There are many famous buildings in Toledo with amazing histories. These buildings’ rich histories are both interesting and educational, perfect for the students to enjoy and learn from!
Mosque of Cristo de la Luz
The first famous building is the Mosque of Cristo de la Luz, also called the Church of Santa Cruz. It is one of Toledo’s oldest standing monuments. This building was made in December of 999 through January of 1000. It was built by Ahmad ibn Hadidi, a member of one of the significant Toledo families. The exterior of the building has a façade that was uncommon at the time it was made. The interior of the building is very open and has many interesting arches, representing the architectural style used during the time it was made. This Mosque is a significant cultural and historical landmark and reflects Toledo’s Islamic past. This would be a great place to see where Toledo intertwines history, art, and faith. To see this building, join one of the walking tours or scavenger hunts, which include this building!
Puerta de Bisagra
The next famous building is the Puerta de Bisagra, which is also called Puerta de Alfonso VI. The purpose of this gate is to be an entrance that opens to the walls of Toledo or a city gate of Toledo. The gate was most likely built during the Arab period. The main significant architects who built this gate were Nicolás de Vergara the Elder, El Monzo, Juan de Benavides and Eugenio Sánchez, Hernán González de Lara, and Alonso de Covarrubias. They built the exterior around 1559, which was a Renaissance/classical design. An interesting fact about this gate was that a façade had been put on the door to the gate to make it difficult for enemies to infiltrate Toledo. This gate would be great for students to see because of its historical significance to Toledo and how it protected the city.
San Juan de Los Reyes
Another famous building is the Monastery of San Juan de Los Reyes, which was founded by King Ferdinand II of Aragon and Queen Isabella I of Castile. They chose Toledo for this Monastery because of its location and because, in the past, Toledo was the capital of the Visigothic Kingdom, which made it more appealing. They also wanted this Monastery to show off their victory in the Battle of Toro. Its construction began in 1477 and was completed in 1504. Unfortunately, it was destroyed in 1809 during Napoleon’s occupation of Toledo, but was restored in 1954. The style used was Gothic with influences from the Spanish and Flemish. It is known for the coat of arms of the Catholic Monarchs being held by eagles.
Castle of San Servando
The last famous building of many is the Castle of San Servando, which was built to defend the Alcántara bridge. Interestingly, it was originally built as a monastery, which Alfonso VI ordered to honor the Saints Servando and Germano. In the 11th century, it was rebuilt due to the reconquest of Toledo. It currently works as a youth hostel, so this would be a great place to stay for a few nights and learn about its history!
These sites and buildings would be a great opportunity for students to learn about the history of Toledo! To see and learn more about these amazing historic buildings, you can get tickets for admission or go on a guided tour of each while you are here.