Via de la Plata is the name of the route which goes from
Sevilla, Andalucia, in Southern Spain up to Astorga near Leon
and which links with the Saint
James Way to get to Santiago de Compostela
in Galicia, Northern Spain.
Originally the which originated the arrival of the first
settlers and extended culture and architecture to cities and
villages.
The actual route connects the autonomous regions of Andalucia,
Extremadura, Castile and Leon with Galicia and passes the
cities of Merida, Caceres (Extremadura), Plasencia, Bejar,
and continues towards the city of Salamanca
with possibly the most beautiful main square (Plaza Mayor)
in whole Spain, surrounded by arcades, and full of interesting
monuments and buildings built with the characteristic Villamayor
sandstone. Salamanca is often mentioned as being one of the
most spectacular Renaissance cities in Europe. As the most
interesting buildings are fairly close together an in the
old part of Salamanca, which is mainly for pedestrians, it
is very comfortable to get around. Do not miss to see the
University and the library. Miguel de Cervantes and Miguel
de Unamuno were students in this city.
It then reaches Zamora, well known for the
Romanesque monuments that are spread throughout its streets
and squares, passes Benavente before ending in Astorga. This
route of great natural beauty and numerous historical cities
has become an increasing attraction for many due to communication
links.
The Ruta de la Plata offers two different ways with the choice
between a route including cities and monuments or the old
Roman road (Calzada Romana), which is likely to be the best
choice for hikers and pilgrims. This route meets at many points
a National road, the ravine and roads situated along the Sierra
de Bejar mountains and the railway line which is no longer
in operation.
The Calzada Romana or more than 460 km long Roman road was
constructed for military purposes between 2 B.C. and 1 B.C.
and preserves the original paving along some sections and
also numerous, almost 2 m high milestones.
Remains of small forts, bridges and towns with Roman origin
can be seen along the old Via de la Plata. |
