Unknown Spain: Santander - a city reborn from the ashes

2024 Author: Harold Hamphrey | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 10:06

This small town in northern Spain, located on the coast of the Bay of Biscay, is uncharted territory for many. Unlike popular tourist centers, Santander is considered one of the most aristocratic settlements on our planet.

Diamond of Northern Spain

The capital of the autonomous community of Cantabria is called the diamond of the northern resorts of the country. The charming city will introduce you to unknown Spain with a cool climate, cloudy weather and landscapes reminiscent of the B altics. Many do not even believe that this is possible just an hour from hot Madrid.

All guests are warmly welcomed by friendly Spain. Santander is no exception, and all tourists who have visited the cozy town remember the hospitable locals for a long time.

City without historical heritage

As guests of the capital of Cantabria say, it is useless to look for the medieval part here: in 1941, a terrible fire destroyed 37 streets with old buildings. This was a real tragedy for the administrative center founded by the Romans, because it was very different fromother cities whose historical sights Spain is proud of.

Santander was subsequently completely rebuilt, and tourists are surprised at the lack of a main square and medieval flavor. But do not think that there is nothing to admire here: picturesque nature, restored and modern architectural monuments will surprise all visitors.

Former royal residence

Santander (Spain), whose sights do not have a centuries-old history, is famous throughout the world for the Magdalena Palace - the former royal residence. Alfonso III and his family often spent the summer in a cozy town, repeatedly confessing their love to him. At the beginning of the last century, the city hall allocated land for a luxurious building, and Santander turned into the summer capital of Spain. Adapted to the local landscape, the project was successfully realized: the palace was erected on the La Magdalena peninsula, which offers amazing views.

The decoration of the interior of the palace and the choice of furniture were under the control of the queen herself, who was scrupulous about details. Following the couple of monarchs, all the nobility of the country rushed to the majestic Santander. A city in Spain hosted the royal retinue until 1931, and after the overthrow of the monarchy, the beautiful palace became the property of the university.

Great place to stay

Located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, an architectural masterpiece, considered the most beautiful object in the north of the state, will amaze everyone with its elegance. An English-style palacelocated in a fantastically beautiful park. Fresh air, centuries-old coniferous forests, an unusual museum dedicated to the sea, a small zoo will attract the attention of children and adults.

Spaniards rush to the royal palace, open to all visitors, to spend the weekend on the peninsula. Here you can sunbathe on the sandy beach with the provocative name Bikini, try national dishes in the cafe, and the playground with many attractions will appeal to the little ones.

Dreaming of a memorable wedding ceremony in the royal residence, the newlyweds rent the Magdalena Palace, which will allow you to plunge into the atmosphere of aristocracy and romance.

Cathedral

Not to be missed is the Gothic cathedral, which dominates the religious buildings for which Spain is world-famous. Santander has changed a lot since the devastating fire, and it's not for nothing that the rebuilt city is often compared to the Phoenix rising from the ashes.

Considered the heart of the capital of Cantabria, the cathedral was rebuilt over a period of 10 years. A strict structure with two chapels designed by different architects arouses genuine interest and a slight thrill when meeting.

Resembling an impregnable fortress, the structure has three naves separated by powerful columns. During excavations inside the temple, the ruins of a Roman settlement were discovered. And now, amazed visitors can observe the remains of thermal baths and defensive structures under the glass floor of the cathedral. Here they foundheads of saints buried in the Middle Ages. Now the remains are placed in special sarcophagi and are in the cathedral.

Palace of Festivals

An unusual palace built 26 years ago is located on a multi-kilometer embankment. The whole of Spain is arguing about a strange structure resembling a dog lying upside down.

Santander became world famous after the opening of the concert and theater venue, which was recognized as one of the ugliest buildings in the country. The gigantic size, problems with natural light, small space between seats and a significantly overestimated estimate caused bewilderment among all citizens.

In our article, we talked about a surprisingly hospitable resort with the beautiful name of Santander. A city in Spain, the sights of which tourists will appreciate, is of great interest. The capital of Cantabria, which reveals the northern beauty of the country, must be seen firsthand in order to feel its unique atmosphere and positive energy.