A Historic University

The University of Salamanca was founded in 1218. Less than forty years later, in 1254, Pope Alexander IV called it “one of the four leading lights of the world.” It continues to draw students and scholars to this day – along with architecture and art lovers who admire the brilliant Plateresque façade. The University has long taken center stage in some of the most fascinating moments in history: it is here where Columbus pled his case to a council of geographers when seeing approval from the King and Queen to find his western route to the Indies. It is here too where mathematicians proposed changes to what would become known as the Gregorian calendar, the most widely used international calendar that we use to this day.

Where the Old Meets the New

The New Cathedral of Salamanca overshadows the nearby Old Cathedral. Construction began in the 16th century and continued until the 1700s and is a blend of the popular-at-the-time Plateresque style merging with the previous church’s Gothic style. Intricate designs include modern additions added during playful renovations from the 1990s, including an astronaut and a faun holding ice cream.

The House of Shells

Another popular destination is the uniquely decorated 15th century La Casa de las Conchas – which translates to ‘House of Shells.’ Between 350-400 shells – all of which have been carved out of sandstone – decorate the exterior façade of what was originally the palace of Rodrigo Maldonado, a knight of the Santiago Order (but is now a library). Maldonado’s coat of arms is etched onto the walks and around the windows. Some dispute the reason for the scalloped shells – but the building was likely enhanced in this fashion either because they are a symbol of the Santiago Order (also known as the Order of St. James) or an offering to Maldonado’s beloved.

Watch the golden city of Salamanca come alive during our Portugal sailings.