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Andalusian Cultural Trip

CULTURAL TRIP AROUND ANDALUSIA 8 days / 7 nights

This is a proposal for a cultural trip around Andalusia. During this trip, you will have the opportunity to enjoy all the faces of Andalusian culture: Architecture, cuisine, nature and art. We will take you to all the main cities and villages. We will also take you to the Doñana Natural Park and the southern beaches.

This proposal includes a series of suggestions: places and sites to visit as well as activities to practice. You can choose among all the different suggestions to create your own, customized trip. Make it fit your interests, schedule and budget! You only need to explain your preferences to us. We will arrange your trip to offer you an unforgettable experience.

Visits:

• Seville: 2 days. • Doñana, El Rocio and Isla Cristina beach: 1 day. • Jerez de la Frontera and Cádiz: 1 day. • Cordova: 1 day • Granada: 2 days.

Includes: 8 days / 7 nights Bus transport during the whole trip. 3 star hotel accommodation. Typical, regional breakfast, lunch and dinner are included. Guided tours with a Tourism and History graduate. Free tickets for sites and facilities. Free ticket for a music show. Price per person: 1250 Iva incl. Transfer from your place of departure to Madrid and back are not included.

-The price per person has been calculated for a group of 20. If the number of participants varies, the final price might be affected. - This brochure is an example. We are open to suggestions. The program is flexible and can be modified. The duration of the trip can also be modified. These changes may affect the final price.

www.spanishnonstop.com / info@spanishnonstop.com In cooperation with Viajes Polo Álvarez S.L. CIF: B37410388

Other activities:

• Flamenco Show

• Winery visits

• Andalusian Dressage (video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KMBiUEzAYJk)

• Dehesa and ham factory: visit and tasting. / Olive oil mill: visit and tasting. / Andalusian Cuisine: course.

• Carriage ride

SEVILLA

SEVILLE 2 days

Many different cultures have witnessed the History of Seville. According to legend, Hercules founded the City. Seville has the largest historical centre in Spain, one of the tree largest ones in Europe. Some of the most representative sites are: the Cathedral (including the famous Giralda), the Alcázar (The old Moorish palace), the Archivo de Indias (the General Archive of the Indies) and the Torre del Oro (the Golden Tower). Three out of them were jointly declared World Heritage Sites by the UNESCO in 1987.

In the Archaeological Museum, you will learn about the Ancient History of the City: The battle between Romans and Chartagininans (206 BC.) or the foundation of the first Roman colony in the area: Itálica, thus called as an homage to the founders’ origin. You will also have the opportunity to remember the Visigoth period or the magical Moorish times (712). The city reached its time of greatest splendour during the Almohad Period (XII Century). The Great Mosque was built at that time. The old minaret became a symbol of the city. It started been called Giralda. En 1248, then King Ferdinand III conquered the City, which became part of the Kingdom of Castille. The mosques there became places of worship for Christians. In the XV century, the Mosque was demolished and the Cathedral was built. The place that used to be occupied by the old Moorish Alcázar became a Mudéjar Palace.

In the XVI century, after Christopher Columbus’s voyages, Seville became the first port of entry for goods coming from the Indies. Trade with the Americas was monopolized. The headquarters of the Casa de la Contratación were located within the Alcázares and merchants had the Casa Lonja built. Some centuries later, this building became the Archivo de Indias. Many palace-houses were built at that time. A very important civil building was built as well, the “Cinco Llagas” Hospital, which became the current Andalusian Parliament.

During the XVII century, religious art gave birth to great artists, such as Montañés, Murillo, Zurbarán and Valdés Leal. Their work can be seen in the Museum of Fine Arts as well as in several churches throughout the city. Several churches were built as well: Caridad, Salvador and the astonishing San Luis de los Franceses.

The new Fábrica de Tabacos (the tobacco factory), built in the XVIII century, will later be represented in the famous novella Carmen, by author Prosper Mérimée. Another famous location in the novella was built the following century: the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza bullring. In Seville, cast-iron Architecture is represented by 2 main examples. The Triana bridge was the first bridge built over the Guadalquivir River. The inspiration was the Carrousel bridge in Paris. The second example are the Naves del Barranco. The 1929 Ibero-American Exposition was the reason behind some of the nicest places in Seville: the Plaza de España and Plaza de América as well as the different pavilions of all the participant countries. The styles of the pavilions remind of the cultures that inspired them.

However, travellers remember Seville for a different reason: Its light, the warmth and the vitality of its people. Seville is the birthplace of flamenco. Its wonderful cuisine, the beauty of the city and its welcoming people are some of the reasons why Seville has become so famous among visitors.

What to see in SEVILLE:

The Cathedral: Seville’s is the largest Gothic cathedral in the World and the third largest church overall. It was declared World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 1987. Construction works started in 1433, in the place previously occupied by the demolished Mosque. It is an example of the late Gothic style.

The Cathedra is complemented by the Giralda, the Patio de los Naranjos (the orange tree courtyard) and the Royal Chapel. The Patio de los Naranjos, one of the most visited sites, is a rectangular space that resembles an inner courtyard and functions as the Cloister for the Cathedral.

Giralda: It is the most representative tower in the city. It is 104 meters tall. Building works started in the XII century, as the Almohad minaret of the Mosque. The inspiration was the minaret of the Kutubia Mosque in Marrakech (Morocco). However, the Renaissance top part, the bell tower, was built from 1558 to 1568, by Hernán Ruiz. The construction was commissioned by the Cathedral chapter. It has three bodies and 25 bells. All the bells have been christened and each one has a different name.

The two lower thirds correspond to the old minaret of the city mosque (late XII century). The upper third was built in Christian times. Its purpose was to house the bells. At the very top, there is a ball called tinaja. On top of the ball sits the Giraldillo: a bronze statue that acts as a weather vane. This statue is the largest European Renaissance bronze sculpture. In 1928 the Giralda was declared National Heritage and in 1987 it was declared World Heritage site.

Reales Alcázares: it is the oldest Royal Palace in Europe still in use. After the Moors conquered Seville in 713, the alcázares became the dwelling of the Moor leaders from 720 on. After the Reconquista, in 1248, King Ferdinand III of Castile lived in the palace. The main places within the palace are the following: the Patio de las Doncellas (the Maiden’s Courtyard), which is the main courtyard, was built according to the Mudéjar style; The Sala de los Reyes; The Sala de Carlos V, with its great tapestries; the Salón del Emperador (The Emperor’s Room), with tiles from the XV century and Flemish tapestries; the Salón de Embajadores (The Ambassador’s Room), covered by an arabesque dome, is the main room in the palace; and the Gardens, with Moorish, Renaissance and Modern characteristics, different terraces and luxuriant vegetation, fountains, pavilions and plenty of orange and palm trees.

The Archivo General de Indias was created in 1785 under the Rule of King Charles III. The aim was to gather all the documents related to the Spanish Colonies in a single place. The Casa Lonja de Mercaderes became the headquarters of the Archive. This building was erected during the rule of King Philip II, from 1584 to 1598, by Juan de Herrera. The documents that are kept inside occupy more than 9 km of shelves. There are 43 175 files, around 89 million pages 8000 maps and drawings. It is the largest archive focused on the activities that involved Spain, America and the Philippines. A large number of valuable items are kept here: manuscripts by Christopher Colombus, Magallanes, Vasco Núñez de Balboa, Hernán Cortés and Francisco Pizarro, among other items.

The plaza de España (Spain Square) is a great open space surrounded by a semi-circular, regionalist style building. The square is round and it is decorated with bricks, marble and tiles. The towers have renaissance and baroque nuances. The square was commissioned for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. It is located within the Maria Luisa Park.

The Torre del Oro used to be a defensive tower. It is located on the left bank of the Guadalquivir River, next to the Real Maestranza bullring. Its name, which would translate as “the Golden Tower”, is most likely due to its golden reflection on the river. The tower is made up of three bodies. The twelve-sided first body was built from 1220 to 1221 under the rule of the Almohad governor of Seville, Abù l-Ulà. The twelve-sided second body was built under the rule of Peter the Cruel, during the XIV century. The upper body is cylindrical in shape and is topped by a dome. It was built by the military engineer Sebastian Van der Borcht in 1760. The tower is now the Naval Museum.

The Santa Cruz neighbourhood is the old, medieval Jewish quarter. It is located in the city historical centre and it is one of the most emblematic and special neighbourhoods in Seville. Seville style houses, with grand courtyards and flowery balconies appear all along its narrow and winding streets. The famous Convento de las Teresas (Discalced Carmelites Convent), founded by Saint Teresa of Jesus in 1575, sits in this area. The Hospicio de Venerables Sacerdotes, built as a retirement home for priests and home to numerous works of art, is located in the higher part of this area.

Other places of interest:

The Antigua Audiencia (the Old Courtroom), built between 1595 and 1597; the Museum of Fine Arts famous for its collection of Spanish and Seville paintings from the XVII century; the Hemeroteca Municipal y Archivo Histórico Provincial de Sevilla (the historical archive), with a neoclassical portico; the City Hall, an example of plateresque architecture; the Casa de Pilatos (Pilate’s House), a palace that combines the Italian Renaissance and the Spanish Mudéjar styles; the old Real Fábrica de Tabacos (the Royal Tobacco Factory), the largest industrial building from the XVIII century in Spain, current headquarters of the University of Seville; the Alfonso XIII Hotel, historical building, located between the Puerta de Jerez, the San Telmo Palace and the Fábrica de Tabacos; the Hospital de las Cinco Llagas from the XVI century… Seville’s charm is endless.

DOÑANA, EL ROCÍO

and ISLACRISTINA BEACHES 1 day

Doñana is a protected natural space located Huelva. Up to 200.000 water birds, more than 300 different species, gather every year in these marshes. It is thought to be the largest ecological reserve in Europe. It was declared a World Heritage site in 1994 by the UNESCO. It is the last stronghold of the Iberian lynx, an endangered species.

El Rocío is located in the area sourrounding Almonte, next to Doñana. The pilgrimage to El Rocío is a popular Andalusian religious event in honour of the Virgin of El Rocío. After the pilgrimage, either walking, riding a horse, or on one of several types of carriages, after crossing part of Doñana, a devoted crowd arrives at the doors of the Shrine. Almonteños (the locals) “jump the fence” and go fetch the Virgin the night before Pentecost Monday. The Virgin, which is called here “La Blanca Paloma” (the White Dove), is taken out and carried on their shoulders around the village. Everything takes place in a festive environment, with lots of music, singing and good food.

Finally, we will take you to Matalascañas, next to Doñana. Wonderful sunsets can be enjoyed from the 5.5 km long beaches, where you will have the opportunity to have a walk, or just lay back and relax. Moguer, birthplace of the famous Spanish poet Juan Ramón Jiménez is nearby. His old home is now a museum.

JEREZ DE LA FRONTERA

and CÁDIZ 1 day

Jerez de la Frontera is a city full of possibilities: a large part of its historical centre has been declared Heritage Site by the Spanish Government, in the Historical and Artistic category. A few buildings stand out among many: the Alcázar (old Moorish city-fortress. Inside the fortress sit the Villavicencio Palace and a Camera Obscura); The Cathedral; The Carthusian Monastery; the Bertemati Palace or the Basílica del Carmen.

However, we must not forget two elements that are part of the Andalusian culture and nature. First, wine. Wine has played a major role in the economy and History of Jerez, and it has left its mark: wine cellars of an enormous architectural beauty, as well as highly prestigious brands, such as González-Byass or Domecq. Second, the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, which is known worldwide thanks to its dressage exhibition.

Cádiz is one of the oldest cities in Western Europe. Archaeological remains found in the area date back 3100 years. It was a very important element during the Punic Wars, the Romanization of the Iberian Peninsula, the voyages of Cristopher Columbus and the Spanish colonization of the Americas, as well as the proclamation of the first Spanish Constitution.

In Spanish, it is known as “La tacita de plata” (“the silver cup”). Among its many beauties, some of the highlights are: the baroque palaces, with viewpoint-towers; the Cathedral, with a golden-tiled dome; the defensive structures Los Mártires and Capuchinos, next to the La Caleta beach; San Sebastian and Santa Catalina Castles; the Candelaria bastion and San Carlos Walls. Through the narrow streets and small squares of the Historical Centre, we can visit the famous neighbourhoods of Cádiz: La Viña –the fishermen’s’ quarter; el Mentidero; Santa María (a true hotspot for flamenco) and El Pópulo, the oldest quarter in the Capital. There is also a Roman Theatre. In the famous San Juan de Dios square, it is possible to taste the typical “pescaíto frito” (assorted fried fish) and enjoy the sound of “Amor Brujo”, by the musician Manuel de Falla, coming from the clock on the City Hall.

CORDOBA 1 day

Cordoba is a medium-sized city. In the historical centre it is still possible to see some buildings that date back to Roman times: the Roman Republic, when Cordoba was the capital of Hispania Ulterior, and the Roman Empire, when Cordoba was part of the Baetica Province. Some other buildings date back to Moorish times, and the Caliphate. According to archaeological records, there were around a million inhabitants by the X century. At that time, Cordoba was the largest, richest and most literate city in the world.

The Historical Centre was declared World Heritage Site by the Unesco in 1994. Ten years earlier, in 1984, the Mosque had been declared World Heritage Site as well. The Fiesta of the Patios was declared Intangible Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO in December, 2012.

Cordoba has de second largest historical centre in Europe and the largest urban space in the World to be declared World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. The symbol of the city, the Mosque, together with the Roman Bridge, are the best known face of the city. In addition to the bridge, there are other Roman buildings still standing: the Roman Temple and the Roman Theatre. The latter is the largest in all Hispania. Other examples of Roman architecture are: the Roman mausoleum, in honour of a wealthy family of that time; the colonial forum; the adiectum forum; the amphitheatre and the remains of the Palace of emperor Maximian, in the Cercadilla archaeological site.

The synagogue and the House of Sepharad are located in the old Jewish quarter, an area of the city with numerous irregular streets. The Alcazar de los Reyes Cristianos, the old residence of the Monarchs and later headquarters of the Spanish Inquisition is located at the South-western end of the historical centre. The Royal Stables are next to the Alcázar. The old Caliph Baths are next to the wall.

All along the Guadalquivir there are water mills. These Moorish buildings used the strength of the current to make flour. The Roman Wall surrounds the Historical centre. There are some towers and parts of the Wall still standing. Throughout the Historical centre, there are palace-like houses and patios, which are filled with flowers and open to visitors.

In the outskirts, it is possible to visit the Madinat Al-Zahra archaeological site. These remains, together with the Alhambra in Granada are the best examples of Moorish architecture in Spain.

GRANADA 2 days

Granada is one of the most visited cities in Spain. It is made up of different districts that have witnessed History. These districts are, among others el Zaidín, el Albaicín, el Sacromonte, el Realejo, La Chana, Almanjáyar and the Charterhouse. One of the jewels and examples of the coexistence of the Islamic, Jewish and Christian worlds is located here: the Alhambra. It was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO in 1984, together with the Generalife and the Albaicín. Granada was the Capital of the Zirid Kingdom in the XI century and of the Nasrid Kingdom from the XII to the XV centuries. This was due to the fact that the Taifa system made it posible for the Zirids to rise to power in Granada. The first Zirid King, Zawi ben Ziri, founded the new city, Madinat Garnata,in 1013, around the existing castle. From that moment, Moorish Granada had three distinct evolution phases: the Zirid period, the Berber period and the Nasrid period. Over the centuries, the urban structure of the city changed. The old, walled city expanded and new doors were opened, such as the Arco de las Pesas and Bib-Albunaida. New buildings were erected: the Alcázar del Genil, the Walls around the Realejo quarter and the city-palace—The Alhambra. King Alhamar started the construction works of the Alhambra, on an old Zirid fortress. His son, Muhammad II, built most of the palace areas and by the beginning of the XIV century, a medina was already in place: there were shops, private houses and community buildings. The Royal Mosque (megit sultani) was built by Muhammad II. By then, Madinat al-Hamra was a real urban core. The Nasrid city was divided into six walled district that were connected to each other. The doors that lead to the districts were closed at night. Each district was further divided into different quarters. The year 1492 was a turning point in the History of the City: after the Catholic Monarchs took the city, Granada became the capital of the Castilian Kingdom of Granada, until 1883. By then, a new provincial division took place in Spain. The Local Coat of Arms bears the following titles: “Very Noble, Very Loyal, Great, Famous and Heroic City of Granada”. The city had an important role in the Voyages of Christopher Columbus as well. Wandering about Granada is learning about this new World and the Old one. Bib-Rambla square and the Alcaicería tell us about a trading past, similar to the Arabian Nights. Silk and spices were the most sought for goods. The Cathedra is a proof of the new Institutional, Political and Religious power. It is considered the first Renaissance church in Spain. The Carrera del Darro and the Albaicín were a melting pot of cultures, were Moors and Christians set the foundations of a unique city. In Granada, Boabdil, Christopher Columbus, Queen Aixa and Isabel de Solís, the Great Captain and the Catholic Monarchs were the protagonists of History. Nowadays, Granada is a typical Bourgeois-type city. XIX century architecture, as well as Renaissance and Baroque buildings are predominant.

What to see in GRANADA:

The Alhambra, the Nasrid city-palace is made up of three different areas: a defensive structure, the Alcazaba; a residential and representative space, the Nasrid Palaces; and the last one, devoted to leisure, known as the Generalife, with its palace and gardens.

The current buildings that form the Alhambra are the result of centuries of enlargements and demolishing. The first building works of the fortress-palace were ordered by the founder of the Nasrid Dynasty Muhammad I, in the XIII century. However, there was a previous fortress that dated back to the IX century. After the Castilian Conquest of Granada, great refurbishment took place. Part of the Nasrid Palaces were demolished to build the Palace of Charles V. This palace is one of the most important Renaissance works in Spain. Construction works started in 1553 and lasted until 1957.

The Cathedral occupies the place of the old Great Nasrid Mosque of Granada, in the City centre. Construction works started during the Spanish Renaissance period, at the beginning of the XVI century, shortly after the Catholic Monarchs conquered the City. Juan Gil de Hontañón and Enrique Egas were commissioned with the construction. During the Realm of Charles I of Spain, numerous buildings were erected in the city: the Cathedral, the Christian Palace in the Alhambra, the University and the Chancery (current High Court) were built during the same period.

The Royal Chapel, built by Enrique Egas, is the most important Gothic building in the city. Construction works started in 1505, after the Catholic Monarchs decided to build a mausoleum for themselves and their descendants. The tombs of Isabella I of Castille, Ferdinand II of Aragón, Joanna the Mad and Philip the Hamdsom can be found inside the Chapel. One of the highlights is the Main Altarpiece, by Felipe Bigarny. Diego de Siloé, who had contributed to the building of the Cathedral a few years earlier, contributed to the decoration of the Altarpiece. Paintings by Rogier van der Weyden, Sandro Botticelli, Pedro Berruguete and Alonso Cano can be found in the building as well.

The Albaicín has a Moorish origin. This neighbourhood is visited by lots of tourists, mainly because of its History, its architecture and its beauty. In 1984m the Albaicín was declared a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO, together with the Alhambra and the Generalife. Its buildings and urban structure are a mixture of Moorish and traditional Andalusian styles.

The Sacromonte area is known to be the old gypsy quarter. Gypsies settled in Granada after the City was conquered. It is one of the most interesting neighbourhoods in the city. Inside its many white caves, flamenco singing and guitars can be listened to. On the top of the hill sit the Sacromonte Abbey and the Sacromonte School. The latter was founded in the XVII century.

The Carthusian Monastery was founded in 1506 by the Carthusians from the El Pular Monastery.