5 reasons to visit Jerez De La Frontera, Spain

Home of sherry

Sherry is a type of wine made from white grapes, and the city of Jerez de la Frontera in Andalusia, Spain, is the birthplace of this famous wine. Sherry is produced in many different varieties, primarily from the Palomino grape, ranging from light, wine-like versions such as Manzanilla and Fino, to darker, heavier versions like Amontillado and Oloroso. Sweet dessert wines are also made from Pedro Ximenez or Moscatel grapes, sometimes blended with sherry from Palomino grapes.

When you arrive in Jerez De La Frontera, you'll find wineries, museums, bars, and restaurants offering a wide variety of food and wines. Each boasts its own distinct characteristics. Manzilla is drier and lighter, Fino is characterized by its almond aroma, and Pedro Ximenez is naturally sweeter and considered by locals to be the perfect aperitif before a meal.

Ancient city

With its wide streets, squares, and rows of jacaranda trees blooming brilliantly throughout the spring, Jerez De La Frontera captivates visitors the first time they visit this beautiful city.

The ancient charm of Jerez De La Frontera is also a highlight, with its numerous fountains, palaces, churches, and orange groves. Visitors can explore the recently restored 11th-century Moorish fortress; the Del Salvador Cathedral, formerly a mosque and housing La Virgen Nina, a famous painting by the renowned artist Zurbarán; the well-regarded Villamarta Theatre; or simply wander through the old town of Jerez De La Frontera.

Flamenco music

Flamenco is a type of music and dance that originated in Andalusia in the 19th century. Visitors to Jerez de La Frontera cannot miss this cultural experience. Flamenco music is fast-paced but also very detailed (typically demonstrated by the quick, circular flicking of the right finger when playing the flamenco guitar).

The city of Jerez De La Frontera is known as Cuna Del Flamenco (the cradle of Flamenco), and every night you'll find bailaoras (dancers) in traditional red costumes performing, accompanied by cantaores (singers) and guitarists on the streets.

Flamenco performances are held in bars and restaurants throughout the city, especially in the Santiago and San Miguel districts. Visitors can go to the Andalusia Flamenco Center to learn more about this type of music. Additionally, Jerez de La Frontera is the venue for the International Flamenco de Jerez Festival, usually held in February and March, and the Buleria Festival in September each year.

The art of horseback riding

Andalusian horses are famous worldwide for their graceful and distinctive beauty. According to many experts, the Andalusian breed was bred by horse-loving monks in the 15th century in Jerez de La Frontera. Therefore, the city has held a horse festival with spectacular events and equestrian performances for many years.

The best place to see a performance is at the Royal Andalucia School of Equestrian Arts in Palacio Recreo de las Cadenas. Here, you'll enjoy an authentic equestrian ballet with typical Spanish music and traditional 18th-century costumes. The dances are inspired by classical and country attire. The city of Jerez de La Frontera also boasts a magnificent Museum of Equestrian Arts, where you can see a collection of chariots and ornaments used in equestrian arts throughout the centuries.

City of Festivals

Known for herrry, flamenco, and horses, Jerez de La Frontera is also a city that hosts spectacular festivals throughout the year, the largest being the Festival de Jerez, held in February and March. The highlight of this festival is flamenco music, so don't be surprised to see locals appearing in the streets inviting you to dance with them.

In May, the city is famous for the Jerez horse festival, which has a history of over 500 years and is held at the Gonzalo Hontoria Fair Centre. The Wine Harvest Festival is held in September, focusing on sherry, wine, culinary arts, and music.

Holy Week in Jerez De La Frontera is celebrated with spectacular processions featuring incense, chanting, and some very colorful costumes, taking place at the end of the year.

The Anh