish Naval port since the 18th century, when Cadiz reached its Golden Age. This is mainly because of its location as the center of sea routes and trade. Also, Cadiz had a renaissance during Spain’s Age of Exploration. In the 17th and 18th centuries, it became fortified, mainly to resist the British.
Stunning Cadiz is located on a narrow spit of land surrounded by water on the Bay of Cadiz. This well-preserved Old Town has numerous narrow alleyways connecting with large plazas. However, you can always find nearby the water’s fresh ocean air on a walking path along the sea wall. Overall, there are many historic landmarks to explore all within walking distance. Additionally, there are beautiful gardens with exotic and colorful plants. As I explain the historic landmarks, the history will come more alive here.
Cadiz Walking Tour Highlights
Cadiz Cathedral
It’s hard to miss the Roman Catholic Cadiz Cathedral with a grandiose golden dome. Because its construction took 116 years, the design blended into different styles, such as, Baroque, Rococo and Neoclassical. Also, its Levante Tower offers gorgeous views of the city and sea. The Cadiz Cathedral is in the Plaza de la Catedral, along with the Baroque Church of Santiago.
Tavira Tower
The Tavira Tower helped protect and keep Cadiz aware of ships coming and going. In the center of Old Town at 45 meters above sea level, it offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city and sea. Plus, there is a Camera Obscura to see outside images in real-time projected on a screen.
Mercado Central
The Central Food Market is a great way to enjoy your lunchtime or snack. The colorful produce of fruits and vegetables is delightfully fresh.
Also, a bar here provides tapas and wine or beer. So, there are places to sit and enjoy the food and social setting.
The variety of seafood caught my attention more than anything. For example, I saw numerous surreal creatures, such as, octopus, eels, cuttlefish, crab, oyster and even a massive sword fish. Many fishmongers display their catch of the day on their own personal stand.
Museum of Cadiz
The Museum of Cadiz helps to learn and understand the city’s 3000-year history. It showcases archeology, puppets from Carnival of Cadiz and famous art, such as, Murillo and Rubens’ works.
Castle of San Sebastion & Fortress
The iconic Castle of San Sebastion is on a small island at the end of popular La Caleta Beach. Visitors easily walk out there on a levee, connecting the island to Cadiz. It’s very dramatic and hard to ignore. Also, the castle was constructed in 1706 with the fortified enclosure, watchtower and lighthouse. Overall, it protected Cadiz from the northern side. It’s invigorating to visit, surrounded by the sea, with the past coming alive in this historical gem.
La Caleta Beach
Cadiz Walking Tour Highlights
Cadiz is known for its numerous award-winning beaches. La Caleta Beach is one of the most beautiful, located in the historical center, between the castles of San Sebastian and Santa Catalina. It is the smallest beach in Cadiz, however, unique and fun in the heart of the Old Town. Also, there are many colorfully painted fishing boats anchored here.
At sunset, this is a very romantic setting strolling along the city wall and beach. Additionally, the James Bond 2002 Movie, Die Another Day, filmed here a scene in ‘Cuba’ with Halle Berry and Pierce Bronson.
Fun Fact: La Caleta Beach is also famous because each large rock on its beach has a name based on their character.
Park Genoves
The lush Park Genoves offers a nice balance to the sea with its gardens and bird life. It is the largest green space in Old Town. Highlights enchant the gardens, such as, a manmade lake and waterfall with many bird species and the popular Fountain of the Children of the Umbrella. Additionally, this botanical garden displays many trees and plants collected from all over the world, such as, Cyads, Indian Laurels and Maple Trees.
Seville Day Trip
Many people take a day trip to Seville from Cadiz or vice versa by a 1.5 hour train ride. Seville is a lovely Spanish city known mostly for its wonderful architecture and Flamenco Dancing.
Enjoy Cadiz!
Exploring Cadiz takes you back in time to the essence of the Golden Age of Cadiz. Plus, don’t miss out on the incredible Seafood Paella, Tapas and Sangrias, al fresco style in one of Cadiz’s world class restaurants to savor your time here. Cadiz offers a feast for the senses in a relaxing way with everything right there to see on a convenient walking tour.
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