DMC Spain https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/ Destination Management Company (DMC) in Spanien Thu, 09 Mar 2023 08:57:30 +0000 en-AU hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.2 UNESCO Cultural Heritage in Andalusia: El Torcal and the Dolmen https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/unesco-cultural-heritage-in-andalusia-el-torcal-and-the-dolmen/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/unesco-cultural-heritage-in-andalusia-el-torcal-and-the-dolmen/#respond Wed, 25 Mar 2020 10:00:16 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=27093 The post UNESCO Cultural Heritage in Andalusia: El Torcal and the Dolmen appeared first on DMC Spain.

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Located in Andalusia to the north of Malaga, the national park of El Torcal along with the Peña de los Enamorados (Lovers’ Rock) and the megalithic dolmens of Menga, Viera and El Romeral are an exciting destination on Spain’s long list of UNESCO Cultural Heritage sites. The dolmens are among the most recognized examples of megalithic architecture in the world, and they are linked to these two natural sites that were the focal points for building them.

The dolmens: megalithic masterpieces

Located on the outskirts of Antequera, the three dolmens of Menga, Viera and El Romeral represent some of the largest and most complete megalithic structures in Europe. They were built between 4000BC and 2000BC, by the inhabitants of the fertile Guadalhorce Valley, as burial chambers and mystical sites of great importance. These sites are especially unique because of their positioning: the Menga and El Romeral dolmens are orientated not just towards the sun (like almost all other dolmens) but are also aligned with natural landmarks. Menga faces towards the Peña de los Enamorados (Lovers’ Rock), while El Romeral faces the Comorrorro de las Siete Mesas peak in the El Torcal mountain range.

The Menga Dolmen is considered to be the largest megalithic chamber in Europe. The biggest of the 12 upright stones weigh 180 tons – over 4 times heavier than Stonehenge in the UK – while the capstones on the roof weigh an astounding 250 tons. Its alignment precisely frames Lovers’ Rock, and the sunrise of the summer solstice. The Viera dolmen, on the other hand, is a simple passageway tomb, positioned for the solar equinox. There is a 21m-long passage leading to a small chamber, and the structure was made of 16 upright stones on each side. Finally, the Romeral dolmen is one of the few examples of megalithic architecture orientated towards the western half of the sky, for the winter solstice. It points directly at the mountains of El Torcal, with a complex construction of two bee-hive like chambers, false vaults and a 26-metre long passageway. It is all covered by a 68-meter diameter tumulus, and is then topped by a circle of trees.

El Torcal National Park and Lovers’ Rock

 Known for its dramatic limestone ‘stacks’, El Torcal national park looks like the otherworldly set of a fantasy film. Covering 17 square kilometers, the park is home to the Spanish ibex, foxes, griffon vultures and several species of eagle; along with 30 species of orchid, maple, oak and hawthorn trees. For those who enjoy hiking, there are several well marked trails that pass by some of the most stunning locations in the park.

Nearby, you can also visit La Peña de los Enamorados (Lovers’ Rock), a dramatic 880-meter high limestone peak that has the profile of an Indian man’s face looking skyward. As the name suggests, there is a legend surrounding this site, about the beautiful daughter of a Moorish leader and a Christian prisoner who fell madly in love. The young woman pleaded for the release of her love, but was denied. She helped him to escape, and troops were sent to find, capture and execute them. The couple fled to the top of Lovers’ Rock, and with the troops close below, they clasped hands and leaped from the peak to their death.

A tour of Spain’s ancient archaeology

A visit to the dolmens of Antequera and El Torcal national park can give your group a unique perspective on Spain that starts with its earliest inhabitants. Get in touch to find out more about this one-of-a-kind destination and all it has to offer you and your group!

 

 

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La Mancha: The Don Quixote Trail https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/uncategorized/la-mancha-the-quixote-trail/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/uncategorized/la-mancha-the-quixote-trail/#respond Wed, 18 Mar 2020 10:00:51 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=27013 The famous novel Don Quixote of La Mancha, which recounts the misadventures of a man who wanted to be a knight in the land of La Mancha, was written by Miguel de Cervantes in the 17th century. 400 years later, the book has been translated into most languages and is globally recognized as a masterpiece […]

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The famous novel Don Quixote of La Mancha, which recounts the misadventures of a man who wanted to be a knight in the land of La Mancha, was written by Miguel de Cervantes in the 17th century. 400 years later, the book has been translated into most languages and is globally recognized as a masterpiece in literature. Now, your group can follow in the footsteps of this beloved character on the Don Quixote Trail, crossing 13 different towns that were key locations in the novel. Here are some of the highlights!

Alcalá de Henares

The journey begins in this World Heritage City, which is also the birthplace of Cervantes. Your group can experience the town where the author spent his childhood, visiting the Plaza de Cervantes, and the Cervantes House-Museum, where he was believed to have been born and raised. The house faithfully recreates the home as it would have been in the early 17th century, with antique furnishings and décor.

Madrid

Of course, there are countless attractions for your group in Madrid, as well as some key sites along the Don Quixote Trail. For example, you can visit the funerary monument where Cervantes and his wife are thought to be buried, as well as Casa Alberto, a tavern in the building where Cervantes wrote The Travails of Persiles and Sigismunda and the second part of Don Quixote.

Toledo

In the province of Toledo, take your group to see the Cervantes House, where the writer and his wife lived. Today the house is a small but fascinating museum. Another key stop in Toledo is just outside of the town of Consuegra, where your group will spot the famous windmills that Don Quixote mistook for giants in his madness. Climb to the top of the hill to get a closer look at the windmills and a stunning view over the plains of Toledo. If possible, go at sunset!

El Toboso

In the novel, Don Quixote talks about his eternal love for Dulcinea del Toboso, but El Toboso is a village that really exists. Here you can visit the Dulcinea House-Museum, which recreates a 16th century house of the region. According to tradition, it was the home of Ana Martínez Zarco de Morales (“Sweet Ana”), who inspired Cervantes to create Dulcinea. 

Ciudad Real

In the province of Ciudad Real, your group can make a stop at Argamasilla de Alba to visit the Medrano Cave, where Cervantes was held prisoner. It was here that he started to write the adventures of Don Quixote. Continuing along the trail, you can stop at a second cave in Ossa de Montiel, this one being the magic cave of Montesinos where Don Quixote descended through time, and the ruins of the Castle of Rochafrida.

Before leaving the province and ending your journey along Don Quixote Trail, head to the city of Ciudad Real, to see the Don Quixote Museum. To finish of an especially pleasant note, let your last stop be the charming town of Almagro, with its stunning Plaza Mayor. Here your group can learn more about Cervantes and the figure of Don Quixote at the 17th century Corral de Comedias theater or the National Theater Museum.

Die Route des Don Quijote mit Ihrer Gruppe

We can help you get the most from your journey along the Don Quixote Trail – besides the Cervantes attractions, there are plenty of other interesting places to visit along the way. Try a tasting at one of the wineries or cheese shops, dine at historic restaurants, or take part in one of the Cervantes related events that take place at different sites throughout La Mancha. Get in touch today to start planning!

 

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Enjoying Spain’s finest cuisine https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/spain-generally/enjoying-spains-finest-cuisine/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/spain-generally/enjoying-spains-finest-cuisine/#respond Wed, 11 Mar 2020 10:00:12 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=26933 Cuisine is among Spain’s greatest attractions – with a diverse range of high quality fresh ingredients, there is plenty to work with. Each region has its own special traditional gastronomy, which Spanish chefs are fusing with influences from around the world and even introducing some completely new and innovative ideas. Your group can discover a […]

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Cuisine is among Spain’s greatest attractions – with a diverse range of high quality fresh ingredients, there is plenty to work with. Each region has its own special traditional gastronomy, which Spanish chefs are fusing with influences from around the world and even introducing some completely new and innovative ideas. Your group can discover a world of tastes, presentations, aromas, textures, and more, with dishes by world-renowned chefs like Adrià, Arzak, Berasategui, Ruscalleda, and Roca.

A starry night: Michelin awards for 2020

This year, Spain’s chefs earned even more official recognition for their excellence, with the awarding of Michelin stars. The award event was held in Seville’s stunning Lope de Vega Theatre with a dinner served by Spanish chef Angel León, owner of the Michelin 3 star Aponiente. In Spain, 19 restaurants were awarded their first Michelin star. There were also five new restaurants given two stars, and one that was awarded three stars – the highest Michelin rating and a great achievement. This brings the grand total of Michelin starred restaurants in Spain to 11 restaurants with three Michelin stars, 29 restaurants with two stars and an astounding 174 with one star! This means you have plenty of options to offer your group a very special culinary experience, wherever you may be.

© Fotos von Celler Can Roca

© Fotos von Celler Can Roca

© Fotos von Celler Can Roca

Culinary highlights

The star of the award ceremony was certainly Cenador de Amos, the new three-star restaurant set in the beautiful Cantabrian village of Villaverde de Pontones that is known for its elegant fusion of tradition and innovation. Chef Jesus Sanchez has earned his celebrated reputation for his exciting dishes, that bring a new flavor and presentation to Cantabria’s exceptional ingredients. In fact, many of Spain’s modern chefs are best known for their creativity, like Angel León of Aponiente, the chef who served the Michelin award ceremony. With the sea at the core of his cuisine, he is famous for his unusual ingredients, such as plankton. Another highly creative three-star is Madrid’s DiverXo, whose chef David Muñoz brings together a wide array of dishes and culinary styles from around the world, fusing them seamlessly with his own personal touch.

© Fotos von Cenador de Amos

IOn the other hand, in the Basque country, your group can enjoy four three-star restaurants that bring out the best in traditional regional cuisine: Akelarre and Arzak in San Sebastián, Martín Berasategui, in Lasarte (Guipúzcoa), and Azurmendi, in Larrabetzu (Vizcaya). Of course, with over 200 Michelin star restaurants, you are sure to find something for all tastes!

A special experience for your group

If your group is eager to try Spain’s diverse cuisine, offer them something extraordinary with a dining experience at one of the country’s Michelin star restaurants. There are options for diverse tastes and budgets, in all regions of the country. Get in touch today to find the perfect experience for your group!

 

 

 

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Underground music: The Nerja Caves Festival https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/andalusia/underground-music-the-nerja-caves-festival/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/andalusia/underground-music-the-nerja-caves-festival/#respond Wed, 26 Feb 2020 09:00:11 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=26728 It’s quite difficult to find a more spectacular stage than the one used for the Nerja Caves International Festival of Music and Dance, which is one of Costa del Sol’s most eagerly awaited events. Held each year in summer for 60 years, the festival is a truly unique opportunity to enjoy some of the world’s […]

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It’s quite difficult to find a more spectacular stage than the one used for the Nerja Caves International Festival of Music and Dance, which is one of Costa del Sol’s most eagerly awaited events. Held each year in summer for 60 years, the festival is a truly unique opportunity to enjoy some of the world’s finest artists in a natural auditorium that is a as breathtaking as the performances.

About the festival

Having celebrated its 60th anniversary last year in 2019, the Nerja Caves Festival gathers outstanding performers from Spain and internationally. It features both music and dance performances, most of which are actually held inside the caves. The spacious gallery acts as a natural amphitheater, and is known for its beautiful acoustics as well as its strange and sublime rock formations. Throughout most of the year, performances are held in the outdoor enclosure for conservation reasons, but exceptionally and for a limited number of audience members, specially selected performances are allowed inside the caves for the festival.

The line-up for 2020 is not yet available, but past editions have included renowned artists and dance troupes such as the National Ballet of Cuba, singer and actress Ana Belén, and contemporary dancer Rocío Molina. This year’s edition will surely maintain the high-quality performances seen each year since the festival’s beginnings.

© Cueva de Nerja

 

About the caves

The cave itself is made up of various chambers, each one different from the next. For example, in the Cataclysm chamber, your group can see the mark of a seismic movement that took place about 800 thousand years ago. There are prehistoric cave paintings of animals in the Torca Chamber, and symbolic and animal representations in the Chamber of Ghosts. The first chamber, known as the Lobby, contains a display with human remains, ceramics and tools; while the Bethlehem Chamber contains a burial from 6,300 BC. To see the best stalactites and stalagmites in this cave, your group will love the Chamber of the Elephant’s Tusk.

There are few places like the Nerja Caves, and what better time to see and experience them than during the International Festival of Music and Dance?

Cueva de Nerja

© Cueva de Nerja

 

Nerja on your tour

Located in the historic region of La Axarquía, Nerja is an upbeat and lively town on the Málaga coast which has a beautiful and dynamic seaside made up of beaches, coves and cliffs. Its historic quarter has many fascinating historic and cultural sites, and your group will certainly enjoy sampling the fresh local cuisine and Designation of Origin Málaga wines. Remember, attendance at the Nerja Caves Festival is limited – so get in touch today to save your group’s place!

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Carnival in Spain: The fiesta of the year https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/spain-generally/carnival-in-spanien-the-fiesta-of-the-year/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/spain-generally/carnival-in-spanien-the-fiesta-of-the-year/#respond Wed, 19 Feb 2020 10:00:57 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=26543 Each year, your group can take part in carnival, one of Spain’s most vibrant and lively events. Celebrated in February or March, 40 days before Easter, you will find thrilling parades, beautiful costumes and fabulous parties all over the country. Each city and region has its own take on the festivities – here are some […]

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Each year, your group can take part in carnival, one of Spain’s most vibrant and lively events. Celebrated in February or March, 40 days before Easter, you will find thrilling parades, beautiful costumes and fabulous parties all over the country. Each city and region has its own take on the festivities – here are some of our favorites!

Cadiz: Music and laughter

The southwestern coastal city of Cadiz is less about glittering costumes and elaborate floats than it is about humor and wit. During this time, the city streets fill with groups of troubadours in costume, singing and playing musical instruments. Their songs – which are original lyrics created throughout the year – are satirical and make jokes about politicians, celebrities and well-known community figures. The different carnival groups organize open-air meals where they play their songs, making it a great chance to take part in the celebrations while sampling local cuisine. Do be aware – costumes are obligatory at the Cadiz Carnival!

Águilas: Releasing the Mussona

This colorful event held near Murcia features some particularly famous traditions. One is the tossing of cascarones de confetti, which are eggs full of confetti, and another is cuerva, a traditional drink of wine and fruit. There is also the popular paper costume competition, with spectacular disguises made entirely of paper. Don’t miss the kick-off of this carnival, which involves releasing the Mussona onto the city streets, a character that is half man and half beast.

Xinzo de Limia: A flour festival

The carnival of Xinxo de Limia in Galicia is the longest carnival celebrated in Spain, taking place over five weeks. The celebrations begin three Sundays before the actual carnival on ‘Fareleiro’ Sunday, a hilarious battle that guarantees everyone present will get covered in flour. This is followed by ‘Oleiro’ Sunday, a tradition that involves throwing water into the air from earthenware pots onto people gathered below. The festivities finally end on Piñata Sunday, with a parade of floats and troupes led by a group of masked characters called pantallas. Adorned with jingling belts, they are in charge of making sure people dress up and have a great time.

Haro: The carnival of wine

In the heart of La Rioja, one of Spain’s most renowned wine-producing regions, this carnival is truly decadent. With all the parades and fireworks found at carnivals throughout Spain, the Haro celebrations feature a special attraction. This is, naturally, plenty of great wine. It is abundant in the streets, and many of the local wineries present their special vintages. If your group needs a break from the party, they can try a vineyard tour and tasting – there are lots of options in the area.

Carnival on your tour

If you are on tour in Spain during Carnival, it will be hard to miss the celebrations – but we can help you to make the most of them. Remember, this is a popular time in Spain, so don’t wait to make your plans and get in touch today!

 

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Preview: the Santander International Festival https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/northern-spain/preview-the-santander-international-festival/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/northern-spain/preview-the-santander-international-festival/#respond Tue, 18 Feb 2020 16:00:21 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/uncategorized/preview-the-santander-international-festival-2/ Santander is an elegant Cantabrian city that stretches along a dramatic coast. Together with its many natural and historic attractions, your group can enjoy here one of Spain’s great annual cultural events: the Santander International Festival. Held each year in August, this is a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world’s great performers in […]

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Santander is an elegant Cantabrian city that stretches along a dramatic coast. Together with its many natural and historic attractions, your group can enjoy here one of Spain’s great annual cultural events: the Santander International Festival. Held each year in August, this is a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world’s great performers in one of Spain’s most beautiful cities.

About the festival

This amazing festival began in 1948, as a program providing culture and entertainment to foreign students who had come to the International University of Menéndez Pelayo. But it was so popular, that just a few years later – in 1952 – it had transformed into a full-blown festival, open to the public and attracting great national and international musicians, actors, dancers and other performing artists. Ranging from traditional to avant-garde, performances take place over 30 days in unique venues around the city, including churches, gardens, palaces and even caves. In fact, there are over 50 locations used as venues, both in Santander and in nearby Cantabrian villages. Its largest and main performing space is the Palacio de Festivales, which is widely known for its natural-sounding acoustics and has a seating capacity for nearly 1700 people. Here, the main stage is set against a stunning backdrop of the Cantabrian Sea, making it a perfect place to take in a spectacular performance.

Each year the program features two to three operas, as well as performances from visiting ballet and theater companies, and choral, symphonic and chamber music concerts. There are many distinguished conductors, musicians and singers, including Arthur Rubinstein, Alicia de Larrocha, Samuel Ramey, Mirella Freni, and countless others. This year’s program has not yet been released, but like other years, it certainly will not disappoint!

In and around Santander

The beautiful historic quarter of Santander is made up of majestic buildings against a breathtaking natural backdrop of sea and mountains. Along with its long maritime and commercial tradition, the city also has a century-old history of tourism. Thanks to this, your group can enjoy a tastefully developed coast, with plenty of attractions in areas like El Sardinero beach, the promenade, and La Magdalena peninsula. It is further enriched by the passage through the city of the St James Way pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, and the Altamira Caves with their prehistoric cave paintings, both of which have been declared World Heritage.

There is also a wide offering of excellent museums, like the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology, which includes one of the most valuable Paleolithic collections in Europe. The Cantabrian Maritime Museum is also world-class, dedicated to themes like marine biology, maritime trade history, and fishing history. And of course, the cuisine of Cantabria – featuring the freshest fish and seafood – is unbeatable.

The festival on your tour

The Cantabrian region of Spain will delight your group with its wealth of natural, cultural and historic attractions, and taking in some performances during the Santander International Festival will make the adventure even more unforgettable. But Santander books up far in advance of the festival – get in touch with us today to start making your plans!

 

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Preview: the Santander International Festival https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/northern-spain/preview-the-santander-international-festival/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/northern-spain/preview-the-santander-international-festival/#respond Tue, 18 Feb 2020 16:00:21 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=26813 Santander is an elegant Cantabrian city that stretches along a dramatic coast. Together with its many natural and historic attractions, your group can enjoy here one of Spain’s great annual cultural events: the Santander International Festival. Held each year in August, this is a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world’s great performers in […]

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Santander is an elegant Cantabrian city that stretches along a dramatic coast. Together with its many natural and historic attractions, your group can enjoy here one of Spain’s great annual cultural events: the Santander International Festival. Held each year in August, this is a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world’s great performers in one of Spain’s most beautiful cities.

About the festival

This amazing festival began in 1948, as a program providing culture and entertainment to foreign students who had come to the International University of Menéndez Pelayo. But it was so popular, that just a few years later – in 1952 – it had transformed into a full-blown festival, open to the public and attracting great national and international musicians, actors, dancers and other performing artists. Ranging from traditional to avant-garde, performances take place over 30 days in unique venues around the city, including churches, gardens, palaces and even caves. In fact, there are over 50 locations used as venues, both in Santander and in nearby Cantabrian villages. Its largest and main performing space is the Palacio de Festivales, which is widely known for its natural-sounding acoustics and has a seating capacity for nearly 1700 people. Here, the main stage is set against a stunning backdrop of the Cantabrian Sea, making it a perfect place to take in a spectacular performance.

Each year the program features two to three operas, as well as performances from visiting ballet and theater companies, and choral, symphonic and chamber music concerts. There are many distinguished conductors, musicians and singers, including Arthur Rubinstein, Alicia de Larrocha, Samuel Ramey, Mirella Freni, and countless others. This year’s program has not yet been released, but like other years, it certainly will not disappoint!

In and around Santander

The beautiful historic quarter of Santander is made up of majestic buildings against a breathtaking natural backdrop of sea and mountains. Along with its long maritime and commercial tradition, the city also has a century-old history of tourism. Thanks to this, your group can enjoy a tastefully developed coast, with plenty of attractions in areas like El Sardinero beach, the promenade, and La Magdalena peninsula. It is further enriched by the passage through the city of the St James Way pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, and the Altamira Caves with their prehistoric cave paintings, both of which have been declared World Heritage.

There is also a wide offering of excellent museums, like the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology, which includes one of the most valuable Paleolithic collections in Europe. The Cantabrian Maritime Museum is also world-class, dedicated to themes like marine biology, maritime trade history, and fishing history. And of course, the cuisine of Cantabria – featuring the freshest fish and seafood – is unbeatable.

The festival on your tour

The Cantabrian region of Spain will delight your group with its wealth of natural, cultural and historic attractions, and taking in some performances during the Santander International Festival will make the adventure even more unforgettable. But Santander books up far in advance of the festival – get in touch with us today to start making your plans!

 

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Talavera: World Heritage Ceramics https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/castilla-la-mancha/talavera-world-heritage-ceramics/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/castilla-la-mancha/talavera-world-heritage-ceramics/#respond Wed, 12 Feb 2020 10:00:52 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=26620 In the fertile plains of Castile-La Mancha in northwestern Spain, Talavera de la Reina has been renowned for its beautiful ceramics for centuries. Today, the ceramics of Talavera have even been designated by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. And as the biggest town in the province of Toledo, little-visited Talavera de la Reina has much […]

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In the fertile plains of Castile-La Mancha in northwestern Spain, Talavera de la Reina has been renowned for its beautiful ceramics for centuries. Today, the ceramics of Talavera have even been designated by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage. And as the biggest town in the province of Toledo, little-visited Talavera de la Reina has much to discover!

The masterpieces of Talavera

The kilns and artisans that began producing Talavera’s ceramics were among the first to use Renaissance techniques, adding a unique style that makes the creations recognizable around the world. This historic craft enjoyed its Golden Age in the 16th and 17th centuries, with the china sets and tiles that were acquired by noble families throughout Spain. Many of these pieces were even exported to the Americas and other European countries, and can today be seen in the Royal Palace in Madrid.

Many exquisite pieces can also be seen in exhibitions hosted at the Basilica of the Virgin del Prado and the Ruiz de Luna Ceramics Museum. The Basilica of the Virgen del Prado, built between the 16th and 17th centuries, is now a museum dedicated to the glazed tiling of Talavera and is one of the hallmarks of the city. The Ruiz de Luna Museum occupies part of the ancient convent of San Agustín. Within the old city walls, this museum presents the evolution of classic Talavera ceramics, with everything from distinctive blue and white 16th century designs to more sophisticated and colorful 20th century works, including a giant altarpiece from 1917. Among the pieces in these museums are Mudejar-style dishes and those of oriental influence, as well as the series of “las mariposas”, “el helecho”, and “la palma con golondrinas”.

These works and others led to the inclusion of Talavera de la Reina ceramics on the list of UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, making Spain the first European country with designations of this type.

©Ayuntamiento de Talavera

©Turismo de Castilla-La Mancha / David Blázquez

 

In and around Talavera

The stunning ceramics of Talavera de la Reina are sure to be a highlight on your tour of this region, but there are plenty of other attractions in the city and the surrounding area. Located in the province of Toledo, famous as an example of the peaceful co-existence of Jewish, Christian and Muslim cultures, there are countless historic sites all around the region. Talavera itself is strikingly located, surrounded by mountains and cut through by the Tajo River. Three bridges connect the two sides of the city, one of which dates back to Roman times and has been perfectly restored. The city is historically famous as the site of the Battle of Talavera against Napoleon’s army in 1809, when the Duke of Wellington was able to expel the French troops from the city.

Your group will also enjoy the region’s diverse nature and archaeological sites, like the Carranque Archaeological Park. Of course, the local gastronomy is an attraction as well, featuring hearty stews and locally hunted game meats.

Group Tours to Spain: Talavera ceramics on your tour

There are many special opportunities for your group to enjoy Talavera de la Reina ceramics. For example, the city often hosts ceramics workshops and events, like the City of Talavera International Ceramics Biennial. Get in touch with us to find out what options are available on your tour!

 

Group Tours to Spain

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The Santander International Festival https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/northern-spain/the-santander-international-festival/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/northern-spain/the-santander-international-festival/#respond Tue, 11 Feb 2020 10:33:29 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/uncategorized/the-santander-international-festival/ Santander is an elegant Cantabrian city with many natural and historic attractions. Your group can enjoy here one of Spain’s great annual cultural events: the Santander International Festival.

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Santander is an elegant Cantabrian city that stretches along a dramatic coast. Together with its many natural and historic attractions, your group can enjoy here one of Spain’s great annual cultural events: the Santander International Festival. Held each year in August, this is a fantastic opportunity to see some of the world’s great performers in one of Spain’s most beautiful cities.

About the festival

This amazing festival began in 1948, as a program providing culture and entertainment to foreign students who had come to the International University of Menéndez Pelayo. But it was so popular, that just a few years later – in 1952 – it had transformed into a full-blown festival, open to the public and attracting great national and international musicians, actors, dancers and other performing artists. Ranging from traditional to avant-garde, performances take place over 30 days in unique venues around the city, including churches, gardens, palaces and even caves. In fact, there are over 50 locations used as venues, both in Santander and in nearby Cantabrian villages. Its largest and main performing space is the Palacio de Festivales, which is widely known for its natural-sounding acoustics and has a seating capacity for nearly 1700 people. Here, the main stage is set against a stunning backdrop of the Cantabrian Sea, making it a perfect place to take in a spectacular performance.

Each year the program features two to three operas, as well as performances from visiting ballet and theater companies, and choral, symphonic and chamber music concerts. There are many distinguished conductors, musicians and singers, including Arthur Rubinstein, Alicia de Larrocha, Samuel Ramey, Mirella Freni, and countless others. This year’s program has not yet been released, but like other years, it certainly will not disappoint!

Festival de Santander
In and around Santander

The beautiful historic quarter of Santander is made up of majestic buildings against a breathtaking natural backdrop of sea and mountains. Along with its long maritime and commercial tradition, the city also has a century-old history of tourism. Thanks to this, your group can enjoy a tastefully developed coast, with plenty of attractions in areas like El Sardinero beach, the promenade, and La Magdalena peninsula. It is further enriched by the passage through the city of the St James Way pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, and the Altamira Caves with their prehistoric cave paintings, both of which have been declared World Heritage.

There is also a wide offering of excellent museums, like the Museum of Prehistory and Archaeology, which includes one of the most valuable Paleolithic collections in Europe. The Cantabrian Maritime Museum is also world-class, dedicated to themes like marine biology, maritime trade history, and fishing history. And of course, the cuisine of Cantabria – featuring the freshest fish and seafood – is unbeatable.

Santander
Faro en Santander
The festival on your tour

The Cantabrian region of Spain will delight your group with its wealth of natural, cultural and historic attractions, and taking in some performances during the Santander International Festival will make the adventure even more unforgettable. But Santander books up far in advance of the festival – get in touch with us today to start making your plans!

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Murcia: Gastronomic Capital of 2020 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/levante/murcia-gastronomic-capital-2020/ https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/en_AU/dmc-for-spain-blog/levante/murcia-gastronomic-capital-2020/#respond Wed, 05 Feb 2020 10:00:45 +0000 https://www.hispanorama-tours.com/?p=26554 In 2020, Murcia will take over as the official Capital of Spanish Gastronomy, organizing 1,001 activities over the course of the year, ranging from tapas routes and vegetable museums to a fruit and vegetable festival. According to the judges, Murcia won the prestigious award not only for its culinary variety but also for being a […]

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In 2020, Murcia will take over as the official Capital of Spanish Gastronomy, organizing 1,001 activities over the course of the year, ranging from tapas routes and vegetable museums to a fruit and vegetable festival. According to the judges, Murcia won the prestigious award not only for its culinary variety but also for being a “very attractive region in all aspects”. Indeed, with its great diversity of high quality ingredients, along with plenty of culture and a perfect climate, Murcia was a natural winner.

1,001 Flavors

Murcia has organized a packed program of culinary activities taking place all throughout 2020. In fact, the city will host 1,001 activities, under the theme of the “Garden of 1,001 Flavors”. They will be divided into the four seasons: Lemon Winter Color, Eternal Spring Blossoms, Live the Summer, and Autumn with a Glass of Wine. Activities will include museum visits, gastronomy routes, fruit and vegetable festivals, healthy cooking workshops and culinary competitions among top chefs.

Murcia was chosen as Gastronomic Capital this year in part because it boasts several “denominations of origin”, for Calasparra rice, Jumilla pears, Murcia paprika, and Bullas, Jumilla and Yecla wines. The city is also known for its, migas (traditional fried bread crumbs), cheeses, rice dishes, vegetables, and fresh meat and fish. These excellent local ingredients are combined into endless combinations, making up Murcia’s rich and varied cuisine.

©Turismo de Murcia

More to do in Murcia

Gastronomy is undoubtedly one of Murcia’s big attractions, but the city and surrounding region have much more to offer. There is a truly ideal climate, with over 3,000 hours of sunshine each year, and a golden coastline bathed by the warm waters of two seas. Here your group will find endless beaches and small coves with lots of options for leisure, sports and wellness. The region is known for its spas and beauty centers, but many of its beaches are also considered open-air spas, with natural therapeutic mud and the hyper-saline waters of the Menor Sea.

The city itself is rich with culture and history, and you will have no shortage of monuments and museums to visit – for example, the 14th century cathedral and the Salzillo Museum featuring works by the renowned sculptor and Murcia native.

Group tours to Spain: Visiting the Gastronomic Capital on your tour

There are plenty of reasons to visit Murcia with your group, and with so many extra activities, 2020 is a perfect time. Get in touch with us to start planning your tour and get the most of Murcia’s culinary events – it will be an unforgettable experience for your group!

 

Group Tours to Spain

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