Origin and History of Santander
Santander, the capital of Cantabria, is a city that has seen centuries of history pass along its shores, and today, it is a destination that seamlessly blends its rich heritage with modernity. If you want to know what to see in Santander and understand its origins and history we provide you with a deeper insight into the places that make this city such a special destination.
The Early Times: From Roman times to the Middle Ages
Santander’s origins date back to Roman times, when it was known as Portus Victoriae Iuliobrigensium, a strategic port worth seeing in Santander and on the northern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. This settlement was consolidated thanks to its location, which facilitated maritime trade with other regions of the empire. Over time, the city adopted the name “Sancti Emeterii,” in honour of Saint Emeterius, a Christian martyr whose relics, according to legend, were brought to the city in the 3rd century. This name, over the years, was transformed into the present-day “Santander”.
During the Middle Ages, Santander began to gain importance as a commercial port, especially in the wool trade, which was exported from Castile to Europe. This economic and commercial expansion was key to the development of the city, laying the foundations for what would later become one of the most important cities in northern Spain. Exploring the sights to see in Santander today, one can imagine the bustle of its medieval port and the importance it played in shaping the city.
Centuries of Expansion and Challenges
The 18th century marked a period of expansion for Santander, supported by the Spanish monarchy. In 1755, King Philip V granted Santander the title of city, which boosted its development and modernisation. However, Santander also faced challenges, such as the great fire of 1941, which destroyed much of the historic centre. This event changed the face of the city forever, but it also gave way to a reconstruction that combined modernity with the preservation of its heritage.
Santander today
Today, Santander is a city that reflects its rich history in every corner, from its historical monuments to its vibrant cultural life. The city has managed to maintain its historical essence while adapting to modern times, making it an attractive destination for tourists and locals alike. If you are looking for iconic places to see in Santander, one can enjoy its stunning bay, its beaches, and its old town, where every building and street tells a part of its fascinating history.
Visiting this city, therefore, is not only an opportunity to enjoy its natural and architectural beauty, but also to immerse yourself in a past that has shaped a dynamic and welcoming city.
The transformation of Santander.
Santander has evolved over the centuries from a small fishing port to a modern, cosmopolitan city. During the 19th century, Santander became an important centre for maritime trade and elite tourism, which fuelled its growth and development.
Today, Santander combines its historical legacy with a modern infrastructure and vibrant cultural offerings, making it an attractive and diverse tourist destination. Exploring all these facets of the city, from its historical monuments to its rich gastronomy and legends, will allow you to enjoy a complete and enriching experience. Every corner tells a different story, and every street offers something special to see in Santander, making this city a must-see destination.
What to see in Santander: Discover the charms of the capital of Cantabria
Santander, the elegant capital of Cantabria, is a city that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, nature and gastronomy. Located on the northern coast of Spain, this port city is known for its stunning bay, beautiful scenery and welcoming atmosphere that invites visitors to explore every corner. In this blog post, we take you to discover what to see in Santander, with a selection of the must-see places, the typical dishes you can’t miss, and the origin and evolution of the city until today.
1. La Magdalena: Palace and Park
One of the first places you should visit when thinking about what to see in Santander is the La Magdalena Peninsula, an enclave of great natural and historical beauty. On this peninsula is the Palacio de la Magdalena, a majestic building that was the summer residence of the Spanish royal family in the 20th century. The palace, in eclectic style, offers guided tours that allow you to learn about its history, its architecture and the impressive views it offers over the bay of Santander.
La Magdalena Park is another of the peninsula’s attractions, with large green areas, walking trails and children’s play areas. Here you will also find a small marine zoo, where you can see penguins, seals and sea lions in a natural setting. The park is an ideal place to enjoy a family day out, surrounded by nature and tranquillity. Without a doubt, La Magdalena Peninsula is an essential place to see in Santander, where history and nature combine to offer a unique experience.
2. Santander Bay: A stroll along the coastline
The Bay of Santander is one of the most beautiful in the world and a central point on any tour of the city. If you’re wondering what to see in Santander, you can’t miss a walk along the Paseo Marítimo along the bay, from where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and the city. This promenade is perfect for enjoying the sea breeze, watching the boats and yachts sailing around the bay, and stopping at one of the many cafés and restaurants offering delicious seafood and fresh fish.
One of the most emblematic places in the bay is the Botín Centre, an art and culture centre designed by architect Renzo Piano. This sleek, modern building seems to float on water and hosts contemporary art exhibitions, concerts and other cultural activities. Visiting the Botín Centre is a great way to combine a stroll along the bay with an immersion in local culture. The Bay of Santander is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and relaxing places to see in Santander.
3. Sardinero Beach: Sun and sea in the city
Santander is known for its beaches, and Playa del Sardinero is the most famous of them all. This long golden sandy beach is divided into two parts, Sardinero I and Sardinero II, and is a favourite destination for locals and tourists alike. When thinking about what to see in Santander, Sardinero Beach is a must-see for a day of sun and sea, surrounded by a spectacular natural environment.
The Sardinero is also known for its elegant promenade, which is lined with gardens, luxury hotels and restaurants. Here you will find the Gran Casino del Sardinero, a historic building that adds a touch of glamour to the area. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing or simply relaxing while listening to the sound of the waves. In addition, during the summer months, the beach becomes a meeting point for sporting activities and cultural events, making it a lively and dynamic place to see in Santander.
4. Historic Centre: A journey through time
The Historic Centre of Santander is a place that will transport you to another era. When thinking about what to see in Santander, this is an essential tour to understand the history and character of the city. Although much of the centre was destroyed in the 1941 fire that devastated the city, there are still important monuments and historic buildings worth visiting.
One of the highlights is Santander Cathedral, a 13th century building that has been rebuilt several times. The Gothic-style cathedral houses the Crypt of Christ, one of the oldest parts of the city. A short distance away is the Plaza Porticada, an emblematic space that has been the heart of Santander’s social and cultural life since its reconstruction after the fire. The square is surrounded by neoclassical buildings and is a perfect place to enjoy a coffee in the open air.
Another point of interest in the historic centre is the Mercado de la Esperanza, a traditional market where you can discover the flavours and typical products of Cantabria. Here you will find a wide variety of fresh fish, seafood, cheeses and sausages, reflecting the rich gastronomy of the region. Exploring the Old Town is an essential experience to see in Santander, where history, architecture and daily life intertwine at every turn.
5. Mataleñas Park: Nature and spectacular views
Mataleñas Park is one of the most impressive places to see in Santander to enjoy nature and panoramic views of the city and the sea. This park, located on a hill, offers large green areas, walking trails and some of the best views of the Cantabrian coast.
One of the highlights of the park is the Cabo Mayor Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse that has guided sailors since 1839. From here, the views over the Cantabrian Sea are simply spectacular, especially at sunset. The park also has a golf course and access to Mataleñas Beach, a small, quiet beach that is ideal for those looking for a more secluded and natural place to enjoy the sea.
Mataleñas Park is a perfect place to have a picnic, walk through nature or simply relax while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. It is, without a doubt, an essential place to see in Santander for those who love nature and panoramic views.
6. Cantabrian Maritime Museum: A trip to the world of the sea
The CantabrianMaritime Museum is a must for those interested in the maritime history and culture of Santander. If you are interested in cultural activities to see in Santander, this museum offers a fascinating collection of exhibitions that explore Cantabria’s relationship with the sea, from traditional fishing to modern navigation.
The museum has several rooms dedicated to marine biology, the history of navigation and the region’s fishing traditions. It also houses an aquarium where you can see up close some of the marine species that inhabit the Cantabrian Sea, such as sharks, rays and groupers. One of the most interesting exhibitions is the one dedicated to shipwrecks and treasures from the seabed, which immerses you in the stories of the ships that sank off the coast of Cantabria.
The Museo Marítimo del Cantábrico is not only educational, but also offers stunning views of the bay from its terrace, where you can enjoy a coffee while gazing out to sea. It is an ideal place to learn about the rich maritime history of the region and is undoubtedly one of the most interesting places to see in Santander.
Typical dishes in Santander: A Gastronomic Tour
Santander’s gastronomy is one of its greatest attractions. Here are six typical dishes you should try during your visit to fully enjoy what there is to see in Santander from a culinary perspective.
1. Mountain stew
Cocido montañés is one of the most emblematic dishes of Cantabrian cuisine and a delicacy you should try when thinking about what to see in Santander. This hearty stew is made with white beans, cabbage, chorizo sausage, black pudding and bacon, and is perfect for warming up during the colder months. It is a dish that reflects Cantabria’s rural tradition and love of local ingredients.
2. Rabas
Rabas are one of the most popular snacks in Santander and throughout Cantabria. They are strips of squid in batter and fried until crispy, served with lemon juice and enjoyed in almost every bar and restaurant in the city. The rabas are a must to see in Santander, ideal to accompany a beer or a vermouth while you enjoy the sea views.
3. Sorropotún
Sorropotún, also known as marmita, is a fish stew typical of the Cantabrian coast, especially Santander. It is prepared with white tuna, potatoes, peppers and onion, all cooked in a broth that brings out the flavours of the sea. This seafood dish is a tribute to the region’s fishing tradition and is an excellent culinary experience to see in Santander for fish lovers.
4. Quesada pasiega
Quesada pasiega is a typical dessert from Cantabria that you must try during your visit to Santander. It is made with curdled milk, eggs, butter, flour and sugar, and is baked until it has a smooth, creamy texture. Quesada is perfect to enjoy with a coffee or as a dessert after a traditional meal. It is a sweet that represents the richness of the region’s dairy tradition and is a must on your gastronomic tour of Santander.
5. Sobaos pasiegos
Sobaos pasiegos are another delicious Cantabrian dessert that should not be missing from your list of things to see in Santander. These spongy sponge cakes, made with butter, sugar, flour and eggs, are ideal for breakfast or a snack. Their flavour and texture have made them one of the most representative products of Cantabria, and they are an excellent souvenir to take home.
6. Anchovies from Santoña
Santoña anchovies are a characteristic gourmet product of the town. These anchovies, produced in the traditional way in the nearby town of Santoña, are known for their intense flavour and exceptional quality. They are usually served as a tapa, accompanied by a little olive oil and bread. Anchovies are a delight to see in Santander for all fish lovers and are a sign of the excellent quality of the fishing in Cantabria.
Santander is a city that offers a fascinating mix of history, culture and natural beauty, making it a must-see destination on the northern coast of Spain. When researching what to see in Santander, you’ll come across iconic landmarks such as the majestic La Magdalena Peninsula, the stunning Santander Bay and the iconic Sardinero Beach, each offering a unique experience.
In addition, its historic centre, with monuments such as the Santander Cathedral and the Plaza Porticada, will immerse you in the city’s past, while its rich gastronomy will allow you to taste the typical flavours of the region. Without a doubt, Santander is a destination that captivates not only for its landscapes and architecture, but also for the history and culture that you can breathe in every corner.
Remember that with DareMapp you can take a multitude of interactive guided tours, including many of these “Spain’s most famous routes”, a fun tour of the main destinations.
what better way than travelling and discovering while learning in a fun way? Visit our blog to discover lots of tourism tips.
