In the hills of southern Seville lies Los Corrales. A peaceful village where time slows down and the coffee is always hot. This small town is surrounded by olive trees, gentle hills and stories that go back to Roman times.

Archaeological sites like La Huerta de la Fuente del Esparto and Cortijo de Repla point to ancient settlements. Some experts even believe this was once Ilipa or Ilipula Minor, mentioned in Roman travel records. During the Moorish era, the area was left nearly empty due to its position on the frontier between warring kingdoms.

It wasn’t until the late 16th century that the first families settled here. Today, Los Corrales is known for its friendly community, traditional festivals and slow Andalusian rhythm.

Walk through centuries of history

Start at the Plaza Diamantino Acosta. This quiet square is home to the Church of Santiago Apóstol. Built in the 18th century, it stands out with its neoclassical style, impressive dome and large painting of Pentecost. Inside you’ll also find the Virgen del Buensuceso, the village’s patron saint.

Take your time strolling through the whitewashed streets. Stop at a local bar for a tapa and try 'goronías'—a hearty dish made with chickpeas, broad beans or cabbage. It’s as comforting as the village itself.

Ruins, trails and wide-open skies

Just outside the village, the Cortijo de Repla ruins tell even more stories. Pottery fragments and traces of old ironwork hint at a Roman past. Archaeologists think this may have been a fortified settlement.

Nature is never far away. Head to Fuente del Esparto, a quiet area perfect for a picnic. Each March, locals walk here during a traditional pilgrimage. The trails are great for hiking or biking, and the nearby Río Blanco and Sierra de los Almadenes offer scenic views.

Looking for a different kind of ride? The Picadero de Ana Reverte offers horseback tours through the countryside. You can even stay overnight and wake up to birdsong and the sound of hooves.

Join the fiesta

In August, Los Corrales lights up for its annual fair. The highlight? The Flamenco Festival of the Sierra Sur. This music event has been going strong for over 30 years and celebrates the rich flamenco culture of the region.

Visit in spring and you’ll catch the pilgrimage to the hermitage of the Virgen del Buensuceso. Locals gather, walk, eat and sing—together, the way they like it.

Getting there and around

Los Corrales is about 111 km from Seville. Drive along the A-92, take the exit at Osuna and continue on the A-378. You’ll reach the village in under two hours.

Prefer public transport? Take a bus from Seville’s Plaza de Armas station to the Sierra Sur region. The nearest train stop is in Osuna, where you can grab a taxi or catch a local bus.

Once you're in the village, walking or cycling is the best way to enjoy the surroundings. No rush. Just you, the hills, and the quiet.

source and (c) photo: www.turismosevilla.org