Lying under a puppet theater in the old town of Cadiz is the Gadir Archeological Site, the remains of an ancient city. Join a guided tour to explore the remnants of centuries-old buildings and see the layout of streets that date back to the 9th century B.C.
Gadir is the old name for Cadiz, a Phoenician settlement that was established around 3,000 years ago. According to historians, this makes the port city one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe. What’s left of its first incarnation are the remains of two streets and eight houses spread over several levels. They cover the evolution of Cadiz from its founding through to Roman times.
Learn about the city’s long past by watching the 12-minute movie in the auditorium close to the entrance. Then follow your guide to get a closer look at the ruins from the elevated walkway above them. Along the route are information panels in English and Spanish that explain in more detail what you are looking at, including how Phoenician homes were constructed.
View the skeleton, dubbed “Mattan” by historians, of a Phoenician man who perished in a huge fire that raged through the city. See other skeletal remains such as the bones of cows and a cat. Look at the stone vats that were used to produce salted fish products. This area is believed to have been the heart of the local fishing industry during Roman times. As you make your way around the site pause every now and then to view the large projection screen showing recreations of the old city.
The Gadir Archeological Site is located underneath the Tía Norica Puppet Theater in the old town of Cadiz. If you’re driving, you can park for a fee in the underground lots just outside the old center and walk to the historical attraction. It is open every day except Mondays and admission is free. Tours last for approximately 45 minutes and each one is limited to a maximum of 25 people.
