New Year's Eve in Arcos de la Frontera

Feliz ano nuevo! (Happy NY!) Felices fiestas! (Happy holidays).

Since it is NYE, we are staying off the roads and having a relaxing day in this small town. After getting supplies at the local (small) grocery store (1/2 mile down at the bottom of the hill from our hotel), we wandered Old Town at the tippy top of the hillside (1/2 mile uphill from our hotel). Old Town is old, with buildings dating to the 13th - 14th centuries. While these old buildings are picturesque, they are mixed in with some smaller, worn (read unattractive) somewhat dilapidated structures. Thus, few photos. The narrow, twisted cobblestone paths and streets add a dose of quaintness.

In the 1200's, Arcos was invaded and the Moors evicted. The Church of Santa Maria was built atop a mosque. In the photos, note the chopped off bell tower because the original fell off in an earthquake in 1755. Pictures below show this church and the Church of San Pedro (built on the foundation of a 12 - 14th century Moorish fortress. Of course!).

Back at our hotel in the afternoon, we found a wonderful NYE present of chocolates and cava (Spanish champagne) from the hotel!

Turns out there are street parties in Old Town tonight. We ventured out at 6 PM and found streets blocked by lively crowds of young people dressed up, dancing and drinking (see videos). We asked about the drinking age, and were told it is usually 18, but no one will check tonight!

Tomorrow, we drive to Seville and turn in our rental car.Read more