Located in the south of the province of Cordoba sitting proudly in the River Genil valley at the entrance to the Sierra Subeticas Natural Park you will find one of the most tranquil and stunning areas in Andalucia. The white washed town of Iznajar has a population of just 6000 people is most famous for its “Inland Sea” . The reservoir was created around 30 years ago and holds 900 million cubic metres of water which is for domestic consumption
The town is easily accessed from the main A92 Seville- Granada Motorway, and is located just 20km from the turn off
The town itself has some magnificent and historical buildings including the ruins of its 1,200 year old castle which are a must despite the poor condition of the ruins.
Other notable buildings in the town include the Iglesia de Santiago church which dates from the 15th - 16th Century. The main feature of this impressive building is its Baroque altar piece.
The shrine of the Ermita de la Antigua, built in the 17th features a spectacular domed vault leading into a dressing room which was built in the 18th century.
One of the nicest parts of the town is the Barrio del Coso where a network of narrow lanes with traditional whitewashed houses provide the background as you wander around this beautiful little Andalucian town.
There is also a small museum in the town which houses an exhibition dedicated to its agricultural heritage and local customs.
The lake which is known as the lake of Andalucia is the main attraction of the town. It provides the locals and visitors a chance to enjoy a beach lifestyle while still enjoying the benefits of inland living.
There is even a small beach area known as THE VALDEARENAS BEACH. It is located about 1km outside the town itself and has all the benefits of a costal resort including a recently constructed chiringuito which is run by the young locals .
This area is also know for its water sports and its fishing.
There are a number of bars and restaurants located in the beach area which gives the area a real costal feel for the visitors.
Also a Nautical and Sport activities centre has recently been constructed in the beach area where you can take part in courses in canoeing during the summer months and there is even an dwelling which provides accommodation of up to 32 people. The centre also provides a boat rentals service
The local cuisine of the town is centered around Pork and there is a fascinating carnival in February where the traditional pork sausage filling is stuffed with eggs, bread, jamón and breast of turkey
Easter Week is very important in the town and the locals present a epic performance depicting key scenes from the bible and the crucifixion.
There are other festivals in the town including the day of San Marcos on April 25 where the whole town heads for the countryside near to the beach for a mass picnic
The town hosts its annual feria in September normally around the 7th - 10 of the month
One Response
Antonio G
October 8th, 2007 at 9:14 pm
1You should have added that the current president of Catalonia, José Montilla, is from Iznájar.
That’s probably one of the most important things that are related to that village (near, by the way, Villanueva de Tapia, which is my grandparent’s).
See you
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