Andalucia has a rich cultural and artistic heritage © Michelle Chaplow |
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Introduction to Andalucia - Part 4
Fiesta!
Not a day passes in Andalucia without some city, town or village celebrating a fiesta. These inevitably involve dressing up, dancing, singing, drinking, eating, and generally having a good time. They range from romerias pilgrimages, where the faithful carry an effigy across the countryside to a shrine, to full-on ferias with all-night partying and Sevillana dancing. Semana Santa is the most important of these, celebrated in every town across Andalucia, with the most important processions being in Seville and Malaga.
Flamenco
Andalucia is also famous for flamenco, the passionate foot-stomping gypsy art form that encompasses singing, dancing and guitar playing. Any visitor to the region shouldn´t miss a performance - the colour and raw emotion are unforgettable.
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| Andalucia is also famous for Flamenco |
White Villages and Parks
Andalucia is still known largely as a sun-and-sand holiday destination, but don´t make the mistake of thinking that its attractions are limited to its extensive coastline. Inland, you will find stunning national parks, full of animals such as lynx, deer, wild boar and wolves. Andalucia is a popular bird-watching destination, with rare breeds such as imperial eagles and black vultures, as well as flamingos, storks and golden orioles being among the attractions. Another typical destination for visitors are the famous pueblos blancos such as Arcos de la Frontera. Sports enthusiasts are well catered for, with numerous golf courses, hiking trails, and skiing in the Sierra Nevada, while one of the best ways to cover the spectacular mountain terrain is on horseback.