Gazpacho soup originated in southern Spain's, Andalucia region. Although there are many regional and modern versions it's traditionally made with the following; ripe tomatoes, bell peppers, cucumbers, garlic, bread, olive oil, and vinegar.
Torre del Oro was constructed between 1221 and 1222 by the Berbers. This Golden Tower was the last point of a fortress that extended from the Alcazar to the river. Huge chains crossed the Guadalquivir river and this structure anchored them thus preventing ships from sailing upstream. The chains were used in the city's defense against the Castilian fleet during the reconquest.
Seville is one of the most celebrated cities in southern Spain. It is truly one of the most romantic cities I have seen in all of this region. Andalucia is a spectacular region of white hill towns winding through olive groves. This is old Spain; horses drawn carriages, cobble stones, flamenco and wrought iron adornments.
Seville is situated on the plain of the River Guadalquivir and the Andalucia colors are seen everywhere. Right away the tones set the mood and the weather is warmer. If you like romance and great food, Seville will not dissapoint. Barrio Santa Cruz is a wonderful place to stay and eating should not be missed. Some of the best food I have had in Spain so far is here. The nightly tapas crawl gets started with bustling bars and friendly staff. One of my favorite dishes was the lagostinos that was out of this world fantastic. In addition, the bacalao was a close second (Spanish term for dried salt cod) It's a popular southern tapas item along with calamari. No wonder I love the food so much.
Ronda is a great first stop on a list of towns to drive in Andalucia. Winding my way up the mountain road is a white knuckle drive with winds swirling along and what looks to be snow drifting in the wind. Most people visit Ronda by car from the Costa del Sol, via San Pedro de Alcantara on the A376/C-3. The route through the Sierra Bermeja mountains is dramatic, and in winter the peaks attract low cloud and even snow. A gentler route leaves Malaga on the A357, bypassing the interior towns of Ardales, Carratraca and Cuevas de Becerra. Of course, I opted for the dramatic route.
