Medina Sidonia (Arabic for "City of Sidon") is known to be one of the oldest cities in Europe dating back to the Phoenician era around 400 BC. It is steeped in history spanning the centuries predominantly due to its commanding position high on the hilltop offering considerable military advantage with breathtaking panoramic views across the wild countryside and out towards the coast. Many different cultures fought and ruled Medina such as the Arabs, Romans and the Moors, each leaving an imprint in the architecture, streets and ancient city walls. Admiral Alonso Perez de Guzman was a well respected historic figure who was responsible for leading the Spanish Armada against the English in 1588. Medina Sidonia is less like a city in today's terms and more of a beautiful, quiet white village with its character cobbled streets lined with historic buildings and authentic decorative wrought iron windows and balconies known as "rejas". The Plaza Espana, directly in front of the impressive Town Hall buildings is lined with orange trees and is a delightful place to sit and enjoy the Spanish sunshine whilst eating tapas, sipping a cool glass of "fino" (local sherry) or freshly ground coffee from one of the many quality restaurants and bars on the edge of the square. Take a walk through the cool winding streets and enjoy the views all the way to the top where you will find the old castle ruins and nestled just below, the church of "Saint Marie the Crowned" with its authentic Andalucian architecture and quaint bell tower. Medina is a great place to live or spend your holiday. It is a perfect base from which to explore the local area including Jerez, famous for its sherry scented streets due to its many famous Bodegas such as Gonzalez-Byass (Tio Pepe) and Harvey's Bristol Cream, Cadiz "the imposing and historic City on the Sea, the Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) and its many award winning beaches stretching from Cadiz all the way down to the surfers paradise of Tarifa and the untamed inland nature reserves of the 'Alcornocales' and La Brena" all within 30 mins drive. As if these were not enough, the romantic city of Seville is only an hour away, famous for its orange lined streets, flamenco dancing and many authentic tapas bars. One of Spains most photographed landmarks, the "Puente Nuevo" is found in Rhonda 1.5hrs away just over the Cadiz border into the Province of Malaga. It is over 200ft tall and spans the gorge linking the old and new town. Just a small step in from the coast to Medina Sidonia could open up all sorts of possibilities to you whether choosing the perfect place to live or in which to spend your holidays.
FAQ:
Population Medina Sidonia 2016 - 12,454
Proximity to airports: Jerez de la Frontera 45 Km, Gibraltar 84 Km, Seville 127 Km, Malaga 195 Km