Spain from A to Z

Cities of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage

Spain ranks third among countries with the highest number of World Heritage Sites. Cities such as Córdoba, Toledo and Salamanca are a reflection of the urban history of Spain and an illustration of its various transformations and different cultural influences. All of these heritage sites have maintained the natural beauty of their surroundings. Rivers, mountains and canyons are part of the personality of places like Segovia and Toledo. Every city that has been declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site is characterised by a unique structure or feature. Most have a special charm that is characterised by the vitality, vigour and zest for life of its residents. Many historic buildings have been restored and today are fully operational. They are used as marketplaces, exhibition centres, art galleries, shopping centres for handicrafts, or have been converted into first-class accommodations such as the Parador hotels. ALCALÁ DE HENARES The cradle of Cervantes, the world- famous author of Don Quixote . His birth home is an example of a 16th century Castilian dwelling. Both the university and the city

houses are an excellent example of the transformation of the environment in harmony with nature. The fortified old town centre has been recognised by UNESCO.

centre are UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites.

ÁVILA An archetypical medieval town. The wall surrounding the city is the most well-preserved in Europe. The old city centre and several churches outside the city walls are on the UNESCO list of World Cultural Heritage Sites. CÁCERES Fortifications, Renaissance palaces and medieval squares - the city is full of wonderful buildings. The old city centre was named a World Cultural Heritage Site. Excellent lighting makes a nighttime visit particularly memorable. Heritage Site. Córdoba is home to a masterpiece of the art of the Caliphs: the Mosque-Cathedral, or the Great Mosque of Córdoba, built under Arabic rule. CUENCA A town that seems to float in the air. Its extraordinary hanging CÓRDOBA The historical centre was declared a World Cultural

IBIZA This island is a treasure coveted by all peoples of the Mediterranean, an extraordinary layout with

valuable archaeological sites. Its biodiversity and culture have been recognised by UNESCO MÉRIDA This city is still shining with the glory of the Roman Empire. Its emblematic buildings, such as the Roman theatre and amphitheatre, led to the inclusion of the city’s archaeological site in UNESCO’s list of World Cultural Heritage Sites. SALAMANCA The university, one of the oldest in the world, was founded in 1254. Since then it has established the life of this city along with another splendid gem, the Plaza Mayor. The historical centre of the city