Cadiz claims to be the oldest city in Europe, having been founded around 1100BC by the Phoenicians. With the discovery of the New World, and Cadiz’s monopoly on trade with the Americas (it was the headquarters of the Spanish treasure fleets), this became the wealthiest port in Western Europe. Many of its historical buildings date from this era. It certainly has its fair share of historic sights for the visitor, especially the beautiful gold-domed Cathedral and the Torre de Tevira. This was built in the 18th century, and contains a fantastic Camera Obscura which works like a periscope and shows panoramic views of the whole city.
As Cadiz is so compact its main sights can easily be taken in on foot. The Gran Teatro Falla, is the hub of the famous , a carnival that concentrates on the two districts of La Caleta, and the neighbouring barrio of La Vina, which is without doubt the most charismatic area of Cadiz.
Ever since the English naval attacks, by Sir Francis Drake in 1587 and by the Earl of Essex in 1596, Cadiz has been a fortified town and today the Puerta de Tierra has become one of the symbols of the city. The Castillo de Santa Catalina and Castillo de San Sebastian form part of the 18th century sea fortifications, and a walk along the seafront here and through the Parque Genoves can be very rewarding and picturesque, the white buildings contrasting with the oyster pink stone used in its walled border.
Puerta de Tierra which was an impregnable defence during the Napoleonic siege, serves as the entry point to the more modern Cadiz that has expanded outside the walls. Here the Paseo Maritimo or promenade skirts the Playa de La Victoria, which is well served with restaurants, bars and chiringuitos on what is possibly one of the best urban beaches in Europe.

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