Guadalajara

Guadalajara, situated above the left bank of the Rio Henares about 56km - 35miles from Madrid, is now very much under the influence of the capital. This ancient city was founded by the Iberians and later conquered by the Arabs.

Subsequently, the powerful Mendoza family, who gained possession of Guadalajara in the 14th century, left their mark on the town. They received the lordship of Guadalajara and made the city splendid for centuries. Finally, Guadalajara was re-conquered in 1085 by Alvar Fanies de Manaya. During the Spanish Civil War (in March 1937), the "battle of Guadalajara" between Republican and Italian forces was fought at Brihuega, northeast of the town.

The rich history of the capital of La Alcarria has left an important architectural legacy in its old town. The most characteristic building is the "Palacio de los Duques del Infanto", build in 1461 by Juan Guias and considered a real symbol of the city. Another Renaissance construction is the "Palacio de los Mendoza", with two Plateresque doorways.

Other areas of interest and beautiful sights is the pedestrian street 'Calle Mayor', which is the spine of the historic part of the provincial capital. In the Calle Mayor you'll find several historic buildings like with buildings of great historic value like the City Hall, the great houses of the Plaza de los Davalos or the old palace of the Mendozas.

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