Nobody comes to a city for the first time without wanting to know anything about its history. Jerez is one of those city that you need to know a little bit of its history to enjoy deeply. From Alsherry we know that a history class can sound very boring and an unappetizing plan. Therefore, we tell you the 10 things you should know before coming to Jerez, the most essential information for you to enjoy this special city.
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10 things you should know before coming to Jerez
1. A city with a lot of history
Jerez has been the settlement of many populations and cultures. The settlements in the province of Cádiz are the oldest in all of Europe. In Jerez, remains of settlements of Tartessian peoples have been found, whose studies relate the city that was here (Asta Regia) with the legend of Atlantis. Then there were the Romans and then it was occupied by the Muslim empire for almost five centuries. After the reconquest, it was part of the kingdom of Spain. During the Modern Era, with the discovery of America, Jerez was one of the most important and richest cities in Andalusia.
2. Wine culture during the years
The properties of the area, both the climate and the soil, create a perfect place to grow grapes in a unique way in the world. We have a tradition of more than 3000 years since the Phoenician settlements. Jerez continued working on the production of grapes and raisins and the distillation of alcohol for medicinal use even with the prohibition of drinking alcohol in Muslim times. From the 12th century, exports began to be made to England and, due to this commercial relationship, we experimented with the wine storage technique, so that for years, the production did not vary and the wine was always of the best quality.
3. Flamenco and music as its flag
Flamenco scholars point to Jerez as a human nucleus in which new styles flowed. The neighborhood of Santiago is known by many, where the majority of the gypsy population lived. Between work in the countryside and life in the city, it was an environment conducive to the formation of the best flamenco artists in history. Among the great icons that have come from here we can highlight some such as Jose Mercé, Lola Flores, La Paquera, El Agudamientos …
4. The city of the churches
Jerez is brimming with history and art everywhere. Art has long resided in the hands of the church and religious organizations. In this city there are 40 churches, of various styles and artistic periods. In addition to that, within them there is an infinity of works of art such as sculptures, paintings, altarpieces … We invite you, even if you are not religious people, enter and enjoy an artistic and historical perspective of what the walls and the facades of churches in this beautiful city.
5. The most intelligent horses
Spanish horses have existed in the Iberian Peninsula for more than 3,000 years. For years, these horses have been recognized all over the world, and even exported to various places. In Jerez there is the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art. This school was founded in May 1973. Dressage exhibitions with thoroughbred horses are shown there, although the most striking part of the show is seeing the Andalusian horse dance.
6. The rolling city
Even before the circuit was created, there was the Trofeo de la Merced, an international race in the 1960s. The circuit was inaugurated in 1985 and quickly became known internationally. It is considered one of the most prestigious circuits in Europe. It has hosted world championships such as Formula 1, Motorcycling and Sport-prototypes. During the weekend of the races, Jerez welcomes motorists from all over the world and the streets are filled with spectacular motorcycles.
7. The best fair of all
Horses are part of the culture of Jerez, not only because of the School or the breeding of these horses, they are also the symbol and the reason for the fair in Jerez. Although the beginnings of this fair can be traced back to the Middle Ages and its motive was to sell cattle, many historians deny that the current fair comes from it, but rather that it comes from gypsy festivals (“going out partying”). It has more than 200 booths, where you can have tapas and wine, dance Sevillanas and have a good time with your friends and family.
8. Home of the best gastronomy
Everyone knows that the Mediterranean diet is one of the best and most balanced in the world. Throughout the province of Cádiz you can find thousands of places to enjoy. Jerez, in particular, we have two Michelin star restaurants and many places where you can enjoy excellent quality cuisine. The two restaurants are “Lu, cocina y alma” and “Mantúa”, practically next to each other.
9. Zoobotanic of Jerez and his rescue program
This zoo is one of the oldest places in Jerez. It was founded in the 1950s. The first idea is to save, display and protect species of the Iberian fauna and Spanish Guinea, but little by little it has been opening up to new species and the recovery and protection program began. of certain autochthonous species such as the Iberian lynx, which is the best known and almost the icon of the zoobotanical. A perfect plan for a family day that we are sure the little ones in the house will love.
10. A green city
In addition to the Jerez Zoo, in this city we have countless parks and green areas throughout the city. Many foreigners, used to big cities, are amazed that there is so much vegetation and parks. In addition to that, the Jerez Mountains belong to the Alcornocales Natural Park, one of the few areas in Europe where you can find cork oaks in a natural and indigenous way. It is also home to many endangered species. If you enjoy nature and hiking. We invite you to enjoy this walk through the Montes Propios.
We hope that now you know more of this marvelous city with this 10 thing you should know before coming to Jerez. Alsherry have the perfect experience for you, contact us. What are you waiting for?