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Population:
13,000
Location: Southern tip of Spain (Andalucia)
 Vejer
de la Frontera, declared a site of great historic and artistic
interest in 1976, is one of the most beautiful villages, not only
in Andalusia, but in Spain. In 1978 it won fist prize in the national
competition of beautiful towns, and was [Vejer] awarded the title
of "Area of Great Tourist Importance". Due to its strategic
hilltop position, this town has been controlled and inhabited
by Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, and finally the Arabs.
Arabs conquered Vejer at the battle of La Janda, and the village
remained in Arab hands for more than five centuries. The name
“de la Frontera” came about due to the fact that this
town was on the frontier between Christian and Muslim Spain. The
presence of these past inhabitants and their customs are still
felt in this village today which is why this place is such a unique
and special place to visit in Spain.
 The
first thing a traveler should do upon arriving in Vejer is to
wander aroundand explore the maze of narrow streets and squares
that make up the old medieval town. In some places you can still
see the fortress walls that were carefully constructed by the
Muslims in the eleventh century. As the streets zigzag up and
down, it is easy to lose your way, but don't worry - there is
always someone there to help you out. Some interesting places
to visit include the Palace of the Marquess of Tamarón,
now used as a tourist office, or the famous Segur Gate, located
next to the Church of the Divine Saviour. On the other side of
the village, you will run into several narrow streets that lead
to the Convent, where interesting paintings and sculptures are
often exhibited. A final stop should be to the castle where you
can enjoy some interesting festivals and cultural performances
during the summer.
 If
you love beaches you shouldn’t miss taking a walk along one
of the wide beaches found near Vejer de la Frontera. El Palmar
Beach is one of the best and very well preserved due to the fact
that local authorities do not allow any construction in and around
the beach. You will find this beach an [Jimena de la Frontera]
excellent place to simply relax, to lay out in the sun, or to
go surfing. Another popular beach is Caños de Meca Beach,
full of people and activities. The beach tends to be very popular
with windsurfers. All in all, you will find the coastline around
Vejer to be a wonderful place to spend time after class and during
the weekends. For someone who wants to experience Southern Spain,
Vejer de la Frontera is an excellent choice!
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