The best traffic-free bike rides around La Sierra Norte

pre-breakfast Aznalcollar

The castle has a trapezoidal shape and has two gates and eight towers, three of which are semicircular. The main gate is located in the keep, to the south of the enclosure, while the secondary gate is on the opposite side. Both gates have been rebuilt with granite ashlar.

The Parish Church of Santa María de la Purificación, due to its volumetric force and its location in an elevated part of the town, becomes the most representative architectural landmark. Despite being initially located away from the urban center, it is a remarkable example of a Sevillian church, in which the Mudejar and Baroque styles converge, following a very characteristic approach to 18th-century construction practice in the area. Built according to Mudejar principles in its original construction, which appears to date from the 15th century, it would later be practically rebuilt after the damage caused by the 1755 earthquake, conforming to the Baroque guidelines prevailing in the second half of the 17th century. A reconstruction in which Pedro de Silva, Antonio Matías de Figueroa, and José Álvarez participated. Among them, Antonio Matías de Figueroa stands out for the significance of his intervention in the complex. His work on the Manzanilla church can therefore be considered one of the last examples of this family's distinctive style—the so-called triumphal baroque—and one of the first signs of the change of direction demanded by the changing times, in their preference for the primacy of Rococo lines over Baroque masses. The appearance of neoclassical elements (the Gospel nave portal), derived from the presence of José Alvarez (1782–1783) as director of the works, also speaks to the formal evolution of the style toward the last quarter of the century. Finally, the tower (1760-1779) stands out, attributed to Lucas Cintora and Francisco Díaz Pinto, and one of the most beautiful examples in the province. It perfectly fits one of the two characteristic typologies of 18th-century Andalusia, originating from the Giralda in Seville. It forms part of a unique group of towers in Huelva, along with that of the Temple of San Pedro in Huelva and that of the Church of San Juan Bautista (La Palma del Condado), all of which follow a very similar model. This building represents another example of the intense religious construction activity that characterized 18th-century Huelva architecture, motivated by a fortunate combination of economic, demographic, and natural circumstances (earthquakes), and which has come to be known as its Golden Age.

The Real de la Jara Castle is located in the town of El Real de la Jara, in the province of Seville. This medieval castle occupies a strategic position atop a hill north of the town, making it an important defensive center during the Middle Ages.

The Plaza de España in La Palma del Condado is an emblematic and central place in this charming town in the province of Huelva. Surrounded by historic buildings and with a vibrant atmosphere, it is a popular meeting point for both locals and visitors. In this square, you can find the Parish Church of San Juan Bautista, one of the most representative churches of the 18th century Sevillian Baroque style. In addition, the square is close to other points of interest such as the Convent of Our Lady of Carmen and the Old Town Hall.

It is worth going up, seeing it and enjoying the views.

El Real de la Jara Castle is a medieval fortress located in the municipality of El Real de la Jara, in the Sierra Norte de Sevilla. This castle has a rich history and offers a fascinating experience. You can join a guided tour to learn about the history of the castle, its architecture and its importance in the region.

Santa Olalla del Cala Castle is an impressive fortress located in the town of Santa Olalla del Cala, in the province of Huelva, Andalusia. This castle, of Muslim origin, was built in the 13th century and later renovated by the Christians after the Reconquista. The castle is located in a strategic position, on top of a hill, which allowed it to control the passage between Seville and the Sierra de Aracena. Its structure includes robust walls, defensive towers and a parade ground. The keep is one of the most outstanding elements of the castle, offering panoramic views of the surroundings. Today, Santa Olalla del Cala Castle is an important tourist attraction and a symbol of the historical heritage of the region. Guided tours are available that allow visitors to explore its corners and learn more about its history and architecture.