The town of Villanueva de Cordoba lies in the north-eastern part of Cordoba province some 90 km from Cordoba city. Like many of the small towns in this area, it has a long history that spans centuries. As of 2006 it had a population of just under 10,000 people which was a slight drop than Villanueva reported 10 years earlier. Population decline is a problem in nearly all the small towns where work is hard to find.

History

The town was founded in the middle of the 14th century although there is archaeological evidence of human habitation in the area back to the Visigothic period and beyond. The early name of Villanueva was Encinaenana, probably due to the type of trees that existed in the area. The name was changed to Villanueva de Cordoba in latter part of the 15th century. It received the title of town in 1533 when it had a population of 280 residents. It was part of the area known as Los Pedroches.
 
Lumber has always been central to the locality, being part of one of the best forests in Spain. However, there has also been fine granite in the area which has been used in the construction of the civil and religious edifices in the area. Because of this, the Villanueva de Cordoba remains an architectural treasure-trove with many special places of interest.

Villanueva also has a great artisan heritage. The area has traditionally been the source of fine jamon ibérico and local preserves. Jabalí (wild pig) and ciervo (deer) also figure strongly into the local cuisine. The gastronomic tradition of the area remains firmly implanted with the fruits of the hunt.

Each year in October, Villanueva de Córdoba celebrates its great love for gastronomy with El Día del Jamón (Ham Day) and the whole town turns out to delight in tasting the various products of local jamoneras. It helps keep the area’s agrarian heritage at the forefront of the town’s modern culture.

Places to see

Iglesia parroquial de San Miguel

The Church of San Miguel was constructed in the 16th century although there is evidence that it was constructed on the site of an earlier Christian temple which was built in the late 15th century. It underwent a great deal of re-construction during the 18th century, making it larger and much more grand while still retaining features related to its humbler beginnings.

The roof of the side naves is covered with rich textures. If you visit this church, you will be astonished at the incredible crafted wooden roof inside the main part of the church. The principle door is situated at the foot of the building and has beautiful granite at its base and forming the arch around it.

The church’s tower was completed in the final quarter of the 18th century and was built with the economic support of Dioceses of Cordoba and its Bishop, Baltazar Yusta Navarro.

Iglesia de San Sebastian

This old hermitage dates back to the 16th century. In 1954 it was transformed into a church and its interior was remodeled in the local Pedroches style. The nave is very unique, constructed with four distinct areas, separated by arches supported by granite pillars. At its head is a charming lit dome. To the sides are a number of small chapels as well as decorated vaults.

Convento de “Las Obreras” (The Workers’ Convent)

The Convento de la Congregación de Obreras del Corazón de Jesús (Convent of the Congregation of the Heart of Jesús) is better known locally as just “The Workers’ Convent” and can be found on Calle Real in Villanueva de Córdoba. It was constructed between 1941 and 1957 and although a more modern construction, it stands as an amazing example of the local granite workmanship. Inside, the chapel of the “Sweet Name of Jesus” is a beautiful neo-baroque jewel designed by the architect, Carlos Sáenz.

The Antigua Audiencia (Old Court)

One of the most important civil buildings in Villanueva de Córdoba, the Antigua Audiencia is another incredible edifice that reflects the splendid use of granite that occurs in this area. Located on the Plaza de España, Villanueva’s main square, it was constructed in the 17th century. Its marvellously crafted granite façade is a must-see for any visitor to the town.

The Public Baths

Villanueva de Córdoba is undertaking an interesting project to renovate and restore the old zone where the public baths and wells existed. The century-old baths are being turned into an open-air “eco-museum” where their history and importance will be explained on panels. Among the areas being restored are El Regajito, El Gusanito, and La Fuente del Caño.