Welcome, time travellers. At your service, Ms Victoria Garci de Mora, offspring of the Castilians who reached this city during times of war, fighting against the Arabs who held power over these lands for cen-turies. I am the niece of Sobrina de Beatriz de Mora and Ponce de León, Mother Abess of the Mercedari-an Convent. I have been born and bred between handcrafted stones and architects, where the sun’s shadows are cast onto the limestone and stone walls, surrounded by churches and chapels steeped in history.

Arcos grows, and its streets are filled with hustle and bustle. The market rings out with announcements, laughter and the cries of those selling bread and vegetables. In the castle’s surrounding area, the stones age with the golden tinge of the sun, worn down by the rains. The sound of hammers rattling against chisels and the wheels on donkey-pulled carts forms the backdrop for the pace of life. The Guadalete River babbles at its feet, when the eastern win brings with it the aroma of orange blossom.

The Baroque Period has reached our doors with all its headiness, yet for me it is thrilling and life-giving.

Join me on this journey! Wonder at the grandeur of the monuments, hear the chime of the bells and let the sweet smells of the cakes made by nuns enamour you. Experience Arcos with all five senses. Follow me, as history awaits us.