Best Places to Visit in Toledo
Toledo is one of Spain’s most historically significant cities. Known as the “City of Three Cultures” and designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s famous for its rich artistic beauty and buildings that showcase Arabic, Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, and Baroque styles.
El Greco’s House in Toledo
Due to the significance of the artist and his painting in the Church of Santo Tomé, visiting El Greco’s House is essential. Officially known as the “El Greco Museum,” this house-museum is dedicated to the Mannerist painter Doménikos Theotokópoulos, the famous Cretan artist who created almost all of his work in Toledo.
The house was designed to bring together his works and is a recreation of his own home and studio.
In the museum, you’ll find additional works by the artist, as well as by other artists of the time, imitators, and more.
Church of Santo Tomé in Toledo
Because of El Greco’s famous painting, this church is a must-visit for many people coming to Toledo.
The painting that makes this church famous is titled “The Burial of the Count of Orgaz”, a masterpiece that visitors delight in upon reaching the church’s portico. It’s recommended to admire it in detail, and to get a deeper understanding, check out the Wikipedia entry on this work.
Old Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca in Toledo
Built in 1180, this synagogue served as a Jewish house of worship for 211 years until it was seized and converted into a church in 1391.
Today, the building belongs to the Catholic Church, though no services are held there. It is open to the public as a museum or a center for cultural and educational activities.
If you’re interested in Jewish or religious culture, this is another essential stop. The building is well-preserved, and its columns are awe-inspiring.
Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes in Toledo
This monastery is built in the Hispano-Flemish Gothic style. Its vast structure is well-preserved and worth a relaxed visit.
If you aren’t joining one of our tours with guides, you can access information through the building’s free Wi-Fi network on your phone.
The cloister is highly recommended, and pay special attention to the gargoyles on the gutters!
There are many corners to explore.
Jewish Quarter of Toledo
The Jewish Quarter offers a unique opportunity to experience Toledo’s Jewish history: its homes, markets, and synagogues.
Despite being expelled by Catholics in 1492, the neighborhood has preserved its characteristics and labyrinthine streets. It’s said to occupy 10% of the city’s area.
We highly recommend going with a tour guide to gain a deeper understanding of the history behind these streets.
Mosque of Cristo de la Luz
Legend says that when El Cid’s horse passed in front of the mosque, it knelt, and somehow, a wall was brought down to reveal a still-lit oil lamp that had been waiting to be discovered for 200 years.
The temple is small, and its main attraction is “Cristo de la Luz” (“Christ of the Light”), a work of art that receives light through the glass-ceilinged dome.
Best Time to Visit Toledo
Any time of year is a great time to visit this incredible place.