Cadiz

Cadiz - History:

Cadiz stands on a peninsular jutting out into a bay, and is almost entirely surrounded by ocean. It is believed to be the oldest city in Europe, founded in 1100 BC by the Phoenicians. They called it Gadir and traded Baltic amber, British tin and Spanish silver. It was later controlled by the Carthaginians, until it became a thriving Roman port and naval base. Cadiz then disappeared into relative obscurity until 1262 when Alfonso X took Cadiz from the Muslims.

The real boost to Cadiz' fame came with the discovery of America, as this is the port Columbus sailed from on his second and fourth voyages. Much later the city enjoyed a golden age during the 18th century, with three quarters of all of Spain's trade with America passing through the port of Cadiz. From this time it grew into one of the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan cities in Spain and most of the city's fine buildings date from this time.

Cadiz was later invaded by Sir Francis Drake, in the struggle to gain control of trade with the New World, and managed to withstand a siege by Napoleon's army. In the early 19th century Cadiz became the bastion of Spain's anti-monarchist, liberal movement, which resulted in Spain's first Constitution being declared here in 1812.

Cadiz - Beaches:

Cadiz province is home to some of Andalucia's most beautiful and wildest beaches along the Costa de la Luz. Stretches of golden sandy coastline are dotted with fishing ports that were established by the Phoenicians, Greeks and Romans. Today, the Cadiz coast is a mecca for windsurfers, birdwatchers and anyone who seeking a wilder shoreline with a relaxing tranquillity as there are relatively few beachgoers here compared to the busier Costa del Sol.

Cadiz - Overview:

Unlike most other ports of its size, Caidz has a relaxed, easy going atmosphere. The historic centre of Cadiz city has streets lined with centuries-old seafront houses, weather beaten by ocean spray. Situated on a peninsular, this part of the city is almost completely surrounded by the sea giving you the impression of an 'island' location.

As you wander through the labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets behind the cathedral, you will find Moorish architecture, small, pretty squares and pavement bars where you can sample delicious Andalucian tapas. The skyline is dominated by the cathedral's gilded cupola that appears to shimmer when the moon and sun reflect on the sea. It just takes an hour to walk around the headlands where you can visit the entire old town and pass through some lovely parks with sweeping views of the bay

Cadiz - Sightseeing:

Some of the city's 18th century walls still stand, such as the Landward Gate. The old, central quarter of Cadiz is famous for its picturesque charm, and many of the buildings reflect the city's international links. Well orth a visit are the city's Cathedral and churches of Santa Cruz and San Felipe Neri. Other places of interest are La Santa Cueva, home to several paintings by Goya, and stately mansions such as the Casa del Almirante and Casa de las Cadenas.

Cadiz - Carnival:

If you're in Cadiz during February, don't miss the incredible carnival, the biggest in mainland Spain. Most towns and villages in Andalucia have Carnivals, but none of them can compare to the Cadiz Carnival. As elsewhere in the Catholic world, carnival is celebrated before the 40 days of Lent. There is usually a dance and a Carnival Queen contest.

As one of Spain's major ports during the 16th century, Cadiz copied the carnival of Venice, a city with which it had much trade, and since then it has become the liveliest and most dazzling carnival town in mainland Spain, famous for its amusing and creative figurines and satirical song groups. The Carnival centres around Shrove Tuesday with processions from the weekend before through to the weekend after.

This fiesta attempts to break social order and liberalise instincts, helped by wearing masks and fancy dress. During the Civil War, General Franco abolished the Carnival in rebel areas. After the war there was still much opposition to the Carnival by the rulers, so Franco abolished the Carnival in 1937. It continued defiantly in Cadiz however.

Cadiz - Our holiday accommodation and service:

Travel with secretdestinations.com holidays and enjoy privileged, sophisticated holiday destinations in the Costa de la Luz, including Cadiz. Privately owned villas, apartments, villas with pools and hotels, in beautiful coastal and rural locations, hand-picked for an authentic taste of unspoiled secret Spain.

So, if you're looking for an activity holiday walking, cycling and trekking; exploring Spain's fascinating villages, towns and historic cities such as Cadiz, Ronda or Seville; fancy a spot of sailing, SCUBA diving, wind surfing, swimming, sunbathing or relaxing on great beaches (much of Spain's south coast is also ideal for a spot of winter sun); or you just want to simply escape the tourist masses with a privately owned apartment, cottage or villa with a pool, call our holiday team today. We can also assist you with flights to Spain, ferry travel and holiday car hire.