Stairway to Heaven… Scala Coeli.

If you are in Salamanca I recommend that you visit the Scala Coeli and climb the towers. You will be rewarded with some of the most spectacular views of Salamanca! This monument is located very close to Tia Tula. A mere two minute walk away and it opens daily. Upon arrival, the ticketing desk assistant gave us information on the cost and the next available tour.  I and my companion opted to wander leisurely through the building as the previous tour had already started and we were too excited to wait for the other to start!  After paying the entrance fee which is less than 4 euros each we started our exploration of the building. 
 

We entered different rooms filled with artifacts, preserved literature and there were also small models of the building. There was an amazingly view of the ornately decorated interior of the Real Clerecía de San Marcos which has a magnificent Baroque altarpiece. Afterwards we started our climb up the towers. The steps were narrow and wooden and we got an opportunity to rest on the way up by stopping off to view a projection giving details of the monument.

At last we arrived at the end of the stairs and entered the towers. The views are indescribably beautiful!! One has a panoramic view of the monuments and city of Salamanca. I especially loved the view of the Cathedrals of Salamanca. All the while we were busy admiring the architecture of the monuments and those huge bells in the towers and saying it was definitely worth the climb! 

 

Debra Student in Tia Tula

http://www.torresdelaclerecia.com/

Back to the past ...

Salamanca is known as one of the most culturally rich cities of Spain. It’s known for having a wide array of monuments, churches, museums, ancient cathedrals and universities but it is also a city in where different famous persons have lived and passed along the story of the city. Highlighted in this article is Miguel de Unamuno, whose work is known and appreciated all over the world; a famous character who made a great contribution in the field of philosophy.

 

One of the most visited tourist destinations in Salamanca is the "Unamuno House Museum", in which the philosopher lived and today is open to the public. The house is in the old part of the city. At first it was owned by the University of Salamanca. Built in the eighteenth century, it became famous as the place where Miguel de Unamuno lived as Rector of the University of Salamanca and in the 50's it was converted into a museum dedicated to the writer's life. Today the house/museum is integrated into the Office of Archives and Libraries of the University of Salamanca.

 

In preparation to becoming a museum, work began in 1952 by adding furniture on the second floor and creating Unamuno's personal library (assigned to the University) with its 6000 books. Between 1976 and 1977 spaces in the house were adapted to create a historical spectrum which recreates the atmosphere of the writer; work would end in 1996 when the museum was officially opened to the public.

 

The house built between 1758 and 1762 by architect Andrés García de Quiñones, was converted into the house of the Rector of the University of Salamanca and used by the school Administration. Later on it was occupied by Unamuno when he moved to Salamanca in 1900 to teach Greek at the University. He took over the second floor of the house to devote himself to writing his works and poetry. The building is located on a street of booksellers, on the corner of Calderon de la Barca.

 

The façade of the building bears the shield of the University of Salamanca in quoting the following sentence: "OMNIVM SCIENTARVM PRINCEPS SALMANTICA DOCET” which loosely translated means Salamanca is the first in the teaching of all sciences. The building, rectangular in shape, is divided into two parts: the first floor is the Official Hall, while the second are offices. I advise those interested in philosophy and who are lovers of culture, to visit and to experience this journey to the past thanks to the perfect preservation and restoration of this building!

 

 

Valeria, student internship in Tía Tula.

Unforgettable … My time in Salamanca.

I came to Salamanca for five months to learn Spanish, enjoy the city and maybe see some of the rest of Europe. I leave to go back to my country of Trinidad and Tobago fully satisfied that I have achieved my objectives.

When I first arrived in Salamanca I didn’t have much knowledge of the language beyond the very basics and I must say that while I have had some very frustrating moments I have also had a very rewarding experience.  Initially I was a bit shy to speak as I didn’t know the proper use of the grammar or have the vocabulary to adequately express myself. Surrounded by teaching Professionals like Vanessa, Beatriz, Alicia and the other staff has motivated me “Poco a Poco..”Now thanks to the dedicated teaching of the staff at Tia Tula, and from my time spent as an Intern being constantly encouraged by Ana and the rest of the Administrative staff, I am well equipped to communicate with other persons in the language. I also want to give many thanks to my room-mate Noriko and the many other students who I met while at Tia Tula who encouraged me and corrected me during our conversations.  Their input and motivating words really helped a lot. I now feel more confident in my ability to communicate in the language and I look forward to continuing my studies in my country.  My time here was well spent and I think that no other experience can top being immersed in the culture and language if you are trying to learn another language.

Salamanca is a beautiful city and this is an understatement. A well preserved historic city with truly stunning architecture and a wide variety of cultural activities keeps one from getting bored as there is always something new to do, discover or to see.  I felt warmly embraced by not only the school but also the city. The many events, concerts etc. that I attended in Salamanca showcases the city in such a positive way and it is heartwarming to see how proud Salamintos are of their city and its heritage.

When I came to Salamanca I was focused on experiencing Spanish culture but what I did not expect was to also become familiar with so many other different cultures as well. Being in Tia Tula I have met students from so many different countries and it has definitely improved my experience here.  One of the things I enjoyed the most was all the different foods that I learned to prepare from my international friends in Salamanca. I can’t wait to go home and show off my new found skills! To Noriko who taught me to make sushi, Nari who taught me Korean food, Valeria who taught me Tiramisu thank you for the pleasure! I also learned to prepare popular Spanish foods as part of the extra-curricular activities of Tia Tula. I’m going to be very popular when I get back home!J

This was my first time in Europe and being in Salamanca made it easy to travel around. I enjoyed visiting other parts of Spain and I also had the opportunity to visit Portugal, London and France.  All the countries were definitely beautiful in their own way and I will carry special memories with me from my first visits to these places.  I feel very blessed and as I embark upon another journey in my life I wish to truly thank the staff of Tia Tula for a phenomenal experience! You have added to the enrichment of my visit and I am grateful.

To everyone at Tia Tula, staff and students “Muchas gracias, buena suerte y mejores deseos!! Besos!!”

Debra, student at Tia Tula.

Salamanca’s Fiesta de la Virgen de la Vega!

Every year on the 8th September Salamanca celebrates the Feast of the Virgin de la Vega. It began long ago by the Roman Bridge as a simple agricultural and livestock fair but it has now changed into a time of Celebration for its Patron and is a tradition that has endured centuries.

Legend has it that the Virgin helped Salamanca  to defend the assault of the troops who wanted to invade in 1706 during the War of Spanish Succession. A statue representing the Saint was recovered from the former Monastery of Vega and was placed on the high altar in the Cathedral of Salamanca. la Virgin de la Vega has been the patron Saint of the city since 1618 and shares this patronage with San Juan de Sahagun. There have been several miracles and favors attributed to her intervention.

The festival will start on September 7, and on the 8th will be the feast of the Patron. During the festival there will be many shows in the streets, concerts, parties for citizens, students and tourists to enjoy. This year the many celebrations include: Etnohelmántica Festival, Street Arts Festival, Medieval Market, Fair Day, bullfighting etc. 

An explosion of music, fun and laughter!!

Valeria, Intern at Tía Tula.

Extra curricular Activities 2nd to 6th September

Monday 2, 18.00: Visit Salamanca. Get to know the history of the main monuments of Salamanca. Meeting place: Tia Tula. Approximate duration: 1h

Tuesday 3, 19.30: Salamanca Tapas. You will learn how to make some tapas and then you can eat them. Price €7. Meeting place: Tia Tula. Approximate duration 1h

Wednesday 4, 18.00: Billar. Come play a game of pool with us. Price +- €2 (your consumption + game) Meeting place: Tia Tula. Approximated duration: 1h30

Thursday 5, 17.00: Pelicula. The Secret of your Eyes – Juan Jose Campanella (2009) Argentina, 1970´s. Benjamin is an officer of a Court in Buenos Aires and is about to retire. Haunted by a brutal murder which occurred thirty years earlier, he decises to write a novel about the case which has a witness….Place: Tia Tula – movie length: 126 mins.

Friday 6, 18.50: Visit Scala Coeli. We will climb the towers of the clergy and enjoy the views of Salamanca. Price: €3,75. Meeting point: Tia Tula. Approximate duration: 1h

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free. We recommend that our students participate in the activities so they can get to know other students in the school, so they can broaden their knowledge of Spanish culture and to practice and improve their Spanish in a fun way.

Summer time and concerts in Salamanca

Last week Saturday I was out and about Salamanca enjoying various cultural events which the city has ongoing as part of its Cultural programs for the year.  This month Salamanca will be hosting two concerts every Saturday which gives me the opportunity to go out with my friends and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.

The first concert we attended was held at The Cave of Salamanca and the group Tarantella Quartet played a mixture of Jazz, Classical and Modern renditions. The concert which started at eight lasted about an hour and we spent it taking in the sounds of Mozart and Beethoven. The venue though small had an intimate feeling and we had an enjoyable time.

After the first concert we decided to have dinner close to the Plaza Mayor while we waited on some other friends to join us for the second concert. After enjoying a delicious dinner at our favorite Mexican restaurant (Salamanca has a bit of everything) we were on our way to the second concert.

The second concert was held in the Garden of Santo Domingo and started promptly at 10.30pm. The band played a mixture of Spanish music with reggae beats! They were so good that at the end of the one hour and a half performance the audience called for an encore and the band obliged!

We had an enjoyable evening attending these concerts and we are already looking forward to attending another, as well, I am looking forward to sampling some of the other events that Salamanca will be having for the summer!

 

Debra, student in Tia Tula

Getting around as a Newbie in Salamanca!

Salamanca is a small city and it’s relatively easy to navigate by foot. If you are a new student arriving in Salamanca and at Tia Tula don’t worry too much because Tia Tula will give you all the information you need to start you off on a hassle free stay.

 

Carrying a map of the city is essential! These are easy to access and usually one is provided for you during your first day at class. I always carry my map with me. It’s falling apart right now from being so well used! A map is especially handy when you’re learning Spanish like me and you have to ask persons in the street or store for help or advice in finding a certain place or store. Thanks to this I verified that the people of Salamanca are a friendly bunch and usually a few simple words and pointing at the map will encourage some helpful advice and you will soon be on your way.

My map is also marked with the places I NEED to remember such as a newly discovered shoe store, the new hairdresser that I just found, the Art Studio that I started taking classes at and the tiny Chinese store that I go to get my wantons and oyster sauce etc. I am delighted to see that my list of preferred sites is increasing every day! Some people don’t mind wandering around without one and I do that as well. That’s when I find the most unexpected beautiful sights as I turn a unknown corner or discover the most delicious tortilla stopping off for a refreshing drink at a newly-found outdoor restaurant.

But when it’s time to head back, I whip out my trusty map and find the best route to take me to my home in Salamanca!

 

 

Debra, Student in Tia Tula
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Origin of the University of Salamanca

The Public University of Salamanca is famous for its facade, but what is the history behind it? It started in 1130, which marks the year classes were first offered inside the Cathedral. The university was then officially founded in 1218 by King Alfonso IX. This makes the university of Salamanca the oldest in Spain. In 1254, the university was recognized by Pope Alexander IV as one of the four major universities in the world, with the universities of Oxford, Paris and Bologna. The building of "Escuelas Mayores" began in 1415.

 

In 1529, the Catholic Monarchs took advantage of this auspicious time to order the construction of the new facade that we know today. The most known thing of this facade is the frog represented over a skull. Legend says that in order to graduate, each new student must find the frog. If the student does not find it, it means bad luck for his studies.

 

Today, all the tourists who come to visit Salamanca look for the frog that has become a symbol of the city. This is evidenced by the large number of souvenir shops offering frog key chains, frog magnets etc. as keepsakes to remember Salamanca by.

 

In 1584, the number of university students in the University reached 6778. After that, the attendance had waned and in 1822, it only had 412 students. Throughout history, many famous people have passed through the halls of the university, among them Luis de Leon, Miguel de Unamuno, Miguel de Cervantes, Hernando Cortes, and Christopher Columbus.

 

According to the university website, it now has faculties of law, art, medicine and sciences.  Today more than 30,000 students pass through the university each year, participating in the 250 programs offered.

 

If you are currently in Salamanca, don’t forget to visit the university, a part of the rich history of Salamanca!

Claire, Intern at Tia Tula 

Visit to the Monastic Craft Market, Plaza Anaya.

There is always something going on in Salamanca. A few days ago I got a glimpse of Sweets Heaven! My class mate and I visited the Monastic Craft Market held at Plaza Anaya and we were impressed with the offering of sweets!

 

The products were made by various Monasteries who came together to showcase their products and offer them for sale to the public daily from June 25th and 30th.  This market was part of the Second Edition of the cultural program “Plazas y Patios” that was mentioned in a previous blog article. See link http://spanishinspain.blogspot.com.es/2013/06/second-edition-of-cultural-program.html

 

There were different types of biscuits, tarts and cakes, all nicely packaged and displayed on tables under the tents in the plaza. It was a good time to indulge in a little treat and we walked off the extra calories by heading down to the Rio Tormes!

 

Debra, Student in Tia Tula

Second Edition of the cultural program “Plazas y Patios”.

This year, for the second time, the cultural and tourist program “Plazas y Patios” will take place during the summer and it will focus on the fifth anniversary of the New Cathedral.

 

The program began this Saturday, June 15th and will last until September 1st. The shows will be staged at the Patio Chico, the Courtyard of Schools, the Patio of DA2, Plaza de Anaya, Plaza Juan XXIII, the interior of the Cathedral, the Garden of Santo Domingo and the Cave of Salamanca. There will be performances in music, theatre, markets, audiovisual projections and tours of the Cathedral. All these activities are free and will take place on weekends.

 

The program was presented by the Mayor of Salamanca last Tuesday during a press conference. He announced that there will be a total of 28 events, divided into four sections: "scenic squares and courtyards," "music of squares and courtyards ", "audiovisual projection" and "monastic Market".

 

Last year 30,000 people enjoyed these activities and this year even more people are expected.

If you want to know about all the activities planned, please visit the Tourist Office located in Plaza Mayor or the Liceo Theatre box office for a copy of the program. You can also access the program through the following link: www.vcentenariocatedraldesalamanca.es

 

The plays offered to the public will be: “Salmántica el año trece una catedral merece” on June 21st and 29th and also on July 6th, 13th and 20th at Plaza de Anaya, at 20:00. “Lo que cuentan las piedras” will be on every Saturday in August at the Patio Chico, at 20:00. “Suena que algo piedra” every Friday and Saturday from July 5th to August 31st at 21:00, 21:30 and 22:00, “Y que cumplas muchos más” on Saturdays and Sundays in July and August at 12:45 and "Happy Birthday" on July 27th at 20:00 in the Plaza de Anaya.

 

The music will also have a lot of importance this year with various types of music: jazz, roots music, classical music and contemporary music.

 

In Plaza de Anaya during the period June 25th and 30^th there will be a daily monastic crafts market. The market will offer for sale sweets and spirits from over 30 monasteries of Castilla y León, Cantabria, Navarra, Asturias and Galicia. Additionally, every Friday and Saturday from June 15th to September 1st the video "500 years is nothing" will be screened on the facade of the cathedral in Plaza Juan XXIII.

 

Tía Tula encourages you to take advantage of your free time to attend these activities!


Claire, Intern at Tia Tula

 

What is FACYL (besides Arts Festival of Castilla y León)?

Today starts in Salamanca the Arts Festival of Castilla y León (FACYL) that sets up in the streets of our city until June 11. It will last a few days but it will be intense. This festival is a unique opportunity to see the works of local and other Spanish artists, famous or unfamiliar.

 

The festival will include concerts, workshops, exhibitions and conferences pertaining to the arts. This edition aims to have a younger approach and will be more family-oriented than previous ones.

The festival seeks to attract people from all over the country and to this end it is supported by the main local and regional tourism organizations, which offer promotional packages including tickets for the events and hotel booking.
 

Regarding the music, the program includes two types of concerts: first there will be concerts by famous artists (for which you will need to buy a ticket): Juan Perro - National Award for Contemporary Music 2011 - Mika, Begun, Supersubmarina, among others. There will also be concerts in the street during the morning or afternoon periods, these are free and everyone is invited to attend. These concerts will be held in the Plaza de Anaya and the Patio Chico.

The festival also innovates in this edition with the programming for the first time of two 'Open Mike' evenings bringing together groups and soloists of Salamanca. On the other hand, conferences will be organized for professionals, to discuss various topics related to the actuality of the arts sector (audiovisual and musical).

 

There will also be exhibitions in DA2, with works by José Luis Pajares and Juan Perez-Fajardo and educational workshops aimed at students between 10 and 17 years.

The audience will also enjoy theatre plays, presented by companies Luceafarul, The Freak Cabaret Circus & Hopscotch and the duo Ravi Prasad and Monica de la Fuente.

The aim of this festival is to strengthen the image of Salamanca as a city of culture and tourism adapted to the youth and families. We encourage you to come to Salamanca, or to go out if you're in town and check out the various activities. If you do send up some pictures or leave a comment on your experience! We’d love to hear from you! For further information on performances and activities please visit website http://www.facyl-festival.com

Extra-curricular activities June 3rd – June 7th

Monday 3^rd, 18:00: Guided Tour. To start the week we’ll show you the beautiful city of Salamanca during a guided tour. Meeting point: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h  

Tuesday 4^th, 20:00: Cinema. We will watch the movie Matador of Pedro Almodovar (1986). It is necessary to sign up before 11am. Price: € 1,20. Meeting point: Teatro Liceo. Approximate duration: 1h45. 

Wednesday 5^th,18:00: Visit of a monument. We will climb the Clerecia Towers to see a view of the city. Price: € 3,75. Meeting point: Tía Tula - Approximate duration: 1 hour.
 
Thursday 6^th, 19:00: Cooking class. During today’s cooking class you will learn how to make ‘tortilla de patatas’ and then you’ll eat it. Price: € 7,00. Meeting point: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h
 
Friday 7^th, 19:00: Concert in the street. We will go to the Patio Chico to listen to Sr Chinarro, a Sevillan Artist who will present his last album “Enhorabuena a los cuatro”.  Meeting point: Tía Tula. Approximate duration: 1h 

Remember to sign up for the activity at the reception beforehand (the minimum number of people needed for each activity is 3). If the cost is not stated then the activity is free. We recommend that our students participate in the activities so they can get to know other students in the school, so they can broaden their knowledge of Spanish culture and to practice and improve their Spanish in a fun way. 

Cultural show in the Plaza de Anaya

Every year, on 28^th  May, since 2001, this celebration is held in Salamanca it is the celebration of the designation of Salamanca as European City of Culture with a collective reading of poetry in a famous place of Salamanca. (Rio Tormes (2002), Plaza de Anaya (2003), Higher School Yard (2004), Plaza Mayor (2005), Convento de San Esteban (2006), the Pontifical Faculty Baroque (2007), Palacio de Anaya (2008), Patio Chico (2009), Casa de las conchas (2010), Plaza de Toros (2011) and Plaza Mayor (2012)).

This year's celebration joins the fifth centenary of the beginning of the construction of the New Cathedral.That’s why it will take place in the Plaza de Anaya, next to the New Cathedral. Twelve poets will be present as well as several choirs and classical orchestras. From 21:45, the poets will climb to the towers and roofs of the Cathedral to read the unpublished poems they have written for this commemoration. They will be accompanied by various orchestras and choirs as well as a light show.

In conclusion, this event will be a good opportunity for those who want to discover the Spanish culture because it will combine poetry, music and architecture.