El Puerto de Santa Maria: Christopher Columbus’ Pitstop Before Discovering America
El Puerto de Santa Maria means The Port of Saint Mary in the English language, and is located at the banks of the river in Cadiz in Andalusia, 6 miles northeast. Situated at Guadalete River, and is widely known for being the port where the discoverer and conqueror of America set sail – Christopher Columbus. Its main source of economy is tourism, to which the beaches are among the most sought after attractions in the town.
Best Time to Visit
The Spring Carnival (February) happens 47 days before Easter, after the Holy Week, which would have street parades and penitents – consisting of devoted Catholics observing culture and tradition. Daily parades are held from Pal Sunday up until Easter Sunday. Tourists can also witness Romeria del Rocio which is a festive pilgrimage done in the third week of May. When considering a visit to Santa Catalina Beach and Golf El Puerto, tourists are encouraged to book their flights at March until July, and September until November. Although attractions are crowded from January, February and August due to fiestas and sacred events happening during this time of year.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Tourists travelling to El Puerto de Santa Maria should include on their itinerary a visit to Castle of San Marcos, as it is not a regular sight to see on their hometown. It is a medieval castle erected by King Alfonso X of Castile as a defense during war. Museo Arqueologico Municipal de El Puerto de Santa Maria exhibits artifacts and other pieces of history about El Puerto de Santa Maria and Spain in general. Nearby hotels are as follows: Monasterio de San Miguel, Hotel Puertobahia & Spa and Hotel Bodega Real.