Villanueva Mesía’s weather is typical of the Mediterranean climate. Dry, warm summer temperatures average 23°c while it rarely goes below 4°c in the winter. The rainy season runs from November to April, usually worse in the fall and winter months, yet still enjoyable to those who are used to colder climates.

 

Town streets are lined with flowering trees and beautiful flowers. Shoppers will enjoy spending time viewing the different items sold by local artisans, as they stroll down the attractive streets and beautiful riverside paths.

In actuality, there is little physical documentation regarding Villanueva de Mesía’s origins. While historians are sure that the Moors established the area, there is little documented evidence until the fall of the Nasrid Kingdom. 

 

After the fall of the Nasrid Kingdom, the area that would eventually become Villanueva de Mesía was given to Lazara de Peralta, one of the Count of Tendilla’s military lieutenants. He developed the land, called Talancos, near the Genil River ensuring that there was a strong military fortress and good flood controls.

 

During the 16th century, control of the area was handed to the Simancas family. They changed the name to Villanueva de Tájara and lived there for many years. In 1577, Juan de Simancas sold it to newlyweds Doña Francisca Arias de Mansilla Perez de Herrasti and Don Alonso Messía de Alarcón. When their firstborn son came along, they changed their estate’s name to Villanueva de Messía. When that son inherited the town and estate, he dropped one “s” from the name. He lived happily in the estate that eventually became the town’s starring attraction. In 1990, the estate house was destroyed due to its inhabitable condition.

Every October, the Fair of Cattle is held for a span of usually four days. The event begins with fireworks, parades, competitions, and progresses into flowing beer tents, area foods, and more! This is one of Villanueva de Mesía’s most popular events so expect plenty of crowds.

 

Iglesia Parroquial de Nuestra Señora de la Aurora was erected in the 16th century. Inside elaborate woodcarvings grace the altar. Also within the interior is the tomb of Doña Maria Silva de Cisneros Montezuma, a popular area historical figure.

 

Villanueva Mesía is a white town, so the beautiful images create lasting memories. Whitewashed buildings stand out against the green fertile hills and fields in the background. Take some time to stroll the streets and view the amazing picturesque streets and countryside. A few fountains can be found within the town. They provide excellent backdrops for picture taking.

 

Along the river, you can view the old irrigation systems and immense pine forests. Many paths wind throughout the town and follow the river out into the wilds.

Tourism is not high on Villanueva de Mesía’s list of moneymakers. Most of the area’s revenue comes from agricultural businesses - olive groves in particular. Olive trees thrive in the surrounding fields. Wheat is the second most important crop. The area’s economy relies heavily on those two crops to provide enough money to the area to keep the economy from collapsing. With no restaurants, one doctor, and one pharmacy in the area, there is little else to rely on for income.

Fresh produce is abundant in Villanueva de Mesía. The culinary dishes utilize the fresh figs, oranges, asparagus, garlic, and potatoes. Oranges and potatoes are often cooked, chilled, and then tossed with fresh cod. This salad, known as Remojón, is popular throughout Granada. Pipirrana, Spanish potato salad, is also a common side dish.

 

Asparagus seasoned in garlic and olive oil is served along side many entrees. Pork products and stewed snails are other typical area dishes.

Due to its small size (around 2,000 residents), there is little to do in Villanueva de Mesía. You can find a couple area bars scattered in the town. Many staff members do not speak English; therefore do plant to have a dictionary handy.