Added: 04/20/2006 |
Ninety kilometers north of Seville is the second largest town in the Sierra Norte Natural Park, the pretty Cazalla de la Sierra. It is a little town dating back to Roman time. Its original name of Callentum was changed to Kazalla, which means "fortified city" by the Moors. Archaeological finds from the Cuevas de Santiago show that Cazalla was the site of human settlement since Neolithic times. It was also an important defensive centre for the Castilians fighting the Portuguese.
Cazalla became renowned for its vineyards and wines. There is over 800km of coastline here most of which consists of glorious sandy beaches - the best choice for your Cazalla travel. Cazalla de la Sierra also has some of the most interesting attractions that make Cazalla travel destination a really popular one. The church of Nuestra Senora de la Consolacian - which dates back to the 14th century, is at the southern end of town and an amazing example of an intriguing architectural mishmash of styles.
The building remains unfinished today. Its best features are the Mudjar tower and fine Renaissance interior with a 16th-century altarpiece and 16th-century paintings by the Sevillan architect and sculptor Juan de Oviedo who designed Seville's Convento de la Merced, which now houses the city's fine arts museum. Next to the church are 13th-century defensive walls built by the Almohads. On the same square is the former ayuntamiento (town hall), with an ornate Baroque facade and a Mudjar-style house. Other noteworthy buildings in the town centre include the Iglesia de San Benito, which has been converted into a hotel, and has an ornate belfry and a Renaissance facade.
Another lovely site only a 5km walk way is the little 18th century church called the Ermita del Monte. Only a bus ride away in Seville you will find the Seville cathedral, the third-largest in the world with Roman, Gothic and Renaissance elements and an interesting history. Also visit the Museum in the Cathedral which boasts objects of enormous historical and artistic value.
Cazalla travel destination is famous for the aniseed-based liqueur and its rich-tasting cherry brandy. You can try it at any of the local bars, accompanied by one of the area's specialties, spicy or cured sausages. The sidewalk restaurant popular with local families, who dine at sidewalk or terrace tables in summer, Restaurante Hotel Posada del Moro offers whole fish, steaks, chops, and sausages, grilled simply and perfectly. Your Cazalla travel will be incomplete without shopping. From leather goods, ceramics, flamenco costumes, fans and embroidery, Cazalla is a shopper's paradise. As much for townies as for tourists, Rivero, a small unpretentious shop, sells pottery, straw hats, and local cheeses and olive oil.
Outside Cazalla is the best place to stay in the Sierra, La Cartuja de Cazalla, housed in a magnificent former monastery with an art gallery. And in Cazalla itself you'll find lots of fine accommodation and lodging.
Cazalla is truly a remarkable travel destination! And you your first visit will definitely not be your last!
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