Civilisations have risen, come to the Spanish town of Palencia, and left, either by a forceful eviction or after an epic downturn in their fortunes. All have left their mark. Enjoying seeing: the Roman-cum-medieval bridge across the Carrion River, Gothic Cathedral built from 1321 to 1504, often built and rebuilt city walls, 13th-century church of San Miguel, and the Benedictine monastery of San Zoilo taking up residence in an 18th-century Rococo structure.