Area Guide for San Fernando, CadizIntroduction:Located off the coast of Cadíz, San Fernando is an island separated from the mainland by many salt marshes. As the area is abundant in seafood, the area’s cuisine is some of the finest in Spain.
San Fernando is a charming seaside village rich in history and visually stunning due to the centuries-old architecture. Though not a huge city, San Fernando certainly holds its own against the larger tourist traps.
History:Dating back to the Paleolithic Age, San Fernando has been settled at times by Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Arabs, and Romans. Eventually, the island was claimed by King Alfonso X, who gave the area to Ponce de Léon who named it Isla de Léon. Ponce de Léon gave the island away for a number of years, but the de Léon family regained it at the end of the 16th century.
Due to the island’s convenient location, San Fernando became a major military and trade port. In the 1800’s Napoleonic armies took control of the island, renamed it San Fernando, and the island settled into its present day roots - a quiet, yet popular, fishing town.
Site Seeing:The San Fernando Botanical Gardens are located within the Parque Natural de la Bahía de Cádiz. These lush gardens house more than 600 species of fauna native to Cadíz Bay.
San Fernando is the home of a Navel Museum. Open daily. An in-depth view into the area’s Naval history is only one of this museum’s offerings.
Castillo de San Romualdo is an impressive castle believed to have been constructed in the 1300s. Due to the architectural style, Castillo de San Romualdo appears to have been built by Muslim bricklayers for the Romans. The building and grounds have been carefully preserved throughout the centuries.
The 18th century Mayor Church is the location in which the first Spanish Constitutional Court members were sworn into office. The attractive water features, gardens, and building create a lavish background for photographs.
Zuazo Bridge brings people from the mainland to the island of San Fernando. The bridge was originally constructed by Romans, but was rebuilt in the 19th century. The bridge is definitely worthy of more than just a trip across it.
Roundhouse of the Punic Furnaces of San Fernando is an amazing archaeological find. Believed to have been the furnaces used by Phoenician pottery makers, visitors can observe the historic constructions and remnants of a time long past.
Every July, the city’s evening hours come alive with a celebration of the Virgin of the Carmen - Patron Saint of sailors and fishermen. The evenings become an unforgettable mixture of exquisite local fare, area music, and plenty of dancing.
Industry:Due to the large salt marshes surrounding the area, fish farming is a major player in the area’s industry. Grey mullet, sole, and sea bass are common fish, while a species of crab native to San Fernando has the amazing ability of growing back its claws. Crab claws are popular and plentiful! Cañaillas (mussels) and prawns are also abundant in the area.
Though many of the salt marshes have been turned into fish farms, there are a couple active salt works where visitors can learn the ancient Roman art of harvest salt from the ocean.
Due to the areas close proximately to the large naval base, many naval buildings are being built throughout the region. Construction is a profession that is quickly increasing in San Fernando.
Gastronomy:Area specialties include Aliñadas, a salad make from olives soaked in spices, vinegar, and olive oil. For dessert, tourists should not miss Tocino de Cielo, creamy custard similar to Crème Caramel.
Venta de Vargas is a local establishment that prides itself on the Flamenco atmosphere. It is at Venta de Vargas where a young Jose Monge began his career as a Flamenco performer under the name Camaron de la Isla. Local seafood is served daily, and many typical Andalusian dishes are available.
After learning how salt is milled, patrons can enjoy a freshly caught and prepared seafood meal. The salt mill, Salina San Vicente, has a restaurant on the premise that leaves seafood lovers craving more.
Venta los Tarantos offers traditional Andalusian fare. Rich prawn dishes and fried fish dishes are popular choices among diners. With a gorgeous courtyard, this restaurant is among the area’s most popular dining establishments.
Nightlife:With its smaller size, San Fernando is not big into the dance club scene. The area is home to some lovely tapas bars where you can enjoy local fare while sipping on a glass of sherry, wine, or ice cold beer.
Many locals spend their evenings strolling the streets and then settling in for a quiet chat at a local bar. This is a great way to fully experience the culture and people of San Fernando.
Summary:Seafood lovers will certainly eat their weight in spectacular culinary creations during their stay in San Fernando. Fish does not come any fresher than it does in the area restaurants. With exquisite culinary options as an added bonus, any stay in the stunning Andalusian town is certain to please. See the sights, explore the salt mills, and enjoy every morsel of food during your stay in San Fernando.Useful Business Links for San Fernando:Do you offer a service in this area? If so, why not put a link here directly to your website. Contact Ask Olive today. |
