Puerto de Santa Maria
In the province of Cadiz, you'll find the beautiful town of Puerto de Santa Maria, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and stunning beaches with fine sand and clear waters. This charming coastal town offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Located conveniently between the train stations of Jerez de la Frontera and Puerto Real, and in close proximity to Cadiz, Puerto de Santa Maria is a must-visit destination. Whether you're looking to indulge in the finest local dishes, relax on pristine beaches, or explore historical landmarks, this town has something for everyone.
History
El Puerto de Santa Maria boasts a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Archaeological finds in the area reveal human presence from the Lower Palaeolithic era, and there are also remnants of a Phoenician settlement from between the 9th and 3rd centuries BC.
The town was originally named Port Menestheus, after a warlord from Athens who founded it following the Trojan War.
Following the fall of the Roman Empire, the region was taken over by various barbarian tribes until the early 8th century, when the Arabs arrived and drove them out. The town was then renamed Alcanter Amaria.
In 1260, Christian armies conquered the area and renamed it Santa Maria del Puerto, reflecting their religious beliefs. During this period, the town flourished, becoming closely linked to the discovery of America. Notably, it was here that Juan de la Cosa drew the first complete world map, likely commissioned by a nobleman.
Tourism and Places to Visit
Walking through the streets of Puerto de Santa Maria is like stepping back in time. This town boasts a large number of historical buildings, including eighteenth-century manor houses that were abandoned and are currently used as tenements.
Among some of the activities you can enjoy in Puerto de Santa Maria are:
- Guided Tours of the City - From the tourist office located next to the Castillo de San Marcos, tours leave every Saturday at 11:30 am, covering the main monuments for only 4 euros.
- Municipal Museum - Open Tuesdays to Fridays from 10 am to 2 pm. On Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays, the Museum opens from 11 am to 2 pm. (map)
- Casa Cargadores a Indias - Puerto de Santa Maria has always played an important role in trade with America, serving as an exporting and commercial port with the peninsula and Europe. (map)
- Mansion of Los Leones - Currently holiday apartments, this building was once an eighteenth-century baroque style house. (map)
- Castle of San Marcos - One of the most representative monuments of Puerto de Santa Maria. (map)
- Phoenician Settlement - The site is located on an artificial hill formed by the accumulation of constructions and deposits over time, reaching heights of up to 9 meters in some points. (map)
It is rather curious to venture inside and experience a time now past. Many period buildings that are currently tenements follow this style of central patio with pots, very representative of the typical Andalusian mansion.
In Puerto de Santa Maria, you can also enjoy long walks and discover places like Puerto Sherry, guided bike tours, and other attractions.
Fair and Local Festivities
El Puerto de Santa Maria is renowned for its vibrant fairs and local festivities, which reflect the rich cultural heritage and lively spirit of the town. Here are some of the key events you can enjoy:
- Feria de Primavera y Fiesta del Vino Fino - Held from late May to early June, this spring fair is one of the most anticipated events in the town. It features traditional music, dance, food stalls, and wine tasting.
- Carnaval - Celebrated in February, the carnival is a time for colourful parades, costumes, and lively street performances.
- Semana Santa (Holy Week) - Taking place in March or April, Holy Week is marked by solemn processions and religious ceremonies, showcasing the town's deep-rooted traditions.
- Fiesta de los Patios - In April, this festival celebrates the beautiful courtyards of the town, adorned with flowers and traditional decorations.
- Virgen del Carmen - On July 16th, this maritime festival honours the patron saint of sailors with a procession and various activities by the sea.
- Virgen de los Milagros - Celebrated on September 8th, this festival honours the town's patron saint with religious events and community gatherings.
These festivities offer a unique opportunity to experience the local culture, traditions, and hospitality of El Puerto de Santa Maria. Whether you're enjoying the lively atmosphere of the spring fair or the solemn beauty of Holy Week, there's always something special to discover in this charming town.
Gastronomy in El Puerto de Santa Maria
El Puerto de Santa Maria is celebrated for its exceptional seafood and fried fish, making it a culinary hotspot in the region. The town's cuisine is deeply influenced by its coastal location, offering a variety of fresh seafood dishes that are a delight for any food lover. From traditional fried fish to exquisite seafood platters, the local gastronomy is a true reflection of the town's maritime heritage. Here are some of the most popular places to enjoy the local cuisine:
- Freiduria Pescaito Frito "El Tejar" - Known for its excellent fried fish and seafood, this freiduria is a must-visit for anyone looking to taste authentic local flavours. (map)
- Romerijo - A well-known establishment offering a variety of seafood dishes, including mariscos cocidos (boiled seafood) and pescaito frito (fried fish). (map)
- El Chirri - A popular spot for enjoying high-quality seafood and fried fish at reasonable prices. (map)
- Bar Apolo - A long-standing favourite for tapas and traditional Andalusian dishes, perfect for a relaxed meal. (map)
- La Pescadería - Famous for its fresh seafood and traditional dishes, this restaurant is a great choice for a memorable dining experience. (map)
- Casa Ricardo - Located in Puerto Sherry, this restaurant is known for its excellent seafood and stunning views of the bay. (map)
How to Get to Puerto de Santa Maria from Malaga
There are several ways to reach Puerto de Santa Maria from Malaga, each offering a unique travel experience:
- By Car: The shortest route is through the Natural Park of Alcornocales. Head towards Jerez de la Frontera and take the exit towards Puerto de Santa Maria. This scenic drive offers beautiful views of the park and surrounding countryside.
- By Train: You can take a train from Malaga to Seville, with a stop at Dos Hermanas (penultimate stop). From there, transfer to another train heading to Cadiz and get off at Puerto de Santa Maria, just after Jerez de la Frontera. This option allows you to relax and enjoy the journey without the hassle of driving.
For more convenience, you can check our prices for car hire at Malaga Airport or Malaga airport transfers on our website.
Official website
http://www.elpuertodesantamaria.es/
