Spain's 'White-Washed Village' of Setenil de Las Bodegas
- ChasingBuffaloesandBeyond
- Mar 22, 2022
- 3 min read
For a perfect day trip to visit one of Spain's 'White Villages' of Andalusia, Setenil de las Bodegas is one of the best! Separating itself as one of the most unique white-washed villages is the fact that Setenil de las Bodegas is actually built right into the rock caves and overhangs. The natural rock caves that line this town have been used since pre-historic times and are actually quite practical in helping to keep the buildings cooler during the the hot Andalusian summers and warmer in the winters. In line with Setenil de las Bodegas rock formations, the village itself was 'strong as a rock' defensively and was one of the last strongholds for the Moors before the Christians were able to conquer the area. 'Setenil' derives from the Latin term 'Septem nihil' which means 'seven times no' and it actually took 7 attempts before the Christians were successful in taking the village in 1484. Spend the day just wandering the stunning streets of Setenil de las Bodegas and you will fall in love with this unique rock covered town!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CALLE DE LAS CUEVAS DEL SOL
The two main streets Calle de las Cuevas del Sol (Sunny Street) and Calle de las Cuevas de la Sombra (Shady Street) run thru Setenil de las Bodegas, paralleling each side of the Trejo River. The Calle de Las Cuevas del Sol (Sunny Street) is the main street as you enter the village and is a wonderful place to start your exploration of Setenil de las Bodegas. Lining this road are numerous cafes and shops that are built right into the rock overhangs, creating a wonderful place to stop and grab a cup of coffee or a pastry and just sit and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this beautiful little village.
CALLE DE LAS CUEVAS DE LA SOMBRA
Cross the bridge over the Trejo River and you will find the Calle de Las Cuevas de la Sombra (Shady Street). As you walk this street - the town nickname 'The Town under Rock' becomes quite apparent. Giant rock boulders literally hang overhead as you walk down the street and the buildings are built right around them. Exploring this town was like nothing we had ever experienced and made for a truly memorable day!
IGLESIA DE LA ENCARNACION
Built during the reign of King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella after the conquest of Setenil de las Bodegas from the Moors, beautiful Iglesia de la Encarnacion sits overlooking the village and was a symbol of the triumph over the Moors. Today, this Gothic style church is worth a quick stop when wandering thru the town. Take a peak inside and stop to admire the beautiful thick imposing wooden doors.
TORRE DEL HOMANAGE
Overlooking the village is the remaining tower from the Nazari Castle - built in the 13th century by the Moors, today only one tower remains of the original castle and is known as the 'Torre del Homanage'. From the base of the Torre del Homanage the views over Setenil de las Bodegas are stunning! Spend the time to walk up to this tower to take in the views! Even better, spend the couple euros and pay to enter the tower which houses a small museum and provides even more great views over the area from the top of the tower.
PURCHASE SOME LOCAL OLIVE OIL
While wandering and exploring Setenil de las Bodegas, keep an eye out for some local olive oil! The local olive oil is considered to be some of the finest in all of Spain - it has a very distinct brighter green color and delicious flavor. 'Agrosetenil' is located just outside of downtown Setenil de las Bodegas and is one of the best olive oils we've ever tasted! You can pick up a bottle directly from them or their products can be found at various shops throughout the village.
CALLE SAN SEBASTIAN VIEWPOINT
As we left Setenil de las Bodegas, we happened upon this beautiful view along Calle San Sebastian. Wow! What a view! Looking down over this beautiful 'White Village' of Andalusia is simply stunning and should not be missed. Surrounding the town, olive groves line the hillsides and create for a truly memorable view of one of Spain's famed 'White-Washed Villages'.
Interested in planning your own trip to Setenil de Las Bodegas, Spain? Below is our summarized itinerary for you to follow or adjust to your own preferences. ENJOY!
Day trip to Setenil de las Bodegas: Calle de las Cuevas del Sol (Sunny Street), Calle de las Cuevas de la Sombra (Shady Street), Iglesia de la Encarnacion, Torre del Homenaje/Viewpoint, buy some local olive oil, stop along Calle San Sebastian to enjoy the view.
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