Situated on Antequera’s eastern edge, Villanueva de Tapia is a delightful village. It’s at the junction of Granada and Córdoba provinces. Its unique location is in Andalusia’s heart. The town is picturesque and has a rich history. It also has a fascinating mix of cultural influences. We’ll explore Villanueva de Tapia’s essence on this page. We’ll provide a glimpse into its unique character and the treasures it possesses.
If you’re considering hiring a car in Málaga and exploring its unique villages, we encourage you to read on and plan your journey. Villanueva de Tapia offers a genuine Andalusian experience. The past and present blend seamlessly in its cobbled streets and friendly community. Join us as we uncover the charm of this delightful white village.
History of Villanueva de la Tapia
The history of Villanueva de Tapia traces its roots back to the 17th century when King Felipe III sold these lands to the Count of Tapia. This marked the beginning of the town’s urban development. The town’s layout is quintessentially Andalusian, characterized by its steep streets and whitewashed houses.
During the time of the Roman Empire, the settlement of Villanueva de Tapia likely existed in the current urban center, on both sides of the MA-214 road from Archidona to Iznájar, near a place known as “El Nacimiento.” Archaeological findings have uncovered remnants of walls dating back to the early Imperial period, around the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. These walls were constructed using locally quarried stones, either dry-fitted or joined with mud.
After the Christian conquest, the lands that now make up the municipality of Villanueva de Tapia became a source of dispute between Iznájar in Córdoba and Archidona. Both towns sought to incorporate these lands into their respective territories. This conflict earned the municipality the nickname “El Entredicho,” by which it is also known.
Villanueva de Tapia is located in northeastern Málaga. It borders the provinces of Granada and Córdoba. The area it covers is 22.12 square kilometers. It’s situated at an elevation of 661 meters above sea level.
Attractions and things to do
While Villanueva de Tapia may not be overflowing with conventional tourist attractions. Here you will fin an abundance of natural beauty and hiking opportunities that are bound to captivate outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s surroundings are a paradise for hikers, offering a variety of captivating trails to explore.
- Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol: The Iglesia de San Pedro Apóstol, or the Church of Saint Peter the Apostle, is a beautiful religious site with stunning architectural details. It’s worth a visit for both its spiritual significance and its architectural beauty. (Map)
- Cementerio de San José: The Cementerio de San José, or the Cemetery of Saint Joseph, is a place that holds historical and cultural significance. It’s a tranquil place for paying respects to the departed and understanding local traditions. (Map)
Hiking routes
Here are some of the main hiking routes in the area:
- Villanueva de Tapia–Yeguada de Salinas–Arroyo Nieblin– La Pedriza: This nearly 16-kilometer route starts from Tapia and follows the path to Salinas or GR-2491.
- Vva de Tapia-La Atalaya-Magán-La Fuente Fría: A 14-kilometer route of moderate complexity, perfect for those looking for a relaxing hike.
- Vva de Tapia– Cortijo los Palomos–Centro Cinegético–Roquime: An 18-kilometer route, with most of it being on level ground.
- Villanueva de Tapia–Venta la Paloma- Cortijo los Palomos– La Laguna: A 17-kilometer route that is relatively easy, with its main challenge being the distance.
- Los 100 escurrinazos: This route begins at Plaza Constitución in Villanueva de Tapia and leads to the open-pit mine, passing the trifinio marker at the boundary of Córdoba, Granada, and Málaga provinces.
- Villanueva de Tapia–La Losilla Alta–La Paloma–Los Palomos: A 15-kilometer hiking adventure.
- Villanueva de Tapia–Cerro el Ahorcado–Llano de la Yegua–La Atalaya: Enjoy a 12-kilometer journey through the picturesque landscapes.
Find information about those and more hiking routes here: https://www.wikiloc.com/trails/outdoor/spain/andalusia/villanueva-de-tapia
These hiking routes offer a unique way to explore the natural beauty and diverse landscapes that surround Villanueva de Tapia.
Festivities and Fairs
In Villanueva de Tapia, a series of lively local festivities grace the calendar throughout the year, offering a taste of the town’s vibrant culture and traditions.
Real Feria del Ganado (The Livestock Fair): Also known as the “Feria Grande,” this cherished event unfolds from the 10th to the 12th of October, a tradition that has been alive since 1869. The fair is a captivating showcase of various animals, including horses, mules, donkeys, goats, and oxen. It has evolved over the years, expanding to incorporate new activities. Notably, there’s now a bustling commercial fair featuring agri-food products from local and regional businesses. Visitors can savor tastings and purchase regional delicacies.
In the summertime, Villanueva de Tapia lights up with two popular celebrations. The first is the fair, which kicks off between the 12th and 14th of June, creating a lively atmosphere in the town. Another highlight is “El Día del Emigrante” (The Day of the Emigrant), observed during the second weekend of August, where the spirit of the community shines through. However, the grandest festivity in Villanueva takes place in October, coinciding with the 12th, the Saints Day of “La Virgen del Pilar.” This is a time when the town comes alive with colorful parades, music, and a strong sense of local pride. The festivities provide an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the heartwarming traditions and warm hospitality of Villanueva de Tapia.
Gastronomy
Local cuisine in Villanueva de Tapia reflects the rich culinary traditions of the Andalusian region, known for its diverse and flavorful dishes. Here are some delightful examples of the local gastronomy:
- Gazpacho: This refreshing cold soup is a summer favorite in Andalusia. Made with ripe tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and seasoned with garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and salt, it’s the perfect dish to cool down on a warm day.
- Salmorejo: Another popular cold soup, salmorejo is a thick blend of tomatoes, bread, olive oil, garlic, and vinegar. It’s typically garnished with hard-boiled eggs and jamón serrano (cured ham).
- Andalusian Fried Fish (Pescaíto Frito): Villanueva de Tapia, like much of Andalusia, enjoys an abundance of fresh seafood. The local twist on this classic dish involves lightly battering small fish such as anchovies and smelts and frying them to a golden crisp.
- Migas: A hearty and rustic dish, migas are made from breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, and various seasonings. It’s often served with toppings like chorizo, black pudding, or peppers.
- Flamenquín: A delightful culinary creation, flamenquín consists of ham and cheese wrapped in pork or chicken, coated with breadcrumbs, and deep-fried. It’s a popular dish in many Andalusian regions.
- Olive Oil: Andalusia is popular for its high-quality olive oil, and Villanueva de Tapia is no exception. The local olive oil is not only a key ingredient in many dishes but also a prized product for sale.
- Local Wines: Andalusia produces some excellent wines, and Villanueva de Tapia is no stranger to wine culture. Be sure to try some local wines, both red and white, to complement your meals.
- Pastries and Desserts: To satisfy your sweet tooth, indulge in local pastries and desserts like pestiños (honey-coated pastries), leche frita (fried milk dessert), and tocino de cielo (a tasty flan-like dessert).
How to get
Getting from Málaga Airport to Villanueva de la Tapia by car is a convenient and picturesque journey. Follow these directions for a smooth trip:
- Head northwest from Málaga Airport – Costa del Sol (AGP), located at Av. del Comandante García Morato, s/n, 29004, Málaga.
- Continue on Autovía de Circunvalación de Málaga, A-45, and A-92M towards A-7200. Take exit 1 from A-92M.
- Follow A-333 towards Av. de la Constitucion in Villanueva de Tapia.
This route covers approximately 74.3 kilometers and should take around 51 minutes, provided traffic conditions are favorable.