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UNESCO World Heritage Sites. northern spain. Cities of Spain under the protection of UNESCO UNESCO site in Spain

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UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites in Spain

On the UNESCO World Heritage List in the Kingdom
Spain lists 45 names (as of 2016), this amounts to 4.3%
of the total (1052 as of 2016). 40 objects are included in the list by
cultural criteria, with 17 of them recognized as masterpieces
human genius (criterion i), 3 objects included according to natural
criteria, each of which is recognized as a natural phenomenon
exceptional beauty and aesthetic importance (criterion vii), and
also 2 mixed objects, one of which also falls under
criterion vii. In addition, as of 2016, 32 objects in
Spanish territories are among the candidates for inclusion in
World Heritage List. Kingdom of Spain ratified
Convention for the Protection of the World Cultural and Natural Heritage
heritage May 4, 1982. The first five objects located on
Spanish territories were listed in 1984 at the 8th session
UNESCO World Heritage Committee.

Cultural heritage

Ibiza is famous not only
with its clubs and parties, but
and historically significant
monuments included
to the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most important monument in
island - a castle located on
the highest point of the island. First
the castle is mentioned in the 12th century.
It is believed that it was built during the reign of
Muslims, and was originally used for military purposes. IN
our time the castle is one of the most
attractive tourist sites of the island. In the castle
an archaeological museum has been created, where various
artifacts discovered in Ibiza itself

Merida is located in
central part of the province
Extremadura, capital
which it is. City
got its name from
similar to the Latin term
Emerita, which applied to
soldiers who died with dignity
resignation.
The city was founded by Publius Carisio
decree of Octavius Augustus in the distant year 25 BC
AD and was called Colonia Lulia
Augusta Emerita, while in status
capital of the province of Lusitania.

In our time, the archaeological sites of Merida are listed
protected UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Of the most
surviving of them, one can highlight the impressive stone bridge across
the Guadiana River, a luxurious theater, a large circus arena, a majestic
an amphitheater and a unique water supply system with
a grand aqueduct.

Third World Heritage Site: Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe

Third World Heritage Site:
Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe
Majestic
monastery, which
clearly illustrates
represents four centuries
development of religious
architecture of Spain.

Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe,
located in the Spanish province of Caceres, was founded
by King Alfonso XI in 1340 on the site of a chapel in which,
according to legend, a figurine of the Virgin of Guadalupe was found.
Virgin Mary of Guadalupe, considered the patroness
Extremadura was especially revered among the conquistadors,
who glorified her name in the New World.

The monastery is unique in that
connects all known
Spanish directions
religious architecture
directions that existed on
for four hundred years since
the moment of its foundation. He
symbolizes two grandiose
events that happened in the world
stories.
In 1993, the Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Guadalupe was included in the list
protected sites of the World Cultural
UNESCO heritage for its unique
cultural and historical value.

UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites in India

In the list of objects of the World
UNESCO heritage in India includes 35 items (as of 2016
year), this represents 3.3% of the total (1052 for 2016).
27 objects are included in the list according to cultural criteria, 7
object - natural, 1 object - cultural and
natural. 12 objects are recognized as masterpieces of humanity
creative genius (criterion i), 3 objects recognized
natural phenomena or spaces of exceptional
natural beauty and aesthetic importance (criterion vii).
In addition, as of 2016, 44 objects in the territory
states are among the candidates for inclusion in the list
world heritage.

Taj Mahal

Taj Mahal - mausoleum-mosque,
located in Agra, India, on
bank of the Jamna River (architects,
probably Ustad-Isa and others). Built
by order of a descendant of Tamerlane -
padishah of the Great Empire
Mughal Shah Jahan in memory of
wife of Mumtaz Mahal, who died during
birth of the fourteenth child
(later he was buried here himself
Shah Jahan).
Taj Mahal (also "Taj")
considered the best example
Mughal style architecture, which
combines elements
Indian, Persian and
Arabic architectural styles.
In 1983, the Taj Mahal was named a World Heritage Site
UNESCO heritage: "a pearl of Muslim art"
in India, one of the universally recognized masterpieces of heritage,
admired all over the world."

Present tense

Recently within the walls of the Taj Mahal
cracks were found. By
According to scientists, the appearance of cracks
may be associated with shallowing
the river Jumna flowing nearby.
The disappearance of the river will lead to
changes in soil structure and
subsidence of the mausoleum, and maybe
even to its destruction. He also
began to lose its legendary
whiteness due to contaminated
air. Despite
expanding park area
around the Taj Mahal and closure
a number of particularly dirty
industries in Agra, mausoleum everything
turns yellow anyway. He has to
clean regularly with
special white clay.

Daily Taj Mahal
visited by tens of thousands
people, at the expense of tourists
"Indian pearl"
brings the country's treasury
a lot of money. In a year
Taj Mahal visits from
3 to 5 million
visitors, of which
more than 200,000 - from abroad. Majority
tourists come to
cool months
years - October, November and
February

Red Fort (Agra)

Red Fort - serf
building in Indian mountains
ode of Agra, who served in
era of the Great Empire
Mughal residence
rulers. Located above
Yamuna River just 2.5 km
from the Taj Mahal. Together with
nim red fort
in 1983 was included in
list of world
UNESCO heritage. Part
Red Fort area
today used in
military purposes and not available
for visitors.

Agra is famous
many tourists
thanks to
the famous Taj Mahal. However, on
territory of this
cities
still located
some
interesting
awns, among
which
stands out Krasny
th fort.
This amazing building began to be built in the middle of the 16th century, when
Akbar the Great decided to change the capital of the state and move it
from Delhi to Agra. A beautiful palace was built on the territory
fort and surrounded by a fence whose height reached 21 meters.

Agra, Red Fort consists of several palaces, which were intended for recreation, residence and government needs. Located around

Agra, Red Fort consists of
Of several palaces, which were intended for recreation, residence and government
needs. There were beautiful gardens and magnificent mosques all around. The fort combined two
style - Hindu and Muslim, this happened with all large buildings of that
era.

Ajanta Caves - a World Heritage Site

The Ajanta temple complex is located in
Indian state of Maharashtra. Cliff, in
in which caves are hollowed out, resembles
horseshoe The entire complex includes 29
caves that are connected by one path.
Ajanta temples are square halls,
surrounded by monastery cells. Necessary
to say that previously there was a lead from each temple
the road to the embankment, but now they are all
connected by a wide platform.
Buddhist monks used the caves
for prayers for many centuries, but later
suddenly left them. Reopened
cave temples existed only in 1819.

What does the cave complex look like?

All caves are numbered from 1 to 29. Quite justifiably the most
The first and second caves are considered beautiful. If you are visiting for the first time
complex in Ajanta, you will be surprised by the size of the first cave,
where the ceiling height reaches 6 meters and the width is 12 meters.

Scientists cannot explain how, in the twilight of the caves, the monks painted the walls with the finest designs using several colors. Existence

Scientists cannot explain how the monks painted the walls in the twilight of caves
the finest drawings using several colors. Exists
version that ancient painters caught the sun with mirrors and sent it into
darkness, as they did in Egypt. It is possible that the monks developed their own way
cave lighting. Unfortunately, this question remains open for now.

One way or another, Ajanta has become a cult place for thousands of people who come every day to see the famous caves with their own eyes.

Caves attract tourists for various reasons: some are attracted
the splendor of the frescoes, others - the secrets associated with this place,
some find peace of mind in these majestic halls,
some people just can't resist the views
terrace near the caves.
Anyway, Ajanta
became a cult
place for thousands
people daily
coming to see
with my own eyes
famous caves.

UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites in the USA

Total in the complete World Heritage List for 2016
there are 1052 objects, that is, the share of US objects in the world -
2,1 %.
Of the 22 World Heritage Sites in the United States: 10 cultural and 13
natural objects. 2 cultural sites recognized as masterpieces
human genius (criterion i) and 10 objects - natural
phenomena of exceptional beauty and aesthetic importance
(criterion vii). Everglades National Park is on the List
world heritage under threat.

Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty -
colossal sculpture in
neoclassical style in ost
Liberty Ditch approximately
3 km southwest of southern
tip of Manhattan Island
Ten, USA.
Since 1984, the Statue of Liberty
included in the World List
UNESCO heritage.

The sculpture is a gift from France for the World Exhibition of 1876 and
centenary of American independence. The statue holds a torch in his right hand
and the tablet on the left. Visitors walk 356 steps up to the statue's crown.
freedom or 192 steps to the top of the pedestal. The crown contains 25
windows that symbolize earthly gems and heavenly rays,
illuminating the world. The seven rays on the crown of the statue symbolize the seven seas and
seven continents.

Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National
a park -
international biosphere
reserve, World Heritage Site
UNESCO heritage, first in
world national
park (founded March 1, 1872).
Located in the USA, in the territory
states of Wyoming, Montana and Idaho
xo. The park is famous
numerous geysers and
other geothermal
objects rich in living
nature, picturesque
landscapes. Park area -
898.3 thousand hectares.
On the vast territory of the park
there are lakes, rivers, canyons and
caves.
About two thousand species of plants grow in the park,
there are several hundred
species of mammals, birds, reptiles and fish, in
including those under threat of destruction.

The park is one of the most
visited in the USA. Since the 1960s it
visit at least two annually
millions of tourists. In 2006 the park
visited by 2,870,295 people
In the national park
are 9
information
centers and museums,
some of which
attributed to
historical
monuments.

Great Smoky Mountains (national park)

National park, part of a biosphere reserve and
natural UNESCO World Heritage Site located in
the central part of the ridge of the same name (the name of which can be
literally translated as Great Smoky Mountains) mountain
Appalachian systems. Administrative location of the park -
American states of North Carolina and Tennessee, the border between
which runs along the middle part of the ridge. According to
Federal National Park Service, the Great Smoky Mountains is the most visited national park on
territory of this country - for example, in 2007 it was visited by 9.4
million people, more than double the number
visitors to the second most popular Grand Canyon.

The national park has more than 150 hiking trails
trails of varying degrees of difficulty, total length
which exceeds 1,300 km (800 miles), as well as about 885 km (550
miles) of riding routes. Most of them were
laid by workers from the Civilian Conservation Corps
environment during the Great Depression

UNESCO World Natural and Cultural Heritage Sites in Russia

On the UNESCO World Heritage List in Russia
The Federation has 26 names (as of 2016), this is
makes up 2.5% of the total (1052 as of 2016). 16 objects
included in the list according to cultural criteria, and 6 of them
recognized as a masterpiece of human genius (criterion i), and 10
objects are included according to natural criteria, and 4 of them
recognized as natural phenomena of exceptional beauty and
aesthetic importance (criterion vii). In 2016 Russia
ranked 9th in the world in terms of total number of objects
world heritage, and in terms of the number of natural sites - 4th
(after China, USA and Australia).

Western Caucasus

Western Caucasus is part of the Greater Caucasus mountain system, located
west of the meridional line passing through Mount Elbrus. Part
The Western Caucasus from Anapa to Mount Fisht is characterized by low-mountain and
mid-mountain relief (the so-called North-Western, or
Black Sea Caucasus), further east to Elbrus mountain system
takes on a typical alpine appearance with numerous glaciers and
highland landforms.
In a narrower understanding, which is followed in mountaineering and tourism literature, only the Western Caucasus is considered
part of the Main Caucasian Ridge from Mount Fisht to Elbrus. In the territory
Western Caucasus - Sochi National Park, Caucasian
state reserve, Ritsa reserve,
Pskhu Nature Reserve, Bolshoy Tkhach Nature Park, Ridge
Buiny", natural monument "Upper reaches of the Tsitsa River", natural monument
“The upper reaches of the rivers Pshekha and Pshekhashkha”, Teberda Nature Reserve, located
protected by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The most popular for climbers and tourists
districts: Arkhyz, Dombay, Uzunkol

They played a major role in the formation of the relief of the Western Caucasus
ancient and modern mountain glaciers. Common here
trough valleys, tarns, moraines. In limestone massifs
northern part of the territory, subject to karst processes,
Numerous caves and cavities formed, including some
one of the longest and deepest in Russia (up to 600 meters depth and 15
kilometers in length). They form complex underground systems with
rivers, lakes and waterfalls.
On rock outcrops you can find the most interesting
remains of extinct organisms. So, the valley of the Belaya River (left
tributary of the Kuban) thanks to numerous finds of giant
ammonite shells (sometimes more than 1 m in diameter) acquired
worldwide fame.
The territory is rich in picturesque objects: powerful waterfalls,
pointed mountain peaks (up to 3360 meters), rugged
rivers with clear water, clean lakes, huge trees
(fir trees up to 70 meters high and more than 2 meters in diameter), rare
plants (orchids) and much more.

Sunny Spain is rich in both clear days and unique attractions that have grown out of its amazing history and combine the features of many diverse cultures - ancient, which has come down to us since the times of the Holy Roman Empire; Islamic, left over from Arab rule; European - Christian and Jewish, from the Middle Ages.

One of the warmest Western European countries can offer tourists both a beach holiday on the luxurious Mediterranean coasts and numerous excursion programs to ancient cities, each of which contains its own set of attractions.

Highland Avila was founded by the Veton tribe in the 5th century. BC. The main attractions of the city are the Avila Cathedral, built first in Romanesque, then in Gothic and only in the 18th century in Baroque style. And the ancient fortress wall, consisting of eighty-eight towers and nine gates, is more than two and a half kilometers long. Avila also has two important religious monuments: the Church of San Juan Bautista, where St. Teresa, and the Convent of Encarnacion, where she spent twenty-seven years of her life.

Hotels: Avila city

Founded as a Celtic settlement, Cuenca did not immediately become a Spanish city. At one time it belonged to the Romans, the Moors, and the Arabs. Today, Cuenca boasts a unique collection of medieval monuments belonging to different cultures: the Gothic Cathedral of the 12th century, the Magnana watchtower built under the Moors, the unusual Church of San Miguel, which combines Arabic and Gothic motifs.

Hotels: Cuenca city

Located on the island of Tenerife, the city was founded in 1496. At one time it functioned as the capital of the Canary Islands. San Cristobal de la Laguna is known for its vernacular architecture. Its historical monuments are of a religious nature. These include the first church of Tenerife - Iglesia de la Concepción (XV century), a convent of the 17th century and the Cathedral, rebuilt from a small church of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the 18th century.

Hotels: city of San Cristobal de la Laguna

Founded at the beginning of the new era (29-34) and flourishing under the Moors, Cáceres has retained to this day the medieval charm of its architecture, combining elements of Roman, Islamic and Gothic culture. The old town with majestic fortress walls and towers, the Cathedral of Our Lady and medieval mansions of the nobility coexist in Caceres with the unique Jewish quarter of San Antonio, formed in the 13th-15th centuries.

Hotels: Caceres city

Salamanca, located in western Spain, got its name after its conquest by Hannibal. During its existence, the city managed to be under both Roman and Arab rule. In the 11th-12th centuries, the Christian population returned to Salamanca. The historic city center with its Baroque Plaza Mayor, Roman bridge and numerous medieval cathedrals has been a UNESCO site since 1988.

Hotels: Salamanca city

The birthplace of Cervantes and the seat of the oldest Spanish University, founded in the 15th century by Cardinal Cisneros, is 35 km away. from . The main attractions of the city, protected by UNESCO, are located in the historical center - the Gothic cathedral church of the 12th century, the Cathedral of the Holy Children, the Archbishop's Palace, the square and the Cervantes House, the College Street and the Martyrs' Gate.

Hotels: Alcala de Henares

The ancient capital of Spain was founded in 192 BC. as a Roman outpost "Toletum". Today, the ancient city contains architectural traces of different eras and cultures: the ruins of an ancient amphitheater and a Roman aqueduct, the former Cristo de la Luz mosque (10th century) and the oldest European synagogue Santa Maria la Blanca (12th century), the Cathedral St. Mary's (XIII-XV centuries) and numerous Catholic churches and monasteries.

Hotels: Toledo city

The ancient Andalusian city, founded during the Phoenician colonization, reached its cultural and scientific heyday in the tenth century, when it became the capital of the Muslim state - the Cordoba Caliphate. Along with Arab architectural monuments, the main one of which is the Cathedral Mosque (Mezquita), Cordoba has a unique Roman bridge, built under Octavian Augustus, and the largest Synagogue in the country of the 14th century.

Hotels: Cordoba city

The legendary city is known throughout the Christian world as the burial place of the relics of the Apostle James. The Santiago Cathedral (it is where the sacred remains are kept), built in the 11th-13th centuries, combines in its façade the features of Spanish Romanesque and Baroque architecture. It is the end point of the pilgrimage road “The Way of St. James” that runs through the entire country and is included in the UNESCO List.

Hotels: city of Santiago de Compostela

Spain is known throughout the world as a country famous for its unique sights given to us thanks to its amazing history, as a result of which the architecture of Spanish cities combines the features of various cultures, ranging from ancient, which came here during the time of the Holy Roman Empire, including Islamic, which remained from the period of Arab rule, ending with European, including Christian and Jewish, since the Middle Ages. This is why many cities in Spain are protected by UNESCO. They are ready to offer tourists a lot of interesting excursion programs, during which you can appreciate the medieval beauties of Spain, the rarest ancient monuments included in the “List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites”. Today we will talk about eight small but incredibly beautiful Spanish cities-UNESCO monuments, with their Catholic churches, monasteries, Arab mosques and baths, Roman bridges and aqueducts, ancient mansions of the nobility and powerful fortress walls.

- the oldest settlement in the country, founded by the ancient Romans in 90 BC. Today, Segovia is one of three ancient museum cities located near the Spanish capital, Madrid. The most recognizable landmarks of this Spanish city are the Aqueduct and the Alcazar.

Or “El Acueducto de Segovia” - an absolutely amazing architectural monument, included, along with the historical center of the city, on the UNESCO list. This is the longest ancient aqueduct in Western Europe, preserved here from Roman times. The length of the structure is eight hundred and eighteen meters, the height is about thirty meters. The aqueduct consists of twenty thousand granite slabs, which are not held together with cementitious mortars. It is divided into one hundred and sixty-seven huge arches. The aqueduct was built at the end of the first century AD and regularly performed its functions for many centuries; to this day it has remained in excellent condition, continuing until recently to constantly deliver water to the city of Segovia, mainly to the Alcazar Castle. This Roman building was named “Monument of National Treasure” in 1884, and in 1985 it was given the status of “World Heritage Site under the protection of UNESCO.”

Or “El Alcazar de Segovia” - another no less amazing and charming city attraction. The Alcazar Castle was built in Roman times, but the first written mentions of it are found only in the twelfth century. The Alcazar is located on a cliff between the Eresma and Clamores rivers. The fortress was built in the Roman-Gothic style, and the interiors were decorated in the Mudejar style. The castle complex has a couple of courtyards and two towers: “del Homenaje” and “de Juan II”. In addition, the Alcazar in Segovia has a lot of underground rooms and secret passages, some of which go to the river, others to other palaces of the city. Even today, scientists continue to study the secrets of the Alcazar Castle. Now there are a military archive and the Artillery Museum - “museo del Real Colegio de Artilleria”.

– a huge building was erected in the sixteenth century in the Gothic style, with some elements of Renaissance architecture. The temple complex consists of a cathedral, a covered gallery adjacent to it, and a bell tower - one of the tallest in Spain.

Of course, in Segovia, tourists will be able to see a lot of other interesting attractions: the ruins of the ancient fortress wall, the Monastery of St. Mary del Parral, the Church of St. Stephen, the Church of Vera Cruz, the Church of St. Millena, the “House of the Peak”, stroll through local gardens and parks: Garden of La Merced , Alcazar Gardens, Huertos Gardens.

- a settlement, high in the mountains, was founded in the fifth century AD by the Veton tribe. Today this city of Spain is under the protection of UNESCO, and its main attractions are the Avila Cathedral, fortress walls, churches and monasteries.

- the construction of which began in the twelfth century in the Romanesque style, was completed in the fourteenth - already in the Gothic style. Today it is the oldest Spanish Gothic cathedral. It has an unusual structure: it was built as part of defensive city structures, and one of the apses of the building is built directly into the fortress city wall. The cathedral was erected in honor of Saint Salvador. Inside the temple is the tombstone of the famous Bishop Alonso de Madrigal. At the cathedral there is a Cathedral Museum, which has a rich collection of exhibits: sculptures, books, silver items, paintings, silver monstrances for processions.

Or “Las Murallas de Avila” - the main symbol of the city, a medieval wall that surrounded the old part of the city of Avila, two and a half kilometers long. This ancient fortification is one of the best examples of Spanish military engineering. The wall, three meters thick and twelve meters high, is equipped with nine city gates, there are eighty-eight towers and two and a half thousand small shelter towers. This structure is in excellent condition to this day and is under the protection of UNESCO.

Or “Convento Santa Teresa” - was erected in the seventeenth century, after Teresa’s canonization, on the site of the house where she was born. Today it is a working convent, and most of it is closed to tourists, but pilgrims have the opportunity to enter the church chapel, decorated with scenes of the saint levitating. In the Hall of Relics there is part of the relics of Saint Teresa - the finger of her right hand, the sole of her sandal, her rosary. But the rest of the relics of Saint Teresa are in the Carmelite monastery of Alba de Tormes, where she died.

Or "Basilica de San Vicente" - a Romanesque style temple, is the second largest in Avila, second only to the Cathedral. It is a "Spanish National Heritage Monument". It began to be built in the twelfth century on the burial site of Catholic saints: deacon Vincent de Huesca, who died in 304, his sister Sabina and sister Cristeta. It is clear why the main relic of this basilica is the “Cenotaph of Saints Vincent, Sabina and Cristeta” - “Cenotafio de los santos Vicente, Sabina y Cristeta” - a stunning tomb monument built in the twelfth century.

Or “Real Monasterio de Santo Tomas” - was built in 1493, where the main Spanish “Catholic Kings” planned to build their palace, but the death of their son Juan forced them to reconsider their plans, and he was buried there. And later, the “Grand Inquisitor” of Spain himself, Thomas de Torquemada, was buried.

- this ancient Celtic settlement, at one time, was under the rule of the Romans, Moors, Arabs, then became a Spanish city, small, but with a lot of interesting historical sights and medieval monuments of different cultures: the Cathedral, the Moorish watchtower, the Church of San Miguel, with Arabic and Gothic features.

Or “Catedral de Santa María y San Julián de Cuenca” - the main city cathedral, where the diocese of Cuenca, which belongs to the Archbishopric of Toledo, is located. This cathedral was built in the twelfth century in the Norman Gothic style.

Or "Convento de la Merced" - was erected between the sixteenth and eighteenth centuries. Today it houses the Theological Seminary of St. Julian and the “Society of Nuns of the Slave of Holy Communion and the Immaculate Virgin.” In 2003, the monastery received the title of “National Monument of History and Culture of Spain.”

Or “Palacio Episcopal de Cuenca y Museo Diocesano” - a single building was built in 1250 from several Muslim houses, here you can still see Arabic inscriptions, a portal with Arabic patterns. From the end of the fifteenth century until 1530, the “Court of the Inquisition” worked here. Today it houses the “Diocesan Cathedral Museum” - “Museo Diocesano Catedralicio”, with a huge collection of provincial religious art: tapestries, jewelry, objects of art, painting, sculpture.

Or "Casas Colgadas" - the symbol of the city of Cuenca. “Hanging houses”, built over a river cliff, were previously a typical element of the city’s architecture, but only three such structures have survived to this day: “House of the Sirena” - “Casa de la Sirena”, Royal houses - “Casas de Rey”, decorated with wooden balconies. They housed: a restaurant, the “Museum of Abstract Art of Spain”.
In addition to these interesting places in the city, you can visit the Church of St. Michael, the Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of St. Andrew, the Tower of Mangana, the Consistory of Cuenca - thanks to their presence, the Spanish city of Cuenca is under UNESCO protection.

– located on the island of Tenerife. The city was founded in 1496, and it was the capital of the Canary Islands until 1723. Since its founding, La Laguna has become the religious center of Tenerife, the episcopal residence was located here, and numerous churches and monasteries arose. In the historical center of the city there is a unique colonial atmosphere; ancient quarters and streets, as well as aristocratic mansions, have been preserved almost unchanged. In 1999, this Spanish city was protected by UNESCO.

Or “Catedral de San Cristóbal de La Laguna” - the temple where the episcopate of Tenerife is located, built in 1511 on the site of an ancient monastery. But the building acquired its modern neoclassical appearance in 1825. Its founding father, Alonso Fernandez Lugo, is buried in the cathedral.

Or "Parroquia Matriz de Nuestra Señora de la Concepción" - the very first church of the island of Tenerife, built in the fifteenth century. The building features a noticeable mixture of several architectural styles. It was in this temple that the indigenous local inhabitants of the island of Tenerife - the Guanches - were baptized.

Or “Real Santuario de Santísimo Cristo de La Laguna” - this Catholic Franciscan cathedral began to be built in 1506, and the temple received the title “Royal” from the Spanish King Alfonso the Twelfth in 1906. Outwardly, this is a very modest church, but it is incredibly popular among believers: pilgrims flock here even from mainland Spain. Inside the temple, on the main altar stands the miraculous crucifix of Cristo de La Laguna - this is the real symbol of the city of San Cristobal de La Laguna. Thousands of believers come here in September to venerate the Holy Cross, an ebony crucifix brought in by Governor de Lugo in 1520 and renowned for its ability to heal the sick and perform other miracles.

- was founded in the twenty-ninth year of our era, but experienced its heyday under the rule of the Moors. To this day, the city retains the charm of the Middle Ages, amazing tourists with combinations of Roman, Islamic, and Gothic architecture. The historical center of Caceres with its attractions is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. The main attractions of Caceres are: Co-Cathedral of St. Mary, Main Square, Convent of St. Paul, Church of St. John the Baptist, Church of St. Matthew, Arch of the Star, Bujaco Tower, Stork Palace.

Or “Concatedral de Santa Maria de Caceres” - the main Christian temple of Caceres. Its construction began in the thirteenth century, but it was completed only by the sixteenth century. The cathedral has a transitional Romanesque-Gothic style. In 1931, it was included in the “List of Historical and Cultural Heritage of Spain”; in 1957, it was made the center of the diocese of Coria-Caceres.

Or “Iglesia de Santiago” - an ancient knightly Christian temple, built in the thirteenth century and completely rebuilt in the sixteenth century. It has Roman-Gothic features and is located near the fortress wall. The main temple relic is a statue of Jesus Christ, the work of Tomas de la Huerta, as well as a retablo, with illustrations of the life of Christ and his saints.

Or “Iglesia de San Mateo” - a very significant religious building of the city, since 1982, included in the “List of Historical and Cultural Heritage of Spain”. The church began to be built in the sixteenth century on the site of a mosque, which was erected on the foundation of another, earlier Christian temple. Notable residents of Caceres are buried in the chapels. In the Chapel of St. John you can see the painting “Christ de la Encina”, which talks about a miracle that happened in America.

- a settlement in the western part of Spain, which was in the possession of the Romans and Arabs, but was conquered by Hannibal. The richest city in the Spanish region of Castile and Leon in cultural and historical terms, it is famous for its many attractions. The historical center of the city has been under UNESCO protection since 1988.

Or "Plaza Mayor" - in the Baroque style, considered one of the most beautiful in Spain, it was designed in the eighteenth century by architects Alberto and Nicolas Churriguera on the orders of King Philip V, in gratitude to the local residents for their support, as a contender for the throne during the "War of Spanish inheritance." The square is surrounded by amazing buildings decorated with arcades. Twenty thousand people can fit here. Previously, bullfights were held on the square, but now there are concerts.

Old Cathedral or “La Vieja Catedral de Salamanca” - the cathedral was founded in the twelfth century in the Romanesque style, but was completed in the fourteenth century, already in the Gothic style. In the sixteenth century, there was no longer room for the numerous students of the University of Salamanca and a new cathedral began to be built nearby. Today, in the covered gallery of this cathedral, built in 1526, there is the Cathedral Museum, with a rich collection of paintings. Another very interesting attraction in the cathedral building is the ancient organ, dating back to the fourteenth century.

University or "La Universidad" - a beautiful building in the Plateresque style, there is an ancient university library, which contains one hundred and sixty thousand volumes of literary works. The University of Salamanca acquired its current luxurious appearance in 1534, since then it has been considered an unsurpassed masterpiece of Spain in this style.

In Salamanca, tourists should visit a lot of other interesting attractions: the Jesuit College of Cleresia, the Duenia Monastery, the Church and Monastery of San Esteban, the Monterey Palace, the Salina Palace, the Urusulina Monastery, the Roman Bridge, the Cave of Salamanca - the place where the Devil taught.

- the settlement appeared on a consecrated site, a century after the execution of two children, which happened here by order of Emperor Diocletian in 306. And at a time when Madrid was a small village, the city of Alcala de Henares was considered the religious center of Spain. Since ancient times, there have been monasteries, castles, churches here, and in 1998 the city was included in the “List of Cities of World Cultural Heritage.”

Or “Palacio de Laredo” - the most beautiful landmark of the city, an eclectic building built at the end of the nineteenth century by the artist, architect, designer Manuel José de Laredo. In his brainchild, he combined elements of several architectural styles: neo-Gothic, neo-Mudejar, neo-Moorish.

University- the building is a real calling card of the city, it was created by the architect Rodrigo Gil. It is possible to get inside the university only as part of an excursion group. Today there are twelve humanities faculties in the following specialties: pharmacy, biology, chemistry, history, economics, philosophy, literature, library science, Spanish philology, English philology, history, architecture, sports, tourism and so on.

The city has a lot of attractions: the Cervantes House Museum, the Town Hall, the “Gate of the Martyrs”, the Cathedral of the Holy Children, the Monastery of Madrede Dios - and they are protected by UNESCO.

- a famous pilgrimage site located in northwestern Spain. The city is included in the UNESCO list.

Or “Catedral de Santiago de Compostela” - located in Platerias Square, and is notable for the fact that the relics of the Apostle James rest here, which made the city the main center of European pilgrimage along the “Way of St. James”. Thousands of believers still follow this path today. The grave containing the remains of Saint James was discovered in the ninth century by Bishop Theodomir. It is located in the main altar of the presbytery of the cathedral. And in the Ark Chapel, built in the sixteenth century, the relics of royalty are kept. The museum at the cathedral has a rich collection of Spanish art from the ninth to the nineteenth centuries, including tapestries based on sketches by Rubens and Goya.

Or the “Universidad de Santiago de Compostela” - the oldest in Europe, founded in 1495 as the “School of Grammar” by Lope Gómez de Marcóa.

Other, no less worthy of exploring, monuments and attractions of Santiago de Compostela: Cappela Animas, Rajoy Palace, Monastery of St. Martin Pinario, also amaze with the beauty of their architecture and interesting history.

We talked about eight stunningly beautiful small Spanish cities that are protected by UNESCO and are famous throughout the world for their magnificent architecture. And it’s no wonder that more than fifty million tourists from different parts of the world come to Spain every year.

The World Cultural Heritage Organization (UNESCO) includes in its lists not only specific historical monuments, but also objects of universal significance, which can be carriers of centuries-old traditions or even a way of life. Currently, Spain is one of the four countries with the largest number of such “traditions”. A significant part of them is concentrated in Andalusia. The ABC publication selected 10 UNESCO sites in the autonomy that are universal historical artifacts.

Historic center of Cordoba

The period of greatest prosperity of Cordoba began in the 8th century. after the Muslim conquest, when about 300 mosques, innumerable palaces and public buildings were built, and the city rivaled the splendor of Constantinople, Damascus and Baghdad. In the XIII century. under Ferdinand III the Saint, the Great Mosque of Cordoba was turned into a cathedral, new defensive structures were erected, most notably the Alcazar de los Reyos Cristianos and Torre Fortaleza de la Calahorra.
Also in the city, monuments left over from the ancient Romans have survived: the bridge over the Guadalquivir with 16 arches, the remains of a Roman wall, mosaics and columns of the Alcazar gardens. Cordoba was added to the UNESCO list in 1984.

Alhambra, Generalife and Albasin in Granada

Rising above the modern Lower Town, the Alhambra and Albacín, located on two adjacent hills, form the medieval part of Granada. To the east of the Alhambra fortress and residence are the magnificent Generalife Gardens, the former country residence of the emirs who ruled this region of Spain in the 13th-14th centuries. The residential area of Albacín is a rich repository of Moorish folk architecture, with which the traditional architecture of Andalusia is harmoniously combined.
This is the most visited monument in Spain: 2.5 million tourists visited here in 2015. These sites were included in the UNESCO list in 1984.

Cathedral, Alcazar and Archive of the Indies in Seville

Together these three buildings form a remarkable group of monuments located in the very center of Seville. The Cathedral and Alcazar date from the period from the Reconquista of 1248 to the 16th century. and reflect the influence of Moorish style, being an important testimony to both the Almohad civilization and Christian Andalusia. The Giralda Minaret is a masterpiece of Almohad architecture. It stands next to the five-aisle cathedral, which is the largest Gothic building in Europe. The sarcophagus of Christopher Columbus is located here. The ancient Lonja (exchange) became the "Archive of the Indies", containing valuable documents from all the archives of the Spanish colonies in America.
The sites were included in the UNESCO list in 1987.

Doñana National Park

Doñana National Park in Andalusia occupies the right bank of the Guadalquivir River estuary near its confluence with the Atlantic Ocean. This area is famous for the diversity of its landscapes, including lagoons, swamps, mobile and fixed dunes, bushes and forests, maquis. Representatives of five rare and endangered bird species live here, one of the largest heron colonies in the Mediterranean has settled, and over 500 thousand waterfowl fly here for the winter. The year of inclusion in the UNESCO list is 1994.

Rock art in the Mediterranean part of the Iberian Peninsula

In the Mediterranean part of the Iberian Peninsula, a very large number of rock art objects are concentrated, which date back to the late prehistoric period. The paintings, the style and content of which are recognized as unique, clearly and convincingly reflect the lifestyle of a person in that transitional era. These artifacts were included in the UNESCO list in 1998.

Monumental Renaissance ensembles in the cities of Úbeda and Baeza

The urban morphology of two small cities, Úbeda and Baeza, located in southern Spain, developed during the time of the Moors in the 9th century. and reconquista in the 13th century. Cities actively developed in the 16th century. - then they were updated in accordance with the style of the Renaissance. These innovations were due to the arrival of new humanistic ideals in Spain from Italy, which later had a great influence on the architecture of Latin America. The objects were included in the UNESCO list in 2003.

Flamenco

The famous Andalusian dance was added to the UNESCO list of intangible cultural heritage in 2010. However, flamenco has long been the hallmark of not only Andalusia, but also the whole of Spain as a whole - tourists from around the world go home with souvenirs in the form of castanets, fans and “gypsy” dresses, indispensable attributes of this ancient art.

Lime production in Moron de la Frontera

Many houses in Seville are covered with white lime to prevent overheating in the sun, and decorated with azulejos ceramic tiles. The lime is made by hand using 15th-century recipes in the Seville suburb of Morón de la Frontera. This unique production operates to this day (in much smaller volumes) and has been protected by UNESCO since 2011.

Courtyards of Cordoba

Holiday Patio was added to the list in 2011. Thus, the UNESCO committee noted the tradition of the Spaniards to hold a festival in the courtyards of their houses once a year in May.
During the festival, residents of Spain allow everyone into the patios, which are a characteristic feature of the architecture of Mediterranean countries, and show their neighbors and tourists the flowers and plants that decorate the courtyards. In addition, during the festival, the Spaniards hold festive evenings and concerts, where they perform folk songs, dance flamenco and invite people to the table.

Dolmens of Antequera

This site, located in the center of Andalusia, includes three megalithic structures (Menga Dolmen, Viera Dolmen and El Romeral Tomb), as well as two natural monuments (La Peña de los Enamorados and El Torcal) that serve as landmarks. Megalithic structures of the Neolithic and Bronze Ages consist of huge stone blocks and hide voids and rooms separated by lintels and covered with false domes. These three tombs, buried in earthen mounds, are among the most outstanding structures of Europe of the prehistoric period and are one of the most striking examples of European megalithic architecture. Dolmens were included in the UNESCO list in 2016.

An incredibly mysterious and beautiful country, Spain has an equally interesting history. Its position at the junction of Africa and Europe, the Islamic world and the world of Christianity, the endless Atlantic and the closed Mediterranean left an indelible imprint on the image of Spain. There is always something to surprise here. This is a country with rich traditions and ancient history. She is incredibly attractive, beautiful and diverse. The Spanish people love their country so much that they even vacation without leaving their homeland.

Why Spain is called this way, no one can say now, not even the residents of Spain themselves. In ancient times, this land was inhabited by Iberian tribes, after whose name before our era the peninsula was called Iberia. The Greeks called this country the Land of the Evening Star - Hesperia. After the division of the Roman Empire into Eastern and Western, the Western Empire began to officially bear the name “Hesperia”. After the Romans entered Spanish lands, Spain received the name “Hispania”.

The country's historical and cultural heritage is rich and diverse. The color of Spain, its unique beauties inspired Goya, Dali, Picasso...Since ancient times, Spain has been the desired prey of various invaders. All generations of the country's rulers wanted to achieve unity in cultural development, but the country's cultural traditions, as before, are varied. Some regions are still proud of their independence and identity. Almost all of Spain is a huge historical open-air museum, which is surrounded by a ring of beautiful resort areas and seashores. This country has the most interesting architectural and historical sights.

Sights of Barcelona

In the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona, one of the most interesting provinces of Spain, many architectural monuments and the entire historical center, built in a unique Gothic style, have been preserved. The main attraction of the city is the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, which was built on the site of the Sanctuary of Jupiter.

Not far from the center of Barcelona is the Sagrada Familia Cathedral. Gaudi devoted most of his life to this Temple of the Atonement of Sins. The most beautiful thing in the cathedral is considered to be the Nativity Facade, which includes 4 towers with rich decorations and original silhouettes. Today, these towers, with a hexagonal structure decorated with twisted staircases, are the graphic symbols of Barcelona.

Particular attention should be paid to the declared World Heritage Casa Mila, which is called "La Peddera", which means "stone cave". This strange structure with 6 light wells and 2 inner palaces is a complete concept of being true to nature. On the roof of the house there is a terrace that allows you to admire the stone “menagerie”, which consists of stairs, mysterious monsters in hoods, ventilation pipes, and flowering gardens over deep courtyards. Park Güell is recognized as one of Gaudí's most interesting works. The park's terrace serves as the roof of a hall cut into the hillside.

The heart of Barcelona is Plaça Catalunya, surrounded by a great variety of attractions, among them: the Barcelona Exhibition Center, the Marcet Palace, another famous creation of Gaudí - Casa Mila or “House without Corners”, the Maritime Museum - the Columbus Monument, the National Palace, the Baroque Palace -Cuadras with the Music Museum, the Church of Las Sales and much more. The city is also home to the Barcelona Aquarium, the largest aquarium in Europe. The most exciting part is the aquarium with moving walkways, a viewing terrace, and a large exhibition hall.

Another attraction of Barcelona is Mount Tibidabo - this is the highest point in the city. At the top of the mountain is the Temple of the Sacred Heart, which is topped with a statue of Christ. Tibidabo is not just pagan gobbledygook, these are words spoken in Latin from the Gospel. Translated it means “I give it to you.” This is how the devil himself seduced Christ, demonstrating the beauty of the world from the top of the mountain. It is impossible not to mention Mount Montjuic, where the Olympic stadium with the Olympic Museum is located; life-size model of the ship "Santa Maria".

Montserrat

To the north of Barcelona is the Montserrat mountain range. These mountains are extraordinarily beautiful, interesting stone formations, in some places resembling huge idols, and in others reminiscent of wet sand castles, evoke horror and admiration at the same time.

In the mountains there is a monastery that houses the miraculous statue of the Black Madonna. According to legend, the statue was carved by Saint Luke and subsequently carried by Saint Peter to Spain. To hide the Black Madonna from robbers, she was hidden in the mountains of Montserrat, where she was lost. After 170 years, the statue was miraculously found by shepherds in a cave, where they were led by angelic singing and a mysterious radiance. A chapel was erected on that site.

Ancient monuments in Andalusia

In Andalusia you can see remarkably preserved ancient monuments: Arab towers and medieval fortresses of the 11th century, in the mountains - ancient Andalusian settlements and cathedrals. In Seville, the capital of Andalusia, the birthplace of flamenco, there is an interesting landmark, a miracle of Muslim architecture, the Alhamra palace-fortress. During the day, depending on the lighting, the towers and walls of the palace are changed. The Lviv courtyard is incredibly beautiful, surrounded by white marble columns. In the middle of the courtyard there is a fountain, the marble bowl of which rests on twelve lions. The palace has several wonderful halls: the Royal Hall, the Hall of Ambassadors with a large cedar dome and the Hall of Secrets with amazing acoustic effects. The most famous monument in Seville is the former minaret.

And much, much more...

Spain is the largest “hunting” European country, where the richest and most beautiful hunting reserve in terms of fauna and flora is located – Somiedo. The mountainous terrain of the Sierra de Cazorla is considered a real miracle of nature. In addition, Spain is known for its magnificent carnivals, festivals, fairs and bullfights.

Spain stands out among other European countries for its versatility, its appearance, each time opening up in a new way. The sights of Spanish lands are the heritage of not only Europe, but the whole world. Spain never ceases to amaze with its color, way of life, ancient cities, culture, attractions, cuisine and much, much more, for which you simply need to visit this amazing country.

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