Things To Do In Cadiz

Famous mostly for its contribution to Spains list of significant historical events, Cadiz offers things to do and see that very much reflect this. Visitors wont find aqua-parks, zoos or similar attractions that are available in the countrys Costa del Sol resort; however, they will find museums, fine churches and interesting architectural sites besides the obvious appeal of the beach and the sea.

City sightseeing tours

A bus allowing visitors to hop on and off at strategic stops throughout the day makes tours of the city, taking in the most interesting sights. The Catedral de Cadiz, the citys Central quarter, Plaza San Juan de Dios, Plaza Sevilla and the bay area are among the nine places where the bus stops. Buses depart every 30 minutes and you can board at any stop on the route, with the entire route taking 1 hour 15 minutes to complete.

Catedral de Cadiz

Lovers of fine architecture shouldnt miss the chance to see the citys cathedral, the construction of which began in the early 18th century and was completed over a hundred years later (1720 to 1838). Inside, visitors can view a magnificent tomb that houses the remains of the famous Spanish composer Manuel de Falla as well as a museum containing a variety of arts and treasures originating from the New World. One of the showpieces is Enrique de Arfe's processional cross, which is taken out and paraded through the streets during the Corpus Christi festival.

Museo de Cadiz

The citys chief museum facility is located in two buildings, the first of which is a former Franciscan convent, while the second is a purpose-built structure. The museum is split into three sections, two of which are devoted to archaeology and fine arts, and the third to an ethnological collection. The collection of ancient relics includes a couple of 5th century BC Phoenician sarcophagi fashioned in a human form - one male and one female. Other artefacts of interest include a selection of headless Roman statues and some rare Phoenician jewellery. A fine arts department houses some excellent examples of 17th century Spanish painting including works by Zurbarn, dating from between 1630 and 1640, and others by Murillo and Ribera.

Oratorio de San Felipe Neri

Located at the end of Calle San Jos is Oratorio de San Felipe Neri, one of the most splendid examples in the citys collection of Baroque churches. It was at this church that historical events such as the declaration of the countrys first liberal constitution was made in 1812 and the government was reformed during a parliamentary meeting at the time of Joseph Bonapartes control. Besides the fine exterior architectural features, the church offers an interesting oval-shaped interior in which the painting, Murillos Immaculate Conception, is the centrepiece.

Museo de Las Corts de Cadiz

The Museo de Las Corts de Cadiz is the citys main historical museum, which offers visitors an insight into some of the fascinating events that helped shape it and give it the character that it has today. Among various artefacts, a giant detailed model of the city is something of a focal point; this fascinating piece was fashioned from mahogany and marble for King Carlos III and shows Cadiz as it was in the 18th century. Other exhibits on show relate to the constitutional declaration of 1812.