The popularity of Spain may be a few decades old, but the country’s history is centuries old, and many ancient cities located throughout the country speak about the grandness it once wore. Tourists visiting Spain generally visit the most famous cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville, and often skip things that hold more value.
If you are someone whose idea of visiting any country goes far beyond visiting the famous spots, then ensure to take a tour of these ancient cities of Spain when booking Spain tour packages.
Italica
Founded in 206 BCE, Italica is located in the modern-day Sanitponce. It was the first Roman settlement in Hispania and was established by Publius Cornelius Scipio after he claimed victory over the Carthaginians. It initially became home for the wounded war veterans of the Second Punic War.
Italica thrived into a wealthy Roman colony and produced historical figures like Hadrian and Trajan. The city still has the grand amphitheatre, well-built streets, mosaics, and everything that shows the exquisiteness of the Roman Empire, merged with Hispania’s heritage.
Cordoba
Cordoba was once one of the most flourishing cities of ancient Spain and was even the major centre established by the Romans in the 2nd century BCE. The construction of the temples, theatres, and bridges showed the grandeur of the Roman Empire and made it an important provincial capital.
It was later expanded in terms of architecture under the Islamic rule and saw the construction of the Great Mosque of Cordoba. The entire city is adorned with a mixture of Islamic, Christian, and Jewish architecture.
Toledo
Located on the hill of the Tagus River, Toledo is amongst the most ancient cities of Spain and had a Roman establishment that later became the Visigothic capital in the 6th century.
Post the Romans, the city came under the Islamic rule and became the hub of culture and learning, and diverse religions like Christians, Muslims, and Jews coexisted here peacefully, earning the city the title of the “City of Three Cultures,” Even today, the grand cathedral, Alxazar Fortress, and the medieval streets take you back to the time.
Spain may not be known widely for its long-standing history, but it doesn’t negate the fact that the country is blessed with the beauty of history and culture reflected through the ancient cities.