A Step Back in Time: Toledo, Spain

Receiving the opportunity to visit Toledo, Spain, yesterday, was such an enriching and educational experience. From the moment we reached this destination, it was evident that it was steeped in an extremely rich history, with remnants of such times manifested within the facades of buildings, as well as what these architectural wonders housed inside. Although the trip from Salamanca took about three hours each way, it was well worth it. 

Our bus stopped by an overlook, which gave us the opportunity to see the entire town from above. The view was spectacular and was a very nice way to begin the tour, especially after having been sitting down for such an extended period of time. 

Finally being able to cross the bridge that led into Toledo and navigating the paths once walked on by important historical figures was so interesting. We first stopped at El Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes (Monastery of Saint John of the Kings). King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile founded it, with construction commencing in 1477. It was finally completed in 1504. It just amazes me that structures as old as this have managed to withstand the tests of time!

We also made a quick stop at La Iglesia de Santo Tomé, which houses a very important painting known as El Entierro del Señor de Orgaz (The Burial of the Count of Orgaz) by the artist known as El Greco. It was extremely huge and filled with such intensity and emotion. We weren’t allowed to take photos, but I don’t think that they would have done justice to it anyhow. For those who visit Toledo, I do recommend taking a peek at this painting.

On the way to our next destination, we encountered a major demonstration in the center of town. What seemed like hundreds of people, all ranging in ages, wearing green t-shirts and holding banners and signs with sayings such as, “El defensa de la enseñanza pública: No a las recortes” which translates to, “In defense of public education: No to the cuts.” It was exciting to be able to witness such a spectacle and inspiring to see so many people band together for the same cause. I was just hoping that things did not get violent, but it remained very peaceful, although loud. These individuals were helping to create a part of Toledo’s history as well.

After making our way out of the crowd’s path, we continued on to La Catedral de Toledo (The Cathedral of Toledo), which was built between the years of 1226–1493. Here was another example of master craftsmanship and excellent attention to detail. Everything from the stained-glass windows way above our heads to the floors beneath our feet demonstrated that much care was put into its design.

Our final two stops were La Sinagoga de Santa María la Blanca, built in 1180, and is believed to be the oldest synagogue still standing in Europe, and El Museo de El Greco. The visit to the synagogue did not last very long, but it was still nice to be able to take a look around. I am currently taking a Spanish art class, and although I couldn’t remember everything, it was nice to be able to see some of the techniques that we have spoken about in class being displayed. 

The museum is a recreation of El Greco’s home, and where many of his paintings were apparently done. I had mistakenly believed that it was his actual house! But it nonetheless is still an important part of his history and houses some of his paintings, including a collection known as Los Apóstoles (The Apostles).

Overall, visiting Toledo was like taking a step back into Spanish history. The fusion of various beliefs and customs, including Islam, Catholicism, and Judaism, is unlike anything I have seen before and helps visitors, such as myself, further understand what makes Spain so dynamic. I am glad to have received the opportunity to visit such a place and I recommend it to those who also plan on visiting Spain.