"Siren of the Ocean" (Lord Byron) or as the Andalusians say: "tacita de plata" (small silver cup), founded by Phoenician merchants over 3000 years ago, the commercial port of
Cadiz, located on a rocky peninsula linked to the mainland by a narrow sandy isthmus, is one of Spain's oldest cities, if not the oldest. The Romans that traded salt fish here transformed it into the mighty Gades. With the discovery of the New World, Cadiz regained prominence as "the city of explorers" and headquarters of the Spanish treasure fleets, the monopoly over trade in the Americas made it the wealthiest port in Western Europe.
From this past what is left is the feeling of a decaying city, buildings built long ago are all worn out, Lisbon-like, beneath the constant attack of salty sea-spray. The old town lies all on the other side of the Arco de los Blancos, once the gateway between the island of Cadiz and the mainland, a grid of cobbled streets, whose mysterious houses hide cool, plant-filled interior patios. As you wander, admire the narrow passageways and decorated balconies that Cadiz is famous for. Head towards the old magnificent baroque
Cathedral with its unique dome.
Andalucia, Cadiz
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