The Route of the Transcantabrian Train and its World Heritage Sites
The Route of the Transcantabrian Train and its World Heritage Sites
The Transcantabrian crosses spectacular railways that are true historical and railway gems, traveling through amazing natural spaces. As travelers enjoy beautiful landscapes, the route of the Transcantabrian train also offers the opportunity to visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites, which we detail below:
1. Vizcaya Bridge (Bilbao – Basque Country)
The Vizcaya Bridge in Bilbao, Basque Country, Spain, is an important example of 19th-century industrial architecture. Due to its historical, technical, and cultural value, it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2006 as part of the “Industrial properties from the Industrial Revolution era in Spain”. This bridge is a unique example of the evolution of technology and architecture during the Industrial Revolution and its conservation is essential to preserve the memory and history of the region. The Vizcaya Bridge is an important symbol of the city of Bilbao and a tourist attraction for visitors from around the world.
2. Altamira Cave and Paleolithic Cave Art of Northern Spain (Altamira Neo-cave) Cantabria
The Altamira Cave and Paleolithic cave art of Northern Spain are an important part of the history and culture of Cantabria. The original Altamira Cave is located in the municipality of Santillana del Mar and is known for its prehistoric cave paintings, some of which are over 20,000 years old. These paintings depict a wide variety of animals and are considered one of the most important examples of European cave art. Due to the preservation of the paintings, the Altamira Cave was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. In 2002, the Altamira Neo-cave, a replica of the original cave, was opened to allow visitors to see the paintings without endangering their conservation.
3. Oviedo (Asturias)
Oviedo is the capital of the Principality of Asturias, in northern Spain. It is a historically and culturally rich city, with an architectural heritage that combines Roman, medieval, and Renaissance influences. Highlights include the Magdalena Palace, a royal residence located on the coast; the Cathedral of San Salvador, a Gothic church with an impressive facade and elaborate interior; and the Palace of San Vicente. In addition, Oviedo is known for its lively cultural life, with a wide range of festivals, events, and cultural activities. The city is also famous for its cuisine, with traditional dishes like “fabada asturiana” and “sidra”. The city of Oviedo has its ancient pre-Romanesque monuments, which have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
4. Santiago de Compostela (Galicia)
Santiago de Compostela is a city located in the northwest of Spain, in the region of Galicia. It is famous for being the final destination of the Camino de Santiago, a medieval pilgrimage route that attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. The cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, located in the Plaza del Obradoiro, is the most important place of worship in the city and is the arrival point for pilgrims who have traveled the Camino de Santiago. In addition to its religious significance, Santiago de Compostela is a vibrant city full of life and culture, with a wide range of bars, restaurants, shops, and cultural activities. The city is also known for its architectural heritage, with a mix of styles ranging from Romanesque to Baroque. In 1985, the historic center of Santiago de Compostela was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its impressive cultural and religious heritage.
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