Zambra – Castle, Anzur Spring and Hiking Trails

Zambra is divided into two separate settlement centres: El Barrio is the higher area on the mountain slope, while El Prado is the lower area along the Anzur.

Culture and History

Zambra Castle is classified as a Site of Cultural Interest and is listed in the General Catalogue of Andalusian Heritage. On a nearby mountain, two towers and a vaulted room from the Arab castle are still preserved.

As a defined archaeological site, Zambra is recorded as comprising settlements from the Iron Age as well as Roman and Arab towns. The earliest surviving references to Zambra date from Roman times, when the place was called Cisimbrium.

The Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Gracia is located on the Plaza de Ntra. S.ª de Gracia in Zambra. Its patron-saint festivities take place in October; on the first weekend of October, they include the well-known release of the Vaquilla, as well as other social, sporting and community events.

Nature and Trails

Within the territory of Zambra lies the hamlet of Nacimiento de Zambra, where the Anzur River rises. Its spring can be visited; nearby, the Anzur flows between poplars, willows and elms. The area around Nacimiento de Zambra offers numerous hiking and mountain-biking routes.

The second stage of the GR-355 Ruta Subbeticana begins in Zambra next to the junction of Calle Ubada and the A-331. It crosses the bridge over the Anzur and then continues along the Camino de Astorga. In the area of the Cortijo and the Vichira Spring, it connects with the international GR-7 E4 hiking trail.

When comparing a holiday apartment in Zambra, you can compare travel dates, room category and cancellation policies on the respective offer pages. Which detail takes priority depends on your own travel plans. The local structure and thematic range offer different perspectives: El Barrio and El Prado represent the separate settlement centres, while the spring, river course, historic site, church and seasonal festivals provide different focal points. For your own selection, these focal points can be compared with travel dates, room category and cancellation policies; such a comparison remains oriented towards your personal travel plans and the travel rhythm you have chosen.

Festivals and Songs

Festivities in honour of the Virgen del Carmen take place in August. In Zambra, the Aguilanderos perform traditional songs on the evenings of the Christmas season.

The tradition of the Mochileros and Aguilanderos in the three hamlets belonging to Rute encompasses Christmas, liturgical, supplication and secular songs that are passed down orally. The groups accompany these songs with simple instruments, some of which are made by their members by hand.

Regional Cuisine

Typical sausage products in the area include chorizo made with traditional seasonings, onion blood sausage, and white blood sausage or brain blood sausage.

More local pages: Monturque, Benamejí, El Vacar, Baena, Venta del Charco, Gaena-Casas Gallegas, Cerro Muriano, El Villar

For the main travel overview: Cordoba.