San Lucar de Barameda

Located on the left bank of the Guadalquivir River and opposite Doñana, the origins of the first settlement can be traced back to the construction of a Phoenician temple dedicated to Astarté.

This stately town, designated as a Historic Ensemble, features an urban design divided into two main areas: the Barrio Alto and the Barrio Bajo.

The Barrio Alto serves as the historic center, showcasing the town’s monuments, narrow streets, whitewashed facades, and aristocratic palaces such as the Palace of Orléans y Borbón (next to the Basílica de Nuestra Señora de la Caridad) and the Renaissance-style Palacio Ducal de Medina Sidonia. 

Nearby, visitors can find the Arquillo or Rota Gate, remnants of the Medieval walls, Santiago Castle (dating from the 15th century), the Las Descalzas Convent, and Nuestra Señora de la O Church. 

Descending the Cuesta Belén towards the Barrio Bajo, one encounters the Auditorio de la Merced, as well as the 15th-century ‘Covachas’—the best example of Gothic architecture in the town—adorning one of the façades of the Dukes' Palace. 

On the way to the Church of Santo Domingo (built in the 16th century), visitors will see the Church of San Jorge and the Regina Coeli Convent. In the opposite direction are the Church of El Carmen and the Capuchin Convent.

**Famous Horse Races**

Sanlúcar’s coastline features 6 km of beaches, with the most notable being Bajo de Guía, La Calzada, Las Piletas, La Jara, and Coto Beach, also known locally as ‘la otra banda’ (the other side), which borders the National Park of Doñana. 

Within Doñana, one can discover several picturesque spots, including the Pinares de la Algaida and the Bonanza Marshes and Salt Beds. 

The famous Horse Races, recognized as an event of International Tourist Interest, are held on the town’s beaches. This tradition began in the 19th century, initiated by the town's aristocracy and bourgeoisie, who sought to enhance the social life of Sanlúcar during the summer season. 

**Enjoying Tapas in Sanlúcar**

For tapas, there is no better place than the Plaza Cabildo or Bajo de Guía, the fishermen's district, which is filled with restaurants serving renowned dishes of king prawns, fried fish, and various seafood delicacies. The steamer “Real Fernando,” which crosses the river to the river mouth and allows visitors to explore Doñana, departs from the pontoon in Bajo de Guía.