Spanish language route: is it worth exploring?
Can you imagine discovering the roots of the language you are learning during your exchange? The Spanish Language Route offers this unique opportunity. Traveling through historic cities and places full of culture, you can immerse yourself in the origins of Spanish, a language spoken by more than 500 million people. Let's explore this fascinating journey that combines language learning with cultural tourism.
The birthplace of Spanish: San Millán de la Cogolla
Our journey begins in San Millán de la Cogolla, in the region of La Rioja. This small village houses the monasteries of Yuso and Suso, where the famous “Glossas Emilianenses” were found, considered to be the first written record in the Spanish language.
Visiting these monasteries is like stepping back in time to the 11th century. The ancient walls hold secrets of the evolution from Latin to Spanish. For those who chose Study and Work in Spain, is a unique chance to see up close where it all began. In addition, the region of La Rioja is famous for its wines, offering a complete cultural experience.
Historic universities: Valladolid and Salamanca
The next stop on our route takes us to two university cities that are crucial for the development of Spanish:
- Valladolid: Headquarters of the first Castilian grammar, written by Antonio de Nebrija.
- Salamanca: Its university, founded in 1218, is one of the oldest in Europe.
- Both cities have well-preserved historic centers, ideal for sightseeing.
- Opportunity to learn about Spanish university life.
These cities not only contributed to the development of the language, but they are also living examples of Spanish student culture.
Ávila: mysticism and literature
Avila, with its impressive medieval walls, is the next destination. This city is famous for being the birthplace of Saint Teresa of Jesus and Saint John of the Cross, important figures in Spanish mystical literature.
Walking through Ávila's narrow streets is like stepping into a history book. The city's churches and convents offer a unique view of the religious influence on Spanish language and culture. For literature students, it's an opportunity to see where great mystical works were written and to understand the historical context behind them.
Alcalá de Henares: the land of Cervantes
Our route ends in Alcalá de Henares, the hometown of Miguel de Cervantes, author of Don Quixote. Here, you can:
- Visit Cervantes' birthplace, now a museum.
- Explore the University of Alcalá, one of the oldest in Spain.
- Stroll along the main street, with its historic arcades.
- Visit the Corral de Comedias, a 17th-century theater.
- Attend cultural events related to Cervantes and Spanish literature.
Alcalá de Henares is the perfect place to conclude your journey through the history of the Spanish language, seeing how it evolved to become the language of one of the most important works of world literature.
A learning journey
This 590 km route, which can be done in 6-7 days, offers more than a simple tourist trip. It is a deep immersion in the history and culture of the Spanish language. Each stop provides a unique opportunity to practice the language in historical contexts, enriching your learning experience during the exchange.
Be Easy
Ready to embark on this fascinating journey through the history of the Spanish language? A Be Easy Exchange can help you not only plan your studies in Spain, but also to include this incredible route in your exchange program. Contact us to learn more about how to combine your Spanish learning with this unique cultural experience. Remember, each step on this route is a page in the history of the language you're learning - a must-see opportunity for any Spanish student!
