Holidays to Cadiz

The Phoenicians were the first nation to establish a trading network through Cadiz and the city was known for its fishing and salting industries.  In 205 BC, Cadiz became a part of the Roman Empire and an important trading post for wheat, olive oil, wine and a fish paste much loved by the Romans called “Garum”.  Baelo Claudia, a very well preserved Roman City, nestles amongst sand dunes about 75km from Cadiz.  

From 711 AD until the late 15th century, the whole region was under the rule of the Arabs which led to the unique mixture of Christian and Arab architecture and especially the towers and fortresses which abound all along the coast.  Between Tarifa and Cadiz there are over 30 fortresses and castles on the seafront or in the hills behind. However it is the Arab influence in its urban layout which makes Cadiz, with its labyrinthine streets, so exciting to explore.

The golden age for the city began with the discovery of America in the early 1500s.  However, with the resultant immense wealth came the pirates from Turkey, England and Portugal so requiring extensive fortifications all along the coastline and in Cadiz itself.  The fortress of the city of Cadiz and the defensive bastions are prime examples of the monumental defence systems.

The Atlantic coastline of the Costa de la Luz runs for 200km from Tarifa to Chipiona north of Cadiz.  This is very much a pristine coastline with a large number of idyllic coves and long stretches of sand between cliffs.  This is not an area much frequented by mass tourism.  Additionally, there are about 20 protected natural spaces including six national parks in the province with habitats for animal and plant species.

Andalusian cuisine is tasty and varied. It combines a wealth of produce from the sea and game from the hills.  The wines too are excellent and the Moorish heritage guarantees excellent pastries.  This region is the centre of the Andalusian leather industry and famous saddlery products whilst Medina Sidonia, Bornos and Vejer are well known for their cane furniture.