Medina Sidonia

Medina Sidonia

Medina was formerly called “Asido Caesarina”, seat of Dukes in the 15th century. It was from here where Guzman El Bueno came from. Bueno was the fearless admiral who directed the Armada in revolt against England. When he was bestowed with the title, historical opulence of Medina had begun.

Today, known as Medina Sidonia, it has an imposing hill top view. Known as “white village on the hilltop” or Pueblo Blanco, it is very near Jerez and the pristine beaches of Costa de la Luz. With its strategic location between a beautiful city Jerez and beautiful beaches, it is one of the must-see tourist destinations in Andalucia.

The grandeur of its past continues to live on to the present. Though not as big and popular as with other towns, tourists still flock in droves because of the town’s distinct mark in the history of Andalucia.

This town had its share of dark periods during the war but it also had its glory which catapulted it from anonymity, to a place of historical significance.

Early settlers were the Phoenicians of Sidon, thus the name “Sidonia.” When the Visigoths came, Medina became the centre of influence in the province as its capital. Destined to always be in the spot light in its province’s history, it was finally declared a town in the 18th century by Enrique IV.

Fair of the Cattles - With agriculture and cattle raising as major industries, this is in honour to “farmer’s best friend.” This is the most important celebration among all local feasts in Medina.

San Fermín - In honour to San Fermin, families would celebrate this annually, amongst other families and friends, in the fields of Medina.

Kings Magos - This is Medina’s equivalent to the Western world’s St. Nicholas, popularly known as Santa Claus.

Celebrated in the first week of January, children would line up the streets throwing caramels and by night fall, King Magos slips in their houses with the toys they requested of him in their letters. The next day, the children would be seen playing with their gifts. To this day this celebration is carried out.

With its imposing view on top of a hill, good food, vibrant ambience suitable for business and pleasure combined, and a world-class golf course. Real Estate developers are optimistic about the future. Businessmen and tourists alike have been inquiring about the possibility of owning properties in Medina.

Touring Medina is always a pleasure. Its rustic walls and cobbled walks are reminders from its past. Houses stand in the essence of its history with all the central balconies adorned with variety of pretty flowers, their fragrance lingering in the air when you pass.

A few places to explore:

  • The Town Hall - Often, this place showcases the town’s history and it is where you should start. You can get valuable information about the town and its people.
  • Santa Maria la Coronado Church - You should see the retablo inside the Church. It is a real work of art with scenes of Christ’s life displayed in all its splendour before your eyes.
  • Lagoon - The lagoon is a nesting and breeding place to most of the exotic birds and aquatic specie of the region.
  • Ancient Sewers - A fine tribute to the engineering skills of ancient Romans, The sewers dating back to the 1st century still stand today, at Calle Espiritu.
  • Moorish Gates - See the ornate designs of Medina’s Moorish gates, particularly Arco de la Pastora towards Jerez.