Valladolid, Castilla y Leon
Valladolid, Castilla y Leon - Overview:
Valladolid, the capital of Castilla y Leon, has one of the most important sculpture museums of all Spain, and the famous Easter week processions are a great tourist attraction. The city itself is monumental, and the surrounding landscape is home to innumerable castles.
It is said that in Valladolid the most correct Castilian Spanish is spoken. Valladolid is a wonderful place to visit, especially during the important film festival, founded in 1956 and no doubt playing a major role in the attraction of the massive student population present in the town of today.
Valladolid, Castilla y Leon - History:
Valladolid, at the heart of Castilla y Leon, was given its first proper name by the Moors. They called it Belad Ulid, or Walid.
In 1074 (following numerous battles and arguments among the Royal family over who owned or wanted the town), Alfonso VI gave Valladolid to Count Pedro Ansurez. He immediately had two churches built and constructed a bridge over the Rio Pisuerga. Two hospitals followed, along with many other important buildings. Count Pedro Ansurez' effect on the development of Valladolid was so great, that by 1208 it was affluent enough to attract Royal attention. Alfonso VIII ejected the Count's decendants and stole the town back.
Valladolid received another boost in 1346 when the university gained formal recognition. By the year 1469, Valladolid was such an important place that the Catholic Monarchs, Isabella of Castille and Ferdinand of Aragon were married there. Towards the end of the 16th century, construction of another cathedral commenced, although it was never completed.
Valladolid, Castilla y Leon - Geography:
Valladolid province now spreads across the great plain of the River Duero which races through the middle. Above the river is the 'Granary of Spain' an important grain producing area. Whilst the province has much to offer the visitor in the form of open landscape, most activity within the province is centred around the capital.
Valladolid, Castilla y Leon - Our holiday accommodation and service:
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So, if you're looking for an activity or nature holiday, walking, cycling, trekking or bird watching; a spot of rural tourism soaking up the traditional Spanish culture and heritage with historic sightseeingin Castille; exploring fairytale castles, beautiful countryside and fascinating villages, rural towns and historic cities such as Leon City; following the historic pilgrims routes or silver route; sampling hearty rural Spanish fayre or simply enjoying a shopping trip or city break in Madrid, Spain's capital city; call our holiday team today.
Many of our clients enjoy touring holidays through central Spain, to experience the unique areas of Castilla la Mancha, Castilla y Leon, Extremadura and Madrid in one holiday. We are therefore very happy to arrange itineraries for you staying in a selection of different Parador hotels along your chosen route. We can also assist you with flights to Madrid and other areas of central Spain, ferry travel, holiday car hire and travel insurance.
