ALMONTE, SPAIN

Located in Huelva, the westernmost province of Andalucia, Almonte encompasses a wealth of cultural and natural resources as well as the seaside resort community of Mataslascañas, developed in the 1960s.

With great historical significance that goes back to mythological times, the region of Huelva was settled by Phoenician, Roman and Arab colonists. Known as the “Gateway to the Americas,” it is the location where Christopher Columbus planned the preparations for the eventual discovery of America.

Almonte and the neighboring areas have been cherished for over 3,000 years as people have come in search of the mild climate, the originality of the scenery, the elegance of its monuments and the charm, wit and appeal of the Andalusian people.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Doñana National Park, the most interesting area for birds and wildlife in all of Europe, has great natural wealth due to its privileged climatic conditions and its geographical location. As one of the most important migratory routes for birds, it is the wintering place for more than 150 species of birds, totalling many millions. Other highlights include shifting sand dunes, mud flats and enclosed pastures.

La Romería del Rocío, celebrated since the 17th century during Holy Week, is a famous popular festivity where pilgrims from different parts of Andalusia and the rest of Spain follow a small temple which houses the Virgin and is carried in an oxcart. The tradition and folklore of the procession attract close to a million pilgrims every year.

Monasterio de Santa María, located in La Rábida, is one of the historical places connected with the discovery of America. It contains important frescoes by the reknown painter Vásquez Díaz.