Priego de Cordoba is centrally located among a number of Andalusian cities. The town is located 180 kilometres from Sevilla, 125 kilometres from Malaga, 75 kilometres from Granada, 100 kilometres from Cordoba, and 400 kilometres from Madrid.

 

Surrounded by the mountains of Albayate, Alcaide, and the Mountain Range of the Jews, the town is also bordered by both the Salado River and the Arrollo Genilla. Outdoors enthusiasts will find plenty to see and do, while those seeking a quieter town full of Spanish charm will be equally satisfied.

Helping to shape Priego de Cordoba's history are a number of artifacts dating back Paleolithic period. Researchers believe that Priego de Cordoba may have been settled more than 30,000 years ago. This alone helps to amaze many visitors. The more commonly known history dates back to the time of the Moors when soldiers settled in the area building a stronghold to keep invaders out. The Moors thrived in the area for a few centuries before Christian armies invaded and overturned the Moorish realm in the 1300s. Historically, these battles lasted years and led to sharp population declines. 

 

In the 1600s, Moors were allowed back in to the poorer areas in an effort to add to the population. Christians realized that their economy could only flourish if the Moors were allowed back to their homelands. For the next century, the town's status as a thriving silk market, but plagues in the latter years of the 1600s would again take their toll on the population.

Most tourists come to town for only a few days, so it can be hard to pick the best activities. The Municipal Historical Museum opened in 1983 and offers the best way to learn about the town's history and culture. The museum is closed Mondays. Other worthwhile museums include the House Museum Niceto Alcala Zamora and Torres, the Museum of Contemporary Spanish Landscapes, Museum Adolph Lozano and Sidro, and the House Museum of Castil of Fields.

 

The Oils Vizcantar is a local olive manor where olive oil is pressed daily. Tourists are welcome to tour the establishment and sample some freshly pressed oil. This is another must-do activity.

 

The Moorish castle is well kept and important to see. Not only do the castle grounds offer exceptional views, but the architecture is unique. Round a tour of the castle off with a visit to the area's oldest churches—Church of Our Lady of the Aurora and Church of San Franciso.

Olive oil production is the basis of the town's economy. The warm climate ensures that the olive trees thrive.

The area's culinary delights are often a blend of Spanish and Middle Eastern styles. Chicken, ham, bacon, and liver are staple meats. Eggs, saffron, fresh produce, and breads round out most meals.

 

One of the area's most popular meals is a platter of different boiled meats flavoured with saffron and garlic and then stewed with cubes of bread. A fried pastry, similar to churros, is also quite popular.

Nightlife is pretty much confined to dining out at a variety of local restaurants. There are no true dance clubs in the town, but the restaurants are excellent for relaxing and meeting the locals.

Priego de Cordoba offers beautiful vistas, friendly locals, and a nice range of shopping, dining, and cultural activities. Bring a camera because the scenery is certain to turn a simple visit into a lasting treasure that can be framed and cherished for years.