LA GRANADA DE RIO TINTO
by Saskia Mier
La Granada de Rio Tinto is situated within the Rio Tinto mining district of El Andevalo, to the very far east of the province, bordering the Sierra de Aracena. It has 223 inhabitants.
HISTORY
It is believed that the original name "The Adelfilla" referring to an ancient water source that was significant between the three primitive settlements.
First historical evidence of La Granada de Rio tinto dates it to the eighteenth century, as it was a dependent village of Cabildo de Aracena. It was reconquered from the Moors in the second half of the thirteenth century, as part of the Kingdom of Seville.
The origin of the name La Granada de Rio Tinto comes from Alfonso X, who named it "La Granada Vieja", meaning "The Old Granada" when he placed the figure of Nuestra Señora de la Granada in the village.
From the Middle Age to the eighteenth century, La Granada de Rio Tinto belonged to Aracena.
In the seventeenth century the land of Valdehigueras was divided in two halves between La Granada de Rio Tinto and Campofrio to promote relations as a settlement of the communal land Los Bueyes.
By the mid-nineteenth century, the historian Pascual Madoz refers to the economy of La Granada de Rio Tinto as having an exclusive production of acorns to fatten cattle and pigs as well as a production of grain and pulses.
From the second half of the nineteenth century La Granada de Rio Tinto was linked to the mining activity of Rio Tinto once the British company, Rio Tinto Company Limited, decided to add the name "Rio Tinto" to La Granada.
THINGS TO SEE
Iglesia Parroquial de Nuestra Señora de La Granada
The church offers great charm dating back to the seventeenth century with neoclassical tower and combination of white walls, red roof, brown toned paving and green landscaping.Located on Calle Alcalde Angel Bueno.
Fuente-Lavadero
The Fuente-Lavadero is a water source, fountain and communal washing area representing the quiet and peaceful future of the residents of La Granada de Rio Tinto and has lovely views. Located on Calle Trasera Mesones.
Sierra de la Joya
Sierra de la Joya is a remarkable natural range where orchards mix with landscapes of mountains and valleys. A perfect place for hikers located 4km from La Granada de Rio Tinto.
Unlike other places in El Andevalo, La Granada de Rio Tinto retains its original Mediterranean vegetation composed of holm oaks, cork oaks, pine and eucalyptus. A specific character of this location is the great conservation of its landscape saving it from extensive exploitation. The majestic river Rio Tinto originates in this area, although its actual birth is in neighbouring Nerva.
GASTRONOMY
Undoubtedly the most typical dish that La Granada de Rio Tinto has to offer is ajo de patatas (garlic potatoes). Iberican pork as well as the charcuterie and goats cheese are other delights to try. Sweet treats include rosas, pestiños and roscos, which are all made from a sweet pastry and usually dipped in honey.
FESTIVALS
Romería de Nuestra Señora de la Granada
The traditional pilgrimage is celebrated the last weekend of April.
Fiestas en honor de Nuestra Señora de la Granada
The most popular festival is celebrated in August with a procession and many cultural events organized for the whole week.
Día de la Pura (Purísima Concepción de María)
Celebrated on the 8 December with processions through the streets of the village.
LOCATION
La Granada de Rio Tinto is located 87km from Huelva. To get there, take the H-31 leaving Huelva and take Exit 75 towards Trigueros. Pass Trigueros, Beas, Valverde del Camino and Zalamea la Real. After Zalamea la Real, turn right onto the A-461. Continue on passing El Campillo, Minas de Rio Tinto and Campofrio until you reach La Granada de Rio Tinto.
