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The history and culture of Jerez have
been strongly influenced by the various races of people who have settled
there over the centuries. Artifacts found in and around the city bear witness
to the presence of the Phoenicians and, more significantly, the Romans
in the area. The Moorish occupation which followed left a legacy of impressive
buildings which, together with the more recent but none-the-less architecturally
exciting Christian edifices combine to give this beautiful city its uniquely
diverse character.
Few places in Spain are as well-known internationally as Jerez. This
is mainly, but not entirely, due to the special wines (Sherry) it produces.
Fino or Sherry with its distinctive flavour and quality is famous throughout
the world. The word Sherry is derived from the name of the city - Jerez.
 The
reputation of Jerez is not limited to its
wines: it has far more to offer its visitors. Jerez is the home of the “caballo
cartujano” (the Spanish Pure Race horse), the “toro
de lidia” (fighting bull) and is the cradle of the art
of flamenco. It hosts big events such as the World Motorcycle Championships.
Its large commercial centres and wide avenues lead one to the lively historic
city centre where you can pass your time window-shopping or sampling the
local tapas. All these elements together with its historic and artistic
heritage combining the traditional with the modern have created a city
of perfect harmony.
No visit to Jerez would be complete without
spending a little time in one of the numerous bodegas (sherry-producing
houses) which are as big as cathedrals or watching the skill of the riders
and horses at the Royal Spanish Riding School (La
Royale Escuela d’Art Equestre). |
The
Moorish occupation of the city is much in evidence with its odd nooks and
crannies and historic monuments of that era that stand
alongside
the later magnificent Christian buildings the construction of which started
after the conquest of the territory by 
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