While Spain is a made up of fifty provinces that vary greatly from culture to geography, what first comes to mind for many are flamenco music, bullfighting and tapas when thinking of this Southern European country: all of which are quintessentially Andalusia.  As the Southernmost province of Spain, it stretches across the entire lower portion of the country and down to the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea, which are divided by the Straight of Gibraltar.

In the year 711, Moors from Northern Africa conquered the Iberian peninsula, renaming it Al-Andalus, which is where the name Andalusia is derived.  As a result of Moorish rule lasting until 1492, Southern Spain is filled with Islamic architecture including riad gardens, extensive tilework, arabesque designs, and water sources.  One of Seville’s most famous sites is La Giralda, a square minaret tower attached to the cathedral that has a similar design to the famous Koutoubia minaret in Marrakech.

In addition to the unique architecture, the region is also defined by music introduced by a different group, the Romani gypsies or gitanos.  Originating in Southern Spain, flamenco music is an art form that combines folkloric lyrics with quick and spirited guitar rhythms along with passionate and vibrant dancing.  Flamenco is a group effort with guitar players and dancers shouting out encouraging words to the singers and dancers.  Meanwhile dancers play castanets and display sophisticated footwork in their movements, hitting the floor powerfully with their heels.  All throughout Southern Spain, you can visit a tablao to enjoy an authentic flamenco performance (we’ve added a suggestion below).