Olvera

The picturesque village of Olvera, located near the Grazalema Natural Park, is a must-visit if you're traveling to this part of Andalusia. 

With a current population of around 9,000, this town—formerly known as Wupira—historically marked the boundary of Muslim control in the area. In 1983, it was designated as an Artistic and Historic Monument. 

What to See in Olvera: 

A Castle and a Beautiful Old Town 

The old town of Olvera features a maze of steep, charming streets lined with stately mansions. At the highest point of the village stands the well-preserved castle, which was built towards the end of the twelfth century by the Nasrid dynasty.

Next to the castle is the ancient archbishop’s barn, later converted into a wine cellar and a women's prison. This structure currently houses the Museo de la Frontera y los Castillos (Frontiers and Castles Museum), where visitors can learn about the location of the Andalusian frontiers during the Reconquista period. 

Temple of the Dukes of Osuna 

The Archpriestal Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is also worth a visit. This church is located in the beautiful Plaza de la Iglesia, which is close to the castle. This monumental place of worship features two magnificent twin towers and was built under the orders of the Dukes of Osuna, who governed the town in the late eighteenth century. 

During the Spanish Civil War, the church lost many of its artistic treasures. 

Be sure to take some time to explore the popular La Villa neighbourhood, which was once the ancient Muslim medina. As you stroll through this area, you'll notice its Moorish architecture and may even catch glimpses of sections of the former city wall nestled between the pristine whitewashed houses.

 In the lower town of Olvera, visit the Plaza de Andalucía, a unique park built into the side of a large rock that offers fantastic panoramic views of both the castle and the church. 

Just 2 kilometres outside Olvera lies the Sanctuary of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, where locals pay homage to the village's patron saint. Every year, on the second Monday after Easter Sunday, the community participates in a religious pilgrimage to this site, known as Quasimodo Monday. This celebration evolved in gratitude for the heavy rainfall that ended a severe drought in 1715 and is always filled with local delicacies, such as turnovers, cured meats, and delicious cakes. 

The Best Restaurants in Olvera If you're looking for a place to eat in Olvera but aren't sure where to go, we recommend two excellent restaurants. 

La Bodega, 

Located at Julián Besteiro 128. They offer a daily set menu featuring delicious homemade dishes at reasonable prices. 

El Puerto, found at Cordel 2, near Parque Entrecaminos. 

This restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and is a favorite among locals. Be sure to try the house soup, grilled squid, and scrambled eggs with asparagus!