A few Hours south of Madrid is the famous city of Toledo. We traveled by bus and as we entered the gates to the old city it immediately felt as though we were entering into the middle ages. The old city is still mostly surrounded by a wall that dates back to the times of Muslim control. Toledo has existed since the bronze age first as a Roman trading hub, then as a capital of Visigoth Spain, then capital of the Caliphate of Cordoba. After the Chrisitan-Muslim struggles for Spain it fell to the Castillians in 1085 opening a new period of Christian rule. Interestinglly the Castillians didn't sack and destroy the muslim libraries, but instead set up a mass translation projest that provided access to a large amount of knowledge that was previously lost in northern Europe. After 1085 Toledo became the capital for the King until it was moved to Valladolid and then Madrid.
Given its long and eclectic past the city retains a very multicultural feel both in the architecture and people. Some of the most notable sights included the:
Puente Trajan at Alcantara built in between 104 and 106 CE by Roman Emporer Trajan
Alcazar de Toledo ancient fortress and military school
<p><center> Puente de Alacantara
Cathedral de Toledo
Monasterio de San Jaun
Overall the city is amazing with a patchwork of Christian, Jewish, Muslim, and Roman Influences. Well worth the trip. Here are the rest of the photos.
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