Do you know which Spanish city is the oldest? Which cathedral used oyster stones for its construction? Find out more about the history of Andalusia by exploring our suggested day trip near Marbella. Today, a few words about Cadiz.
Cadiz – Spain’s oldest city
The city was founded as early as 1100 BC by the Phoenicians – it was then known as Tartessos. It is not surprising that the Phoenicians chose this particular location – Cadiz is situated at an excellent point in terms of trade, on a peninsula separating the gulfs from the Atlantic Ocean. The city and the harbour were a glutton for successive nations: it belonged to Carthage and the Roman Empire. In the 5th century AD, it was conquered by the Visigoths and in the 8th century by the Moors. At the time of the Kingdom of Castile, it was from here that Columbus set off to conquer the New World!
Beautiful views and monuments
Over the centuries, the city changed hands and its great importance in maritime trade meant that it was repeatedly attacked. Such a rich history has left traces in Cadiz that are still visible today. We recommend visiting the Church of the Holy Cross, dating back to the 13th century, or the baroque-classicist Catedral Nueva, built using, among other things, stones from oysters. It houses a museum and a crypt, famous for its extraordinary acoustics. Right next to the cathedral you can visit the Roman theatre, discovered by archaeologists in the 1880s.
Fans of Francesco Goya’s paintings should take a look at the Oratorio de la Santa Cueva, which features frescoes by the artist on its walls. Those travelling through Andalusia on the trail of fortresses should also visit the Fortress of San Sebastian or the Castillo de Santa Catalina, which today hosts various concerts and events.
Why was carnival banned in Cadiz?
Cadiz is well worth visiting during Carnival. To this day in Italy, in Venice, in Spain or in South America, Carnival is celebrated as a great festival. Residents party together in the city streets, dressing up, dancing, singing, watching shows and tricks. In Cadiz, the fun mainly consists of singing hilarious songs together, commenting on current events. There is a parade in the city, where the puppets visible on the facade of the city hall show that the city is ruled by carnival, a party as in the story of the beautiful Esmeralda and the bell-ringer of Notre Dame. Not every authority liked the melodious satyrs, hence Carnival in Cadiz was sometimes banned. Nowadays it does not take place because of an epidemic.
Golden beaches and regional delicacies
Cadiz itself is one of the sunniest places in Spain, famous for its beautiful beaches that surround almost the entire city. During your visit, you can stop by the small, almost legendary beach de la Caleta. Why legendary? Because it is mentioned even in flamenco songs.
Where to try Andalusian delicacies such as tapas, pescaito frito, las papas aliñás, el doblaillo? We recommend starting with a romantic spot – Bar Quilla (Calle Antonio Burgos), while those keen to see a wonderful show of authentic flamenco are recommended to go to: La Cava Taberna Flamenca (see LA CAVA – Flamenco Tavern) and Juanito Villar Peña Flamenca (see PEÑA FLAMENCA JUANITO VILLAR).
Costa del Sol – the happiest place in Spain
It is hard not to fall in love with Andalusia and the Costa del Sol: sunshine, no rush, delicious cuisine, beautiful beaches, monuments, views – here is everything you need for a comfortable and luxurious life. Marbella, often chosen by tourists and investors looking for houses to rent or buy in Spain, is the very heart of Andalusia. Are you looking for a holiday flat, a house to rent for the long term, or perhaps a new place to live? Welcome to Andalusia!
