Located in the south of Extremadura, on the borders of the
Sevilla and
Cordoba provinces, this charming village
of just under 1000 inhabitants is typical of the lower Extremadura region.
The first thing you notice about Puebla del Maestre, is the tranquility and lack of noise in its streets,
it feels like time is slowing down and the 'rat race' of modern living does not exist.
Its white-washed houses, narrow streets, pleasant people and lovely countryside, makes it the ideal location
for those wishing to enjoy their holidays at a slower pace, away from the
hustle and bustle of modern everyday living.
An old defensive tower, dating back to 10th Century, speaks of the history of this village.
One of the more interesting buildings of this locality is the school Manuel Duran, built in 1930 by don Manuel Durán Rodríguez.
At the age of 21 he emigranted to Argentina in 1869 where was lucky enough to make a fortune.
He returned years later to his birthplace wanting to leave a legacy to his village. Here he funded the building of this
impressive building (a copy of one in Buenos Aires) as well as the access road to the village and reforms to the church, amongst other things.
There are many activities to pursue in this picturesque area.
You can enjoy a quite bike ride and get to experience the countryside, or perhaps take a horse
or donkey ride to the nearby Sierra Morena mountains along one of the many picturesque trails available.
Near by, at El Pintado (a large dam, see photos section), you can enjoy fishing, rowing, or just rest or
have a picnic by the man-made lake. A few miles from the village is the Mina de La Jayona, a disused Iron Mine dating back to Roman times.
This mine is open to the public and is well worth a visit.
Back at the apartments, you can stroll down to the village bars and mix with the locals or just enjoy a
cool drink by the pool, under bright stars experiencing peace and tranquility at its best.
Local Fiestas:
Carnavales:
This is the first fienta of the year, normally held on the 14th and 15th of February.
This fiesta used to be very important in the local calendard but in recent years it has lost its importance
mainly due to the fact that at this time of the year very few outsiders attend the fiesta.
However, it is another reason for families to get together and have a good time.
Romería de San Isidro:
This Fiesta begins on the night of May 14th
and continues through to the 15th. All the villagers parade with an effigy of
San Isidro (Patron of the campesinos) to the Pradera where the Ermita (Shrine) to the saint lies.
Again, this a good excuse to have a great day out in the fields drinking and dancing and generally having a good time.
Fiesta del Emigrante:
Is generally celebrated on the 2nd weekend of August;
this is a relatively new Fiesta which has been introduced mainly to cater
for all those who can not attend the Fiestas Mayores in September.
This fiesta is generally busier than any of the others it falls during the summer holidays.
Its duration is generally 2 days and it is higly reccommended.
Fiestas Mayores:
This Fiesta is in honour of The Sagradas Reliquias, dating back to the 16th century.
It starts by a spectacular fireworks display on the first night (Setp.13th), followed by traditional live music until dawn! It normally has a duration of 4 days, between 13th and 16th September inclusive. The main day is the 14th, when the Sagradas Reliquias are paraded in procession through the village. Again, in the Spanish tradition, this is just another occasion to have a really great time.
Fun for all the family!
