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Monturque, Córdoba: A Glimpse into Andalusia’s Rich History and Culture
Monturque is a small yet historically rich town located in the southern part of Córdoba province, surrounded by fields of olive groves, cereals, and vineyards. This hilltop town, with its medieval castle and Roman cisterns, offers a unique blend of Roman, Moorish, and Christian heritage for those interested in Andalusian history.
Castillo Medieval de Monturque
The Castle of Monturque stands as a reminder of the town’s strategic importance throughout history. Built during the Moorish period and later expanded, this fortified complex houses the Patio de Armas, the central courtyard that features the well-preserved Torre del Homenaje (Keep Tower). Another feature is the 15th-century Pentagonal Tower, a defensive structure with arrow slits. The castle’s archaeological significance is clear, as excavations have revealed multiple layers of cultural artifacts spanning from the Late Chalcolithic to Roman and medieval periods. Visitors can also view a Roman cistern within the castle grounds, offering insight into ancient engineering.
Parroquia de San Mateo
At the highest point in Monturque lies the Parroquia de San Mateo, a Gothic-Mudejar-style church from the late 15th or early 16th century. While the church’s exterior was modified in the early 20th century, its interior retains historic elements. The church has three parallel naves separated by stone pillars and pointed arches, leading to a striking 17th-century altarpiece in the central nave. Of special note is the Capilla del Sagrario, a chapel with an intricately decorated dome featuring plaster reliefs, including a notable depiction of the Last Supper.
Cementerio de San Rafael
San Rafael Cemetery in Monturque is recognized as one of Europe’s unique cemeteries and is part of the European Cemeteries Route, highlighting historic cemeteries across the continent. This cemetery is especially notable for its underground Roman cisterns, dating back to the late 1st century AD. These cisterns, considered the largest preserved in Spain, are significant examples of Roman hydraulic engineering. Each year in November, Monturque hosts the Mundamortis festival here, focusing on cultural and historical aspects of death and cemeteries, making it a pioneer in necrotourism.
Roman Cisterns
The Roman cisterns in Monturque are among the finest preserved examples of ancient hydraulic engineering in Spain. Dating to the early 1st century AD, the cistern complex features twelve vaulted chambers arranged in three parallel rows, leading to a drainage channel. Located beneath San Rafael Cemetery, these cisterns likely served as the town’s primary water reservoir and are believed to have been situated beneath the town’s Roman forum.
Museo Histórico Local
The Museo Histórico Local offers a glimpse into Monturque’s past, displaying archaeological finds from different periods, including Roman and Moorish artifacts. This museum captures the town’s evolution over centuries, showcasing the rich cultural history of Monturque and the surrounding area.
Yacimiento Arqueológico de Los Paseíllos
The Mirador de los Paseíllos is a viewpoint near the Roman cisterns where remnants of a Roman public building’s lower floor were discovered. These ruins, identified as the substructure of a large civil building, add to Monturque’s reputation as an archaeologically significant town, preserving evidence of Roman urban planning.
Plaza de Andalucía
Once the town’s main marketplace, Plaza de Andalucía has been redesigned and remains a central hub for local shopping and social activities. Its lively atmosphere reflects the town’s community spirit and provides a taste of daily life in Monturque.
Plaza de la Barrera and Paseo de lo Alto
Plaza de la Barrera is a popular meeting place for residents, offering panoramic views of the town and its surrounding countryside. The square includes a children’s playground and shaded seating areas, making it a family-friendly space. Nearby, Paseo de lo Alto offers a scenic path with gardens and benches, located next to the Parroquia de San Mateo, where visitors can relax and take in one of the best views of Monturque.
Monturque’s rich history, varied architecture, and archaeological sites make it a compelling destination for those interested in Andalusia’s diverse cultural heritage.
bron: turismomonturque.com