Cadiz is almost surrounded by the sea. It is the oldest city in Europe and was founded by the Phoenicians in 1100 B.C., at that time it was named Gadir. Since then the city has been occupied by Carthaginians, Romans, and Moors. A good view of Cadiz can be seen from the Cathedral tower. There is a Museum of Art and Archaeology which contains many items of great archaeological value including Phoenician sarchophagi and jewellery, Etruscan artefacts, Roman statues and glassware. The Art gallery has works by several famous artists including Murillo and Zurbaran. Back to main Andalucia page Back to Home Page

From the top of the Cathedral tower you get a close up view of the bells and the gold-coloured dome, and some excellent views over the Cadiz rooftops to the surrounding sea. There are some spacious squares with palm trees. The streets are narrow and many of the buildings have intricate decoration on the walls and balconies.