Guadalest – An Artist’s Vision

The tiny village of Guadalest offers a spectacular sight perched high above green valleys lush with apple, cherry and orange groves.

Few places in the world can combine a pant as you approach Guadalest, which stands out kilometres away on the winding roads leading to her. When nearing the summit with its picturesque white bell tower perched on top, it sets the stage for a captivating monument. One can only imagine that perhaps the Guadalest Fortress may be where Hemingway was inspired for the title of his classic novel, For Whom the Bell Tolls.

The Guadalest Fortress

The Guadalest Fortress, which existed during the invasion of the Moors, was re-conquered by the Christians in the 13th century and ruled by several Aragon kings. Following the narrow streets upward and pass the simplicity of its buildings, you will come upon a spectacular square with an awesome view looking down to valleys filled with almond, cherry and orange trees, the stunning Bernia Mountain Range and the Guadalest River. On an especially clear day, even the Med is in view being only 11KM away.

In 1974, the fortress was declared an area of historic and artistic importance. The municipality meanwhile has remained small with a population of about 204 and is a popular day trip for holiday makers and residents alike.

There are several small museums, the most impressive being Casa Orduña, which belonged to a noble family in the 16^th century. It was completely restored by the family’s descendants, whose roots are of Basque origin. The family received the title of marquis of Guadalest in 1542 by the Admirals of Aragon. T he generation of the family members served of guardians of the fortress and governors of their states.

The house sits on an irregular plot with one half supported by and overlapping the jagged rock, while the other half is adjoin to the chapel and bell tower. The structure consists of four floors.

Some of the furnishings, artwork and linens are intact. During the month of July, worldwide artists display their works against this wonderful backdrop of this manor house. There are many galleries and even in the Casa Orduña, the third floor is dedicated to art work from world wide submissions representing Guadalest and its bell tower. It is unique to see hundreds of art work depicting similar scenes and yet all individually different.

The highlight everyone waits for is a fiesta to its patron saint, La Virgen de la Asuncion held from August 14 to 17 each year.

The surrounding areas throughout Spain are filled with folklore, history, delicious food, superb wine, brilliant art and breathtaking terrain and beaches. The beauty of visiting these old pueblos is that they are never too far away from modern resorts and casinos. There will be a town somewhere not to be missed and an auto is a necessity to allow you the freedom to visit these concealed treasures without the crowds.

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