Calixto and Melibea’s Garden, a Romantic-style garden evoking the literary legend of the lovers from “La Celestina”
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The Huerto de Calixto y Melibea is a Romantic-style garden that evokes the literary legend of the lovers from “La Celestina,” offering landscaped corners, sculptures and a viewpoint overlooking the Tormes River, all within medieval walls that create an intimate, poetic atmosphere.
Where is Calixto and Melibea’s Garden?
It is located at the crossroads of Calle Prior and Calle Máquinas, next to the Tormes River and the New Cathedral of Salamanca. From the old town, it can be reached on foot in about five minutes, descending the Santa Catalina hill.
When and how was it created?
The space was laid out as a Romantic garden in the early 20th century, using the remains of the medieval wall and the old Torre del Gallo. Since then, its terraced layout has been preserved, with cobbled walkways and stone steps alternating flower beds and shrubs.
Why is it so significant?
- Literary connection: recreates the tragic love scene of Calixto and Melibea, protagonists of “La Celestina,” an emblem of Spanish literature.
- Historic setting: incorporates remains of the medieval wall and the Torre del Gallo, dating from the 13th century.
- Landscape design: blends medieval elements with Romantic gardening and viewpoints over the Tormes.
What can you see on a visit?
- Sculpture of Calixto and Melibea at the top of the garden.
- Terraced flower beds with geraniums and roses.
- Cobbled paths and stone steps navigating the slope.
- Torre del Gallo, a defensive remnant with restricted access.
- Viewpoint offering panoramic views of the Tormes River and its banks.
How is the visit organized?
The garden is open to the public all day without reservation. It usually closes at night for conservation. Visits are free and can follow any path in any order.
Where to find schedules and activities?
For details on opening hours and cultural events, visit the Salamanca Tourist Office at Plaza Mayor, 1 or check its official website.
What else to see nearby?
- Old and New Cathedral, magnificent examples of medieval and Baroque art.
- House of Shells, a Gothic-Plateresque palace turned public library.
- University of Salamanca, with its Plateresque façade and Schools’ Courtyard.
- Convent of San Esteban, a masterwork of Plateresque and Baroque architecture.
- Roman Bridge over the Tormes, perfect for a riverside stroll.
In short, the Huerto de Calixto y Melibea offers a haven of tranquility and poetry in the heart of Salamanca, blending literary legend with historic legacy and riverside views.
How to get there
Decimal: 40.959167°, -5.665833°
DMS: 40°57'33" N, 5°39'57" O
