Jerez de la Frontera
On a large and fertile plain between the mountains and the sea, stands Jerez de la Frontera, the true synthesis of Andalusian idiosyncrasy. A stones throw from the idyllic beaches of Cadiz, the cradle of the Carthusian Horse and the birthplace of great flamenco singers, with world wide recognition for the quality of wines which are matured in local bodegas.
The traditional Jerez, with its deep affection for the world of horses and bulls and its magnificent heritage, blends perfectly with the more modern city of wide avenues and squares with colossal sculptures. Its comprehensive network of infrastructures has made it an important centre for conferences and sports events, such as the World Motorcycle Championships Grand Prix, which is held at the race track.
There are two important dates in the city’s events calendar. Firstly the Easter Week Parades, which have been declared an event of National Tourist Interest: a great baroque explosion of art which is reflected in the lavishness of the religion imagery.
Secondly, something which should not be missed: the Horse Fair, which is held in the Gonzalez Hontoria Park, declared an event of International Tourist Interest. For a week, the marquees of the fairground provide the setting for the best singing and dancing, which is reflected in the Equestrian Competitions and Bullfights.
Jerez also boasts a Zoo to visit, providing homes for up to 1,200 animals, one of which is the only White Tiger in Spain – but which has already had some offspring. The zoo is also playing an important role in the preservation of endangered species by implementing internationally recognised Reproduction Programmes which are having excellent results.
