Andalusia: The Hidden Gem of Europe

Planning a vacation to Europe or studying abroad this year? If you don’t have Andalusia, Spain on your list of places to see, then you might have to reconsider your travel plans.  Drawing its name from the arabic “Al-Andalus”, this territory was once the heart of the great medieval Moorish empire.  Today, the mixture of Arab and European culture has created one of the more unique areas to visit in Europe, and here’s why.

Photo from andalusia-web.com

Starting in Malaga, drive east on the newly built coastal highway, which offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean, flanked by the rugged Spanish countryside.  Stopping through small beach towns such as Nerja is certainly worth it; the water is almost clearer than in the Greek islands!

Continuing north to Granada brings you to the Alhambra, the spectacular “red fortress” which was once the palace of the ruling Moorish sultans. Be sure to reserve tickets in advance, however, as this site is among the most visited in the world.

Next destination: Cordoba, another ancient city filled with the traces of a war-filled past.  The dominating Mosque in the city center was forcefully converted into a cathedral during the re-conquisition of Spain by the Catholic Kings and is certainly a site to see.

Photo from Flickr.com by andalusien360.de

Traveling further west brings you Sevilla, one of the country’s largest cities bursting with vibrant local culture.  The bull-fighting arena is just one of many attractions that include horse shows and the famous flamenco bars.

Finally, finish the tour with a day trip to Gibraltar, the strategic British island filled with underground caves and monkeys!  Drive the inroads back to the Malaga airport from Gibraltar and you will see some of the most peaceful countryside scenery imaginable, a fitting end to a trip filled with beauty and history.

Andalusia is not one of the more spoken about European destinations for travelers, so go there for a culturally-enriching and unique experience of your own!