Oscar-winner Adrien Brody and sultry Iberian beauty Penelope Cruz simply sizzled on the set of their film Manolete in southern Spain. Now those hoping to recreate their passionate scenes and explore the film's stunning backdrops have received a helping hand from the Andalusian tourist board, which has produced a map highlighting the key places where the silver screen moments were filmed. Famed for its Moorish history, carnivals and fiery flamenco dancing, Andalusia is a mecca for holidaymakers looking to combine brilliant sunshine with a slice of history and culture.
The newly inaugurated Manolete visitor route covers several key locations used in the movie, including Carmona, Cadiz and the bullfighter's hometown of Cordoba. In addition to its legendary son, the city is also famous for the awe-inspiring Mezquita. This tenth-century mosque, which was one of the wonders of the medieval world, is so large it contains a full-scale Renaissance cathedral, erected by the city's Christian conquerers.
Cordoba's flower-filled streets are also the setting for an annual Patio Festival. Each May the courtyards of private homes are opened to the public, allowing visitors a glimpse their owners' fabulous blooms.
Those keen to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the south can opt to stay in the Alcazar del Rey Don Pedro in Carmona – a regal 14th-century parador set within the remains of a Moorish fortress. It makes an excellent base from which to explore the province's pueblos blancos or white villages.
Also featuring on the Manolete movie map are the towns of Puerto Santa Maria and Sanlucar de Barrameda, where a traditional horse race takes place on the beach every summer. Another regional highlight is the annual El Rocio pilgrimage, which sees hundreds of thousands of devotees in traditional outfits ride on horseback or in decorated carriages to pay homage to the Virgin del Rocio in Almonte.
Photo: Rex
Photo: Turespaña
Photo: Turespaña
