Alcázar de Toledo
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Alcázar de Toledo - by Carlos Delgado (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Description
The Alcázar of Toledo is a fortified building located at the highest point of the city of Toledo in Spain. The name originates from "Al Qasar", meaning "Citadel" in Arabic and its history dates back to the 3rd century when it was a Roman palace. It was enlarged significantly in the 11th century after the city became the seat of the kings. Under the reign of Charles V (Charles I of Spain) in the 16th century, a trio of architects (Herrera, Covarrubias and Villalpando) designed the complex in its current look although it was burnt down twice (in 1710 during the Spanish War of Succession and in 1810 during the Napoleonic Wars). The Infantry and General Military Academies were established there at the end of the 19th century and the Alcázar withstood a 70-day siege by the Republican forces during the Spanish Civil War but was destroyed in the process, which explains its rather fresh look. Nowadays, it houses the Spanish Army Museum and the Regional Library.
Access & Transport
The building is at the top of the hill in the centre of Toledo and the main entrance is on Calle de la Paz. The closest parking lots are Corrallilo de San Miguel, Alcázar Garage and Miradero Garage. The city is a quick 35' train ride from Madrid Atocha Station or 70mins car drive on the A-42 or AP-41/A-40.
Instructions & Recommendations
We suggest combining this activity with a visit of the rest of the city of Toledo, including some of its most important monuments such as the Monastery of San Juan de los Reyes, the Cathedral of Toledo, El Greco Museum, and the Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca.
Environmental & Social
Environmentally we deem this activity marginally negative (heating/lighting). Preserves the city's cultural and architectural heritage
Conclusion
The Spanish Army Museum is interesting and does its job pretty thoroughly, but it isn't going to be for everybody, so be aware that this is what the Alcázar de Toledo is housing and not a military fortress or a typical palace with decorated and furnished rooms. If your time in the city is limited or you have limited interest in Spanish military history, we suggest you allocate your time elsewhere in priority.
Key positive
Unmissable structure and an important part of the city's history
Plenty of exhibits to see in the Museum
Key negative
The Spanish Military Museum focus may be too narrow for foreign tourists
Suitability
Suitable for all ages but children under 12 may find it boring quite quickly. Accessible for visitors with reduced mobility
About this Rating
TYPE
Desktop
RESEARCHED IN
June 2024
PROVIDER
Koreval
av. transport time:0h 30m
est. visit time:1h 30m
Monday -
Tuesday10:00 - 17:00
Wednesday10:00 - 17:00
Thursday10:00 - 17:00
Friday10:00 - 17:00
Saturday10:00 - 17:00
Sunday10:00 - 17:00