The Port of Cadiz, Spain
ABOUT
Cádiz, Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited city, founded by the Phoenician’s, dates back an incredible 3500 years. It has an incredible history, such as.
Hercules’ presence survives to this day in the city’s coat of arms where he stands between the pillars that announced the end of the world.
Hannibal set off from here in 218BC to travel across the Alps and invade Italy. The city later fell to Romans in 206BC when it prospered with the building of amphitheatres and aqueducts.
Cadiz began to grow from the 14th century onwards, reaching its golden age in the 18th century due to its position as the centre of sea routes and commercial trade. Today, this past is still visible in its architecture; Cadiz reminds us of the typical colonial town: long and narrow streets, sunny squares, and magic gardens.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Cadiz became a fortified town in order to resist the repeated naval attacks perpetrated by the English. It was during this period that Cadiz enjoyed its most fruitful economic growth.
Cadiz bravely resisted the Napoleonic invasion from behind its ancient walls, and it was here that, in the Church of San Felipe Neri, the very first Spanish Constitution was signed. Between the years 1810 and 1813, during the Napoleonic occupation, Cadiz became the capital of Spain.
Today Cadiz is the home of the Spanish Navy and other industries include aeronautics, construction, chemical, metal and of course tourism.
Population in 2024 was estimated at 130,000
Currency is the Euro.
THINGS TO DO
With a city as ancient as Cadiz it is difficult to know what to do first. It is probably easier to suggest what not to miss:
The Old Town, the San Sebastian Castle, The Nature Reserves, beaches and ancient ruins including a the remains of a Roman Amphitheatre.
Torre Tavira – a watchtower in the historic quarter of Cadiz that offers a great view of the city.
There are museums, parks, churches, the Cathedral of Cadiz, the Santa Catalina Castle.
If you don’t want to do that then just stroll through the city streets. You will no doubt be transported back to ancient and medieval times. Its really difficult to predict what you will find around the next corner.
Indeed there is a website called What to see in Cadiz in one day, that may give you some of the options. Self Guided walking tours are also available through Viator.com
OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO
We have visited Cadiz on a number of occasions and really enjoy the city. We have also visited Seville which is well worth a trip.
In September 2024 we again visited, this time on Princess Cruises Sky Princess. As you can see, we were blessed with the weather.
On this occasion we took a walk into the city from the ship. We were docked close by and it is quite an easy stroll. Firstly we headed towards the Plaza San Juan de Dios. At the head of this attractive Plaza is the impressive looking City Hall.
From this point you can easily walk through the streets to reach the central square that contains Cadiz Cathedral.
The Cathedral took 116 years to complete, from 1722 to 1838 and is a mix of Baroque through to neoclassical styles. We have never been inside before and as the queues were not terribly long, we decided to go in. There is an entrance fee which at this time was a very reasonable 7 Euros (less with concessions) and specific opening times. Entrance fee include handsets so you can self guide through the building – these were very good quality. There is also an added option to buy a ticket to go into the bell tower as well.
CATHEDRAL OF CADIZ
The inside of this building is vast and spacious. There is plenty of room to walk around the various chapels, listen to the commentary and take in the story behind each fresco and statue. It is nice to be able to take some time in the central area to sit and take in the views around you. The choir area itself is very interesting and on display an ancient Gregorian Chant book.
Below the ground the Crypt is also open to visitors. It is the burial area of bishops, as well as of the famous musician Manuel de Falla and the writer Jose María Pemán. The floor space here is said to be larger than the Cathedral itself. You usually find that there are de-humidifiers running as this area is so close to the sea. You will find some pictures below.
OUTSIDE OF THE CATHEDRAL
Whether you decide to take a look inside the Cathedral or not, it is worth taking time to go to the rear of this building. Here you will find some beautiful views of the sea – and realise quite how close it comes to the Cathedral and its foundations.
MERCADO CENTRAL
Our wanderings on this day took us further into the city – Lindsey’s always a little cautious as we have been lost in Cadiz on more than one occasion!
However this time we happened on one of the large local markets, Mercado Central and decided it needed closer inspection.
The exterior walls are decorated with murals that made us smile, but we weren’t prepared for the interior. It was highly organised and very clean. Full of local residents buying their fresh meat, fish and vegetables together with charcuterie and cheese.
The stallholders were amenable to having their skills photographed – but please ask first.
All this sightseeing is thirsty work so we stopped at a little Tapas bar near to the Cathedral for a local beer and potato chips (crisps) to rest our weary feet. Our walk back to the ship took us on a slightly different route through some local gardens. Unfortunately past their best but an interesting find none the less.
ACCOMPANYING VIDEO
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