Toledo - Spain's Ancient Marvel

And certainly the world was stunned, Spain becomes the world champion in the recently concluded World Cup 2010!

If you've been to the World Cup and while at Spain, you may want to visit one of Spain's famous city - Toledo. 

Toledo is one of the most beautiful cultural places you can definitely visit. In fact it was chosen as a World Heritage site by UNESCO in 1986.

Toledo city is near Spain's capital, which is about 1.5 hours from Madrid. In fact, it is a must stop after visiting Madrid. Toledo was the capital of Spain since 1560, then later changed to Madrid. Its great medieval architectures trace back from old medieval history and as a result, Toledo was one of the most important European business centers.

Toledo is actually located on a rocky and dry countryside. Its buildings and medieval towers encircles the city's landscape. A lot of tourists say it's a walled town but with reinforcements surrounding the numerous ancient structures and medieval towers.

If you roam around the city, you can find famous places of interest like the town above the Tajo river and the Alcantara bridge. The Alcantara bridge was built during the Roman times is so important as it was the only link to the town in the old times. This bridge however was damaged in the 10th century and then restructured. The Alcantara bridge was then recognized in 1921 as one of Spain's national monument.

Walking to Toledo's town you will certainly be amazed by the city's steep maze alleys and staircases. A monastery that is popularly visited is Iglesia de San Juan, displaying artefacts and paintings from the Middle times to current day.

In Toledo, you could also find one of the finest Gothic cathedrals in the world, which is the Great Cathedral. This is the second largest church in Spain and is regarded the most significant church not only because of its size and beauty but because of its old history. Inside the church are breathtaking coloured paintings heavenly battles and scultpures of various saints.

The Great Cathedral also has a choir area situated in the main area equipped with two organs that have been there since 200 years. Strangely enough a lot are surprised since these musical instruments are still very much being used and in good working condition.
Another famous church, although small, is the Church of San Tome. This church houses the one of the greatest painting of El Greco called "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz" which was painted in 1586

Another place which is surrounded by coffee shops is the city square of Alcazar. Here you can take a sip on a good hot coffee while enjoying the majestic views of Toledo city.

So when visiting Spain, never fail to drop by the ancient marvel of Spain - Toledo city.