Jerez de la Frontera?s municipal area is the largest in the province and lies on a central strip running from the mountains down through the countryside, practically reaching the coast. Part of the mountains belong to Los Alcornocales Natural Park. Jerez is situated 83 kms south of Seville and 30 kms North East of Cadiz in the agricultural plains south of the Rio Guadalquivir.

HISTORY

Inhabited since Palaeolithic times. However, real urban development did not begin until Moslem times, particularly during the Almoravide and Almohade periods. Mosques and palaces were built and the town centre was extended. In the 12th century, the Christians staged several failed attempts at capturing the city. For a long time after, Jerez was a border town. The 19th century was a period of economic prosperity, thanks to the alliance of English exporters with Jerez wine merchants.

PLACES OF INTEREST

- The Cathedral: Begun in 1695 on the site of the Moslem town?s main mosque. Inside is the famous 16th century Cristo de la Viga, along with another image of Christ attributed to Jose de Arce. The Cathedral Museum, features paintings such as Zurbaran?s "La Virgen Niña", among others.

- Fortress-Mosque: The fortress was built during the Almohade period and was home to the town?s Moslem governors. Inside the fortress is a small mosque, which was transformed into a Christian church under Alfonso X?s order.

- St. Domingo´s Church-Convent: Built in the 14th century, this was one of the first religious structures erected by the town?s Christian conquerors. The highlight of the convent is its beautiful Gothic cloister.

- St. Mary´s Carthusian Monastery: Declared a National Monument in 1856. The Monastery is a fine example of the series of architectural styles which followed the original Gothic design. Highlights among the areas open to the public are the Portico, harmoniously crafted by the Jerez architect Andres de Ribera in 1571, and the Church doorway, built a century later in strictly orthodox baroque style.

- Wine Cellars: Domecq, Williams and Humbert, Gonzalez Byass and John Harvey are establishments which guard the city's most important treasures: the sherry. A trip around its history which culminates with a tasting session.

- Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art: Located in a magnificient 19th century mansion designed by the architect of the Paris Opera - Garnier. Training sessions can be watched and there is a tour of the stables. On Thursday mornings there is a spectacular display of dressage. For more infomation Official Page.

- Jerez Motor Racing Circuit: The opening took place on the 8th December 1985 with a track of 4.218 m with 16 curves and a starting straight of 600 m. On the 29th March 1986 came the first international motorcycle event. "Coming down" to Jerez in may, when the Grand Prix takes place, means a pilgrimage to the Meca of sport of the Two Wheels in Spain for all those who love the World of Motorbikes and competition. For more information take a look at the Official Site.

TYPICAL DISHES

It is quite logical that the cuisine from Jerez should be joined with wines of the area from the clear dry, to the sweet for desserts: consommé, braised cabbage, fillet of red snapper, lobster salad in vinagrete, king prawn pie, stews, chicken in vinegar, kidneys, fillet steaks, pheasant, quails or bull's tail are just a few of the typical dishes.

Its wines: Pale, dry Finos. Amontillados (pale, dry sherry). Aromatic Olorosos. Cream. Jerez brandy. And Sharp-tasting Vinagre de Jerez.

FESTIVITIES

Holy Week, in early spring when the city stops to enjoy the passing of icons of the Nazerines, carvings by la Roldana, Arce, Mesa and Montañes, and hear sacred songs in the flamenco style.

Jerez Fair, first fortnight in May: one of Spain?s oldest. Horses are the main feature, and this animal, along with the town?s wines, has helped to bring Jerez international knowledge.

Grape Harvest Festival,first fortnight in September. Celebrates the arrival of the first must (unfermented grape juice), a symbol of the richness of the land and man?s endeavour.

HOW TO GET THERE FROM MARBELLA

We can go by bus from Marbella, everyday there is one bus. Four hours of duration. The schedules are at marbella.com

If you prefer to go by car it´s easy. Take the highway to Málaga and then the North way, direction Seville. Jerez is only forty minutes from Seville and it connects with Madrid by N-IV road. Or you can get to Jerez through the coast, you have to take the N-340 direction Cadiz.