The city of Cadiz

Cádiz is a wonderful old Spanish city which is a great destination for travelers. The oldest Western city was founded in a strategic location between Europe and Africa. It was originally settled by the Phoenicians about 1000 B.C.E. If tourists don’t want to spend a lot of time getting from place to place as they go through Spain, they can stay in Cádiz City and experience much of Spanish history without leaving the environs.

Old Town rests on the tip of the peninsula, dotted with beautiful plazas filled with the colorful life of the city. The New Town surrounds this area with a modern, elegant metropolis edged with exquisite beaches.

The port of Cádiz has grand avenues, beautiful squares, and a variety of gardens visitors can tour enjoying the city’s ambiance. Several historic castles built through various periods of the past reside in the city: Puerta Tierra; San Sebastián Castle built as a fort on a small island off La Caleta Beach; Santa Catalina Castle used as a concert hall and exhibition center; and Torre Tavira which provides an exquisite view of the surrounding scenery from its upper level location.

Cathedrals and churches dot the city streets. The old Cathedral (Barrio del Pópulo) was destroyed several times throughout history leaving only the entrance and vault. The church of Oratorio de San Felipe Neri served as Cadiz’s parliament building during the Napoleonic War. In 1812, within its walls, the first constitution was drawn up.

Museums in Cadiz include the Archeological Museum, Real Academia de Bellas Artes Museum housing a collection of Phoenician and Roman art, the Municipal museum revealing the city’s local history, and Cadiz Museum containing three sections: Archeology, Bellas Artes and Ethnology.

Parque Genovés Park was expanded in the 19th century to include many plant species from America. Wine, cheese, sherry, olive oil, and cold meats are popular items in the markets of Cadiz. Ceramics, furniture, blankets and ponchos are also popular craftwork for souvenirs.

Cádiz’s weather is not too hot in summer or too cold in winter, but can be very windy any time of the year. The city has become a popular holiday destination for families wanting the benefits of Spanish beaches without the crowds on the Costa del Sol. Service industries have increased greatly over the past few years. The standard of these new services are excellent, providing guests with the wonderful experience they expect from the welcoming people of Spain.