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109 Kms from Cádiz.
Grazalema is one of the most beautiful towns along the Route of the White Villages. It is surrounded by the Pinar and Endrinal mountains and is located inside the natural park of the same name. It has been awarded the National Prize for Beautification and Improvement. |
| Its actual name comes from its Arabic origins when it was known as Gran Zulema. It is known as the rainiest town in Spain . Archaeological remains have been found close to the town indicating that there was human activity here in prehistoric times. |
The area has a wide variety of fauna, such as the Griffon vulture or the golden eagle. Its most outstanding species of flora is the Spanish fir, which is only found here and in the Urals.
Its climate is also exceptional as it is the place with the highest rainfall in Spain and with winters that are so cold that the roofs of the houses are occasionally covered with snow. |
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Jerez is located in an exceptional position, 50 km from the provincial capital, in the fertile countryside of the lowlands of the Guadalquivir , next to the River Guadalete. It is only a short distance away from the beaches of the Atlantic coast and the Cadiz mountains. |
The history of Jerez goes back to Tarshish times. Three thousand years ago, the Phoenicians founded a colony called Serit in the surrounding area. Under Roman rule, the city became known as Seritium, and later when it was an Arab fortress as Sheres or Xeres, until in 1264 King Alfonso X the Wise, brought it into the kingdom of Castilla.
The old city, declared an “ Artistic – Historical Centre” offers authentically traditional districts, hidden alleyways, squares and retreats. Fountains and orange trees blend in with palaces, churches and wine cellars making it an ideal place for taking a stroll through its pedestrian streets or for going shopping in its commercial area where there are a wide variety of traditional and international shops. Then, there is its magnificent cuisine that can be enjoyed in one of its many bars and restaurants that offer numerous “ Jerez style” dishes and specialities and of course the “tapa” that is much more than a mere tradition in Jerez .
Today the wine industry continues to be Jerez 's main economic activity. Today it is possible to visit the different wineries, such as González & Byass, Pedro Domecq, Williams & Humbert, Sánchez Romate, Pilar Aranda, etc. |
The wide selection of different wines means that there is a type of sherry to accompany many types of dishes and that is suitable for any occasion.
Districts such as Santiago and San Miguel are the traditional home of the gypsy community that have produced many great artists for the city and the world, making Jerez the home of Flamenco. |
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