The Local Area

     “Wonderful people, white washed villages, fabulous food, mile after mile

                  of olive groves, sunshine ……… a truly magical place”

As you approach Iznajar by car you will get a stunning view of this beautiful village perched high above the 'embalse', or reservoir, to all intents and purposes, Iznajar now has a waterfront, overlooking an inland sea some thirty kilometres long. In the early morning mist this view will take your breath away! 

The village was originally a prehistoric Iberian settlement, but flourished in the eighth century when Arab settlers, in the wake of the 711AD invasion by Tariq ibn Zayid and his Moorish armies, built a castle on the promontory and called it 'Hins Ashar' (hence the modern Spanish name) Iznajar which literally means ‘Happy Castle’.  The ruined Moorish castle can still be seen, as can parts of the old fortified town wall and the 15th century church of Santiago. 

There is no shortage of Fiestas in our area.  At Easter there is a week long 'Semana Santa' celebration with some stunning processions.

La Morenita Fiesta.

At other times you will be able to see la Morenita fiesta where all the young women don their traditional dresses and process through the streets while rose petals are showered on them from balconies above.  It is a beautiful and happy day.

Every village celebrates its Saints Day.  Iznajar celebrates the day of San Marcos on April 25 by quitting the town entirely for a mass picnic in the countryside at Valdearenas beach, a recreational area close to the lake.

Each village celebrates its Saints Day with a Paella and always with a fiesta!

©  Brazos Abiertos, 2006