8 Best Things to Do in Salamanca

Plaza Mayor is a historical square in Salamanca that’s known for its Romanesque, Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Set within the UNESCO-listed Old City, it dates back to the 18th century and has more than 80 archways, each fitted with relief medallions of prominent kings, poets, and politicians. Must-visits here include Ayuntamiento (Town Hall), Iglesia de San Martín Cathedral, and Teatro Liceo. At dusk and dawn, the sandstone buildings in Plaza Mayor are bathed in a golden glow, earning Salamanca its nickname ‘Golden City’. 

The University of Salamanca was built in 1218 under the reign of Alfonso IX, making it one of the world’s oldest universities. You can visit to get a nice impression of the heritage and enjoy the architecture. The main building, called the Escuelas Mayores, features a 16th century Plateresque façade filled with Catholic symbols such as the eagle of Saint John and Charles V’s coat of arms. The tree-shaded Patio de Escuelas is a popular spot for spotting the ‘frog on a skull’ carvings, which are hidden within the façade. Tickets costs about €10 for adults, which include admission to Escuelas Mayores and Archbishop Fonseca College.

Catedral Vieja, known as the Old Cathedral of Salamanca, is a 12th-century Romanesque structure with a 110-metre tall clock tower. Called La Torre Del Gallo, you can climb the winding stairway to the top of the tower for beautiful views of the Old Town. Its main altar features one of Europe’s oldest organs and more than 50 paintings of biblical scenes dating back to the 15th century. The Catedral Nueva (New Cathedral) dates back to the 16th century, featuring a mix of Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque architecture. One of its most unique carvings is the one of an astronaut, which was added in 1992.

Parque de la Alamedilla is a family-friendly park just outside Salamanca’s Old Town. Built in 1882, its central square is especially popular with children as it has a large fountain with dancing water features and colourful lights. You can also spot swans and ducks swimming in the park’s artificial lake. Various plants, trees, and even art installations can be found throughout the park, making it a popular spot for picnicking during warmer months. 

Mercado Central occupies a 19th-century building by architect Joaquín de Vargas Aguirre, who also constructed Casa Lis in Salamanca. This historical market is where locals frequent to stock up on fresh produce, meat and seafood as well as Spanish hams, wines, and cheeses. Grab a seat at an onsite tapas bar and dine on some tapas while you’re here. Mercado Central is located in Plaza del Mercado, about 100 metres east of Plaza Mayor. 

Museo Art Nouveau & Art Decó is set inside Casa Lis, a Modernist building fitted with colourful stained-glass windows and ceiling. Here, you can explore 19 exhibits dedicated to the Art Nouveau period. Decorative arts on display here include bronze statues, porcelain figures, and paintings by renowned artists throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. See beautiful jewellery by Masriera and Faberg, Chryselephantine sculptures by Demetre Chiparus, and furniture by Homar, and Majorelle.

Cielo de Salamanca is a beautiful ceiling fresco inside the University of Salamanca’s library. It’s painted by Fernando Gallego between 1483 and 1486, depicting astrological signs, constellations, and planets. As you gaze at the intricately decorated painting, its 12 zodiac signs seem to change in colour, thanks to the changing light emitting from the library’s large windows. Note that photography isn’t allowed here and refrain from making loud noises out of respect for the library’s patrons.

Casa de las Conchas (House of Shells) is an impressive Gothic structure in Salamanca that was built in 1493. It’s most renowned for its ornate Plateresque façade, which is decorated with over 300 stone shells to represent the Santiago Order’s emblem. Many locals believe gold is hidden behind one of these shells. The main patio is a prime example of Isabelline Gothic architecture, with Carrara marble columns and stone gargoyles perched on the walls. From here, you can access a modern library with an extensive collection of books and DVDs.