THE CHESTNUT TREE
A magical tree that gives life to the Sierra
Natural treasure that enriches the landscape and sustains life in the region
In the central part of the Natural Park Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche is one of the great treasures of this territory: the ancient chestnut forests. Brought by Leonese, Galician and Asturian settlers who came to the area, this tree gives the land some peculiar characteristics that are found in few places in Andalusia. Not only is it an enriching element of the landscape, it is also a great protector of the soil against water erosion, a moisture retainer in the hottest periods, and helps to conserve genetic biodiversity.
Today, the chestnut grove is a livelihood in this region, and also the origin of much of the cultural, ethnological and gastronomic wealth of this territory. Dishes such as chestnut stew, and customs such as the rehiletes, ciriales and abelorios, are part of the history and present of the inhabitants of this protected natural area. Living these customs together with the local companies is an ecotourist experience.
Ecotourism companies of the territory, such as Babel Nature, Lynxaia or Vestigia offer interpreted routes and experiences that allow a complete knowledge of the uses and customs of the Chestnut grove in the Natural Park Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche.