The municipality of Bornos, located in the Sierra of Cadiz region, is one of the 19 towns on the Route of the Pueblos Blancos. It is bordered to the north by Villamartín, to the south and east by Arcos de la Frontera and to the west by Espera. It is only 5 km from the Bornos Reserve, a place that served as a home to the first settlers and which is now a pedanía established in 1961.
The remains that have been found date the first human settlements in the area around Bornos to the Upper Palaeolithic period. In pre-Roman times, the town was home to different peoples until the Latin conquest. The ruins of Carissa Aurelia, close to the municipality, show the importance of the population center at that time. The gradual spread of Roman influence hints at the importance that Carissa would attain, becoming a municipality within the Roman system of administration.
The arrival of the Muslim peoples and their settlement around the village brought peaceful coexistence in the first instance. Subsequently, Bornos would go through different stages during the Nasrid rule until the subsequent Christian reconquest.
LOCAL FESTIVITIES
HISTORIC HERITAGE
One of the main attractions for visitors to the municipality is to visit the Gardens of the Palace of the Ribera, of Renaissance character and with a clear inspiration in the Vatican orchards. Declared of Cultural Interest due to their historical value, the gardens were part of the extension carried out in the 15th century.
The Parish Church of Saint Domingo de Guzmán is a religious temple whose date of construction is unknown. Two different architectural orders coexist in it: the ogival -currently much reformed- and the baroque. With a rectangular floor plan and three naves, the building has a bell tower attached to its façade, which dates from 1732. The most valuable element of this basilica is the stonework on its façade, which, although not being completed, tells that the relics of Saint Tomé, Saint Dionysius, Saint Cosmas and Saint Daniel, Saint Afra, Saint Sebastian and Saint Sabas, all martyrs, were kept there.
Built by order of the first Duke of Alcalá and Marquis of Tarifa in his will, the Convent of Corpus Christi was inaugurated in 1597 as a convent and was first occupied by nuns of the Cistercian order. From its foundation until its subsequent closure, the Convent suffered several fires, most notably that of 1685, which reduced the chapel to ashes. The building was bought by the Town Hall after its abandonment and was ceded to the Jerez Savings Bank, which was in charge of restoring it and converting it into the current high school.
According to preserved documents, the Calvary Hermitage was built at the end of the 15th century, thanks to donations from devotees of the municipality and at the request of Father Mariscal. The temple would be enlarged with an additional room shortly after its construction, at the hands of a hermit called Brother Mendoza. It would be the Franciscans of the Convent of Saint Bernardino who would take charge of the hermitage, even making a Way of the Cross, of which crosses and chapels indicating the stations are still preserved. An image of Saint Francisco de Paula, dating from the first half of the 18th century, is venerated in the chapel, although other religious figures, such as Saint Rosa de Viterbo, Saint Juan Evangelista and María Santísima de la Soledad, are also worshiped.
Bornos has a unique tourist attraction in the whole of Andalusia, the Loggia. This gallery, or succession of arches, is the only vestige of a Pompeian main façade from the 16th century that remains in the whole of the autonomous community. It was commissioned by the lords of Bornos, who wanted to erect an open-air art gallery. This composition by Benvenuto Tortello consists of a structure of arches ending in a classical Roman frieze and containing statues, which are now in the House of Pilatos in Seville.
One of the greatest examples of the Christian reconquest and Renaissance architectural influence is the Castle-Palace of the Ribera. The fortification, which originally served as a Muslim bastion, only conserves some of its walls from this period. It was not until the 16th century that it was restored and transformed into a palace in the architectural style characteristic of the early Hispanic Renaissance. Finally, it should be noted that the complex was the property of the Medinaceli family until its subsequent acquisition in 1949 by the town council of Bornos.
The House Ordoñez is one of the most emblematic buildings in the town. Built in the second half of the 17th century, it served as a home for noblemen. The dwelling, built on two floors, was inhabited by the Muñoz de Mendoza family. One of the ladies of the family married Francisco Ordoñez, who would hold the titles of Major sub-lieutenant and Lieutenant of the Corregidor of Bornos, also giving his name to the house.
The House of the Cilla is an emblematic building from the end of the 18th century that was used as a place to collect ecclesiastical tithes. The pink color of its façade has been preserved. It is currently a private property that has been restored and converted into a house.
The Blood School is a building constructed in 1597 with the aim of being a residence for twelve servant squires of the house of the Lord Duke, as well as other nobles. With only one floor, the building has been reconstructed by the Town Hall and serves as an extension of an educational center.
Founded in 1505, the Monastery of Saint María del Rosario is one of the largest religious temples in the town. Architecturally, its cloister, with 56 columns, stands out. It had a period of great splendor during the 18th century, due to the great wisdom attributed to the monks who lived there. The confiscations of Mendizábal in 1895 led to the abandonment of many religious orders, including this monastery. A tower and part of its walls are still preserved today.
Part of a series of hydraulic constructions from the 16th century, the Arch Mill is a remnant of these buildings that supplied water to the municipality. Considered to be one of the sections of the canal, the mill has a ‘lieva’, an architectural resource whose purpose was to provide the right height for the water to fall into the containers.
During the 16th century, a native of Bornos, Diego Álvarez, left a commission in his will for the construction of a house-hospital and a church. From this order, the Church of the Resurrection only remains, which houses a magnificent gilded Baroque altarpiece with Solomonic columns. It also houses a 17th century image of the Cristo de la Flagelación and a painting of the Virgen de los Dolores.
From the viewpoint known as “El Olivar” viewpoint we can see the Sierra of Grazalema or the Guadalete river as it passes through the municipality.
Bornos also offers the Eucalyptus Wall, a path that starts at the jetty towards the Greenway and takes a path to an old house called “Huerta Alameda”. After leaving the building, you will come to an area where there are remains of two mills from the 16th century. The route continues until it reaches the eucalyptus grove, on the banks of the Guadalete River, and ends back at the starting point.
The Path of the Sierra starts its route from the old national road, in the Sierra of the Calvario, and goes all the way to the Tajo. A route of great botanical interest due to the number of curative plants found along the way and which offers unforgettable views such as the Lake at the foot of the Villa of Bornos and the Sierra of Saint Cristóbal in the background. We can also enjoy the panoramic view of the Sierra from the viewpoint at the entrance to the Old Road.
The Bank of the Bornos Reservoir is a path that starts at the Islita – a stone elevation surrounded by the Guadalete River in the shape of an island – and ends at the Bornos dam. The path, also designated “de la Angostura”, skirts the valley at its deepest point. Along the way it is possible to pass through tunnels and gorges, which make this route a unique attraction.
Established by the Franciscan friars in the 17th century, the Route of the Way of the Cross attempts to emulate the itinerary followed by Jesus Christ from his interrogation to his crucifixion. In this case, the route starts at the Monastery and ends at the Calvary Hermitage, passing by the different altars and crosses left over from the period.
The El Nacimiento Viewpoint brings visitors closer to some geographical enclaves such as Bornos, the Guadalete river and, in the background, the Sierra of Grazalema.
Just before the entrance to Bornos, from Arcos de la Frontera, we find the Cañada de Morón to Carissa Aurelia Route. Following the course of the Morón ravine it is possible to reach the ruins of Carissa Aurelia. The ravine, which begins in the Sierra of Bornos, runs through hills and farmhouses, next to the peak of Saint Cristóbal.
The Guadalete Viewpoint is a natural balcony from which visitors can observe the river of the same name, which flows through the town, and which follows its course through the Cola del Embalse Nature Reserve, an environment of extensive vegetation and a variety of fauna, where birdwatching is of great importance.
At the foot of the abandoned railway line, which was planned to link Jerez and Almargen via Bornos, the Greenway was laid out. A route that runs through a corridor of vegetation from the Bornos jetty, passing the Ventiun Ojos Bridge, and culminating at the arrival of the village. Hikers and cyclists will be able to witness the variety of protected species that live in the Natural Park.
The El Pinar Viewpoint offers beautiful views of Bornos, the Guadalete river and, in the background, the Sierra of Grazalema.
In the same context, Holy Saturday is also marked by the celebration of the Burning of Judas. This is a burning of dolls made by the residents of the hamlet to symbolically punish the apostle’s betrayal to Jesus Christ. This celebration lasts throughout the night with the company of musical performances.
In mid-May, the Pilgrimage of Saint Isidro Labrador takes place. The festivities begin with the transfer of the saint and his devotees to a grove of trees near the borough of Bornos. Once there, the day is spent with festivities, food and music. The day ends with Holy Mass, which is celebrated in the parish church once the saint has returned.
The Carnival of Bornos, which takes place in February, as in the rest of the localities, is a deep-rooted tradition that has even been declared of Tourist Interest in Andalusia. Considered to be the most eagerly awaited fiesta in the town, it managed to survive censorship, making it a fundamental part of the town’s history. Two weeks before, the Carnival Group begins to organize activities such as the “morcillá”, where the tasting of blood sausages is accompanied by the musical performances of different groups.
As in most Andalusian municipalities, Holy Week is one of the most eagerly awaited festivities of the year. This celebration takes on an even more special meaning in Bornos, being the pioneer municipality in Spain in carrying out the Stations of the Cross, which makes it the precursor of the carrying out of the Stations of Penitence and the move of images.
In August, Bornos once again revives its carnival atmosphere thanks to the Carnival Night, an activity organized by the Bornos Club which brings together more and more visitors every year and aims to liven up the wait for one night until the eagerly awaited month of February.
Local fairs have been held throughout Andalusia for almost ten centuries. Although they were originally for commercial purposes, nowadays they have become more festive in character. The traditional Fair is held in mid-September, while that of the village of Bornos Reserve takes place at the end of August. The fairgrounds and lighting are the standard-bearers of these days where sevillanas and wine are the stars.
The streets of Bornos dress up every year on the occasion of Corpus Christi, a festivity that coincides with the first communion season, which is why many children accompany the image of the saint on its route through the municipality.
Every year, the town celebrates its annual Cultural Week, organized by the namesake association. During the 8 days that it lasts, the Bornos calendar is full of different activities, such as theatre, musical performances, guided tours and workshops. An opportunity to approach the town from a cultural perspective, where both adults and children have a place these days.
The first Sunday in October is considered another of the most important days in the calendar of Bornos, as the Festivities in Honor of the Patron Saint: Nuestra Señora del Rosario take place. Since the foundation of the Association and Archconfraternity in Jerez in the mid-18th century, these festivities have been held in honor of the devotee. The day begins with the congregation of the whole town for the Solemn Function, followed by the procession of the image through the streets of the municipality. The Novena to the Virgen del Rosario, which takes place the day before, and the Rosary of the Dawn, celebrated every Sunday in October, complete the events.
Undoubtedly, the most eagerly awaited day for carnival-goers is Piñata Sunday, which takes place on the second weekend of the celebrations. During this special day, a parade of cavalcades goes through the streets of the town together with musical groups and the locals themselves in costume, who compete to win the prize for the best costume.
During the month of August, the people of Bornos get together to celebrate the De la Paz District Open-Air Dance. The Neighborhood Association organizes annually a pleasant evening where live flamenco music is the subject.
One of the proposals that the municipality has created to promote sport and healthy life is the Bicycle Day. Organized by the Ciudad del Lago Sports Club, in collaboration with three public educational institutions, it proposes a route from the town center to a camping area that culminates in a gathering with activities, raffles and food. The borough of Bornos normally celebrates this activity the day before it is held in Bornos.
Right in the summer season, the village is once again decked out for the Festivities in Honor of the Patron Saint Laureano. The patron saint, who was chosen by the people of Bornos because he was attributed with a miracle during the scourge of the plague, walks the streets of the village every year together with its inhabitants. Performances by musical groups and festivities throughout the day complete this day of rejoicing and devotion.
And to finish with a good taste in the mouth, we can highlight the fruits of the land, such as dates, figs or the famous pomegranates and apricots from Bornos.
The variety of crops harvested in the traditional way means that the flavor of the local produce is of exceptional quality. One of the town’s specialties are the spoon dishes which, together with game meats, make up a varied menu, suitable for all tastes. Stews such as ‘tagarnina’ cabbage stew, game stews and asparagus soups are part of the town’s gastronomic tradition.
Another of its gastronomic attractions are the different recipes that can be made from snails, collected especially in full season and exhibited at the Snail Fair, which is held annually.
The sausages, produced in the traditional way, have also been well known in the municipality for a long time.
One of the proposals that the municipality has created to promote sport and healthy life is the Bicycle Day. Organized by the Ciudad del Lago Sports Club, in collaboration with three public educational institutions, it proposes a route from the town center to a camping area that culminates in a gathering with activities, raffles and food. The borough of Bornos normally celebrates this activity the day before it is held in Bornos.
Local fairs have been held throughout Andalusia for almost ten centuries. Although they were originally for commercial purposes, nowadays they have become more festive in character. The traditional Fair is held in mid-September, while that of the village of Bornos Reserve takes place at the end of August. The fairgrounds and lighting are the standard-bearers of these days where sevillanas and wine are the stars.
Undoubtedly, the most eagerly awaited day for carnival-goers is Piñata Sunday, which takes place on the second weekend of the celebrations. During this special day, a parade of cavalcades goes through the streets of the town together with musical groups and the locals themselves in costume, who compete to win the prize for the best costume.
In the same context, Holy Saturday is also marked by the celebration of the Burning of Judas. This is a burning of dolls made by the residents of the hamlet to symbolically punish the apostle’s betrayal to Jesus Christ. This celebration lasts throughout the night with the company of musical performances.
The Carnival of Bornos, which takes place in February, as in the rest of the localities, is a deep-rooted tradition that has even been declared of Tourist Interest in Andalusia. Considered to be the most eagerly awaited fiesta in the town, it managed to survive censorship, making it a fundamental part of the town’s history. Two weeks before, the Carnival Group begins to organize activities such as the “morcillá”, where the tasting of blood sausages is accompanied by the musical performances of different groups.
The first Sunday in October is considered another of the most important days in the calendar of Bornos, as the Festivities in Honor of the Patron Saint: Nuestra Señora del Rosario take place. Since the foundation of the Association and Archconfraternity in Jerez in the mid-18th century, these festivities have been held in honor of the devotee. The day begins with the congregation of the whole town for the Solemn Function, followed by the procession of the image through the streets of the municipality. The Novena to the Virgen del Rosario, which takes place the day before, and the Rosary of the Dawn, celebrated every Sunday in October, complete the events.
The town of Bornos is located in the Sierra of Cádiz region, in the north of the province.
From Seville, there are three similar routes to reach Bornos: the N-IV, the AP-4 and then the A-371 or the A-376.
From Cádiz, you can reach the town from the AP-4 motorway and the A-382.
From Jerez de la Frontera, the A-382 is once again the quickest way to get there.
From Málaga, take the A-357 and then the Carretera de Antequera or A-384.
From Ronda, the shortest route is via the A-374, and then take the A-384 to the town.
The COMES company has routes to Bornos from Cádiz, Jerez de la Frontera and Bornos. On the other hand, the DAMAS fleet reaches the municipality from Seville, Jerez de la Frontera and Malaga. All the information is available on their websites:
