Discovering Cazalla
CAZALLA DE LA SIERRA is located north of Sevilla in the province of Andalucia. Cazalla is quite a metropolitan city with its great offering of facilities; the place dates back to the Romans who gave it the name, Callentum. The Moors came and changed its name to Kazalla, which means ‘fortified city’.
Overview
The highlight of this city is the Nuestra Señora Church at the town’s southern part, which reflects the blend of cultural architecture from the 14th century to the Renaissance era in the 18th century.
Many worthy sights are accessible by walking as they are near to one another, such as the 18th century Ermita del Monte Church on the east side of town and 5 kilometers away on a forest hill overlooking the Rivera de Huesna.
There is a simple tourist center which provides basic information about the region, but does not have town maps, which can be obtained at the ayuntamiento, just 5 minute’s walk away.
There are a few hostel accommodations splattered around the region, but the best is La Milagrosa, located on the main road.
Amenities
Bars and restaurants abound with plenty of good food at decent prices. There is even a casino that serves simple hearty meals for a refreshing and relaxing moment, like a local club, with a nominal fee for monthly membership. Visitors and tourists in Cazalla are welcome to enjoy the facilities without charge, but this is an attractive offering since a membership offers drinks at discounted prices.
Cazalla has very efficient public transport with regular buses plying the route to Sevilla on a daily basis. Buses operate in the morning to reach Estación de Cazalla y Constantina for those who wish to catch a train to Extremadura or Zafra or any other connecting town in the region, although a walk to some nearby stops is more satisfying with the breathtaking view of the great river and the varied flora and fauna around the valley. The spectacular walk takes about 5 hours.
Although there are many stays available here, the best in Cazalla is the romantic Palacio de San Benito. This majestic palace hotel was formerly an Andalusian hermitage in the countryside. It has been duly renovated while retaining its many original features and is wonderfully decorated with art pieces and unique antiques.
The colonnaded patio and fountain are still pieced with tiles from the 16th century. It also boasts a splendidly furnished library with a gallery covered in Brussels-origin tapestries. The hotel’s restaurant offers an excellent setting for a fine dining experience.