Known for it's swords, sword museum, known for peacefully homing 3 differing religions, river around the town and the only entrances are over bridges and then through huge stone walls, how we had to walk back to catch bus and then we’re afraid we couldn’t get back with the sword and weapons we bought

​

Toledo is a medieval fortress town perched on the top of a hill which is delicately cradled on 3 sides by the river Tajo. It’s a truly magical place steeped in a rich and uniquely peaceful history. The town was first mentioned by a Roman historian in 59 BC and has since been a capital city, a royal city, and a center for art, writing and literacy. Dripping with gold, gems, and precious metals; Toledo is famous for making intricate swords.. And not just any swords. The best, most expensive, intricate swords fit for royalty and only the highest ranking members of society. Since visiting it has become one of my all-time favorite places.. In fact this is where my dream wedding would take place. And to think I had never even heard about it before visiting.. in fact my roommate is the one that picked it out. A small day trip from Madrid, where we were living.. and I was just along for the ride. 
Hopping on a train from Madrid it took about 30 minutes and was probably the best $15 I ever spent.

 

We arrive at an old stone train station where we catch the bus into town. It was public transportation but the bus driver was giving us little tidbits of information along the way. One of the things he said has stuck fascinated me and has stuck in my brain. Toledo is known as the ‘city of 3 cultures’ because for centuries Christians, Muslims and Jews have lived here together, peacefully. One of the only places of its kind, making it an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Behind its stone walls you will find mosques, synagogues and churches. Along with stone homes and clay roofs, beautiful art and intricate designs reflecting all the people who live there; on homes and doors, on the underside of the balconies ***photo*** you’ll find small displays of artwork and individuality all throughout the labyrinth of tiny alleyways that make up the town. 

One of these alleyway abruptly end and there in front of us stood a giant cathedral. 'Another church’ we thought. No no no. This is THE church. It was awe inspiring. Every single inch from the middle of the ceiling to the middle of the floor was completely covered in artwork, carvings, stained glass and gold that seemed to be dripping off the alters and pulpit. ***insert photo*** Even the pew chairs, every single last one, was hand carved with beautiful, ornate designs. Even more amazing is that fact that we where there at the perfect time to witness a traditional Spanish wedding. The wedding party was enormous and all the woman had on those tall traditional veils (mantilla) ***reference photo*** in which a comb that looks like a crown (peineta) is placed atop your head sitting about 6+ inches high and the lace then covers the 'crown’ draping over it and down the length of the dress. The stunning bride was in a grand white dress with a tall white Mantilla and the bridesmaids were in full, royal-blue dresses and black veils.