Iberian heritage. The most interesting UNESCO sites in Spain

Beautiful old cathedrals and monasteries, unique archaeological areas and nature reserves, historical areas of cities, and beautiful lighthouses – there are many outstanding attractions in Spain. They are of global significance today. The country is rich in its natural beauty. Preserved buildings with a thousand-year history remind of the rich historical past of Spain. Guests of Spain will have the opportunity to see the world's oldest lighthouse, walk through the most beautiful nature reserves, and look into the caves. The sites of ancient people were located in them millions of years ago.

The beautiful Burgos Cathedral is considered one of the most important architectural attractions in Spain. It was founded in 1221. It is a striking example of classic Spanish Gothic. The construction of this magnificent cathedral began by order of King Ferdinand III. A new Gothic cathedral was built on the site of an earlier one. The old cathedral was almost destroyed by the beginning of the 13th century. The construction of the cathedral lasted more than 300 years. Its spire was not fully completed until 1567.

The facade of the building was completed in the 13th century. It has remained almost unchanged since then. The richly decorated facade is one of the main features of the cathedral. You can view dozens of sculptures of various themes on it. A huge rose window is located in the central part of the northern facade. The interior of the cathedral is no less impressive. It is a harmonious combination of Renaissance and Baroque elements.

Finish gilding was used extensively in the decoration of the rooms. You can see beautiful sculptures and decorative elements carved from stone everywhere here. The main altar of the cathedral has been preserved in its original form. It was completed in the 16th century. Elaborate stained glass windows are also preserved in the cathedral. Polychrome stucco with many small details adorns the domes. Elements of gilding were also used in its execution. Some of the cathedral's spaces are more like museum halls. Collections of old paintings and sculptures are presented in them. The exact number of decorative elements and treasures of the Burgos Cathedral is incalculable. Next - Avila Town

Avila Town, Spain

The charming city of Avila is located in the vicinity of Madrid. It is also a world heritage site. It is famous for its rich history and variety of attractions. The very first settlement was founded on the site of the modern city in the era of the Roman Empire. The history of the city is inextricably linked with the name of Saint Teresa of Avila. She dedicated 27 years of her life to serving in a Carmelite monastery. Complete article

Toledo, Spain

The historic district of Toledo is also a landmark of world significance. Its unique architectural ensemble has not changed much since the Middle Ages. You can walk along the narrow streets here. They are paved with cobblestones. You can also admire historical monuments from various eras. The central object of the historic district is considered to be the Cathedral of Saint Mary. Its construction began in the 13th century. It lasted almost 200 years. Complete article

Catedral de Sevilla, Spain

Seville Cathedral is the largest Gothic Cathedral in Europe. It is difficult to find its equal in beauty. Its construction began in 1401. It was fully completed in 1519. A huge building was built on the site of the destroyed old mosque. The cathedral building impresses not only with its rich exterior design but also with its incredible scale. The building is 116 meters long and 76 meters wide. Complete article

Monestir de Poblet, Spain

Poblet is one of the largest monasteries in Spain. It was founded in 1151. The monastery is located on the territory of the municipality of Vimbodi i Poblet. This majestic monastery has been used as a Royal Pantheon since its foundation. Many Royal tombs are located on its territory. The tombs are distinguished by their design. The best Catalan sculptors worked on their creations. The Poblet Monastery was one of the richest in the country from its foundation until the 1830s. Hundreds of works of art decorated it. Priceless religious relics were kept in the monastery. Complete article

Donana National Park, Spain

Doñana National Park is located in Andalusia. It is considered one of the most beautiful and interesting in the world today. It was organized in 1963. The territory of the reserve covers an area of about 75,800 hectares at present. The nature reserve is notable for its contrasting landscape. There are beautiful pine forests and extensive swampy areas on its territory. You can admire the dunes on the ocean coast. Lynxes are one of the main inhabitants of the nature reserve. One of the largest populations of these animals in the world lives here. Complete article

Tarrago, Spain

The unique archaeological complex of Tarraco is located on the territory of the Spanish city of Tarragona. It combines the ruins of ancient Roman buildings. The Roman colony was founded on the territory of the modern city during the reign of Caesar. The ancient city reached its peak during the reign of Octavian Augustus. Luxurious buildings and palaces were built in the city by his order. The Emperor sought to celebrate the successful conclusion of the Cantabrian war in this way. Complete article

Caves in Atapuerca Mountains, Spain

The Sierra de Atapuerca archaeological area is located near the Spanish city of Burgos. The ancient cave is its central feature. Unique artifacts were discovered by researchers in it. They belong to different historical periods. They allowed finding answers to many questions related to the process of human evolution. A detailed report on the exploration of the Great Cave was published as early as 1858. It is called the Cave of Bones today. Complete article

Palmeral of Elche, Spain

Travelers can visit the amazing Elche palm forest in Alicante. This is the largest palm grove in Europe. The forest area is 5.1 square kilometers. Its territory is divided into several zones. There is a great recreation park with equipped paths for walking, playgrounds, and attractions here. The history of the appearance of this grove goes far back in time. It was formed by the Iberians in the 4th century BC. The Moors created an artificial irrigation system in this arid area later. A small grove has grown into a huge palm garden thanks to it. Complete article

Royal Palace of Aranjuez, Spain

The beautiful royal palace is located in the city of Aranjuez near Madrid. It was built in the 17th century. The palace remained the main country residence of the Spanish kings for a long time. It is customary to consider the palace as a whole with the surrounding park today. You can see unique historical objects while walking through the park. An exhibition of vintage boats was formed in the garden. Members of the royal family used them for river walks. Complete article

Tower of Hercules, Spain

The old active lighthouse is one of the main attractions of the Spanish city of La Coruna. It is called the Tower of Hercules. This lighthouse was built during the Roman Empire. It is considered the oldest lighthouse on the planet today. The tower is located on a rocky peninsula. The height of the peninsula is 57 meters above sea level. The height of the lighthouse is 55 meters. According to historical data, the lighthouse was built at the turn of the 1st-2nd centuries A.D. It was continuously used until the early Middle Ages. Complete article

Cordoba City Center, Spain

The historic district of Cordoba is rich in unique ancient monuments. You will need more than one day to explore all its attractions. The Calahorra Tower is the main historical symbol of the city. This fortification was built by the Moors to protect the city. The museum is located in the tower at present. It is dedicated to the history of the city. Complete article

Santiago de Compostela, Spain

A unique historical area with many incredible attractions is also preserved in the ancient city of Santiago de Compostela. Obradoiro Square is usually the starting point of sightseeing programs. Several outstanding historical sites are located right on the square. A beautiful cathedral is among them. The very first church was built on its site almost a thousand years ago. It was rebuilt many times during this period. The cathedral is a unique architectural monument today. It combines features of different styles. Complete article

Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe, Spain

Santa Maria de Guadalupe is considered one of the most beautiful and interesting monasteries to visit in Spain. This royal monastery is located in the province of Caceres. King Alfonso XI is considered its founder. Construction of the monastery began on the site of the old chapel in 1340. According to one legend, the statue of the Virgin Mary was discovered in the ruins of an old dilapidated chapel. The locals considered her one of their main patrons. Complete article

Llotja de la Seda, Spain

If you want to explore the interesting historical areas in Valencia, you should visit the architectural complex Llotja de la Seda. It is a complex of beautiful buildings in the Gothic style. They were built in the 15th-16th centuries. The buildings were used for the silk trade. The best architects and artists of Spain worked on the construction of the silk exchange buildings. Joan Corbera and Domingo de Urteaga were directly involved in the construction of the building. Complete article