Latest news with #Andalusian
Cambrian News
2 days ago
- Cambrian News
Historic Galeón Andalucía makes maiden stop in Caernarfon
Caernarfon is one of the ports of call on this historic ship's grand 2025 European tour, during which it will visit ports in Spainthe United Kingdom, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. At the end of the year, it will cross the Atlantic and begin an American tour. Throughout this journey, the ship will participate in major international festivals and events, sailing as an authentic and unique floating museum of Andalusian maritime heritage and the history of these legendary ships that connected the world's continents for three centuries.
Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Daily Mirror
Beautiful but underrated Spanish town where locals live completely under a rock
Setenil de las Bodegas is a stunning Andalusian town where whitewashed homes are built into cliffs - offering history, charm, and unforgettable Spanish scenery Spain has long been a favourite holiday destination for British travellers, with sun-drenched beaches, vibrant cities, and rich culture drawing millions of visitors each year. Yet, for all the allure of hotspots like Barcelona, the Costa del Sol, and the Balearic Islands, many tourists tend to flock to the same familiar places, often overlooking the country's lesser-known treasures. One of the most enchanting – and often missed – regions is Andalusia, a diverse and culturally rich area in southern Spain. While iconic cities such as Seville, Granada, and Malaga attract much of the attention, Andalusia hides within its vast and varied landscape a collection of charming, off-the-beaten-track towns that offer something truly extraordinary. Setenil de las Bodegas is one such hidden gem. Nestled in the province of Cádiz, roughly equidistant between Seville and Malaga, this small but unforgettable town has been voted one of the most beautiful in all of Spain. And for good reason – Setenil's claim to fame is its jaw-dropping integration with nature: it is literally built into the side of a cliff. Locally known as 'abrigos bajo las rocas', or 'shelters beneath the rocks', Setenil's whitewashed homes are carved directly into massive rock overhangs, creating surreal, shaded streets where stone ceilings loom above you like giant natural canopies. Some streets even feel as though the sky has been replaced with solid rock – a surreal and awe-inspiring sight that leaves visitors speechless. This unusual construction isn't just for show – it's also functional. The rock naturally insulates the houses, keeping them warm in winter and cool in summer. It's an ingenious example of architecture working in harmony with the landscape, and it's one of the most photogenic towns in the region. Despite its global appeal, Setenil is still home to a modest population of around 3,000 people, giving it an authentic, laid-back feel. But don't be fooled by its quiet charm – this place has a deep and fascinating history. The name Setenil de las Bodegas has historical roots that go back centuries. 'Setenil' is believed to come from the Latin phrase 'Septem Nihil', meaning 'seven times nothing.' It refers to the town's legendary resistance during the Reconquista, the Christian reconquest of Spain from Muslim rule. According to legend, it took the Christians seven attempts and fifteen days to capture Setenil's fortress, the Nazari castle, perched above the town. The second part of the name, 'de las Bodegas', translates to 'of the wineries,' a nod to the town's once-thriving wine industry. While vineyards are less prominent today, the area remains renowned for its local almonds, olives, and olive oil, thanks to the rolling fields of olive trees and fertile surrounding land. Although Setenil feels worlds away from the tourist trail, it's relatively easy to reach. The nearest major airport is Malaga, which offers extensive international connections. From there, the drive takes about 1.5 hours. Alternatively, the smaller Jerez Airport is closer but mostly serves domestic flights. If you're planning to visit nearby Ronda, another famous white town perched dramatically on a cliff, Setenil is just 30 minutes away by car. Hiring a car is highly recommended—not just for convenience, but because the drive itself is part of the experience. The route from Olvera to Setenil is particularly stunning, winding through sunflower fields, rolling hills, and endless groves of olive trees. The scenic countryside alone makes the trip worthwhile. While Setenil can be explored in a day, many travellers choose to stay overnight in one of the charming guesthouses or cave-style homes available on platforms like Airbnb. Dining under the rock-covered streets - especially in one of the local tapas bars or cafés - is an experience you won't find anywhere else in the world. In an age where travel is often about seeking the extraordinary, Setenil de las Bodegas offers exactly that. It's a place where history, nature, and human ingenuity blend seamlessly into a setting so unique, it feels almost otherworldly. So if you're planning your next trip to Spain and looking to go beyond the usual suspects, skip the crowds and take a detour to Setenil – one of Andalusia's best-kept secrets, and truly one of Spain's most spectacular small towns.
CairoScene
4 days ago
- CairoScene
This Group of Spanish Muslims Is Performing Hajj on Horseback
This Group of Spanish Muslims Is Performing Hajj on Horseback For eight months, they have guided their horses across continents along the ancient Andalusian route to Makkah, a path not trodden for centuries. The rhythmic clatter of hooves on ancient paths carries prayers and promises—echoes of a route long forgotten, now revived. It all started when three Spanish Muslims—Abdelkader Harkassi, Abdallah Hernández, and Tarek Rodríguez—set out to guide their horses across continents along the ancient Andalusian route to Makkah, a path not trodden for centuries. The journey began when Hernández, a Spanish convert, forged a bond with Harkassi during a 10-month academic project in London translating a 10th-century manuscript on falconry. By the end of their scholarly mission, a brotherhood had formed. Hernández, who was born Catholic, confided that he had once made a promise to Allah: that if he ever performed Hajj, it would be on horseback. 'Through pressure and challenges, we realised—we're a great team,' Harkassi shares with SceneTraveller. 'So, I told him I'm with you. Let's make it happen.' With that, a promise turned into purpose. Four years of grueling preparation tested their limits. Across Portugal's sweltering heatwaves and Spain's winter frost, they refined their endurance with Aseel mares—horses bred for long-distance resilience. 'Training was ten times harder than the journey,' Harkassi recalls. 'We tested everything: the horses, our gear, and our will.' Their route retraces the footsteps of Spanish Muslim Omar Patón, who travelled to Makkah by land over 500 years ago, passing through Alexandria, Damascus, and Jerusalem. Inspired by his journey, the modern-day group originally planned to follow a similar path through North Africa—but political borders and regional conflicts redirected them through Europe. And so, they started their journey from Almonaster Mosque in the south of Spain and continued through France, Italy, Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia, and Serbia. The road has not spared them its trials. In Bosnia, their horses went missing for three days after wandering into a minefield—haunting remnants of the Balkan War. 'It felt surreal—like a scene from a movie.' Bureaucratic barriers, like those faced at the Serbian border, added to their challenges. Yet, generosity lit their path—equestrian communities, mosques, and strangers of all faiths opened their doors. 'We've met atheists, fascists, people with misconceptions about Islam—but when they saw we rode for faith, not fame or money, it changed their perspective.' The heart of their expedition lies in their team. Tarek Rodríguez, who joined at the last minute, became their steadfast companion in the saddle. Bouchaib Jadil, their vital support driver, carries their supplies and ensures the horses' well-being. Documenting it all is influencer Abdelrahman Al Mutiri, who's making sure their story reaches thousands around the world. With Saudi Arabia now on the horizon, the dream of seeing the Kaaba grows stronger. Eight months of riding through hardship, hunger, and cold, leading to this final stretch. For Harkassi, the essence of Hajj isn't just about reaching Makkah but in every mile, every soul, and every trial that brought them there. 'The path is the pilgrimage,' he reflects. 'The land, the faces, the stories—these are the blessings you miss when you fly.' The journey has already reshaped him. 'We left with خوف و رجاء—hope and fear,' he says. 'The journey has shown us that everything is possible for Allah. We all say it, we try to believe it—but now we've lived it. We know it.' Arriving in Makkah means the world to them, after all the challenges that the road threw at them, it'll make this journey worth it all. 'After eight months of riding, seeing the Kaaba for the first time will definitely be overwhelming. It'll be a dream made real—after all the hardship, it'll be worth every step.'
Morocco World
7 days ago
- Morocco World
Rebirth of Al Batha Museum in Fez: A Journey Through Moroccan History
Fez – There's a new energy humming through the heart of Fez, and it's coming from the freshly reopened Al Batha Museum of Islamic Arts. After four years of meticulous restoration, this architectural and cultural gem is welcoming a wave of enthusiastic visitors, from curious locals to international travelers, all eager to step into Morocco's vast and layered history. The museum officially reopened in February 2025 as part of a broader royal initiative to breathe new life into the old medina of Fez. The goal was to restore the soul of the city without erasing its scars. And Al Batha delivers exactly that. Nestled in a former 19th-century palace, the museum now houses a sweeping and thoughtfully curated collection that tells Morocco's story, dynasty by dynasty, artifact by artifact. What sets this space apart is its ability to connect the dots of Moroccan civilization in both chronological and thematic ways. From pre-Islamic artifacts to Andalusian manuscripts and rare Islamic calligraphy, visitors aren't just browsing through static relics; they're moving through time. Highlights include a rare minbar (pulpit) from the Al-Andalus Mosque, ancient Quranic scrolls, and exquisite examples of Moroccan craftsmanship in wood, zellij, and metal. The museum's collection doesn't just look pretty, it teaches. Visitors get to trace the evolution of Arabic script, learn about the spread of Islam in North Africa, and understand Morocco's unique role in bridging African, Arab, and Mediterranean worlds. In a sense, each artifact constitutes a conversation starter about identity, tolerance, trade, scholarship, and the formation of a unified kingdom under the Alaouite dynasty. Beyond the national narrative, Al Batha also celebrates the local. Fez, long hailed as Morocco's intellectual and spiritual capital, gets a dedicated spotlight. A special wing honors the city's contributions to Moroccan heritage, from its universities and libraries to its bustling artisanal traditions. Fez is a living testament to Morocco's cultural depth It's a reminder that Fez was not just a stage for Moroccan history, it was one of its indispensable authors. The museum has already drawn more than 10,000 visitors since reopening, and the reactions have been overwhelmingly enthusiastic. Families, students, tourists, and members of the Moroccan diaspora are rediscovering Fez with fresh eyes. And it's not just the exhibits doing the talking, everything from the restored zellij fountains to the lush Andalusian garden invites reflection and wonder. The redesign didn't cut corners. Under the supervision of the National Foundation of Museums, the restoration preserved every intricate detail, from hand-carved plaster and cedar wood ceilings to carefully retiled mosaics, while adapting the space to modern museum standards. There's a thoughtful use of visual aids: maps, timelines, and illustrations that help even first-time visitors make sense of centuries of cultural convergence. This is more than a museum; it's a manifesto, a living testament to Morocco's cultural wealth, religious pluralism, and historical continuity. In an era of rushed timelines and cultural amnesia, Al Batha invites us to slow down and remember. Fez has always been a city that tells its secrets to those who know how to listen. With the new Al Batha Museum, those whispers have turned into a clear and compelling narrative, one that Morocco is ready to share with the world. And if you haven't visited yet, consider this your sign. The past has never felt more alive. Tags: Al Batha museumFezIslamic architecture
The Sun
27-05-2025
- Sport
- The Sun
Antony Eyes Redemption in Betis' Conference League Final
SEVILLE: Standing between Chelsea and the Conference League trophy is Real Betis winger Antony, and that means significantly more than it did five months ago. The Brazilian winger, 25, escaped his Manchester United nightmare in January as he joined the La Liga side on loan, looking to rebuild a career that had stalled miserably at Old Trafford. Antony became the Red Devils' second most expensive player ever when he joined from Ajax in 2022 for £81.3 million ($110 million), but flopped badly under his former coach Erik ten Hag. The pressure at United grew to be too much for the winger, whose best form was out of reach. 'Only I know what it was like to be there at home, not having the strength to even play with my son, going days without eating, staying locked in my room,' Antony told TNT Sports Brazil ahead of the final. 'I told (my brother) that I couldn't take it any more.' Antony has explained he emerged from a Brazilian favela, playing without boots and against drug dealers, developing a hard shell, so to suffer so much in Manchester is particularly striking. Once exciting youngster Amad Diallo emerged, Ten Hag's successor Ruben Amorim was happy for the forward to depart, with Manuel Pellegrini's Betis happy to take the gamble and try to kickstart a season which was flagging. The fit could not have been better for both player and club, as they helped each other get back to their best. With three goals and an assist in his first four games for Betis across all competitions, Antony was rapidly smiling again in the Andalusian sun before adoring fans. 'It's very easy to play with him, he has incredible talent, he makes good decisions,' Isco said of his team-mate in February. 'I hope we can take that step forward to get into Europe.' With the Spanish playmaker, called into Spain's Nations League squad for the first time in six years, clicking with the Brazilian, Betis did just that. They booked a place in next season's Europa League and might have gone one better if not fighting on two fronts. While the Conference League does not mean a great deal to two-time Champions League winners Chelsea, for Betis it would represent a significant accomplishment. Despite being only one of nine clubs to win La Liga, they have never brought home a European trophy. Betis lifted the Copa del Rey in 2022 but have won nothing else in the last two decades. Even the club's motto reflects their lack of success -- 'long live Betis, even when they lose' -- forged with the club in the third tier in the 1950s. 'I had offers but when Betis appeared, I felt a certainty in my heart,' explained Antony, with Pellegrini helping refill his exhausted morale. 'He gave me so much confidence.' 'I've cried a lot' The veteran coach also helped Antony work on his end product, whereas in England he was often mocked for his penchant for tricks. In return, Antony brought goals, assists and a touch of elite quality that clubs like Betis cannot usually access. 'It's not just by chance that Manchester United paid (that much) for him,' noted Pellegrini. Antony struck in both legs of the 4-3 semi-final win over Fiorentina to take Betis to the Wroclaw final and has nine goals and five assists in 25 appearances for the club. 'We went through very difficult times to be enjoying this moment today,' said the forward, explaining his tears following the triumph over La Viola. While Manchester United fell short in the Europa League final and miss out on next season's Champions League, Antony's revival could see him crowned a European champion and earn a big summer move. Of course Betis would dearly love to keep him at the Benito Villamarin, although the price would be an issue -- but Isco has been brainstorming, even suggesting 'kidnap' to keep the attacker. 'We need to crowd-fund so he can stay at least another year,' joked the midfielder, still scheming, after Antony shone against city rivals Sevilla, one of many outstanding performances in a green-and-white shirt. Real Betis fans badly hope Antony has at least one more to come.
