Alcala De Henares is a university town in the outskirts of Madrid.
Alcala De Henares is known for its old university of Complutense that was founded by Cardinal Cisneros. Established in the 13th century, the university was built during the reign of Queen Isabel who was a Catholic. One of the most renowned universities of its time, it still continues to be one of the premier universities in Spain although it has now shifted base to Madrid. The university presently has the largest student population in the whole of the world.
Touring Alcala De Henares
People opt for tours from Madrid to Alcala De Henares to explore the old university building that is built on the lines of European Renaissance architecture. The students' residential area or the 'Colegios Mayores' provide a vivid insight into the way the students were groomed and trained. The university is not only famous for its architecture but is also known for the fact that here Europe’s first polyglot Bible was written. This original copy of this Bible can still be seen in the town hall or the 'casa consistorial'.
Being the birth place of Miguel Cervantes, the famous
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author of the adventures of Don Quixote, Alcala De Henares has further attained a classical literary significance. The works of this renowned author is on display in the town hall. Some of the other things to see in Alcala De Henares include:
- 15th century city walls
- Iglesia Magistral church
- Convent of Bernardes that is built in the 17th century
- Casa de Cervantes, the house of Don Quijote
How to reach Alcala De Henares
The town of Alcala De Henares is located at a distance of 30 kilometers from Madrid. Alcala De Henares can be reached by availing the C2 and C7 Cercanias trains that provide frequent services from the Madrid Atocha railway station. Frequent bus services are also available from the Continental Auto stop in Madrid. The N II highway is the best route to reach Alcala De Henares by car.
One of the most visited tourist destinations in Spain, the Alcala De Henares highlights the academic and the literary heritage of the country.
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