As one of Spain’s famed “white villages,” Olvera is as picturesque as they come. The “white villages” are known for their sparkling white washed businesses and houses that create an amazing picture of lush greenery with pristine white buildings. Set on a hillside, Olvera’s range begins at the top where the glorious El Castillo de Olvera makes its home. Dazzling white cottages, stores, and other establishments then blanket the side of the hill. From the hill’s bottom, Olvera seems surreal, more like a white painting than an actual town.

 

For tourists, the village’s intriguing history and locally made crafts are of major interest. Olvera is a smaller town; no more than 9,000 residents live in the area, so there is not much in the way of nightlife. Nonetheless, the area, its culture, and neat boutiques make it a pleasing destination.

There is archeological evidence that Olvera had residents more than 10,000 years ago. Not much is known of the town’s earliest beginnings, but it is known that Roman’s settled in Olvera due to noted Roman, Pliny’s, mention of the town (then called either Hippo or Hippo Nova.) Eventually, the area became populated by Visigoths who dominated for a number of years before being driven out by the Moors.

 

The Moors recognized the military benefits to Olvera’s location high on a hillside. They built huge fortresses on the top of the hill where they could see invaders coming from miles away. This allowed the Moorish armies to prepare for battle far before their attackers arrived.

 

In the fourteenth century, Olvera was finally overtaken by King Alfonso XI. The Moors attempted to reclaim their city, but failed every time. Olvera settled into the quiet agriculture town it is today.

Built during the twelfth century, El Castillo de Olvera is an amazing fortress. At times, it appears the castle was actually carved into the rock faces. Much of the castle is open to tourists. Museo de Castillos y Fronteres, located in the old prison, details the area’s history.

 

Iglesia Parroquial de Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación was built during the end of the eighteenth century and the beginning of the nineteenth century. The church is an amazing site, packed with incredible detail and imported Italian marble. Built on the site of a former mosque, the building blends a few different architectural styles.

 

Built in the eighteenth century, Ermita de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios is located two kilometres from the village centre. This sanctuary is built in the middle of an olive grove. Every year, two weeks from Easter Sunday, groups of people come to the sanctuary to celebrate the Pilgrimage of Quasimodo. During this pilgrimage, incredible local dishes are prepared and a large feast becomes a great ending to the celebration.

 

In the middle of May, Olvera holds its annual cattle fair. During a four-day period, local horses, donkeys, and cattle are sold or auctioned to interested buyers. Though not to everyone’s interest, anyone with an interest in animals and farming may find this unique fair to be right up their alley.

 

Many area forests and walking trails prove to be excellent attractions for horseback riders and hikers alike. Wildlife can be seen from most any destination including impressive griffon vultures and wild mountain goats.

Located in Spain’s prime olive tree country, Olvera is one of the area’s largest producers of olive oil. Olive oil exportation brings in much revenue to the area.

 

Tourism is limited, but does bring in some money, especially during the annual pilgrimage, when the town receives many visitors.

 

Many area farmers and ranchers earn and contribute to Olvera’s economy by breeding cattle, donkeys, and horses. Husbandry is one of the most common occupations in Olvera. With many horses and cows in the area, skilled craftsmen and craftswomen work hard making harnesses by hand out of leather.

Olvera’s claim to producing incredible olive oils helps shape their culinary style. Breakfasts usually consist of Tortas de Masa that are fried pieces of bread dipped into honey. Another local favourite is toast with either sausage made from pig liver or deep-fried pieces of spiced pork belly.

 

Many meals include rounds of tapas brought to the tables. Small tidbits of local fare ranging from fresh olives to cheeses and more hearty dishes such as ground pork and cheese wrapped in locally smoked ham. For main meals, other local favourites are rabbit stew or cold meat and sausage platters.

 

For dessert, do not be surprised to find a yummy specialty called gachas served. Gachas is a paste made from walnuts and aniseed that is then served in a rich milk and honey sauce.

Aside from a few bars located in Olvera, there is no nightlife worth mentioning. Many local bars serve tapas alongside their homemade wines known as mosto (white wine that has not aged). If you are after dance clubs and live music, you will need to head off to nearby cities.

Along the route of “white villages,” Olvera is one of the prettiest towns. Declared a nationally protected area for historic and artistic reasons, Olvera is a town rich with beauty. The castle and church offer breathtaking images and make for fantastic photographs. Bring your art supplies and get lost in an area with undeniable artistic flair.