6 Things You Have To See In Alcalá De Guadaíra
Andalusia is an autonomous community with many destinations to offer you. Today we are going to Alcalá de Guadaíra, a beautiful town located 17 kilometers from Seville. It has an incredible historical and natural heritage that you cannot miss. And because? We will tell you!
Some details about Alcalá de Guadaíra
It is thought that the municipality arose during the Copper Age due to some remains that were found. Later, it would be a very important place during Roman Hispania thanks to the Guadaíra River.
However, the most important stage was the Middle Ages, since after the Battle of Guadalete, Alcalá de Guadaíra came under Arab rule. In fact, it is from this period that the name of the city arises. The highlight of his time there was the Almohad castle, one of the most beautiful monuments in the municipality.
What to see in Alcalá de Guadaíra
Next, we show you the places where we recommend making a stop during your trip to Alcalá de Guadaíra. Pay attention!
1. Almohad castle
It was built at the end of the 12th century in order to protect the city. It is located on a hill where archaeological remains were found that show that the municipality is practically 4,500 years old.
It has a wall, eleven towers and is divided into three parts. The first part is the courtyard of the Sina, located to the south. The second is the Patio de los Silos, where the stables and kitchens were located. The last one is where the Torre del Homenaje is located.
During the 14th century, communication was carried out between two gates, that of Santa María located to the east (also known as “Torre Mocha”) and that of San Miguel, to the south. The visit is free and can take place in the mornings on weekends and holidays.
2. Dragon Bridge
Known as “the guardian of the castle”, it is located at the entrance of the town, on the Guadaíra river. It is the work of José Luis Manzanares, who also built the Cachorro bridge in Seville. Its popularity is due to the fact that it simulates the figure of a dragon.
Measuring 123 meters in length, the arches are covered with multicolored tiles similar to those in Park Güell in Barcelona. At the end opposite the dragon’s head, the tail sticks out in a point. Without a doubt, it is a very special and wonderful monument, worthy of being photographed from a viewpoint to be able to see the figure of the dragon in its entirety.
3. Castle of Marchenilla
We continue with the castles of Alcalá de Guadaíra. In this case, the castle of Marchenilla was built in the 13th century by the Benimerines to fortify one of the areas of the municipality.
It is almost square in plan, has corner towers and a strong keep, about 15 meters high. The towers are crenellated and inside there are rooms with ribbed vaults. Like the castle of Alcalá de Guadaira, it underwent reforms and extensions during the 15th century.
4. Gandul Necropolis
Near Alcalá de Guadaira is Gandul, an old town that was absorbed by Alcalá de Guadaíra in 1840 due to its shortage of neighbors. Visiting it means walking through abandoned streets, old houses where people lived and being, in short, in a ghost town.
But what is truly important about this place is that in its surroundings there is an important archaeological zone in which there are dolmens from the Copper Age. And not only that, but there are also remains of an ancient Ibero-Roman city.
Despite the abandonment, buildings such as the medieval tower, the church of San Juan Evangelista, the palace of the Marquis of Gandul and the House of the Council still stand.
5. Church of Santa María del Águila
It is a Mudejar style church built during the 13th and 14th centuries in honor of the Virgen del Águila, the patron saint of Alcalá de Guadaíra. It is divided into three naves. In the last one there is a Gothic fresco.
A place with a beautiful legend. He says that after the municipality was reconquered in the 13th century, the repopulators saw an eagle circling an image. This image had been hidden by the Goths before the arrival of the Muslims. And for this reason the Virgin of the Eagle is so important in Alcalá de Guadaíra.
6. Charles III Bridge
It is located in the urban area of Alcalá de Guadaíra and is part of the heritage and tourist strip of the municipality. It is thought that its origin could be Roman. However, there are no historical references that can assure it. This origin is thought of due to its location in the city, since it is located in front of the river.
We recommend you take a walk through the historic center of Alcalá de Guadaíra and visit these places. And if you dare, try the bread, which is one of the typical products. In fact, it is the hallmark of the municipality and the basic pillar of its economy. And the tradition is long, since Roman times mills were already used to make it. What are you waiting for?
