Casa de Las Conchas
 This
famous Salamanca landmark is decorated with over 300 sandstone
shells. The windows on the ground floor are protected by exquisite
bars, which have been referred to as "the most beautiful
of Gothic Spanish ironwork." Within this 15th century house
Gothic, Moorish, and Italian influences blend together beautifully.
The patio is one of the most typical of Spanish cloisters. The
staircase, covered by a coffered ceiling is of Italian influence.
Today the Casa de las Conchas serves as a public library and it
also houses the Provincial tourist office. The top floor is frequently
used as a gallery for local and international artists.
Museo de Unamuno
Built beside the University
in 1758 by García de Quiñones, it was primarily
a Meeting Hall, but was later converted into a residence for Unamuno.
Inside, there is a library, bedroom, photos, and personal objects
from Unamuno (one of Spain's most masterful and influential writers)
as well as a portrait of him painted in 1935.
Museo de la Universidad
 Just
inside the cloister of the Escuela de Menores is the University
Museum.Some of Salamanca's finest artifacts such as painted wooden
sculptures can be found here. The crown jewel of all the objects
on display is the Salamanca Heaven. It was painted by Fernando
Gallego in the 15th century; it represents an astrological chart
following the new philosophical theories of time.
Casa Lis
The only notable example of
Modernist architecture in Salamanca, this enchanting mansion was
built by Joaquín Vargas at the beginning of the 20th Century.
Its unique iron structure and stain-glass windows as well as its
Gaudi-like twisted floral patterns ensure that its one of the
most memorable sights of Salamanca. It houses the Art Nouveau
and Art Deco Museum containing works by Démetre Chiparus
and Carl Fabergé among others. |
