En the confines of Cádiz, almost touching the province of Malaga, is located a town considered Asset of National Tourist Interestl for many reasons. But the main one is undoubtedly his ability to adapt to that mountain in which Setenil de las Bodegas It was carved several years ago. Would you like to travel with us to this magical town in Andalusia?
Brief history of Setenil de las Bodegas
Photography: Alberto Piernas
Although the date of the birth of Setenil de las Bodegas, experts confirm that, judging by various objects found in the vicinity of the area, the town would have been inhabited for more than 5 thousand years. A date more than far from the different events that turned this town excavated in the mountain into one of the most illustrious towns in Andalusia both during the Nasrid conquest that sheltered southern Spain and the Reconquest that would put an end to more than ten centuries of domain.
In fact, it would be in 1407 when the taking of what was then called Villa de Setenil would become one of the most strategic movements during the Reconquest. Its location on the way to Granada led it to be reconquered in 1407, being the place that would house up to seven sites from the reign of Juan II of Castile to the rise of the Catholic Monarchs, becoming known as Sptem Nihil (or Seven Sites), sketch of the name by which today this town is known throughout the world.
Already under Christian rule, Setenil was named "villa de realengo", receiving a Charter of Privileges in 1501 that would attract such a number of titles and mentions only comparable to those held by the city of Seville at that time. From then on, this glorious town would begin its own trajectory embracing vine cultivation (hence the famous "de las Bodegas"), hunting and fishing, making it one of the most famous towns in Andalusia.
A unique environment bathed by the Guadalporcún river whose wonderful structure adapted to the mountain has not only turned Setenil de las Bodegas into Tourist Property of Andalusia, but in an obligatory stop of the call Route of the White Villages of Cádiz-Málaga. In fact, this becomes a must-see if you are in cities like Jerez de la Frontera or Ronda, perfect thresholds of this ancient town where there is much to see and experience.
What to see in Setenil de las Bodegas
Great white lung in the middle of the wild lands of a Cádiz that borders Malaga, Setenil de las Bodegas is a delight for the senses. You just have to get closer to its most famous place, the Cuevas del Sol Street, to check the presence of all those houses sculpted on a mountain that in turn supports the rest of the old town. An exquisite environment in which to enjoy canes and Cádiz delicacies taking advantage of the coolness of the rocks or enjoying the presence of balconies that literally open onto the great rock.
A timeless and traditional walk in which, of course, these stand out following places to see in Setenil de las Bodegas during a morning, although this author recommends dropping by the town at dusk during the summer months, since the temperatures are usually quite high.
Historical-Artistic Set
The heart of the town, defined by the aforementioned Cuevas del Sol street, makes up the main tourist lung of Setenil de las Bodegas; so much so that it was even named Historic-Artistic Complex in 1985. Because above all, Setenil is a place to walk around, inspire the charm of its privileged position or enjoy a day of tapas in one of the many terraces that overlook the river as it passes through the old town. A set of white houses that meet the perfect pattern "Shelter under rocks" so characteristic of this area. If you are looking for more corners with this type of house, do not miss a tour of places such as Calle Mina, Calle Herrería, Calle Jabonería or Calle Triana, all of them around the heart of the town.
Castle of Setenil
Erected in the thirteenth century During the Muslim domination, this Nasrid castle that in turn serves as a perfect fortress includes a complex of outbuildings that will delight history lovers. From its 40 towers to its baths or the mosque, that of the castle of Setenil continues to be one of the few Muslim fortresses that preserves much of its medieval urban fabric.
Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation
The most important church in Setenil de las Bodegas It embodies part of the town's history as it is carved in Mudejar and Gothic styles, since the place is made up of two churches, each one of a different style. In addition, Setenil includes a wide range of religious constructions such as the no less curious Hermitage of San Sebastián or the Hermitage of San Benito.
Andalusia Square
After crossing the famous Cuevas del Sol street, you will have to climb a steep hill from Calle Ronda until you reach the well-known Plaza de Andalucía. Another of the most famous places to see in Setenil where there is an exquisite atmosphere distributed among its terraces, ephemeral markets or small folkloric celebrations.
El Lizón viewpoint
Another of the great attractions of Setenil de las Bodegas resides in its viewpoints. Places that despite reaching after several steep streets are worth visiting when it comes to taking the best snapshot. Do not miss the viewpoint of the Church of Our Lady of the Incarnation or that of El Lizón, located just after the Manuel Galán Gardens and ideal to obtain an unforgettable panoramic view of this white and brown paradise.
If you find yourself following the Route of the White Villages, the Sierra de Grazalema area or the vibrant city of Ronda, don't miss the opportunity to get closer to this historic town where you can discover the art of living embraced by the rocks.
Would you like to visit Setenil de las Bodegas?