The 12 Oldest Cities In Spain
And How To Visit Them

Spain is home to some of the most iconic cities in the world. Think of Spain and images of cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville instantly come to mind. Each one has its own unique character and history with many dating back thousands of years. So, what are the oldest cities in Spain?

As a Hispanophile, I have been obsessed with the culture and history of Spain since I was young. I have even made it my mission to visit every region of this beautiful country. On my travels, I have explored some of the most historic cities in Spain and been bowled over by how well they have been preserved.

If you are a history buff, you will be right at home in one of these 12 cities. Each offers a fascinating glimpse into the past and helps inform how Spain came to develop its unique character.

Keep reading to find out all about the twelve oldest cities in Spain. I’ll tell you about their history and how best to visit them.

12 Oldest Cities in Spain

Definitions of both what constitutes a city and how to date a city’s age can be quite flexible. For this list, I have included 12 major cities that are known for being amongst the oldest in Spain and are recognised as some of the most historic across the country.

1. Cádiz

The oldest city in Spain is the Andalusian city of Cádiz.

• Year Founded: 1,100 BC
• Autonomous Community: Andalusia
• Population: 126,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Jerez (39.5km). Other nearby airports are Seville (103.6km) and Málaga (114.1km)

Cádiz was founded around 1,100 BC by the Phoenicians, making it the oldest city in Spain and one of the oldest in Western Europe. Due to its strategic location on the Atlantic Ocean, it grew as a city due to its importance as a trading post in the Mediterranean.

Over the centuries, the city has been occupied by the Carthaginians, Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Christians all of whom have shaped Cádiz into the city it is today.

Nowadays, Cádiz remains a vibrant and culturally rich city. It is famous for its well-preserved historic centre complete with winding streets, picturesque squares, and ancient landmarks. Major attractions such as the Cathedral of Cádiz, the Tavira Tower, the Roman Theatre and the ancient city walls are all testament to Cádiz’s diverse history.

As well as its historic setting, Cádiz is renowned for its festivals and events including The Carnival of Cádiz and The Cádiz Flamenco Festival, both of which celebrate the city’s rich traditions.

With a wealth of museums, a beach and an incredible seafood cuisine, Cádiz is a great place to spend some time and learn about the history of Spain.

2. Málaga

The second oldest city in Spain is the Andalusian city of Málaga.

• Year Founded: 770 BC
• Autonomous Community: Andalusia
• Population: 568,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Málaga airport, a major international airport with direct transfers to the city.

The birthplace of renowned Spanish artist, Pablo Picasso, Málaga’s history dates to 770 BC, making it close to 2,800 years old. Similar to Cádiz, the city was founded by the Phoenicians as a colony named ´Malaka´.

The city flourished as a port city under various civilisations, namely the Carthaginians, Romans, and Visigoths. After the Moorish takeover of Spain, the city formed part of Al-Andalus and experienced significant growth under Moorish rule.

Following the reconquest by the Christians, Málaga’s importance continued. With its location on the Mediterranean, it became an important maritime hub during the Age of Exploration.

Today, Málaga is known for being a vibrant city and the gateway to Spain’s Costa Del Sol, one of the country’s most popular holiday coastlines. Known for beautiful beaches, its warm climate and vibrant nightlife, it is the perfect place for a summer holiday.

That’s not all Málaga has to offer though. Visitors can explore the Picasso Museum and the city boasts some impressive historic landmarks.

There is the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress dating back to the 11^th century and a Roman Theatre. Coupled with an impressive food scene based around seafood, Málaga is a great place to visit no matter what you are interested in.

3. Tarragona

Coming in at number 3 is Tarrgona.

• Year Founded: 5th century BC
• Autonomous Community: Catalonia
• Population: 140,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Reus (8.8km). There is a 20 minute bus journey from the airport. Tarragona can also be visited as part of a day trip from Barcelona.

Tarragona was founded around the 5^th century BC as a pre-Roman settlement. Known as ‘Tarraco’, it was established by the Iberians, who lived in the area prior to the Roman Conquest. An important port and commercial hub, it grew in importance with the Roman Conquest of Spain, acting as the capital of Hispania Citerior.

As with much of Spain, it went through periods of Visigoth and Moorish rule but due to its northern location was reconquered by the Christians much earlier than Andalusia. The city was reconquered in the early Middle Ages and became part of the Christian Kingdom of Aragon.

The Roman archaeological complex in Tarragona is one of the best in the whole of Spain and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tourists can visit the Amphitheatre, the Roman Circus, the Roman walls, aqueduct, and forum making it the perfect place for Roman history enthusiasts.

Additionally, there is a medieval old town, great beaches, and the Balcony of the Mediterranean, offering fantastic views of the city centre, coastline, and harbour.

4. Cartagena

Next up is the city of Cartagena at number 4!

• Year Founded: 227 BC
• Autonomous Community: Murcia
• Population: 212,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Murcia (24.9km). Alicante airport is the next closest (84.6km). There are buses direct from Murcia airport to Cartagena that take around 45 minutes. Alternatively if you are staying in Murcia, you can take the train.

Cartagena is located in the southern region of Murcia on Spain’s southeast coast. The city has a long history and was founded around 227 BC by the Carthaginians. It was chosen due to its strategic location on the coast.

After the Carthaginians, Cartagena was conquered and inhabited by the Romans. They renamed it Carthago Nova. The city once again flourished as a major port and trading hub in the Mediterranean.

After experiencing Visigoth, Byzantine and Moorish rule, the city was reconquered by the Christians and returned to prominence as an important base for the Spanish Empire during the Age of Exploration.

Today, Cartagena attracts plenty of tourists for its well-preserved Roman ruins. These include an impressive Roman Theatre, Roman Forum, and Roman Amphitheatre.

In addition to the incredible Roman history, Cartagena offers visitors beautiful architecture, incredible food and pleasant year-round weather (I visited in December 2023, and it was lovely weather!). Cartagena is a beautiful city that is great to visit at all times of the year, especially for those interested in history.

5. Salamanca

Moving on to number 5 is Salamanca.

• Year Founded: 2nd century BC
• Autonomous Community: Castile and León
• Population: 156,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Salamanca (13.9km). Other options include Valladolid (106.8km) and Madrid (182.3km), which has direct trains and buses.

Salamanca is famous for being home to one of the world’s oldest universities. Its recorded history as a Roman settlement dates the city to around 2^nd century BC. Archaeology suggests that humans have been living in the area since prehistoric times making Salamanca even older.

Salamanca’s first period of importance came in the Roman period being located on the Vía de la Plata (Silver Road), a major Roman road connecting Roman cities and settlements in Spain. It then grew in prominence as a medieval city falling under Visigoth and Moorish rule.

Arguably its most significant period came in the 12^th and 13^th centuries when the University of Salamanca was founded. The university quickly gained renown as being one of the oldest and prestigious in Europe and gained Salamanca a reputation of being a place for intellectuals.

Nowadays, the city is still famous for its university, drawing students from across Spain and wider afield.

Its Plaza Mayor is considered one of the most beautiful squares in the whole of Spain and with iconic buildings such as the Casa de las Conchas and the Salamanca Art Nouveau and Art Deco Museum, it is easy to see why Salamanca featured on my list of the top 20 places to visit in Spain for first timers.

6. Toledo

One of Spain’s most historic cities, Toledo is at number 6!

• Year Founded: First recorded in 193 BC
• Autonomous Community: Castilla-La Mancha
• Population: 82,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Madrid-Barajas (94km). The easiest way to get to Toledo is by flying into Madrid, taking line 8 subway and taking a train from Atocha station. The journey to Toledo takes around 36 minutes.

Frequently described as Spain’s most historic city, Toledo is believed to have been established as a settlement by the Celtic people. This dates the city at over 2000 years old and one of Spain’s pre-Roman settlements.

Following the Roman conquest, it became an important centre. It was strategically located overlooking the Tagus River and became a key military and administrative hub for the Romans.

With the fall of the Roman Empire, Toledo became the capital of the Visigoth Kingdom in 6^th century AD. It also fell under Moorish rule. It was then reconquered by the Christians in 1085 and became a cultural and religious centre.

During this time, Toledo became well-known for its multiculturalism. Christians, Muslims, and Jews all co-existed peacefully. As such, Toledo developed intellectually and artistically with the different groups all contributing.

Nowadays, Toledo has a fantastic Old Town with well-preserved medieval architecture. Like many cities on this list, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located only 70km from Madrid, Toledo is a fantastic day trip for anyone wanting to see more of Spain whilst visiting the capital.

7. Córdoba

Famous for its mix of architecture, the Andalusian city of Córdoba is at number 7!

• Year Founded: 169 BC
• Autonomous Community: Andalusia
• Population: 328,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Córdoba (8.7km). Other nearby airports are Seville (112km), Granada-Jaén (117.6km) and Málaga (137.4km). Córdoba is on the railway network and can be accessed from all three cities. There are also coaches that go to Córdoba from Seville, Granada and Málaga.

Córdoba is one of Spain’s most beautiful cities with an incredible history. Whilst humans have lived in the area since prehistoric times, Córdoba is another city founded by the Romans. Known as Corduba in Latin, it was formed in the 2^nd century BC around the year 169 BC.

Like other cities in Andalusia, the city has been under Roman, Visigoth, Moorish and Christian rule over the years, with the Moorish and Christian influences being seen predominantly in the city.

Its major attraction is the Mezquita-Catedral, which was voted one of the twelve treasures of Spain in a national poll. A stunning building, it was originally a mosque built during the 8^th and 10^th centuries when Córdoba was part of the Emirate of Córdoba. With the reconquest of Spain by the Christians, it was converted into a Catholic cathedral.

Nowadays, it is one of the most beautiful attractions in Spain. Coupled with a stunning old town complete with white-washed buildings adorned with colourful flowers and you have the perfect city to visit as part of a tour of Andalusia or in its own right.

8. Girona

The medieval Catalan city of Girona is number 8!

• Year Founded: 76 BC
• Autonomous Community: Catalonia
• Population: 96,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Girona (10.5km). The bus journey from the airport takes around 15 minutes. Other options include Perpignan (84.3km) and Barcelona (98km), which has direct trains and buses.

Situated in Catalonia in the northeast of Spain, Girona’s origins are over two thousand years old. Founded as a Roman settlement around 76 BC, it became an important town for the Romans due to it being situated between the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea.

During the Middle Ages, Girona grew as a medieval Catalan city-state. It was throughout this era that Girona developed its distinctive medieval architecture. Its well-preserved Jewish Quarter, Gothic cathedral and fortifications are all from this period.

In the modern era, Girona is famous for its architecture. It was chosen as one of the filming sites for Game of Thrones.

Girona Cathedral was used as the Great Sept of Baelor with the courtyard being used for Cersei’s walk of atonement.

The city’s streets were used as the setting for scenes in King’s Landing and Bravos and the city walls were used continuously for various fortified cities.

As well as its stunning medieval architecture, Girona has a great cultural scene and some fantastic food. Coupled with its excellent location close to the Pyrenees, the Mediterranean and Barcelona, makes Girona a fantastic choice for those looking to experience one of Spain’s oldest cities.

9. Lugo

Relatively unknown, the Galician city of Lugo is at number 9.

• Year Founded: 25 BC
• Autonomous Community: Galicia
• Population: 97,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is A Coruña (217.3km). There are regular buses that go direct from A Coruña to Lugo.

Located in Galicia in the northwest of Spain, Lugo was founded around 25 BC by, you guessed it…the Romans! The city grew under Roman rule becoming an important administrative and military centre in the region.

The Romans constructed walls around the city of Lugo. Remarkably, these walls are still standing, encircling the historic centre of Lugo. Constructed in the 3^rd century AD, they are one of the best examples of Roman walls in the whole of Spain.

Similar to the rest of Spain, Lugo fell under both Visigoth and Moorish rule. It then became part of the Kingdom of Galicia and played a significant role in the Christian reconquest of Spain.

Today, Lugo’s most famous attraction is its Roman walls, which are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The historic centre is filled with charming streets, picturesque squares, and medieval buildings.

Lugo Cathedral is another highlight, with its impressive Romanesque architecture. And for foodies, Lugo has plenty of delicious Galician cuisine to keep you happy.

Whilst not as famous as some of the other cities on this list, Lugo is definitely worth visiting!

10. Mérida

Famous for its Roman ruins, Mérida comes in at number 10!

• Year Founded: 25 BC
• Autonomous Community: Extremadura
• Population: 56,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Badajoz (45km). There are trains direct from Badajoz to Mérida that take around an hour.

Mérida is located in the western region of Extremadura. It was founded in 25 BC by the Roman Emperor Augustus as a Roman colony. It flourished as one of the most important cities in Spain during Roman times being used as a settlement for retired Roman soldiers.

The colony boasted some impressive Roman structures including a theatre, an amphitheatre, a circus, aqueducts, and many temples. Incredibly many of these are still standing today. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Roman ruins are one of Mérida’s main attractions today.

Mérida lost importance following the fall of the Roman Empire but later became a centre for Christian pilgrimage during the Middle Ages.

Nowadays, Mérida is the perfect place to visit for those interested in Roman culture. The ruins within the city are amongst the best preserved in Europe and make for a fantastic day trip. As well as the Roman ruins, the city offers the perfect old town to explore and some fantastic restaurants offering the best in local cuisine.

11. Zaragoza

The Aragonese capital of Zaragoza is at number 11.

• Year Founded: Celtic – 1st millennium BC, Roman – between 25 BC and 11 BC
• Autonomous Community: Aragón
• Population: 674,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Zaragoza (10.8km). The bus journey from the airport takes around 17 minutes. Zaragoza is also well connected to Barcelona via train. This journey takes around 1 hour 30 minutes.

Similar to Toledo, Zaragoza’s exact origins are a little uncertain. The city is believed to have been established by the Celtiberians, a pre-Roman Celtic civilisation around the 1^st millennium BC.

Zaragoza also became an important Roman colony. Located next to the Ebro River, it was ideally located to act as a military outpost. It was given the name ‘Caesaraugusta’ and developed into a vibrant urban centre.

As with most of Spain, Zaragoza was occupied by the Visigoths and the Moors. It reached its peak under the Moors as a major centre in Al-Andalus. It was then reconquered in 1118 and was incorporated into the historic kingdom of Aragon. Today it is the capital of the autonomous region of the same name.

In the modern era, Zaragoza is famous for its historical heritage. It is home to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, one of the 12 treasures of Spain as well as the Aljafería Palace, a stunning Moorish palace.

Zaragoza also has a thriving cultural scene with many museums, art galleries and festivals. Top that off with a fantastic food scene and you have a great city to explore!

12. Barcelona

The final city on my list is the Catalan capital, Barcelona!

• Year Founded: 15 BC
• Autonomous Community: Catalonia
• Population: 1,622,000
• How To Get There: Nearest airport is Barcelona airport, a major international airport with direct transfers to the city.

Barcelona’s definitive founding date is not known but it is believed to have been founded in 15 BC making it over 2000 years old. There is evidence to suggest that humans had settled in the area even before that date.

Over the years, Barcelona has been an important Roman colony, evolving into a major medieval city and is now a major and modern city, being a hub of culture, commerce, and industry. It is one of the richest areas in the whole of Spain.

In the modern era, Barcelona is one of the most visited places in Spain. It is a culturally rich and vibrant city with a unique identity and incredible architecture.

Major attractions such as Parc Güell, the Sagrada Familia, La Rambla and the Casa Batlló amongst others, make Barcelona one of the best places for a first trip to Spain.

Alongside its rich history, Barcelona is known for its cultural heritage, great climate, amazing food, sports and its incredible nightlife. Barcelona is a place everyone should visit at least once in their life.

Map Of The Oldest Cities In Spain

FAQs

What Is The Oldest City In Spain?

Cádiz is widely recognised as the oldest continuously inhabited city in Spain. Founded by the Phoenicians around 1100 BC, Cádiz has been a significant port city for millennia due to its strategic location on the Atlantic Coast. It is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe and a fantastic destination for those looking for a historical trip to Spain.

What City In Spain Has The Most History?

Toledo is the city in Spain with the most history. Due to its central location, the city has had great importance in many eras and to many different civilisations, each of which have left their mark on the city.

The city was a prominent centre during the Roman Period before serving as the capital of the Visigoth kingdom. It later became a significant city during Muslim rule in Al-Andalus. Continuing its historical importance through the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods, the city has a plethora of history sure to satisfy any history buff.

What Is The Largest Old Town In Spain?

The largest old town in Spain is in Seville. Known as the ‘Casco Antiguo’, the old town is known for being one of the most well-preserved in the country. It is known for its charming narrow streets, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere.

It is also home to Seville Cathedral, the Álcazar and the Plaza de España, three of the city´s iconic landmarks.

Is Malaga One Of The Oldest Cities In The World?

Yes, Málaga is one of the oldest cities in the world. Its history dates back over 2,800 years and it has been inhabited by various civilisations. The Phoenicians, Romans, Moors and Christians all inhabited the city at different points, each leaving their own mark on the city’s history.

What Is The 3 Oldest City In The World?

The 3 oldest cities in the world are Damascus and Aleppo in Syria and Jericho in Palestine. It can be difficult to come to a definitive answer as definitions of a city evolve and there are variations in the amount of archaeological evidence available but these three are most commonly cited as the oldest.

Which Is The No 1 Oldest City In The World?

Jericho in Palestine is frequently recognised as the number 1 oldest city in the world. Spoken about in the Bible, there is evidence of settlement in Jericho as far back as 10,000 BC making it one of the oldest known inhabited places on Earth.

Final Thoughts: 12 Oldest Cities In Spain

As you can see Spain has more than its fair share of old and historic cities. The country has been influenced heavily by being occupied by various civilisations which is evident in many of its towns and cities.

For those interested in Roman history, you’ll be right at home exploring the Roman theatres in Mérida and Cartagena, walking the city walls in Lugo and checking out the aqueducts in Tarragona.

Those interested in Islamic architecture will be marvelling at Cordoba’s Mosque-Cathedral and Seville’s Álcazar.

And if medieval Spain is your thing, you’ll be right at home in Girona’s Old Town and Salamanca.

No matter what your preference, you are sure to find something to marvel at in Spain’s 12 oldest cities! I hope this guide has been useful in helping you discover the historic cities Spain has to offer!