Toledo, Spain

Toledo used to be a very important city in this part of the world. It was the site of a battle involving the Romans in 193 BCE, and they went on to have a strong influence on the area in building it up. In fact, they built some of the walls that are in view today. 

From there, Toledo went through various invasions and upheavals too complicated to explain here. No matter what, though, its location in the middle of the peninsula by a river was a selling point. The most important parts of the city were built on a steep hill behind walls. As these things go, it was a relatively safe spot. No wonder the city's wealthiest citizens lived there. 

Once matters settled down in Toledo and the capital was moved to nearby Madrid, it became known for its history. UNESCO designated it as a World Heritage Site. Even so, it's still alive - based on all the shops that cater to tourists within those walls. People still live there now; I hear it's pricey.

You can see Alcazar - a stone building on top of the hill - in this photo.  It was a stone palace used by the Romans in the third century. It was also the site of an intense battle during the Spanish Civil War.

By the way, Toledo has several sister cities around the world - including, of course, Toledo, Ohio.