Merry Christmas (Cadiz)

Since we arrived in Cadiz, we enjoyed a mild and sunny climate. It was a special treat to explore the city in t-shirt while the snow was falling over Quebec.

Fortifications to protect the bounty

Located on a peninsula on the Atlantlic coast of Spain just before Gibraltar, Cadiz played an important role in the trade with the Americas. The bay of Cadiz provided a haven for fleets: an easily defendable enclave of calm sea. On three occasions, Columbus’ ships set sail from here on his voyages to the New World. The defensive fortifications are well preserved all around the old city.

Cathedral of the Americas

The cathedral was build during the boom of the trade with the West Indies, as well as Central and South America. In the crypt lie two of Cadiz’s most famous sons: 20th-century composer Manuel de Falla and writer José María Pemán. In addition, the acoustic of the crypt produces an outstanding echo.

Orange trees

It is easy to get lost in the old town of Cadiz, while following the narrow streets connecting to larger plazas. Orange trees are everywhere. They are a testimony of the region’s moorish past. For almost 800 years, large areas of what is now Spain were part of the muslim world, as the kingdom of Al-Andalus. Though native to Asia, oranges were known to the Moors who introduced them to Spain.

Modern history

The signing of the first Spanish Constitution took place in Cadiz in 1812. It was the first of a series of constitutions reflecting the power struggles in the country until 1978, when democracy was durably restored.

Parks with lush vegetation

The climate is favorable for all kinds of amazing plants, including giant trees allegedly brought back by Columbus from his travels to the New World.

Watching the sunset

The fortifications are present all around the peninsula and offer amazing views during the sunset.

Feliz Navid

Christmas traditions seem well established, just adapted to the climate. Chidren are having fun on the ice ring, even if it is made of plastic and not gliding so well. Instead of drinking mulled wine, how about a sangria?