Get an idea of what Cadiz was like in centuries past when you tour the plazas, churches and defensive structures of its ancient core.
The Old Town of Cadiz is a picturesque jumble of cobbled streets, ancient churches, plazas and pastel-colored buildings beneath a skyline dominated by the cathedral’s golden dome. Discover historic gems as you navigate the centuries-old roads and thoroughfares.
One of the Old Town's most significant buildings is the Cathedral of Cadiz, an imposing Baroque and neoclassical masterpiece from the 18th and 19th centuries that’s crowned with a dome of glazed yellow tiles. Step inside to explore the chapels and the crypt and climb up the cathedral’s Torre de Poniente tower for outstanding city views.
East of the cathedral are the remains of a partially excavated 1st-century Roman amphitheatre. Sit on the ancient stone seats and learn about the venue’s history in the interpretation centre. Afterward, visit the Iglesia de Santa Cruz, a 13th-century church built on top of a mosque. The building is a 17th-century reconstruction after most of the original was destroyed during the English assault on Cadiz in 1596.
From here stroll along the waterfront past the cathedral until you reach the Castillo de Santa Catalina, a star-shaped 17th-century fortress. Tour the parade ground, chapel and ancient rooms and visit in summer for the open-air concerts. Walk east for a few minutes to the Oratory of San Felipe Neri, a Baroque church where Spain’s first constitution was signed, in 1812. To learn more about this momentous event go next door to the Cortes Museum.
A few minutes’ stroll to the east of the museum is the Oratorio de la Santa Cueva, an 18th-century church with a subterranean chapel. View the building’s rich collection of religious art including paintings by Spanish romantic painter Francisco Goya. Walk north from here to get to the Plaza de España, home to the Monument to the Constitution 1812. Stay for refreshments in one of the nearby bars or restaurants.
To get to the Old Town of Cadiz come by bus, taxi or drive. Street parking is difficult to find in this part of the city, but it’s possible to find spaces where you can park for a fee in lots inside and around the old town.
