Several of Spain’s major cities have an old, often well-preserved core known in Spanish as the “Centro histórico” or “Casco Antiguo” In many Spanish cities, these terms are used interchangeably to refer to the historic heart of the city. Yet there are small nuances that can distinguish them:

Casco Antiguo: Direct translation: “The old core.” Specifically refers to the oldest part of a city, which often has roots in the Middle Ages or even earlier.

Centro Histórico: Direct translation: “The historic center.” A broader term that includes the entire historic area, although it may have been expanded or modernized.