Salamanca is a historical city that has always
been related to history in a very
strong way. The city´s origin dates back to the first “Iron Age”, about 2700
years ago. It has been witness of decadence and splendour. But in spite of
everything, it´s still there, captivating every single person who visits it.
To talk about Salamanca without mentioning its
University would be the biggest mistake before introducing a friend to this
city. The University of Salamanca was the first one in Europe to be declared
so, in 1255. There are many curiosities and legends around it, the most common
ones are:
- The frog: It´s the most searched sculpture
on the plateresque façade of the University. Over a skull, the students
had to see the frog before examinations in order to pass all of them.
- The astronaut: There is a
statue of an astronaut on the University Patio Escuelas door. It´s a
sculpting hard to explain or interpret. Its most important curious fact is
that it´s the figure of an astronaut on an old façade.
As a funny tradition, there is the “Water
Monday”, on the first Monday after Lent. It´s called so because the young
students used to cross the river Tormes to bring back in the city all the women
that were libertines and who had been excluded from Salamanca during the Holy
days of Lent.
Around this tradition emerges also a typical
dish of Salamanca, the Hornazo. A pie made with marinated loin, chorizo, cured
ham (jamón) and boiled eggs.
There are innumerable traditions, stories and
legends around Salamanca. All of them with a bit of historical magic that makes
them unique.
Along the years Salamanca has been one of the most important cities of Spain. But it has also been
forgotten sometimes. No matter what, right now it´s a splendorous city worth
visiting and walking through their streets full of history in every corner.
Once in Salamanca and after going around
everything, we invite you to come to our little village, La Alberca, where you´ll
be able to relax in our Spa, eat the best food in our restaurants and enjoy
nature like never before.
See you soon.
