Introduction:

If the thought and/or smell of fabulous cuisine put shivers of delight up your spine, a trip to Montefrío brings you to some of Andalusia’s greatest pork.  The Jambon de York is locally cured and aged in the clean mountain air.  The ham is then thinly sliced and served raw.  Other specialties include chorizo sausage and Salchicon, a pork sausage that is similar to salami.  Olive oil of exceptional quality is also produced in Montefrío.

History:

Montefrío had been settled during the Neolithic period with evidence left behind thanks to La Peña de los Gitanos, an archaeological site that houses many megalithic tombs.  Eventually, the area was settled by Moors who added their Arabian touch to the town’s architecture.  The town became a thriving valley trade route, and provided sanctuary to King Ismail III, who was crowned in Montefrío, and then hid from Mohammed X in Granada until a battle could be waged.  Eventually, King Ismail III succeeded in overthrowing Mohammed X, and Montefrío fell to Catholic rule.

Site Seeing:

The Peña de los Gitanos is also adjacent to Montefrío.  The natural reserve is located along the Parapanda Mountains.  Las Peñas offers rocky ledges and magnificent fauna.  Many hiking trails wind through the mountain range making it a popular spot for nature lovers. Montefrío offers the chance for many tourists to view the amazing architecture that created the ancient watchtowers for guards.  The town’s hillside location provided soldiers with great views of the surrounding area, allowing armies to prepare far in advance of enemy attacks.  Erected in the 14th century, the Watchtower of Espinar is five kilometers from the town limits.  It is a tourist favourite as it provides outstanding views of the surrounding countryside.  The next watchtower is the Tower of the Ring, located two kilometers from the town limits.  The final tower, Tower of the Thorny Spot, is about seven kilometers from the town limits.  These three towers provided an excellent view of lands to the north, west, east, and south. The Castilla de la Villa was built in 1352.  The tower was considered the most strategic military location within the Kingdom of Granada.  While there, be sure to check out the amazing features of the Visigoth necropolis. An 18th century grain tower offers a good look into the history of Montefrío.  Pósito now houses a cultural museum that showcases a view into the history of Montefrío’s people. Completed in the early 1800s, Iglesia de la Encarnacíon features neoclassical architecture and some of the area’s greatest stonework.  Iglesia de la Villa was erected in the 14th century and then expanded in the 1940s.  The third church within Montefrío is Iglesia de San Antonio.  Erected between 1737 and 1763, this church has a bell tower with many ceramic features.

Industry:

Montefrío receives some tourism, but for the most part the key industry revolves around the production of sausage, Jambon de York, and olive oil.  Many locals produce some of the meat products themselves in their mountainside homes.  Olive farmers bring in much needed revenue every year.

Gastronomy:

Moving on to Montefrío, olive oil is used in many baked or sautéed dishes.  The area specialty, Chorizo sausage, is often served in a garlic sauce.  Stews made from the decadent sausages are quite common.  Salads made from roasted peppers, tomatoes, onions, and orange juice help cleanse the palate between courses.  Thin slices of Jambon de York are often served as tapas. Traditional dishes served in the area taverns include, Solpa de Lomo de Orza and Espárragos Trigueros (Asparagus Soup), Gazpacho de Espárragos (a cold tomato soup with asparagus), and a variety of sausage and ham dishes.  For dessert, three dishes are typically offered.  Almonds play an important part in the area’s desserts - almond custard, almond curd, and chocolate croquettes.

Nightlife:

There really is nothing for those seeking an active nightlife.  You may find a couple tapas bars, but do not expect lively dance clubs.  Many locals spend their evenings sitting in a shady spot and just enjoying the company of their friends and family.  It is an excellent way to join in with the local customs.

Summary:

While Montefrío may not be a destination that will keep you busy for days, it is a perfect spot for a day trip.  While there, make sure you sample the local sausages and definitely purchase some of the locally produced olive oil.  No trip to Montefrío is complete until you walk away with some of the freshest, most delicious olive oil in the country.

Useful Business Links for Montefrío:

Do you offer a service in this area?  If so, why not put a link here directly to your website.  Contact Ask Olive today.