Utrera Fair
How the Utrera Fair is Celebrated
The Utrera Fair is a prominent event celebrated in honor of the Virgen de Consolación, the city's patron saint. This vibrant festival, declared of tourist interest, takes place around September 8th and spans four exciting days.
The heart of the festivity is the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Consolation, which remains open to the public day and night. This day is especially significant, with pilgrimages coming from nearby towns to pay homage to the Virgin.
The fair unfolds in a spacious fairground adjacent to the Parque de Consolación, designed similarly to Seville's famous Feria de Abril. In this space, casetas (festive tents) serve as meeting points, organized by families, groups of friends, and associations. Here, visitors can enjoy warm Andalusian hospitality, live flamenco music, and delicious local cuisine.
Utrera is renowned for being the birthplace of significant flamenco artists, and during this fair, the passion for this musical genre comes to life in numerous performances. It's a place where art and culture intertwine with tradition and religious devotion.
The Utrera Fair is much more than a local celebration; it reflects the rich cultural heritage of Andalusia and offers an unforgettable experience for all who attend. Join in and discover the essence of Utrera at its best!
Origins and History of the Utrera Fair
The Utrera Fair has its roots in an ancient livestock fair that accompanied the annual pilgrimage to the Virgen de Consolación. Over time, this tradition evolved into one of the most prominent fairs in Seville, coinciding with the patron saint festivities in honor of the Virgin.
Initially, devotion to the Virgen de Consolación intensified after a miracle in 1558, and the Minim Friars founded a convent near the hermitage in 1561. The festivity used to be celebrated in February but was moved to September 8th in the 1570s, attracting thousands of people to a popular pilgrimage.
The Fair, known for the Virgin, also stood out for its bullfights, mentioned by Quevedo. However, in 1771, King Carlos III's government suspended the procession and the pilgrimage due to disturbances at the Fair. Although reduced to a few markets, it continued.
During the French occupation (1810-1812), the Virgin was moved to the Parish of Santa María de la Mesa for protection. The Fair was held in the town rather than at the Sanctuary, returning in 1813 after the French withdrawal.
What to See in Utrera
Utrera, a charming city in the province of Seville, offers a rich cultural and historical experience. Here are some prominent places to visit in Utrera:
- Sanctuary of Our Lady of Consolation: This sanctuary is the center of religious devotion in Utrera, housing the image of the Virgen de Consolación, a venerated figure for centuries.
- Utrera Castle: This medieval castle, though in ruins, remains impressive and offers panoramic views of the city from its elevated position.
- Church of Santa María de la Mesa: An impressive Gothic church dating back to the 14th century, featuring a stunning facade and beautiful interior.
- Plaza de Gibaxa: This is the heart of Utrera's old town, with picturesque streets and typical Andalusian architecture.
- Plaza de la Fuente Vieja: Another charming square in Utrera, surrounded by bars and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine.
- Consolación Park: A beautiful park adjacent to the sanctuary, ideal for a leisurely stroll and enjoying nature.
- Casa Surga: A restored manor house now housing the Utrera Interpretation Center, where you can learn about the city's history and culture.
- Utrera Museum: Offers a deeper insight into the history and archaeology of the region, featuring an interesting collection of artifacts.
- Hermitage of San Bartolomé: This hermitage is a notable example of religious architecture in Utrera, with a beautiful facade.
- Utrera Fair: If you visit in September, don't miss the Utrera Fair, one of the city's most important festivities, filled with music, dance, and typical Andalusian cuisine.
Utrera is a gem in the province of Seville, with a rich history and an authentic Andalusian atmosphere that is well worth exploring.
Popular Gastronomy: What to Eat in Utrera
In Utrera, you can enjoy delicious Andalusian cuisine, featuring a variety of traditional and authentic dishes. Here are some food and dishes you should try while in Utrera:
- Gazpacho Andaluz: This refreshing and healthy dish is perfect for hot summer days. It's a cold soup made from tomatoes, cucumber, bell pepper, garlic, and bread, seasoned with olive oil and vinegar.
- Salmorejo: Similar to gazpacho but thicker and with a more intense flavor. It's usually served with hard-boiled eggs and chopped serrano ham on top.
- Flamenquín: A regional specialty, flamenquín is a breaded and fried roll of meat (usually ham and pork). It's a popular choice in local bars and restaurants.
- Pescaíto Frito: If you enjoy seafood and fish, don't miss this delicious fried fish dish, which typically includes anchovies, squid, and other fresh seafood.
- Espinacas con Garbanzos: A simple yet flavorful dish that combines fresh spinach with chickpeas, garlic, and olive oil.
- Rabo de Toro: This dish consists of braising bull's tail in a rich red wine and spice sauce until the meat is tender and flavorful.
- Carrillada de Cerdo: Carrilladas are pork cheeks stewed in a fragrant sauce. They are tender and full of flavor.
- Montaditos: These are small sandwiches or tapas that you can find in local bars. They can include a variety of ingredients such as ham, cheese, chorizo, or Spanish omelet.
- Traditional Sweets: Don't leave Utrera without trying some of its traditional sweets, such as pestiños, tortas de aceite (olive oil cakes), or borrachuelos (liqueur-filled pastries).
- Wines and Manzanilla: Pair your meals with a fine wine from the region, such as a red wine from the Sierra Norte de Sevilla Designation of Origin, or a refreshing manzanilla from Sanlúcar de Barrameda.
Utrera offers an authentic Andalusian culinary experience with fresh and delicious flavors that reflect the richness of the region's culinary tradition.
