Arcos de la Frontera enjoys one of the most remarkable settings in the whole of Andalucia. Perched on top of a steep cliff, its houses appear as though they are about to plunge any moment into the impressive valley formed by the Guadelete River below.

This strategic position was not lost on those who have settled here over the millennia.

Its present-day name has evolved from the Roman colony of Arx-Arcis, meaning the “fortress on high ground.”

Although legend has it that the name is derived from Arcobrigan, the arch of Brigo, the grandson of Noah.

Arcos was an important Moorish town and the capital of a Taifa kingdom in the 11C.

Following an initial incursion by Fernando III, it was finally conquered by Alfonso X in 1264.

The best way to visit Arcos is to wander through its narrow streets.

The easiest option is to leave your car in the lower town (paseo de Boliches) and continue on foot.

Ascend the Cuesta de Belen, a hill which connects the bustling commercial heart of Arcos – with its typically 19C architecture – with the upper town.

The latter, the nucleus of the medieval city is characterized by steep-sloped narrow alleyways and whitewashed houses.

Pass through the Puerta de Jerez, one of the three entrance gateways providing access to the walled Moorish city.

Walking along the Callejon de Juan del Valle you’ll come across the Palacio del Conde del Aguila with its impressive doorway, adorned by two humanoid figures.

Continue to the right along Calle Nueva, which runs parallel to the Castle wall, eventually leading to the center of old Arcos, the Plaza del Cabildo.

The Plaza is dominated by the tower of the Iglesia de Santa Maria and is also home to the Parador, the town hall and the Castle (now a privately owned building). The terrace on the West side offers a magnificent view of the plains below and the Iglesia de San Pedro.

Continue along the Callejon de las Monjas, passing the Convento de la Encarnacion, continuing along Calle del Marques de Toresoto, the small square at the end of the street is called Plazuela Boticas and is fronted by the Convento de las Mercedarias Descalzas, where it is still possible to buy pastries produced by nuns.

Calle Boticas and Calle Nunez de Prado lead to the other main section of the town. Close to the Iglesia de San Pedro stand the Capilla de la Misericordia and the Palacio del Mayorazgo.

To return to  Plaza del Cabildo, you are best advised to continue along Calle Boticas until the Plazuela de Boticas and then follow the charming Calle de Los Escribanos with its delightful wrought-iron balconies.

For holiday rentals in the beautiful village of Arcos de la Frontera

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