A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Écija: Discover the City of the Sun

Écija, known as the "city of the sun", is a tourist destination that you cannot miss if you are in the province of Seville, in Andalusia, Spain. This charming city, located in the heart of the Sevillian countryside, will surprise you with its rich history, impressive architecture, and delicious cuisine.

History and Architecture

Écija has a history that dates back to Roman times, and its architectural legacy bears witness to this. Walking through its streets, you can admire numerous palaces, churches, and towers that date from different periods, such as the Benamejí Palace, the Church of Santa María, the Tower of San Juan, or the Tower of the Herberos.

One of the main attractions of Écija is its impressive set of towers, which has earned it the nickname of "city of towers". These towers, built in different architectural styles, such as Mudejar, Baroque, and Neoclassical, offer a unique panoramic view of the city.

Monuments and Museums

In addition to its towers, Écija has a large number of monuments and museums worth visiting. The Peñaflor Palace, the Palace of the Marquises of Benamejí, and the Palace of the Counts of Valverde are just a few examples of the stately architecture you will find in the city.

If you are a history lover, you cannot miss the Municipal Historical Museum, where you can learn more about the history of Écija and its evolution over the centuries. You can also visit the Museum of Sacred Art, which houses an impressive collection of religious art.

Cuisine

The cuisine of Écija is another of its great attractions. Here you can taste typical dishes of Andalusian cuisine, such as gazpacho, salmorejo, fried fish, and bull's tail. Don't leave without trying the city's traditional sweets, like oil cakes and pestiños.

Moreover, Écija is famous for its agricultural products, such as extra virgin olive oil and citrus fruits. If you have the opportunity, visit one of the local markets and try the fresh products from the area.

Surroundings

If you have time, we recommend exploring the surroundings of Écija. A few kilometers from the city, you will find the Natural Park of the Sierra de Hornachuelos, a perfect place to enjoy nature and outdoor activities, such as hiking or cycling.

You can also visit the nearby city of Carmona, with its impressive historical complex and panoramic views from the Gate of Seville. Another option is to visit the city of Cordoba, famous for its Mosque-Cathedral and its charming Jewish quarter.

Écija is a tourist destination that combines history, architecture, cuisine, and nature. Don't miss the opportunity to discover this gem of the Sevillian countryside and enjoy all it has to offer.

Gastronomic Products of Écija

• Cordoban Salmorejo

  Cordoban salmorejo is a delicious cold cream typical of the Andalusia region, and can also be enjoyed in Écija. This dish is made with ripe tomatoes, bread, olive oil, garlic, and salt. It is served cold and is usually accompanied by hard-boiled egg and chopped Serrano ham. It is a refreshing and tasty option for hot summer days.

• Olive Oil Cakes

  Olive oil cakes are a typical sweet of Andalusian gastronomy and can also be found in Écija. These cakes are crispy and slightly sweet, and are made with flour, olive oil, sugar, and anise. They are perfect to accompany a coffee or tea, and can also be enjoyed alone as a delicious snack.

• Snails in Sauce

  Snails in sauce are a traditional dish of Spanish cuisine and can also be tasted in Écija. These snails are cooked in a tasty and spiced sauce, which can vary according to the recipe. They are usually served as a tapa or as a main dish, and are very popular during the spring and summer season.

• Mostachones

  Mostachones are typical sweets of Écija and are known throughout the region. These sweets are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and are made with almonds, sugar, flour, and eggs. They are perfect for sweetening any moment of the day and are highly appreciated by lovers of traditional pastries.

Sports Activities in Écija, Spain

Football

Écija is home to Écija Balompié, a football team from the Second Division B. Tourists can attend a match at the Municipal Stadium of San Pablo to experience the passion of Spanish football.

Cycling

With its beautiful landscape and sunny weather, Écija is an ideal place for cycling. Tourists can rent a bicycle and explore the city and its surroundings at their own pace.

Hiking

The surroundings of Écija offer numerous hiking trails that allow visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The routes vary in difficulty, so there are options for all skill levels.

Riding

Andalusia is famous for its horses and Écija is no exception. Tourists can take riding lessons or participate in a horseback tour to explore the beautiful countryside.

Paddle

Padel is a very popular sport in Spain and Écija has several courts where tourists can play. Many clubs offer equipment rental and lessons for beginners.

Places near Écija (Spain)

If you are in Écija and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Carmona, a charming village in the heart of Andalusia, captivates visitors with its rich history and exquisite cuisine. Discover its impressive monuments, such as the imposing Puerta de Sevilla, and enjoy traditional dishes like gazpacho and salmorejo in its cozy restaurants.

Osuna, a charming village in the heart of Andalusia, will captivate you with its rich history and delicious cuisine. Discover its historical monuments, such as the Collegiate Church and the University, and enjoy traditional dishes like gazpacho, salmorejo and the famous oxtail dish.

Marchena, a charming village in the heart of Andalusia, will surprise you with its rich history and delicious cuisine. Enjoy its historical monuments, such as the Church of San Juan Bautista, and taste traditional dishes like Andalusian gazpacho and the famous dessert torrija. A unique experience for lovers of tourism and good food!