What to do in Benalup-Casas Viejas?
History of Benalup – Casas Viejas
The history of Benalup–Casas Viejas dates back to prehistoric times. From the late Paleolithic to the Metal Ages, a significant culture developed in the area, leaving behind archaeological remains such as the cave paintings at Tajo de las Figuras.
From prehistoric times until the Muslim period, no findings have been discovered in the village. During the Muslim era, the Castle or Tower of Benalup was built in a Mudejar style and served as a strategic and military stronghold. It later gave its name to the nearby village of Casas Viejas, located 2 km away. This village consisted of a hermitage founded around 1555 by the clergyman Fray Domingo de Tebas, along with its cemetery and a small roadside inn. In 1915, the current Church of Nuestra Señora del Socorro was built on the site of the hermitage, funded by the sale of its materials and contributions from local residents.
Benalup–Casas Viejas, more precisely Casas Viejas, is known for the tragic Events of 1933, in which innocent people lost their lives following an anarchist uprising. All they asked for was better living and working conditions, but the only outcome was a town plunged into mourning and change, but for the worse.
The struggle to gain independence from Medina Sidonia began in the 1950s, but it wasn’t until March 20, 1991, that this independence was finally achieved, with a municipal territory of 5,950 hectares. This date is now commemorated with Independence Week, during which various activities take place, including the popular running of young bulls through the town’s main streets.
The town has gone through several name changes: from Casas Viejas to Benalup, then to Benalup de Sidonia, later back to Benalup and Casas Viejas interchangeably. Finally, in 1998, following a town council meeting held to mark the 7th anniversary of independence, it officially adopted the name Benalup–Casas Viejas.
The name “Benalup” comes from the previously mentioned Muslim tower or castle. Its etymology is complex. It may derive from the Arabic Benilup, meaning “sons of the she-wolf,” or it could have Latin origins, from Pennalupi, which would mean “rock of the wolf.”
As for the origin of the name “Casas Viejas,” it remains uncertain, though it is believed to stem from the large number of peasant huts that once existed in the area and came to define the character of the settlement.
Benalup in detail
What to do in Benalup?
Our staff will be happy to provide you with local information and recommendations to help you make the most of your stay.
Monuments- Church of Fátima
- Lagunetas hermitage
- Church of Our Lady of Succor
- Morita Tower / Benalup Castle
- Cádiz Prehistoric Interpretation Centre
Monuments- Gastronomy
- Asparagus soup
- Tagarnina stew
- Refried asparagus
- Asparagus omelette
- Snails with spices
- Goatfish in sauce
- Goatfish with tomate
Gastronomy- Deposits
- Celemín Dolmen Complex
- Rock-Art Ensemble of the Tajo de las Figuras
Deposits- Nature and routes
- Barbate Dam – Bull Route
- Points of Interest Routes in Benalup–Casas Viejas
- The Gargantilla
- Cut of the Figures
- The Canuto Farm
- Alcornocales Park
- The old Janda lagoon
- The Celemín and Barbate Marshes
- The Bull Route – The Deer Paradise
Nature and routes
Festivals and traditions
Festivals and traditionsChirigotas, comparsas, and cuartetos, along with enthusiastic community participation, bring the lively Benalup Carnival to life during two fun-filled weeks in February. In mid-March, the Independence Festivities—which grow in popularity each year—commemorate Benalup’s separation from the municipality of Medina Sidonia in 1991. In July, the traditional Fair and Festivities of Santiago and Santa Ana take place. The fairground features a splendid amusement park, a municipal marquee, a youth tent, and many other attractions and unique features. One of the last celebrations of the year takes place on August 15th, when the patron saint of Benalup, Our Lady of Socorro, is carried in a solemn procession through the streets.
Learn more about the Client Area
Our apartments are designed with your comfort and convenience in mind. Each one has been carefully decorated, offering a cozy yet contemporary atmosphere.
Hostal Benalup Atalaya, ubicado en el pintoresco centro histórico del municipio de Benalup Casas Viejas
Ubicado en el corazón de la encantadora ciudad de Cádiz, en la Calle Torre 33, nuestros apartamentos turísticos son el lugar ideal para disfrutar de una estancia inolvidable.
Apartamentos Turísticos Casa Macías; ubicada en la encantadora ciudad de Cádiz, en la prestigiosa Calle Enrique de las Marinas.
Geographical Context
The town is situated on a plateau known as the “Loma de la Grulla,” at the foot of which flows the Barbate River, marking the entrance to the Los Alcornocales Natural Park. Very close by was the former La Janda lagoon, which gives its name to the surrounding region. In the valley associated with the river and the former La Janda lagoon (now drained), you’ll find the Barbate and Celemín reservoirs, which supply water for irrigating a large area of farmland—most notably for rice cultivation. The surrounding area still retains a sense of the region’s former aquaculture richness, which once made it an ideal stopover and feeding ground along the migratory routes of birds crossing the Strait of Gibraltar.
