The Magic of Andalusia

Romans, Jews, Moors and Christians:
History and Culture of Southern Spain

Few regions of the world can compare with Andalusia's cultural heritage and historical complexity and richness. It is one of the best places to visit in Spain.

For centuries, this corner of the Iberian Peninsula has been at the crossroads of invasions and conquests by the peoples of other areas of modern-day Europe and North Africa. In Andalusia, the influence of the Romans, the Moors, the Jews, and the Christians can be experienced everywhere, every day. In this region you can see firsthand the impact and interaction of all these cultures and civilizations. You are transported from Itálica, the birthplace of a Roman emperor, to the Alhambra, a Moorish castle and medieval citadel, to "la Mezquita," a Renaissance cathedral built in the middle of an ancient mosque.

Many different tours and itineraries are possible in a region so rich in Spanish heritage and culture. Málaga, on the Costa del Sol, which is served by a modern international airport, is an easy point of departure. Next on the tour route is Granada with the Alhambra, the world-famous medieval citadel and Moorish palace with its magnificent Generalife Gardens. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is an absolute "must-see" on this itinerary.

Then, an unusual combination of architectural styles awaits you in Córdoba at La Mezquita (the only building in the world with a Christian cathedral inside a mosque), also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get yourself lost in the dark and narrow medieval streets of the Judería (the Jewish Quarter) and let yourself be transported by the memories of those distant, ancient and exotic cultures.

Travel on to Seville, the capital of Andalusia, with its Plaza de España, the grounds of the Latin American Exhibition of 1929, the famous Maestranza bull ring, the old city neighborhood of Triana and a new Museum of Flamenco. In the old historical center, another UNESCO World Heritage Site is ready for your discovery. The most important places to see are:

• The Reales Alcázares, a palace in the style called "mudéjar" (a combination of Moorish and Gothic styles), which has served as a royal residence since the 14th century and is still used by current King of Spain, Juan Carlos.
• The Gothic cathedral built on the foundations of a mosque, the reminders of which are made strikingly obvious by the combination minaret/tower of La Giralda.

For those interested in ancient history, Itálica is the place to go: a superbly preserved Roman town founded in 206 B.C. and the birthplace of emperors Trajan and Adrian. The gladiators are long gone but the historical ties to ancient times are still very vivid.

Jerez de la Frontera is a fun and picturesque place to tour as a final destination. This small country town is known not just in Spain but worldwide for its sherry production. So, wine tasting should be an obvious activity on any program that day.

In Andalusia, the experience of visiting places with such rich culture, history and heritage is beyond words. Nowhere else in the world can you feel the enchantment and the allure of so many cultural treasures with such intensity.

There are many more possibilities on this tour route: Antequera, Ronda, Arcos de la Frontera, Cádiz, etc. Let us know where and when you want to go. With the help of expert local providers, we will create a custom program that fits your requirements.

Please note. This is a "suggested" private group itinerary, which can be changed to suit your interests. The tour price will depend on the number of participants, dates, type of hotels and other variables.

    

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