Toledo Vacations, Spain

The Parador of Toledo (official name is Parador Conde De Orgaz) is set on a remarkable site, the "Hill of the Emperor," that has unmatched views out over the city below. From the Parador's terrace restaurant and from many of the rooms, there can be had a panoramic view of the city spread out below. One can see how the grand old city of Toledo is like an island - almost completely encircled by the Tajo river. This has restricted its growth, and for this reason, there is a high concentration of fascinating, centuries-old buildings all within walking distance of one another.

The Toledo Parador building was originally built by the Count of Toledo in the 14th century and is completely Toledan in character. The restaurant serves as a school for the chefs of the other Paradors, and the meals are nothing short of spectacular.

The official name of the Toledo Parador is the "Parador Conde de Orgaz" - this after the famous painting by El Greco - an adopted son of Toledo - titled "The Burial of the Count of Orgaz." Toledo has been called the Imperial city, and the "city of three cultures" (Christian, Muslim, Jewish). For many, Toledo mesmerizes - it exudes a strangely powerful attraction - dark, claustrophobic and profound. It was the seat of the Spanish Inquisition, the home of the brilliantly disturbed El Greco, and the scene of both vicious and heroic events during the Spanish civil war.

Dignified Toledo, once the capital of Spain, is full of splendor and endless surprises for the traveler. It is architecturally and culturally fascinating like few other cities could be. To look at Toledo from afar, is to be beguiled and astonished.

Interesting excursions from Parador Toledo:

- Don't miss perhaps the grandest Gothic Cathedral in Europe.

- The Hospital de Tavera is a Greco-Roman palace that now displays many priceless works by various masters; El Greco, Titian, Ribera and others.

- El Greco museum is a must see for avid art aficionados.

- The Alcazar is ancient Moorish fortress that played a huge part in the Spanish Civil War.

- The 16th century Renaissance hospice today called the Santa Cruz Museum is well worth a visit.

- There are two interesting synagogues founded in the 12th and 14th centuries - today museums - that deserve a visit.

Interesting day trips from the Toledo Parador include:

- Driving over to Aranjuez and visiting the Royal gardens.

- Talavera de la Reina is famous for the beautiful tiles "azuelos" that have been produced there ror centuries.

- Madrid itself is within easy driving distance of Toledo.

Toledo really is one of the "must see" cities of Spain. It is a historical treasure, and even though it can get very crowded with other tourists, it is well worth a long visit. When you do visit, there is no finer place to stay than the Parador Toledo.

About the Author:

www.SpainParador.com makes it easy for you to plan and arrange your next trip to Spain. This time stay in palaces, castles, and other places of great historical interest and rare beauty - the wonderful Paradors of Spain. www.SpainParador.com

Things To Do and See in Toledo

Cathedral of Toledo, Toledo
One of the most imposing cathedrals in Spain,

and a superb example of Gothic architecture.
Attraction type: Architectural building; Religious site

El Greco's House and Museum, Toledo
Attraction type: Museum; Historic home

Hospital de Tavera, Toledo
Attraction type: Art museum

El Transito Synagogue and Sephardic Museum, Toledo
Attraction type: Specialty museum; Religious site

Alcazar - Museo del Ejercito, Toledo
Attraction type: History museum