Introduction:

Fuente Vaqueros has a total population of 4,590.  Many residents emigrated from South America.  Thanks to the diversity, the town offers a wide array of cultures and businesses.

History:

It is believed that Moors (Arabs) originally settled the area of Fuente Vaqueros.  As is true with most of Spain, in the 15th century, the Christians fought for control of the area.  They succeeded and the Moors were driven out of Fuente Vaqueros.  The town turned into a virtual wasteland following the mass exodus. Christian settlers helped rebuild and repopulate Fuente Vaqueros.  In 1813, the Duke of Wellington was given the town as payment for his services during the War of Independence.  He moved into the manor (Casa Real del Soto de Roma) and made it his home.  He owned the town until the 1940s selling off plots of land periodically.  Gradually the townspeople bought up the land and made Fuente Vaqueros their own.

Site Seeing:

Federico Garcia Lorca Theatre offers dramatic productions on a regular basis.  For a change of pace, you can take in a play or an orchestral performance.  Federico Garcia Lorca is an acclaimed poet and dramatist who was born and raised in Fuente Vaqueros. There is also a Federico Garcia Lorca Museum where a complete look at the man and his history can be viewed.  Federico’s handwritten poems are located within the museum.  Nearby, you can view the hand-carved statue of Federico Garcia Lorca. Church of La Paz was erected in 1,663.  The church is open from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and then again from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm in the winter.  Summer hours are from 3.00 pm to 8.00 pm.  It is advisable to check these opening times. Church of Our Lady Asuncion was completed in 1870.  Unfortunately, the earthquake destroyed the building, leaving only the tower remaining.  The replacement was finished in 1954. Mill of La Paz is a historical mill dating back to the Moors.  The mill is open to tourists from 5.00 pm to 8.00 pm. in the summer.  Winter hours are different.  The mill is open from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and then again from 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm. The gardens and trees located on the grounds of the Casa Real del Soto de Roma (Real House of the Grove of Rome) are breathtaking.  The manor once was home to kings.

Industry:

More than 61% of Fuente Vaqueros’s economy is based on agriculture.  Cattle ranching and crops provide the majority of Fuente Vaqueros’s yearly revenue.  Tourism makes up an additional 11%.  Hotels and restaurants bring in plenty of money every year.  Construction brings in an additional 8% every year.  Finally, wood manufacturing brings in 4%.

Gastronomy:

Fuente Vaqueros’s gastronomy revolves around a wealth of crops that grow in the town fields.  Asparagus, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, garlic, spinach, cucumbers, and carrots are all common ingredients.  Usually the fresh vegetables are grilled or stewed with local beef or pork.  Pumpkin soup is a common starter.  Hornazo (boiled egg and sesame sandwich) is often served aside the soup. Apples, pears, mango, plums, and peaches are common to the area.  The fruit can be baked, broiled, or served fresh.

Nightlife:

There are a good number of tapas bars in the area.  Dance clubs are virtually non-existent, though some area bars do offer small dance areas from time to time.  While in Fuente Vaqueros, it is best to plan to spend your evenings strolling the town streets and meeting the locals in the area bars.

Summary:

Fuente Vaqueros is rich in history.  With gorgeous manor houses and lavish gardens, there is plenty for the enthusiastic photographer.  Food is fresh and succulent and worth sampling.  All in all, Fuente Vaqueros is a nice spot for some rest and relaxation.

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