Andalusia, an age-old history that has left behind a wealth of artistic heritage

Andalusia has a rich ancient cultural heritage, which has increased in value in recent decades; both in recovering signs of identity reflected in its historic heritage as well the force provided by creative activity.

The Alhambra in Granada, the Great Mosque of Cordoba and the Giralda Tower and old town of Seville are all World Heritage sites, but the majority of its towns and villages also bear witness to the peak of Andalusia’s artistic heritage over the ages.

The stunning Moorish, Renaissance and, above all, Baroque architecture to be seen in its most important buildings, the castles, fortresses and monasteries to be found throughout the region, complete a hugely valuable array of heritage.

The native region of Velázquez, Murillo and Picasso is home to canvasses, sculptures, jewellery, images and archaeological remains to be found in cathedrals, museums, churches, convents and palaces, guardians of this important artistic development. Even in the most remote villages, you can find a first-rate altarpiece, a masterpiece of painting or an item of the most intricate precious metal work.

The variety of fiestas and celebrations to be found in Andalusia is as broad as its geography and the calendar of events is a real encyclopaedia taking in the arts and customs of its people. The spring festivals, planting and harvest festivals, patron saint’s day fiestas, fairs, wine festivals, open-air fiestas and pilgrimages all demonstrate the finest local crafts, gastronomy, music and religious beliefs.

The Carnival celebrations give a noisy start to the season, with a humorous, satirical look at everyday roles in society. During Easter week, churches bring out their most valuable treasures to accompany the Passion statues for processions that follow their itineraries faithfully year after year. The Corpus Christi festivities are the inspiration for another dazzling parade. The May Crosses festival brings together the sacred and the profane in spectacular harmony.

Flamenco music is the most authentic expression of Andalusian folklore. The flamenco festivals in summer offer a calendar of performances to suit all tastes.

Over a third of the copyright that occurs in Spain is now concentrated in the community.

Of the 771 Andalusian municipalities, 126 have been declared historic areas. The old towns of Granada, Cordoba, Ubeda and Baeza have been recognised as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO, just like Seville overall.

Along with this historical legacy, Andalusia has a wide network of cultural institutions. These include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Andalusian Centre of Contemporary Art and the Theatre of the Maestranza in Seville; the Andalusian Library and the Andalusian Legacy Foundation in Granada; the Andalusian Film House in Cordoba, the Andalusian Centre of Flamenco in Jerez de la Frontera; the Andalusian Centre for Underwater Archaeology in Cadiz; the Andalusian Centre of Photography in Almeria; and the Picasso Museum and the Malaga Museum, in Malaga.

Guest Author

Andalusia today is a modern region with well-developed infrastructure, host of cities rich in history with important cultural heritage and monuments, beautiful beaches along its more than 800 kms of coast and one of the best regions in Europe to enjoy golf and sun all year round.