Published: 03.12.2024
Today we leave Portugal for Spain and slowly make our way home. Our journey from the magical coastal town of Sintra to the historic Salamanca took us through breathtaking landscapes.
Sometimes flat, sometimes hilly. One of the most fascinating moments came just before the Spanish border, along the A62 highway, where we discovered a geological phenomenon: huge, perfectly rounded stones that seem to grow out of the earth like oversized spheres.
These impressive formations, which appear to be shaped by giant hands, are the result of millennia of weathering and erosion. They originate from granite, a rock formed beneath the Earth's surface. Over time, water, wind, and temperature fluctuations penetrate small cracks and fissures. Particularly at the edges and corners of a rock block, weathering takes effect, gradually creating the characteristic curves. The loose material around them is eroded away, leaving only these stone artworks behind.
The stones are not just a geological phenomenon, but also a visual highlight along the route. They remind us of how powerful and patient the forces of nature are in creating their own art. If you're traveling on the A62, keep your eyes peeled – these formations are a real gift for nature lovers!
From Portugal to Spain – a journey full of contrasts. In addition to the wollstone weathering, we had many more highlights on this leg.
After the impressive nature along the A62 highway, the landscape changed character on the last stretch to Salamanca. The route became flatter after crossing into Spain, with vast fields sprinkled with grazing cows. A stark contrast to the wild beauty of the first hours of our journey.
Around 4 PM, we reached our daily goal Salamanca, a city whose old town has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Our hotel, the Eurostars Las Claras, is located in the heart of Salamanca. A special detail, the underground parking garage was only accessible via a car lift – a little technical surprise that we rarely see. But the real magic of the day began when we set out to explore the city.
Our first stop took us to the imposing Cathedral of Salamanca, which impresses with its size and beauty. The city actually has two cathedrals: the older Catedral Vieja (12th century) and the newer Catedral Nueva, which began in the 16th century and was only completed in the 18th century. We found the mixture of architectural styles, from Romanesque and Gothic to Baroque elements, particularly fascinating.
A real highlight was the delicately designed façade of the Catedral Nueva. When you look closely, you can even find modern motifs in the stonework that were added during restoration efforts in the 20th century – a charming detail that connects tradition and modernity.
After visiting the cathedral, we made our way past the renowned University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Europe, founded in 1218. The magnificent façade of the building also tells stories from long ago with its intricate stonework. Those who wish can look here for the famous frog on a skull – whoever finds it is said to be lucky, according to legend. I'm still searching... or rather, I only read this legend afterward.
Passing by the market hall, we continued to the Plaza Mayor, the heart of Salamanca.
Just in time for dusk, we arrived at the square, and as if on cue, the lights turned on. The artistically illuminated façades bathed the square in a warm, magical atmosphere. The Plaza Mayor, built in the 18th century, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and perhaps one of the most beautiful squares in Spain.
A special December tradition and surprise was the opportunity to visit the Casa Consistorial, the magnificent town hall at the Plaza Mayor. In December, Salamanca opens a different building each day for its citizens and visitors to explore – a wonderful opportunity to peek behind the facades of this historic city.
After an eventful day, we ended the evening at the charming wine and tapas bar Vinodiario, conveniently located next to our hotel. The atmosphere was relaxed, the food delicious – from fine tapas to an excellent wine selection, everything was perfect. A wonderful conclusion to a day full of contrasts, discoveries, and impressive moments.
Even in Salamanca, the Christmas spirit has arrived, and the city is festively illuminated everywhere. A perfect motif to finish the day.
