Toledo is a tiny city on a Castilian ascent, commanding a magnificent view of the River Tagus or the Rio Tajo. It is locally referred to as The Imperial City and is also the Spanish spiritual centre.

Toledo was proclaimed a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1986 for its great cultural and monumental heritage. Toledo is one of the few cities where Christian, Jewish and Moorish cultures reside together in harmony.

Tourists usually visit Toledo on a single day’s trip from Madrid, but the beauty of this place is best explored at leisure. Perched atop a huge hill is the Old Toledo, which is enclosed on three sides by the River Tagus. If you wish to tour Toledo on your own, do remember that this city still preserves its archaic street pattern and it is quite easy to lose your way in the winding roads.

When visiting Toledo, make sure to see the city’s majestic and awe-inspiring cathedral where you can feast your eyes on some alluring fragile stone and wood sculptures and a vast collection of exquisite paintings. Another must visit place is the Alcazar or El Alcázar fort that is nearly a 1,000 year old relic.

If you are interested in paintings, the Museo de Santa Cruz or the Holy Cross Museum has a great collection of paintings by the renowned artist El Greco.

(Image courtesy DRB62)