Córdoba - Surroundings

The village of Aguilar is notable for its unusual central square and for the fine olive oils that it produces.

The Hermitages of Andalusia have been occupied by monks since the 4th C AD through to present day. Visiting these sights requires a full day.

From the Plaza de Colón in Córdoba, at the northeast end of the Ronda de los Tejares, the Carretera del Brillante runs north to the slopes of the Sierra de Córdoba (7km/4.5mi) and Las Ermitas. This is a group of hermitages belonging to the Congregation of the Brethren of Our Lady of Bethlehem. From the mirador below the 18th century church there is a fine panorama.

Lucena, the second largest city in Córdoba province features some beautiful architecture and has some nearby nature parks. Of particular interest are the castle and palace in Lucena.

Montilla has a beautiful historic center with buildings dating back to the 16th C. The town is home to palaces, castles, churches, and other holy sites. Montilla is also known for olives and even has an Olive Oil Museum.

The Palacio La Moratalla is known for its beautiful gardens. Formal gardens and natural areas are both present and include, ponds, pleasant sitting areas, and tree lined walking paths. The palace itself dates to the 15th C.

The Mediterranean forest of Cardeña-Montoro is located in the district of Los Pedroches. It contains a rich wildlife, including such animals as lynxes, wolves and even some royal eagles and imperial eagles.

A large portion of the natural park is given over to raising sheep and cattle.

The Mediterranean forest of Sierra de Hornachuelos is rich with local flora and fauna. Several colonies of imperial eagles, lynx and black vultures are found in its boundaries.

The southerly Parque Natural de las Sierras Subbéticas contains a few small towns in its rugged landscape, which is comprised primarily of limestone mountains.

Guided groups may visit the Cave of Bats, which has both archeological and speleological points of interest.

The small town of Puente Genil is located south of Córdoba and west of Granada. The town is known for the annaul Fosforito Flamenco Song Festival.

Charles III created the Colonies, a collection of several towns, in the 18th C. to repopulate deserted areas.