Town hall building with flags and a clock on the facade. CarlosVdeHabsburgo, CC BY-SA 4.0

Guillena

Andalusia

14,260Population
226.63 km²Area
28 mElevation
41210Postal code

Guillena is a municipality located in the province of Seville, Andalusia. Known for its rich history and cultural heritage, it features significant archaeological sites and vibrant local traditions.

02Geography

Guillena is part of the Sierra Norte comarca and lies approximately 24 kilometers from Seville. The municipality is traversed by major roads including the Autovía Ruta de la Plata (A-66) and the N-630, facilitating access to nearby regions. The landscape transitions from the Sierra Norte to the Guadalquivir valley, with notable rivers and several reservoirs enhancing its natural beauty.

Elevation range
10 to 395 m
Major rivers
Rivera de Huelva, Rivera de Cala
Reservoirs
Embalse de Cala, Embalse de Gergal, Embalse El Esparragal, Contraembalse de Guillena

03History

Guillena has a rich historical background, with evidence of prehistoric habitation through megalithic tombs. The name is believed to derive from a Roman villa, and the area has yielded numerous Roman artifacts, including a significant villa and a milestone. The town evolved during the Visigothic and Arab periods, becoming a fortified settlement with strategic importance.

Explore Guillena, a historic municipality in Seville, Andalusia, known for its archaeological sites and vibrant cultural traditions.

04Cultural Heritage

Guillena is home to several notable structures and cultural sites, including the Gothic-Mudéjar style Church of Ntra. Sra. de la Granada, which has undergone various restorations over the centuries. The Plaza de España serves as a central social hub, while the Plaza de Toros has historical significance dating back to Roman times.

05Festivals and Traditions

The municipality hosts several vibrant festivals, including the Cabalgata de Reyes Viviente, which features live biblical scenes and has been celebrated since 1992. Semana Santa is marked by various processions, showcasing local religious devotion, while the Día de la Patrona on September 8 honors the Virgen de la Granada with grand processions.

06Demographics

Guillena has a population of 14,260 residents, reflecting a diverse community that engages actively in local traditions and cultural events. The demographic evolution showcases the town's growth and adaptation over time.

Density
52.17 inhabitants/km²
Guillena · Data
Province
Seville
Autonomous community
Andalusia
Population
14,260
Area
226.63 km²
Elevation
28 m
Postal code
41210
Website
http://guillena.org/
Coordinates
37.5465, -6.0571

Photos

Jesus Christ on the cross during a procession in Guillena.
Procession of the Vera Cruz in Guillena, with a church in the background and a figure of Jesus Christ on the cross in the foreground.
Religious sculptures in a procession in Guillena.
Mystery float of the Esperanza Group in Guillena, featuring religious figures in a procession.

Frequently asked questions

Town hall building with flags and a clock on the facade.

What is the Ayuntamiento de Guillena?

The Ayuntamiento de Guillena is the town hall of Guillena, located in the province of Seville, Andalusia. It serves as the administrative center of the municipality, housing local government offices and providing services to residents. The building features a neoclassical facade and is a significant landmark in the town, reflecting its historical and cultural importance.

Practical For residents

What can I see during the Semana Santa in Guillena?

During Semana Santa, or Holy Week, Guillena hosts various processions, including the Hermandad y Cofradía de Nazarenos del Stmo. Cristo de Vera Cruz. This event features beautifully decorated floats and traditional religious imagery, creating a solemn and festive atmosphere. The processions are a significant cultural and religious event for the community, attracting both locals and visitors.

Festivals & events Semana Santa

What is the Cabalgata de Reyes Viviente?

The Cabalgata de Reyes Viviente in Guillena is a unique living nativity scene that depicts biblical scenes from the New Testament, celebrating the arrival of the Three Wise Men. It features 12 floats and involves local residents portraying characters, making it an engaging experience for all ages. This event has been celebrated since 1992 and was declared a Fiesta de Interés Turístico de Andalucía in 2017.

Festivals & events Cabalgata de Reyes Viviente

What historical significance does the Plaza de Toros have?

The Plaza de Toros in Guillena is built on the site of a former Muslim castle and has historical roots dating back to Roman times. It has hosted various cultural events, including bullfights and community celebrations. The structure has undergone several renovations, with the latest completed in 2002, enhancing its role as a cultural venue in the town.

History Plaza de Toros For residents

What can you tell me about the church in Guillena?

The church in Guillena, known as Parroquia de Ntra. Sra. de la Granada, is a Gothic-Mudéjar style building established in 1247. It has undergone several renovations due to earthquakes and other damages, with significant work completed in the 18th century. The church houses important religious artworks, including the image of the Virgen de la Granada, the town's patron saint.

Sights Parroquia de Ntra. Sra. de la Granada

What are the main natural features around Guillena?

Guillena is located near the Sierra Norte and is characterized by its diverse landscape, which includes hills, valleys, and rivers. The area is watered by the Rivera de Huelva and Rivera de Cala, and features several reservoirs such as embalse de Cala and embalse de Gergal. This natural setting provides opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.

Nature

How has Guillena's population changed over the years?

Guillena currently has a population of approximately 14,260 residents. The demographic evolution shows changes over the 20th and 21st centuries, reflecting various social and economic factors. The town's growth is influenced by its proximity to Seville and its appeal as a residential area.

Living there For residents

What is the significance of the Casa de Maera?

The Casa de Maera is an important archaeological site in Guillena, showcasing remnants of Roman habitation. It features a subterranean chamber and has yielded significant artifacts, including pottery and a stone milestone. These findings provide insight into the region's historical significance during the Roman era.

History Casa de Maera For residents

What events are celebrated in the Plaza de España?

The Plaza de España serves as the social and cultural hub of Guillena, hosting various events throughout the year. It is the site of local festivities, gatherings, and celebrations, including the annual fair. The plaza has a rich history as a meeting point for the community, making it central to local life.

Festivals & events Plaza de España For residents

What is the Palacio de Parladé?

The Palacio de Parladé, built in 1914, is a historic residence in Guillena designed in a romantic, historicist style. It was originally a country estate associated with bull breeding. The palace features a distinctive architecture with towers and a landscaped garden, reflecting the grandeur of early 20th-century designs.

Sights Palacio de Parladé

Map

Nearby

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Own text, written with AI assistance from the facts in Wikipedia · Guillena · Data: Wikidata Q1605664 · Photos: Wikimedia Commons, see individual licenses. · CC BY-SA 4.0