In the very heart of Castilla y León, where autumn landscapes take on a unique melancholic beauty, lies a place capable of transporting travelers centuries into the past. Not far from the Portuguese border, a powerful fortified silhouette rises atop a high hill, encircled by ancient walls. Here, among cobbled streets and Renaissance palaces, time seems to have stood still, preserving for future generations the unique atmosphere of the Middle Ages. This is Ciudad Rodrigo, located in the province of Salamanca—a true gem for lovers of history, culture, and untouched authenticity.
Officially recognized as a Historic-Artistic Site back in 1944, Ciudad Rodrigo proudly stretches across a promontory on the banks of the Águeda River. Its main treasure is undoubtedly the city wall. The first fortifications were erected as far back as the 12th century, and in the 18th century they were extensively rebuilt and reinforced. Today, the two-kilometer-long wall completely encircles the old quarter, offering entry through one of seven gates, among which Puerta del Sol, Santiago, and La Colada stand out. Passing through the latter, visitors find themselves at the foot of the imposing castle of Enrique II Trastámara. Today, this castle houses a luxurious Parador hotel, and from its main tower, known as Torre del Homenaje, there is a breathtaking panorama of the river valley and the surrounding area.
The historic center impresses with its concentration of landmark religious and civic buildings, each telling its own story across centuries. The focal point is the Catedral de Santa María, whose construction began in 1165 and was only completed in the 16th century. This long process gave the cathedral a unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic features. Particularly noteworthy are the Puerta de las Cadenas portal and the magnificent Main Chapel. Inside, another treasure awaits—the carved choir stalls created by master Rodrigo Alemán in 1498. The cathedral also houses the Diocesan Museum, which displays valuable examples of sacred art. A stroll through the city inevitably leads to luxurious palaces like the Palacio de los Águila, Palacio del Primer Marqués de Cerralbo, or Palacio de los Castro. Their façades seamlessly combine Renaissance and Baroque styles, creating a truly distinctive architectural ensemble.
Wandering through the narrow streets and squares of Ciudad Rodrigo is like stepping into living history, where every stone seems to hold its own secret. The heart of public life is the Plaza Mayor, the main square that gathers the city’s most important buildings. Here you’ll find the Renaissance-era town hall and several old mansions adorned with family coats of arms. But no visit to the city is complete without sampling its authentic cuisine. The local gastronomy is as unique as its heritage. Be sure to try farinato (a spicy sausage made from pork, bread, and paprika), chanfaina (a hearty offal stew), and hornazo—a traditional savory pie filled with meat and eggs. If your trip falls in February, you can witness the famous Carnaval del Toro, when the old streets transform into a stage for a vibrant festival, further cementing Ciudad Rodrigo’s status as one of the most distinctive and captivating destinations in all of Spain.
