Andalucía Overview

The ancient kingdom of Tartessus grew wealthy off the Sierra Nevada’s rich ore deposits, and the Greeks and Phoenicians established colonies and traded up and down the coast. The Romans cultivated wheat, olive oil, and wine from the fertile soil watered by the Guadalquivir, and in the AD 5th century, the Vandals passed through on their way to North Africa, leaving little more than a name—Vandalusia (House of the Vandals). The Moors, in control under various dynasties from 711 until 1492, had the most enduring influence, forming lasting ties to Africa and the Islamic world. They preserved and perfected Roman architecture (creating the distinctive Andalucian patio), furthered industry and technology, and developed the region’s greatest cities. Sevilla and Granada reached the pinnacle of Islamic art and scholarship in these centuries, while Córdoba matured into the most culturally influential medieval Muslim city.

Through the turbulent 20th century, Andalucía retained its strength and solidarity—the region was one of the last strongholds against Franco during the Civil War. Many residents still describe themselves as Andalucian before Spanish and proudly draw from the melange of cultures that first made the region famous. As for visitors, whether they come to wander the medieval streets of the juderías (Jewish quarters) or clap along with a sevillana, Andalucía will leave its golden light and vibrant colors warmly imprinted on the mind.