[World Heritage] Introducing the Ancient City of Toledo | Take a Stroll Through the Medieval Streets!

The ancient city of Toledo, located almost in the center of Spain, is about 70 km from Madrid. Until 1561, when Madrid was designated as the capital, Toledo functioned as the capital of Spain.
Afterward, despite repeated civil wars, the city preserved its beautiful 16th-century streetscape. Its historical background and architectural heritage were highly valued, leading to its registration as a World Heritage Site in 1986. Today, it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world, and many are captivated by the charm of ancient Toledo. There is even a proverb that says, “If you only have one day in Spain, go to Toledo without hesitation!” Why not take a stroll through the World Heritage city of ancient Toledo?

What is the Ancient City of Toledo?

Toledo has been considered an important city since ancient Roman times, and in the Middle Ages, it had a history where diverse cultures intertwined. Surrounded on three sides by a river, the city was geographically blessed, with the river acting as a natural fortress. The city, located on a small hill, showcases the “wisdom” of each era in how they managed to bring water into the city. In the maze-like streets, you can find churches and mosques, reflecting a history where Christianity and Islam coexisted and flourished.
Toledo prospered as the capital of the Visigothic Kingdom, but in 711, it was invaded by the Umayyads of the Islamic forces, bringing it under Muslim rule. During this time, various cultures, as well as knowledge in medicine, astronomy, and mathematics, were brought into Toledo. In the 11th century, with the Reconquista—the movement to reclaim territory—the city came under Christian rule, continuing to the present day.
Academically, Toledo is known for the group of scholars called the Toledo School of Translators, active from the 12th to 13th centuries. They translated ancient Greek and Roman texts on philosophy, theology, and science, with Jews, Muslims, and Christians working together. It is said that this had a significant influence on the 12th-century Renaissance in Western Europe.

Access to the Ancient City of Toledo

The most convenient access from Madrid is by train or bus. It takes about 35 minutes on the AVE/AVANT high-speed trains operated by RENFE (Spanish National Railways). By bus, ALSA operates two types of routes from the bus terminal at Plaza Elíptica Station (served by Metro Lines 6 and 11): a 1-hour direct route and a 1.5-hour route passing through villages. The train fare is roughly twice as much as the bus, but considering the time and comfort, the train is recommended.
Buses wait at Toledo Station to coincide with train arrivals. The Toledo City Tours bus is convenient, allowing unlimited hop-on, hop-off access to points in the old town and viewpoints across the river. It’s about a 20-minute walk to the entrance of the old town, so a stroll on foot is also pleasant.

Recommended Spots in the Ancient City of Toledo

Toledo Cathedral (Catedral)

The Toledo Cathedral, said to be the greatest masterpiece of Spanish Gothic architecture, is the headquarters of the Spanish Catholic Church, where the Archbishop’s seat is located. Construction began in 1226, and after numerous renovations and extensions, it was completed in 1493. The massive exterior is impressive, but the interior is equally breathtaking.
Among the many highlights, start with the main altar. The 30-meter-high altar features a wooden reredos depicting 20 scenes from the life of Christ. The decorations of the many chapels and the stained glass are also remarkable. In the sacristy, you can see works such as El Greco’s “The Disrobing of Christ,” as well as pieces by Goya and Titian, making it feel like an art museum.
Do not miss the treasury. Queen Isabella’s crown and the 16th-century monstrance are lavishly decorated with gold, silver, and jewels. It weighs about 200 kg and is paraded through the streets of Toledo only once a year like a portable shrine.

Church of Santo Tomé

The Church of Santo Tomé was originally built in the 12th century by Alfonso VI and was later rebuilt in the 14th century with the private funds of Count Luis of Orgaz. When Luis died in 1312, legend says that Saints Stephen and Augustine descended from heaven and buried him in front of the mourners.
This legend inspired El Greco’s famous painting, “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz,” which is displayed here, making the church well-known. Considered one of El Greco’s masterpieces and never taken out of the church, it attracts visitors from all over the world.
El Greco was a Greek painter who flourished during Spain’s Golden Age from the 16th to 17th century. He worked in Spain from age 35 until his death at 73. Toledo also has the El Greco Museum, where you can view over 20 of his works—definitely worth a visit.

◎ Summary

The old town of Toledo, with its narrow and winding streets, is like a maze, but strolling through its medieval scenery is a delight. You can peek into shops selling Toledo’s famous weapons and gold-and-silver crafts, or enjoy coffee at a lively local bar—the atmosphere is fantastic. If time allows, stay at least one night to fully enjoy walking through this World Heritage city.

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[World Heritage] Introducing the Ancient City of Toledo | Take a Stroll Through the Medieval Streets!