The Universidad de Cádiz, or University of Cádiz, lends the city’s downtown area a youthful energy. Located in a series of buildings set throughout the old-fashioned streets of the city center, it makes a great place to start exploring the heart of the city. Set off on a wander from the campus and you are likely to stumble across many of Cádiz’s key places of interest.
The university was founded in 1979 and includes campuses not only in Cádiz but also in Bahia de Algeciras, Jerez and Puerto Real. Visit it today and you will see how it has grown since then. There are often close to 20,000 students enrolled. The university is particularly well-regarded for its health sciences programs. Go for a wander close to the Cádiz campus and see the many students going about their business. Take the time to enjoy some of the bars and cafés nearby that have sprung up to cater to this young market.
Walk northeast from the university area and you will reach Plaza de Mina. This lush green square is filled with tall palms and rich shrubbery. It is a favorite spot for Cádiz locals, including students from the university, to relax during the day. Note the historic buildings which surround its edges.
On the western side of the plaza is the Museum of Cádiz, one of the city’s top cultural highlights. Spend a few hours browsing its fascinating collections of fine arts, ethnography and archaeology.
Also within easy walking distance of the university is the waterfront. Go for a scenic stroll, or head to the port to book a daytrip on a boat.
As the University of Cádiz is a public institution of higher education, anyone can visit it for free. Get the most out of your visit to the university, however, by enjoying the vibrant atmosphere in the surrounding streets, rather than going inside, where there is not as much to see.
