Jimena de la Frontera,
Andalucia
Description:
To the very South of Andalucia, in Europe yet close to Africa, in
the Mediterranean yet close to the Atlantic, in the mountains yet
close to the sea…stands out Jimena de la Frontera, a land without
frontiers.
The castle, which is one of a chain of defensive systems guarding
Spain, was declared a National Monument in 1931 watches serenely and
majestically over the village of Jimena de la Frontera. Its past
originates in the depths of history and it has been home to a
variety of settlers including Arabs, Carthaginians, Romans, Iberians
and Greeks all who have influenced the structure and development of
this picturesque whitewash traditional village.
Jimena de la Frontera forms part of the boundary for "Los
Alcornocales" Natural Park, one of Europes largest Mediterranean
forests and separates the Guadiaro and Hozgargante Rivers making
this beautiful village a hub of activity for animal and bird life.
The local area is dominated by water chutes and deep valleys that
form a microclimate and preserve the forests that date back to the
Terciary Era of pre-history. Its principal species of vegetation
include the Cork Oak (which gives the forest its name), Wild Olive,
Miniature Palm, Rhododendrons and several varieties of Oak and
Heather. The unique and varied animal life in the forest include
deer, roebuck, otters, wildcats and badgers. The rich variety of
predators are an impressive sight in the forest. Imperial and Royal
Eagles, Owls, Falcons and Hawks command the skies and are typical of
this region. Los Alcornocales is also home to one of the greatest
concentrations of Vultures in Europe making this an exciting and
interesting area for nature and bird watching.
Jimena de la Frontera is undoubtedly a superb destination for nature
and history lovers as well as being a ‘must see’ for any visitor who
will be taken in by the charm, variety and beauty of this ancient
village. Visitors leave already planning their return and wondering
why a place steeped in history and diversity can remain virtually
unknown given its proximity to the coast.
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