Things to Do in Santillana Del Mar: A Guide to Exploring the Charm of a Medieval Town

Santillana Del Mar is a lovely village in Cantabria, Spain, with well-preserved medieval architecture and culture. Despite being small, hundreds of people flock to discover its narrow streets, quaint residences, and attractive gardens. Here are some things to do in Santillana Del Mar.

Explore the Old Town

Visit Santillana Del Mar’s Old Town, a lovely medieval community with a rich cultural legacy. Walk through the small cobblestone lanes and observe Casa del Aguila y la Parra and Torre del Merino’s beautiful architecture. Enjoy the lively town square, where residents and tourists come to try the local cuisine and take in the ambiance. Santillana Del Mar’s unique combination of history, art, and natural beauty makes it a must-see for every discriminating tourist.

Visit the Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana

The Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana in Santillana Del Mar is a beautiful Romanesque church. Admire the exquisite carvings and frescoes and learn about the church’s intriguing history and patron saint. The church houses Santa Juliana’s tomb, a sacred destination for many people. The Collegiate Church of Santa Juliana is a must-see in Santillana Del Mar due to its cultural significance and gorgeous architecture.

Learn about History at the Diocesan Museum

Santillana Del Mar’s Diocesan Museum is a fantastic place to learn about history. Religious items, artwork, and historical records are on display in the museum, providing a unique look at the town’s past. Visitors may learn more about the museum’s treasures through guided tours and educational events. Santillana Del Mar’s Diocesan Museum is a must-see for history buffs and cultural vultures alike.

Admire the Views from the Colegiata de Santa Maria

The Colegiata de Santa Maria, a lovely chapel on a hill above Santillana Del Mar, offers breathtaking views. The church’s Gothic architecture and beautiful carvings make it one of the region’s most prominent religious attractions. Visitors can climb the bell tower for wonderful views of the town and surroundings or see the church’s beautiful interior. The Colegiata de Santa Maria is a must-see in Santillana Del Mar due to its historical significance and spectacular natural beauty.

Experience Traditional Crafts at the Casa de las Donas

At the Casa de las Donas, a unique museum that displays regional crafts and arts, you may experience traditional crafts. Visitors may see craftsmen make traditional ceramics, weave fabrics, and make jewelry, and they can even take classes to master these old methods. Visitors may learn more about local customs through the museum’s history and cultural exhibits. The Casa de las Donas, which preserves and promotes traditional crafts and arts, is a must-see for Santillana Del Mar’s cultural history.

Visit the Zoo de Santillana

Seeing wildlife in the Zoo de Santillana is a unique experience. The zoo’s diverse animal collection will excite young and old. One may view the creatures up close and learn about their nutrition, behavior, and environment. The zoo is a great place for a family outing because it offers many educational programs for kids.

Santillana del Mar is a charming medieval town that offers a variety of exciting activities for visitors of all ages. One of the must-visit attractions is the Zoo de Santillana, which is home to over 200 species of animals. From tigers and bears to exotic birds and reptiles, the zoo provides a fascinating insight into the animal kingdom. With spacious enclosures and beautiful landscaping, visitors can enjoy an immersive and educational experience at the zoo.

Walk the Nature Trail of Santillana del Mar

Walking Santillana del Mar’s nature route is a great opportunity to see the area’s splendor. The path winds through lush forests, undulating hills, and picturesque streams. There are various places to stop and admire the scenery. Birdwatchers can see many species. The route is perfect for outdoor fitness and relaxation.

Sample Local Cuisine

Santillana del Mar visitors must try the local food. Traditional cuisines with unique flavors and styles are found throughout the area. The local cuisine is delicious, from fresh seafood to substantial stews and soups. Cheese, sugar, and cinnamon are used to make “quesada,” a delicious delicacy. Many restaurants and cafés in town feature local food, so there’s something for everyone.

Visit the Altamira Museum

For history and culture buffs, the Altamira Museum is a must-see. The museum displays Altamira cave paintings and other prehistoric cave art. The museum’s exhibits include Paleolithic relics and cave drawings. The museum also offers interactive prehistoric age activities and events.

Enjoy the Festivals and Fairs

Santillana del Mar is known for its vivid festivals and fairs, which provide tourists with a lively and colorful environment. From the ancient market of La Fragua to the agricultural fair of San Roque, the town always has something to celebrate. Festivals are great places to enjoy local culture, including music, dancing, cuisine, and crafts. Santillana del Mar provides a vibrant environment that visitors may enjoy.

Santillana del Mar’s festivals and fairs are extremely popular. From the Carnival in February to the Fiestas de la Virgen del Carmen in July, Santillana del Mar has something going on. Visitors may enjoy traditional music, dancing, and food and experience the town’s colorful culture. Santillana del Mar is a great vacation spot with so much to do.

Conclusion 

Santillana Del Mar is an exquisite blend of antiquity, artistic expression, and environmental exquisiteness, making it a requisite destination for every itinerant. With its astounding edifices, including churches and museums, and its awe-inspiring surroundings, the medieval town is the ideal destination for anyone seeking relaxation and discovery. Santillana Del Mar is a treasure trove of cultural legacy, and a visit to this tranquil town is certain to leave an indelible mark on your memories.

Santillana del Mar proffers a wide array of activities and attractions that are tailored to meet the desires of different tourists. It matters not if you’re a history buff, a lover of nature, a gourmet, or a culture enthusiast, there is something for you in this charming town. Taking a trip to Santillana del Mar presents a chance to experience the magnificence of Northern Spain and to create moments that would remain etched in your memories for all time.