Cádiz
Quick Facts
Language: SpanishCurrency: Euro
Area Codes: 956
Other Cities in this Region
Beautiful Cádiz is the ideal spot for a peaceful vacation. The Atlantic Ocean surrounds the city on three sides, making it magnificently temperate and scenic. The view from virtually anywhere in the region is marvelous. In February, Spaniards flock to Cádiz for the famous Carnival. However, during the rest of the year, the city is fairly quiet and subdued, and most tourists have not yet discovered the wonder of Cádiz. Thus, it is in your best interests to see this exquisite city before it gets discovered.
Phoenician traders settled the region in 1100 BC and named it Gadir. It is claimed that Cádiz is the oldest constantly inhabited city in the entire Western World. Julius Caesar lived and held office here, and Hannibal resided here for a time, as well. During the Middle Ages, while controlled by the Moors, Cádiz was forced into a steady decline. Finally, after the discovery of the Americas, the city's commercial importance was rediscovered. Columbus set sail from Cádiz on his second voyage to the New World. In the 18th century, the New World trade was monopolized by Cádiz, and it developed into the most lucrative port in all of Western Europe. The majority of the buildings in the city date from this time period. Built from gold and silver brought from the New World, the cathedral in Cádiz is a breathtaking structure.
A grouping of narrow streets opens into a series of lovely, small squares, and this makes up the forefront of Cádiz. The older portions of the city have an African appearance to them, and the cathedral's golden cupola towers above low, off-white homes. Outstanding parks are scattered throughout Cádiz, and the sparkling bay can be seen from the center of this wonderful city. Plaza de Mina is the perfect starting point to begin your explorations. This square features grand, shady palm trees and an abundance of warm beaches. Everywhere you go, the locals will greet you with a pleasant smile and a kind word, epitomizing the inviting nature of Cádiz, Spain.
Docking & Local Transportation
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Cádiz Bay (956/240-400), located at Plaza de España 17. The city center is within walking distance of the port
Cádiz is an excellent walking city, yet motorized transportation options exist as well. If you'd like to take a taxi around Cádiz, contact the Association Tele-Taxi Linense (956/344-860) to arrange for a pickup
Local Interests
The Colegio de Arquitectos is a beautiful architectural college in the middle of the Plaza de Mina. This historical site is ornately decorated and a pleasure to stroll through. The Museo de Cádiz (956/212-281), otherwise known as the Provincial Museum, is located alongside the college in the Plaza de Mina. The museum's works by Alonso Cano and Murillo are fantastic, as is Zurbaran's Four Evangelists.
The Oratorio de San Felipe Neri (956/211-612) is a glorious church that housed the first constitution in Spain. This revolutionary document was originally drafted in 1812, and the independent Parliament of Cádiz met here during the reign of Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon's brother. Fortunately, because of the constitution of Cádiz, the citizens were not subjected to the rule of the tyrant Bonaparte. The main altar displays the Immaculate Conception by Murillo, one of the greatest Spanish works of art.
The Museo Historico Municipal is located at Santa Ines 9 (956/221-788) and is fairly small but quite pleasant nonetheless. The establishment of the Constitution in 1812 is depicted in mural form, a work that was created in the mid-19th century. The most fascinating work in the museum is the mahogany and ivory model representation of Cádiz, which was constructed in 1779. The amazing attention to detail is flawless, and the model looks remarkably similar to the streets of today's Cádiz.
Activities
Sailing
The majority of the towns around the Bay of Cádiz offer yacht clubs and fabulous marinas. Combined, they host around fifty regattas every year, and every boat imaginable is featured. The most celebrated bay marina in Cádiz is Puerto Sherry (956/850-202) which is located next to Puerto de Santa Maria.
Dining and Nightlife
El Faro is located at San Felix 15 (956/229-916) and has repeatedly been heralded as the best restaurant in the entire province. It is a low-ceilinged white house that is beautifully decorated with blue flowerpots, glass lanterns, oil paintings, pictures of old Cádiz, and tile walls. The fish and seafood dishes are extensive and prepared deliciously, as is the extremely palatable venison. Achuri, located at Plocia 15 (965/253-613) was founded in 1947 and offers a combination of Basque and Andalusian food. The specialties are always delectable, so be certain to ask your server about the feature of the day. El Ventorrillo del Chato (956/250-025) stands by itself on a sand-dune isthmus that connects the mainland to Cádiz. This great dining facility was founded in 1780 as an inn, and its name comes from the man known as El Chato. Thanks to him, you can enjoy some of the tastiest meat dishes in the area. The wine list is extensive, and the setting is marvelous.
The Casino Bahia de Cádiz is a great place to get some indoor action after your tremendous day of outdoor activity. Located between Jerez and Puerto de Santa Maria, Casino Bahia de Cádiz (956/871-042) is the lone casino in this sector of Andalusia. Virtually all games imaginable are offered, and there is a disco and a restaurant inside as well.
Shopping
Belle Époque, located at Antonio López 2 (956/226-810), is the best place for ceramics, wicker, and Andalusian handcrafts. The collection of spectacular items is a joy for tourists, so be certain to check out this store that specializes in fine furniture and accessories