Multicultural Toledo
The city of Toledo is known for being one of the most cultural cities in Spain. Historically, before Madrid, Toledo was the capital of Spain. Currently, it has a population of 84,000 people. Toledo is the cultural heart of La Mancha and of Spain.
Due to its importance in the glass industry, Toledo is given the title of Crystal Capital of the World. But why is it called "Crystal City"? Easy: Toledans have the best crystal in the world. The name derives from a long history of glass industry in the city. Toledo is not only the capital of glass in its country, it is the capital of the whole world.
The Moors arrived in Toledo around the 8th century. In a short time, Toledo became one of the most influential cities in Jewish Spain, taking on the role of a center for the arts and sciences as well as for religion. Most of the Moors were later expelled from Toledo after many centuries, but their traces are still visible everywhere today: the labyrinthine streets and the use of bricks definitely derive from the Moorish style. We recommend you visit the Alcazar of Toledo, built by the Moors in the 10th century. This structure still dominates the panorama of the city, making it easier to find yourself in the middle of that network of streets and alleys in the city.
The Catholic King Alfonso VI and the CID conquered Toledo in 1085, establishing a Christian regime throughout the region. The Vatican immediately recognized Toledo as the central seat of the Church in Spain and began a long succession of cardinals. Religious tolerance was practiced for many centuries, so much so that Christians adopted many elements of Arab and Jewish culture. The city, in fact, became very rich.
Toledo has always had the largest number of Jews compared to other cities in Spain. The Jews lived together with the Arabs and the Christians until 1400. In Toledo, in fact, there are still two synagogues that date back to the Jewish influence in Toledo. Visit the Santa Maria Synagogue and the Transit Synagogue to see what remains of the great Jewish heritage in the city. The interiors of these two great sacred places seem more Arab than Jewish, giving tourists a first taste of the great cultural fusion that defines Toledo.
Toledo is definitely a city to visit during your stay in Spain. It is a place with a lot of history, being one of the oldest cities in Spain. Visit Toledo accompanied by a guide, who will explain its history and recommend the best places to make your visit memorable.