Alcalá de Henares

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ALCALÁ DE HENARES, a little over 30km east from Madrid, is one of Europe’s most ancient university towns, and renowned as the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes. In the sixteenth century the university was a rival to Salamanca’s, but in 1836 the faculties moved to Madrid and the town went into decline. Almost all the artistic heritage was lost in the Civil War and nowadays it’s virtually a suburb of Madrid. It is not somewhere you’d want to stay longer than it takes to see the sights.

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Rough Guides Editors

written by
Rough Guides Editors

updated 02.01.2025

For over 40 years, Rough Guides has been a trusted name in travel, offering expert-curated guides, inspiring articles, and tailor-made trips. Our passionate team of writers and local travel specialists provide in-depth insights into destinations worldwide, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. We help you travel smarter and experience the world authentically.