The cave of Salamanca

To speak of Salamanca is to speak of history, art, and knowledge—the classic trio for any memorable visit. But here, there’s one more element you can’t ignore: legend. There’s no better place to dive into that part of the city than here. What looks like an ordinary cavity was once the crypt of the Church of San Cebrián, long since vanished. According to local tale, this mysterious spot is known as the Cave of Salamanca. Legend has it that the Devil himself once lived here and taught the dark arts to a group of seven students he had chosen. We’re not talking about math, physics, or geography. Instead, think necromancy, summoning the dead, spirits, and demons. Deeply rooted in local folklore, the story has travelled far beyond Spain. In fact, in parts of South America, dark places associated with witchcraft or magic are often called a “salamanca.” The cave was fully excavated in the early 1990s, and today you can still see some of the original crypt remains. If you're in the mood to snap some great photos, you're in luck. Just a few steps away is the Torre de Villena. With free access, its balcony offers unbeatable views of the New Cathedral and the Convent of San Esteban.