This municipality in the province of Cádiz, situated on the Atlantic coast, lies between Rota and Sanlúcar de Barrameda, approximately 60 km from the capital city. Chipiona is renowned for its beautiful beaches and excellent tourist infrastructure, making tourism one of the main economic drivers of the municipality.
The history of Chipiona dates back to the Roman presence in the south of the peninsula, although a significant portion of the original population were possibly Tartessians, who lived in lands near this municipality. Around the 2nd century BCE, it appeared under the name of Caeponis Turri, likely derived from the presence of a tower used as a lighthouse. It is quite likely that they engaged in fish salting and the production of garum, which was very popular among the population, especially in Rome.
The fall of the Roman Empire and the arrival of the Visigoths significantly reduced the population, and it took several centuries to recover. During the period of Al-Andalus, the Arabs built a mosque, likely under the current church, and a castle. Their presence left behind little evidence and lasted until 1251, the year of the conquest of Chipiona under the leadership of Ferdinand III, and then re-conquered by his son in 1264. It wasn't repopulated until 1297, when families from nearby areas settled there.
If you visit Chipiona, you may be interested in discovering the following major tourist attractions:
Chipiona LighthouseSince the Roman period, there is evidence of shipwrecks caused by the reef situated at the entrance of the river Guadalquivir, known as 'Piedra Salmedina'. There was already a lighthouse built by the Romans, and the current lighthouse is the tallest in Spain, the third tallest in Europe, and the fourth tallest in the world, with a height of up to 69 metres. Built in 1867, it can be visited during the summer in small groups of five people on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Location: map
This port, built in the late 20th century, is situated next to the mouth of the river Guadalquivir. It features modern facilities and serves as a hub for both fishing and recreational activities. The port is a popular spot for visitors, offering picturesque views and a variety of dining options along the waterfront.
Location: map
Built upon an old fortress in the 16th century, the Regla Sanctuary is a significant religious site in Chipiona. It is renowned for its beautiful architecture and historical importance.
Location: map
The Chipiona CastleBuilt upon another Arab castle in 1295, the Chipiona Castle has undergone several reforms over the centuries. It now serves as a cultural centre and museum, showcasing the rich history of the region.
Location: map
Rich in iodine, the beaches in Chipiona are one of its main tourist attractions:
Another of the main tourist attractions in Chipiona is its fish. Fishing has been an important activity since antiquity, and the fish available today in the municipality is renowned for its quality.
Popular Festivities in ChipionaThis National Park is situated very near Chipiona, so if you have time or are planning to stay in Chipiona for a few days, we highly recommend a visit.
Location: map
The shortest route to get to Chipiona from Málaga involves crossing through the stunning Natural Park of Los Alcornocales from Algeciras. This scenic drive takes you through picturesque towns such as Alcalá de los Gazules, Medina-Sidonia, and Jerez de la Frontera. Before reaching Sanlúcar de Barrameda, you will turn off towards Chipiona. The total distance is approximately 258 kilometres, and the journey takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes by car.
The route above uses a toll road. Alternatively, you can take other routes such as the A-357 and A-384, or the A-92 and A-471, which offer different scenic views and travel experiences.
If you need a rental car in Málaga to get to Chipiona, feel free to check out our prices and book with plenty of time ahead.
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