Cadiz. Sights of the oldest city

Cádiz sights

Cadiz, one of the oldest cities in Europe, is located in sunny Andalusia in southern Spain. Along with Malaga and Granada, this charming city impresses with its historical monuments, magnificent beaches and a unique atmosphere that began to take shape before our era. 

History of Cádiz

The legend of the thousand-year-old city begins with its founding by the Phoenicians around 1100 B.C. Although the oldest archaeological finds date back to the 8th century B.C., Cadiz developed as an important trading colony due to its strategic location. Over the centuries, Greeks, Carthaginians, Visigoths, Romans and Muslims have settled here.

In 206 BC this place, then known as Gades, became part of the Roman Empire and reached its greatest prosperity, becoming a significant city of the empire under the name of ‘Augusta Urbs Julia Gaditana’. In the 15th and 16th centuries, the connection with the sea was strengthened when Christopher Columbus set out on his expeditions from the local port, and in 1500, Nueva Cadiz, the first Spanish city in the Americas, was founded by settlers from Cadiz.

The settlement experienced a new prosperity in the 18th century with a commercial boom and the creation of the Casa de la Contratación de Indias in 1717, regulating trade with the Americas. In the 19th century, the city withstood a siege by French invaders and became the seat of the Cortes Generales, as well as the temporary capital of Spain (1810-1813).
The first Spanish constitution was also adopted here in 1812.
Today, the port of Cadiz remains one of the most important in Spain, with an increasing flow of cruise passengers and, consequently, the number of tourists.

What to see in Cádiz

The best place to start is of course the historic centre, where most of the interesting sights of Cadiz are located. Of course, the route depends on how you get to the city and where you stay, if you come for a few days. We, for example, parked the car near the railway station and went for a walk. So we start our route from this place.

Puerta de Tierra Gate

La Puerta de Tierra is the Spanish name for this entrance to the historic part of the city. The Puerta de Tierra was built into a fortress wall in the 18th century, built to protect the settlement from outside attacks. At that time, the village was actually a fortress on the island and the gate played a key role in its defence. This was our first point on the itinerary, although from the parking lot it was closer to Cádiz City Hall and its square. But we really wanted to have a look at the Puerta de Tierra first, so the next point would be the town hall square.

City Hall (Ayuntamiento) and Plaza San Juan de Dios

The heart of the historic city centre, where past and present intertwine.
Mayoral Square, with its majestic neoclassical city council building, symbolises the political power of Cadiz. The architecture of this place, with its massive columns and elegant arches, creates a contrast between the modern and the historical, striking the imagination.
The Plaza San Juan de Dios, on the other hand, is full of life and community atmosphere. Here bustling markets, cosy cafés and shady corners invite residents and tourists to interact in a variety of sounds and flavours. 

Roman Theatre 

For lovers of ancient excavations. The historic part of the city holds many secrets, one of which is the ancient Roman Theatre, accidentally discovered only in the 1980s. It is one of the largest theatres of the Roman Empire in Spain and an important archaeological find. Entrance is free for those who wish to visit, it's a delight and inspiring! 

Cathedral

One of the most iconic landmarks of Cadiz. Its golden dome is visible from all points of the city and is a true symbol of Cadiz. The cathedral took more than a hundred years to build, which is reflected in its unique architectural style, combining Baroque and Neoclassicism. Upon entering, you can see two facades: one facing the city and the other facing the ocean, with a central portal decorated with sculptures of biblical scenes and the lives of saints. Light plays inside the cathedral, highlighting architectural details and creating an atmosphere of grandeur, while the high vaults of the hall give a sense of flight. Be sure to climb the Bell Tower, which offers stunning views of the city and ocean. There is a fee to enter - 10 euros. You can also buy tickets to the cathedral with a guide who will explain and show you everything in detail.

Central Market

One of the oldest covered markets in Spain, the always crowded Abastos Central Market was built back in 1838. Today, revitalised, it offers a wide range of fresh fish, meat, vegetables and fruit.
For us visitors, however, it is a unique place for gastronomic tourism, where you can try Andalusian and international tapas accompanied by a refreshing drink.
By the way, the square around the market is used as a venue for various events, including Carnival. After all, Cadiz is considered to be the city where Carnival itself originated, and accordingly, it is celebrated here with greater magnitude than in other parts of Spain.

Tavira Tower - Torre Tavira

Torre Tavira is one of dozens of watchtowers that the city had in the past.
The Tavira Tower is one of the surviving watchtowers and the tallest watchtower in the historic centre of Cádiz, rising some 33 metres from the ground and 45 metres above the sea. You can go inside, and climb up the steps to the top.
To see the interior of the tower and enjoy the magnificent views costs 5 euros. You can combine it with the camera obscura - 8 euros. The camera obscura is located in a dark room where only 10 people can enter at a time. It is an optical marvel on a horizontal screen that shows an image of everything that happens outside. An interesting experience! 

San Sebastian Castle and Santa Catalina Castle

Cadiz is surrounded by Spanish fortresses, of which Castel San Sebastian and Castel Santa Catalina are the most famous. Both castles are located on the ocean coast and are connected to the city by picturesque promenades. San Sebastian Castle is located on a small island and the walk across the long stone bridge to it is an adventure.
Although they are fortifications rather than castles, they are definitely worth a visit!
Let's keep moving..

Genovés Park - Parque Genovés

In the heart of the city lies a marvellous park with a rich collection of plants and trees. It is characterised by its remarkable cleanliness and carefully maintained condition, as well as its shapely tui and cypress trees. The place is further enlivened by a pretty pond with a picturesque waterfall, under which there is a grotto. You can get there by going round the falling water. As you stroll along, you will come across a graceful statue of children sheltered under an umbrella, which leaves a lasting impression.

Plaza de España

The Plaza de España is one of the most iconic squares in the city.
It was created following the expansion associated with the demolition of the wall of Place Carbon, in honour of the centenary of the Constitution of 1812 and the French siege.
The square is near the harbour and includes such prominent buildings as the House of Four Towers, the Customs House (now the headquarters of the Provincial Council) and the monument to the Constitution of 1812, erected in 1912, which is why we tourists come here - to look at the monument in honour of the Constitution and take a couple of photos.

Beaches and promenade

When talking about what to see in Cádiz, you can't leave out its beaches. La Caleta beach is small but very picturesque, surrounded by stone fortresses and perfect for enjoying the sunset. Cadiz also boasts the long beach of Playa de la Victoria, which will delight fans of outdoor activities and water sports. There is so much to see and do here! It seems that everything is aimed at keeping the tourist or local resident from getting bored. Not to mention the 4.5 kilometres of magnificent promenade, lined with numerous cafes, bars and restaurants offering delicious cuisine of Andalusia!

Useful tips for travellers in Cadiz

Transport: The city is quite compact and the main way to get around is on foot. This is the best way to experience the atmosphere of the old town and its narrow streets. For travelling outside Cádiz it is convenient to use a bus or a rented car.

Cuisine: Cadiz is famous for its seafood-based cuisine. Be sure to try the local tapas, as well as tuna dishes and a variety of paellas. The Mercado Central market is a great place to enjoy fresh and authentic dishes.

Holidays & Events: If you have the chance, visit Carnival in Cadiz, one of Spain's most famous carnivals. It is a colourful event with music, costumes and traditional performances.

Excursions: To get the most out of your trip, consider joining organised excursions. Professional guides will help uncover all the secrets of the ancient city and make your journey more informative.

Lifestyle: Take your time. Spaniards prefer a more relaxed pace of life. Enjoy evening siestas, long dinners and evening strolls along the seafront overlooking the sunset.