May 27, 2023
Morille – Salamanca 25.5km
25 – 27 May 2023
Following a tough day yesterday, today’s ride appeared much more promising. Our research on Salamanca revealed numerous attractions to visit, prompting us to reserve an apartment for three nights. The six of us were reunited, with Kymmy rejoining our Camino adventure troupe.
Our morning began with a steep incline, which caught us off guard. Fortunately, once we overcame the first challenging hill, the remainder of the journey was a delightful descent. The introduction of a bike trail enhanced our ride, making it effortless and enjoyable, particularly with the added perk of coasting downhill.
Salamanca known as Spain’s “golden city,” Salamanca is rich in architectural, religious and gastronomic culture. We explored the La Casa de las Conchas (house of shells), and both the Old and New Cathedrals of Salamanca.
From sunrise till midnight, the 18th Century Plaza Mayor is a buzzing hub of activity. Today as the sun peeked over the horizon, delivery trucks began to roll in, bringing fresh supplies for the local cafes. Soon after, tables and umbrellas were quickly set up, ready to cater to the crowds of hungry and thirsty visitors.
The restaurants in the plaza serve up delicious tapas until 2pm, before taking a brief break until 8pm when dining recommences. As the evening sets in, the tantalizing aroma of Grace’s tapas wafts out from her apartment, tempting passersby to come and sample her mouth-watering creations.
Earlier in the day, Grace visited the local markets to pick up fresh produce for her tapas. She carefully selected Prado peppers, asparagus, garlic, prosciutto, cheese, chorizo, and crackers before returning to her apartment to write her menu and prepare to serve her guests. The six little piggies were in for a treat!
The Salamanca Cathedrals are a unique amalgamation of two churches that have been fused together. The first one, an ancient cathedral constructed in the Romanesque style, dates back to the 12th-13th centuries. The second was constructed in the 16th century. Inside the Old Cathedral, there are several stunning tombs of the bishops. After ascending the many steps up the Gallo Tower, we were rewarded with an inspiring vistas of the city from without, while within, we were treated to a bird’s-eye perspective of the cathedral’s interior.
Venturing forth to discover the University of Salamanca, nestled in the heart of the city, we were fascinated to learn that it was established by King Alfonso IX back in 1218. Unquestionably, it is the most ancient university in the Hispanic world and among the earliest institutions that have been continuously operative worldwide. The There is a skull placed atop the facade, believed to symbolise the young Seville Prince Juan, who passed away in 1497 before the construction of the building. The frog, on the other hand, is a tribute to Doctor Parra, who endeavoured to rescue the prince’s life in a desperate attempt.
