Cadiz is an intriguing and historic seaport from which Spain's galleons once sailed in quest of New World treasure. Cadiz is characterised by palm trees, lookout towers and white fronted houses. It is one of the oldest towns in Iberia, founded by the Phoenicians around 1000 BC. Less than half and hour away is the sherry town of Jerez, housing the great bodegas whose product has linked the town with England since importation of ‘sherris-sack’ into Spain began in the 16th century. The great Moorish city of Seville is also close by. Seville is the romantic heart of Spain, the city of Carmen and Don Juan; its cathedral is the largest Gothic building in the world, and has a superb collection of art and period stonework. Also for great importance is the Alcazar, the palace-fortress of the Arab kings, together with Giralda and Torre de Oro, reputedly once covered in gold leaf.