Located on a pretty coastline in the south of Spain, Cadiz is surrounded by beaches and populated by friendly people. It has benefited from a wide number of different cultures, all leaving their mark in terms of architecture and way of life.
Cadiz may be one of the destinations included on your holiday with MSC Cruises. With this in mind we have put together a guide to the city, which is widely considered to be the oldest in the whole of Europe.
With so much fascinating history and interesting sights to explore try to ensure you make the most of a short stay in Cadiz on your cruise from Southampton.
Plaza de la Catedral
Head to the plaza housing both the city’s cathedral, constructed between 1722 and 1838, and the Baroque Santiago church dating back to 1635. Before entering either of these religious establishments take a moment to enjoy the square itself.
Notice that a ground plan of the cathedral has been included in the design of the paving stones and stand back to admire the impressive yellow dome. Due to the fact that the construction of the building ended up stretching out over a considerable number of years, its original baroque design has been diluted with rococo and neoclassical elements.
Climb to the top of the cathedral’s tower for fantastic views of the whole city and the surrounding coastline.
Museo de Cadiz
Cadiz’s fine museum is situated within another pretty square surrounded by trees. Downstairs you will find the archaeology section, where the standout attraction is two Phoenician marble sarcophagi. These are joined by myriad Roman statues, many of which are now missing their heads, as well as a likeness of Emperor Trajan from the ruins of Baelo Claudia, complete with his head.
Upstairs you will find a strong collection of religious art, including 18 pieces by Francisco de Zurbarán featuring monks, saints and angels. The highlight of the upper floor is the altarpiece that Murillo was working on for the Cádiz’ Convento de Capuchinas when he fell from the scaffolding and was killed.
Playa de la Victoria
You cannot spend a few days in Cadiz without making the most of its fantastic coastline and we recommend Playa de la Victoria. This is as much for the walk along the promenade from Barrio Santa Maria as for the destination.
This beach boasts four kilometres of sand and sea stretching along the peninsula and is the place where many of the locals like to go when they are sunning themselves.
Gran Teatro Manuel de Falla
Dating back to 1905 the magnificent Gran Teatro Manuel de Falla sits in the Plaza Fragela and still has a comprehensive schedule of performances. Try to get tickets if one of these shows coincides with your trip. Otherwise just marvel at its architectural beauty.
It was known simply as Gran Teatro up until 1926 when it was decided that the name of local composer Manuel de Falla should be bestowed upon it as a mark of honour.
Standout features include the red and white horseshoe arches on the facade, a magnificent vestibule and stunning stairway up to the galleries above. Admire the work of Felipe Abarzuza and Rodríguez de Arias who painted an allegory of paradise on the ceiling.