From the 8th C until the late 15th C this area of Spain
was under the control of the invading Moors. From their period
of occupation they left behind an abundance of historical
sites. The magnificence of the Alhambra in Granada is legendary.
However, there are many fortified Moorish towns and villages
in the area with outstanding relics, mosques and gardens
displaying exquisite taste from a highly cultured and civilised
people. The breathtaking city of Ronda, astride a spectacular
gorge, is fifteen minutes away and is a classic example of
a fortified Moorish city - the old defensive wall, the area’s
baths, mosques converted to churches by the Christians, and
many other sites of archaeological interest. With the oldest
bullring in Spain, Ronda justly claims to be the home of
bullfighting. The ancient and ruined original city of Ronda
La Vieja is only 20 minutes away.
From the annual
April Feria in Seville to the Festival de Jerez, dedicated
to Flamenco, there are festivals throughout the year devoted
to traditional Andalucian dance and music.
The lush Grazalema National Park, which has some of the
most wonderful walking, cycling and horse –riding,
is a 15 minutes drive Here too can be found some of the famous
'white villages’ (Los Pueblos Blancos) from Zahara
to Grazalema itself. Many others, including Arcos, Setenil,
Gaucin and Casares are all within an easy journey and well
worth exploring.
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