Definitely one of Andalusia's smaller towns, Palenciana has approximately 1,500 residents. Those who come to Palenciana should not expect a lot of activities, instead a tranquil setting and beautiful scenery should be expected.

 

Palenciana is located approximately 70 kilometres south of Cordoba making it an easy day-trip for those who want to experience the town's charm. Tourists will find Palenciana by taking the N331 and following signs to the town for around eight kilometres.

Artifacts dating back to the ancient Iberians have been discovered on del Cerro de los Toros. Despite these ancient civilizations, the town did not win independence until the 1800s. In 1834, a massive storm destroyed many surrounding areas, but miraculously Palenciana remained untouched. Oak trees were used to create coal and this shaped the town's economy in the past centuries. Today, however, the economy relies solely on farming.

Palenciana's largest attraction is their yearly festival celebrating their escape from the damage caused to many towns almost 175 years ago. The celebration begins with a large parade through the town and then ends with fireworks and a huge meal of paella. In the days that follow, music concerts, flamenco performances, comedy acts, and classical orchestras provide entertainment to the population. Tourists should plan to come to town in August to experience this festival.

 

The town has one old church that is definitely worth visiting. Inside a sculpture of the Virgin Mary and her baby are the town's most prized possession.

The climate in Palenciana is rather warm and the soil is fertile. Olive trees prosper in the area, as do some wheats and grains. The bulk of Palenciana's industry relies on olive farming and grain harvests. Olives can be used to create olive oil, while the grains can be sold as cattle feed or to flour mills.

 

Palenciana holds a special honour. In 1995, they became the first town in the world to turn olives into a renewable source of energy. By taking the pulp from olives that have been pressed to extract the olive oil, this electricity plant then burns the pulp and is able to produce green energy. To date, this special electricity plant is able to provide 27,000 houses with electricity.

Olive oil is one of the area's staples. Fresh produce is secondary. Typical meals include stewed chicken, beef, or pork with tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and locally produced wines. Crops like tomatoes, onions, garlic, potatoes, asparagus, beans, and artichokes grow well in the area. Freshly baked bread often rounds out a meal.

Palenciana does not have restaurants or bars. Nightlife is not really an option in this sleepy town. Those who need more to do as the sunsets will need to drive to larger towns and cities. Cordoba is about 70 kilometres from Palenciana, so that can be an excellent destination for those seeking nightly activities.

Palenciana does not make it onto many itineraries. While there really is not enough activity to provide tourists with more than a few hours of sightseeing, Palenciana is still a worthwhile stop. While driving on to the major cities, why not get out and stretch your legs while taking in Palenciana's vistas?