ornate doorway to the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos
In 1492 Isabella and Ferdinand completed the reconquest, expelled the Jews, started Imperial acquisition, by way of Columbus, and, in Santiago, founded the Hostal that bears their titles, if not names. That is if you believe the tourist office information: other sources suggest 1499. The ornate facade dates from 1511. The style is plateresque, in other words "silver smith style". It is a Spanish derivation of Italian renaissance detailing - other examples can be found across Spain. The hostal was established for poor and sick pilgrims. Now, as a Parador, it is no longer charitable, but you can stay there if you want to be close to the busking pipers and noise of tourists and pilgrims. (The cheapest rooms are 225 euros with obligatory breakfast for 20 euros each.) If you are not deserving poor when you arrive, then you will be before you leave.
ornate doorway to the Hostal de los Reyes Católicos
In 1492 Isabella and Ferdinand completed the reconquest, expelled the Jews, started Imperial acquisition, by way of Columbus, and, in Santiago, founded the Hostal that bears their titles, if not names. That is if you believe the tourist office information: other sources suggest 1499. The ornate facade dates from 1511. The style is plateresque, in other words "silver smith style". It is a Spanish derivation of Italian renaissance detailing - other examples can be found across Spain. The hostal was established for poor and sick pilgrims. Now, as a Parador, it is no longer charitable, but you can stay there if you want to be close to the busking pipers and noise of tourists and pilgrims. (The cheapest rooms are 225 euros with obligatory breakfast for 20 euros each.) If you are not deserving poor when you arrive, then you will be before you leave.