A must for people who visit the north of Spain is the historic-artistic Santillana del Mar (Santillana of the Sea), one of the most beautiful villages in Spain (Cantabria). In fact, the preservation of its medieval buildings and its stone streets is itself worth a visit. Moreover, Santillana del Mar also has a lot of to offer visitors in the way of architecture, culture, nature , history, museums, festivals , leisure activities, and above all its world renowned Altamira Cave, among other things.
Santillana del Mar is situated in the north of Spain in the Cantabria region with a population of about 4,000 it is certainly the favorite destination for people who appreciate the extraordinary beauty of Santillana del Mar which is surrounded by nature.
What to see in Santillana del Mar: Saint Juliana church, Velarde Palace, The Main Square…
La Colegiata de Santa Juliana (Saint Juliana church) in Romanesque style is the most remarkable building in Santillana del Mar which was constructed in the 12th century and has a outstanding altarpiece dated between 15th and 16th centuries, its Romanesque cloister is dated from 12th century. Behind the church the imposing Velarde Palace dates from 14th century; The historic-artistic Main Square (Plaza Mayor), which is the main meeting point, is rounded by Gothic and Renaissance buildings; Merino and Borja Towers both of them in Gothic style; Gil Blas Palace from 18th century; The stunning Casa de los Hombrones (Hombrones house); The Regina Coeli Museum (religious art) dates from 16th century, among other buildings.
Taking a walk along its medieval streets visitors can enjoy its architecture in Romanesque, Renaissance, Baroque style. Moreover, if they wander around its squares, streets and corners they will be able to come across other attractive constructions such as fountains of washing and watering areas dated from 16th and 17th centuries, and interesting landmarks.
Revolgo Field Park – La Robleda
The Revolgo Field park (la Robleda), the gardens , the surroundings, its natural beauty and its favorable location make Santillana del Mar a breathtaking scenery where people can enjoy its relaxed atmosphere doing sports or resting. By the way, local people are very fond of cycling, bowling and golf, although the bowling is the most traditional game in Santillana del Mar.
Santillana Zoo
The Santillana Zoo, which takes about 20 minutes on foot from Santillana del Mar, is considered to be one of the most interesting zoos in Spain with more than 50,000 square meters, visitors will be able to stroll around seeing tigers, lions, leopards, chimpanzees, monkeys a lot of birds, butterflies, and so on in a natural environment, It is a unique experience for children who can really enjoy observing them.
If people want to visit the whole zoo, it takes about two and a half hours. There are restaurants and bars inside the Zoo if tourists decided to spend the day enjoying the zoo. The ticket to visit the zoo costs between 10 and 18 euros.
In conclusion, Being the town that visitors will never want to leave, Santillana del Mar is the perfect town to live or spend a holiday for children, young, middle aged and old people.
Other interesting places nearby Santillana village
– Altamira Cave and Museum: The museum is located only 30min away from Santillana on foot (3km away).
– Santa Justa Beach: It is 7 km. far away from Santillana del Mar, one sandy beach with clear water for all family in the Cantabrian Sea.
– Cantabria: Check here all our posts about Cantabria region (España).
– Top buildings and monuments in Spain: The most visited monuments in the country.