Cortegana, in the middle of the Sierra de Aracena, has history, culture and open country. There is the thirteenth-century castle, the local food and some very good landscape, alongside outdoor activities and the traditional architecture of the village.
The history of Cortegana
Where it came from
Cortegana goes back a long way, and successive cultures have each left something behind.
The castle
The thirteenth-century castle stands for the region’s history and its strategic importance. The restoration shows what it once was.
Legends and traditions
Cortegana is full of stories passed down through generations, which add to its heritage and to the atmosphere of the place.
Outdoor activities
These are central to a visit. Walking, marked routes and adventure sports, all of it in country that deserves the word.
What not to miss
From the traditional architecture to the countryside around it, Cortegana gives you both the history and the landscape.
Out in the country
The country around Cortegana is worth the time on its own, and the local plants and wildlife with it.
The culture
What is on offer culturally shows you the traditions and customs that define the village.
History and legend
History and legend run together here, and between them they shape the identity of this Andalusian village.
Where to stay
The accommodation and services here suit what visitors need, and make for a comfortable stay.
Events and festivals
These show the village at its liveliest, and let a visitor join in with the local traditions.
How to make the most of a visit
A few practical points will help you get the most out of every corner of the place.
The corners nobody tells you about
There are surprises here worth finding, and they add something to the visit.
The landmarks to see
Cortegana and the places that stand out, for their history and for how they look
Almonaster-Cortegana station
A good place to take in the Sierra de Aracena, with the view and plenty to do outdoors.
The castle of Sancho IV
A restored medieval fortress, and the view over the region from it.
The bullring
A landmark that reflects the local bullfighting tradition, with its own architecture and a place in the life of the village.
The parish church
Traditional architecture and a long religious history make it a reference point in the village.
The hermitages
These carry both spiritual and cultural weight, and the local folklore that has lasted with them.
Outdoors
Walking routes
- Explore the hiking routes around Cortegana, from an easy path to something considerably harder.
- See the plants and wildlife that live around this Andalusian village.
- And the views along the paths of the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche.
Camping and country accommodation
- Stay at a campsite or in one of the country houses near Cortegana.
- The quiet and the clean air come with it.
- And so does the hospitality of the people who live here.
Active tourism in the Sierra de Aracena y Picos de Aroche natural park
There is a great deal to do in the park: mountain-bike routes, climbing and caving, at every level of experience.
It is one of the finest corners of Andalusia, and the activities put you directly into it.
The main events
Holy Week
Deeply rooted here. The streets fill with processions, sacred music and a good deal of feeling. The Santo Entierro and the Santo Cristo de la Expiración processions draw visitors from across the region.
The medieval days
Locals and visitors alike wait for these. The village turns into a medieval stage, with shows, craft markets, knights fighting and theatre.
The craft fair
A showcase for local craftspeople and their traditional techniques: ceramics, leather, textiles and wood. There is local food too, and things for the whole family.
If you are looking for routes through Andalusia, do not miss Cortegana: history, food, culture and open country all in one place.
