Gaucín
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Gaucín is a village in the mountains of Andalusia in southern Spain, inland from Marbella, Puerto Banus and Estepona, and not far from Ronda.
The village has a population of approximately 2,000. It lies about 600 metres above sea level in the Sierra del Hacho, dominated by the Castillo del Aguila (Eagle's Castle), originally a Roman stronghold, expanded by the Arabs.
[edit] Tourist appeal
Gaucín is known for its spectacular views of Gibraltar, the Strait of Gibraltar and Morocco, as well the surrounding mountain scenery. It can be used as a base for visits to the so-called pueblos blancos of Andalusia. The village is reached by a 24km climb up a mountain road and presided over by a medieval castle. The population is augmented by a growing group of British expatriates. In the tourist shops, cork items are very popular, because cork forests surround the village.
Gaucín has been the inspiration of a number of artists and writers, and has been referred to as the "balcony of the Ronda Mountains, where the Holy Child appeared to St. John of God: the illustrious, always noble, very hospitable village of Gaucín."
[edit] Cultural life
The cultural life of Gaucín is rich and plentiful. Many claim there is a great cameradarie among the inhabitants and there are often village-wide events that receive great showings of support.
Palm Sunday includes a procession to the church. A widely-attended Easter vigil takes place the night before.
A large carnival features chirigotas, fantastically-costumed groups that sing of current events in a humorous way. A party held on the main square with an orchestra goes on until dawn.
The feria, which lasts three days, is a celebration of the town itself and is held annually in early August. It is complete with a variety of carnival rides and games booths. The festivities also include a large pavilion where one can eat, drink, and watch musicians perform.
The pilgrimage of the Holy Child is a romeria on the last Sunday of August. The image of the Holy Child is taken in procession from the castle to the site of his supposed apparition, now a hermitage, for a rociera (flamenco) mass followed by dancing, singing, eating and drinking until dawn.
A feast in honour of the Holy Child takes place on the 7th and 8th of September. Over nine days townsfolk climb to the castle for a novena, held in the Chapel of the Holy Child. Mass is celebrated and guest preachers preach. A party is given in the main square with processions, food, drink, music, and dancing.
[edit] External links
- Municipal website in Spanish, with many pictures
Coordinates: 36°31′N 5°19′W / 36.517°N 5.317°W
