Sitting in the sun sipping red wine in Salamanca's lovely Plaza Mejor (main square) offers the best of the Spanish city. In the sunshine the plaza glows gold, and is arguably the most beautiful square in all of Spain. But the Plaza Mejor, with its stunning Baroque architecture, is just the beginning of Salamanca's charms.
Salamanca, situated around two and a half hours from Madrid, is a European Culture capital for 2002. And to make the year a memorable one, the city has organised continuing cultural events for the entire year. Artwork from all over Europe, opera and internationally celebrated rock groups all performed in the eight weeks I spent in Salamanca in the first few months of this year, and the cultural calender only improves as the year goes on. However, all the festivities of this year play second fiddle to the everyday life of the city.
The Gothic cathedral dominates the old pedestrian quarter of the city, and is the 'new' cathedral dating back to the 16th century. The 'old' cathedral is attached to the side of the new, and dates to the12th century. The new cathedral is a favourite with visitors as, during recent renovations, the builders added a few examples of contemporary popular culture. This has caused tourist groups to spend hours searching for the astronaut carved into the 500-year-old stonework. Another popular carving is at the nearby University 'La rana' with its miniature frog decoration. The frog is the symbol of Salamanca, and legend has it that anyone finding the frog unaided will have great sex for the next seven years. I found it no problems... my boyfriend however had a bit of trouble. I guess it's time to change men.
As a University town, Salamanca attracts students from all over the world. Not only for its high-class, structurally beautiful university, but also for the language schools which dot the city. Salamantinas have a reputation for speaking the purest, clearest form of Castillian (Spanish), making Salamanca the number-one destination for students wishing to learn the language. Add a town full of foreigners to the passionate disposition of the Spanish natives, and anyone visiting Salamanca is sure to have a great time. Especially when mixing in all-you-can-drink sangria deals at many of the local bars...
Language schools provide the best way to experience a culture when in a country for a few months. It is easy to make friends from all different cultures (providing you with a handy set of addresses for future travel) as well as becoming a part of Spanish life. While there are many options, the language school that I would recommend is Don Quijote (www.donquijote.com). It is located in the heart of the old quarter, and has an amazingly friendly staff. Don Quijote organises weekend day trips for its students, as well as a welcome tour and dinner for new arrivals, Halloween parties etc. It also gives students free drink passes to popular nightclubs, and caters just as well to mature-age students as it does to the young party-hopping set.
The building is stunning, with its own courtyard and café, internet access for students and a comprehensive library. The cost of textbooks is included in the tuition fee. The school offers two types of accommodation, student flats and host families. While the student flats may be more fun, the host family is the best way to experience Spanish family life. Don Quijote has many schools throughout Spain, and one in South America, so you can transfer to language schools as you travel. Flamenco dancing and cooking courses can also be arranged.
With all the architectural and cultural highlights found in Salamanca, the city is an ideal addition to your Spanish travel itinerary. The city has an active nightlife and friendly locals, so if you are looking for a lively city, Salamanca is the place to be, and this year more than ever.
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