March 27, 2014 WALKS IN HISTORY: La playa de la Costilla Text & photos by J.A. Pilares
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La Costilla and the Promenado, in the foreground Virgen del Mar
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a Costilla isn't just a one of the beaches in Rota, it is THE beach in Rota. Rota has grown over the last fifty years facing the coast towards the west, never veering far from the long sandy beach that is the delight of tourists and locals alike in the summer, and the promenade for lovers and the track of runners in the winter.To talk about la Costilla is, to a certain extent, to talk about Rota's living room. Strictly speaking, la Costilla extends from the breakwater near the Hotel Duque de Nájera to the point at Virgen del Mar, the end of the sea promenade and the beginning of the pinewood. As we begin our walk down the promenade, or “paseo marítimo”, we first come across a modern gothic arch which leads to a narrow street climbing to the gate of the Iglesia de la O church. If one walks down to the beach it is possible to align the arch with the gate of the church, the bell tower rising above it, for a curious visual effect. After this, some of the surviving ramparts of Rota come into view.These ramparts were part of the artillery battery called “el Caracol” that defended Rota from landings on the beach around the XVIII century.The military use for them is long forgotten and summer houses, known in Rota as “chalets” now rise were cannons once stood guard. Soon after the old city walls end, and the first building that catches our attention is a large house that seems completely out of place in Rota. It is built in a Alpine style, and is referred to as “la casita de chocolate” in reference to the gingerbread and cake house in the Hansel and Gretel fairy tale by the Grimm Brothers. Of course no evil children-eating witch lives there! It is just a chalet owned by a large family from Seville where they spend the summer holidays all together, with members of all ages living close by and near to the sea. Down the walk we come across the works on a modern building; the Hotel Rosario. Previously here was an older hotel known simply as “el Balneario” -the bath houseto roteños. Bath houses became fashionable in the early XX century for the upper classes in most of the Spanish coastline. Before that no-one ever thought of doing something as useless as bathing in salty water; however, doctors began prescribing “sea-baths” as a remedy for many illnesses and soon the coast was dotted with spas with everything upper class tourists
required. Rota's Balneario was no exception, having even covered walkways leading from the hotel to the water so that the bathers could cross the sand away from the inquiring eyes of the locals and the sun's rays! Consider that at the time a pale skin was favoured by the upper classes, as a tanned face was obviously the sign of a person that worked under the sun... no fashionable aristocrat would even want the slightest hint of a brown skin. With time the fashion changed, and sea baths became a popular practise; el Balneario eventually could no longer compete with working class tourism and closed down in the 1990's.Today it is being rebuilt from scratch along different lines. But let's continue. Soon we come across the square of Jesús Nazareno, but that roteños simple call Plaza la Costilla. It is the centre of the beach and where every year several flags such as the “Blue Flag” or the “Q for Quality” certifying a beach's quality are proudly flown alongside those of Rota, Andalucía, Spain and Europe. This square was for a long time the mouth of a small stream that used to run through what today is Rota's old town; and still does run albeit under ground. Sometimes in rainy winters the stream overflows and can be seen emptying near la Plaza la Costilla. It might not be nice to look at when it does overflow, but we must keep in mind that we Humans cannot control Nature, and that water always finds its natural course to the sea no matter how much we try to intervene. Starting here, the paseo marítimo keeps going along a kilometre of beach without much really to comment as most building here where built in the 60's and 70's to house
Rota's booming tourist industry, but without as much care to aesthetics as to economics. The promenade was built in the 1990's, and before that the beach, and winter storms, reached the foundations of the buildings... Surely the promenade must be an aide against erosion! One can find pictures of this part of the beach before the promenade was built and what is most surprising are the small huts -or “casetas”- of several colours lining what today is the promenade. These huts were used by vacationing families to change into their bathing clothes and to keep their wares during the holidays. Parasols, footballs, beach chairs and toys... all were kept here for months at a time. These huts also disappeared in the 70's as the new larger apartments by the sea could easily accommodate all these necessities that tourists brought with them Finally we reach the end of the line as the promenade makes it to Virgen del Mar. For some time this was the end of town, as beyond only pinewoods, sand and farmland was to be found. The high rise apartment blocks in Virgen del Mar became summer housing for tourists, and a ghost town in the winter. Hardly anyone lives there year around which gives these buildings a truly ghastly appearance when the vacationers go back to their towns; nevertheless, they have become a symbol of freedom for Rota's teens from their parents. Many owners of these flats rent them out to young people during the winter months, maybe a dozen teens will pitch in money for a cheap rent which allows them a measure of freedom from mom and dad where to host parties and have sleep-overs. But of course... most of the time it is “daddy” that pays. Next to Virgen del Mar we find one of the nicest parks in town, el Parque Atlántico. Covered with pines, crossed by a lake with large goldfish and having great places for children to play it is a preferred stop for young parents where to take their kids to play safely in the afternoons. Beyond the Parque Atlántico are the pinewoods, “la Curvita” beach, the Almadraba fishing grounds, the Hotel Playa de la Luz... but the sun is beginning to set in the Ocean and we are a bit tired from the walk. We will visit them another day.
Fisherman on the breakwater of la Costilla
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March 27, 2014
JAMÓ
S
Vicky Miller
Valdavia
Vicky Miller
panish Ham. What´s the big deal about jamón (pronounced haw-moan)? Where do I begin? Jamón is a special meat to the Spanish, much like turkey is to Americans. And once you have tasted a quality jamón you will know why. Spanish jamón can be enjoyed any time of year. Of course, we aren´t talking about the run-of-the-mill, processed ham that we would find in a ham and cheese sandwich. We are talking about a cured ham that has its own Denomination of Origin, much like a Rioja or a Sherry wine would have. The problem is being able to distinguish all of the different types of ham that are on the market. This is not only a problem for newcomers to Spain; it is has become a problem for everyone because of the many different types of ham products that are now available. Recently, the Spanish agency that regulates the labeling of cured ham established tags that will clarify what type of ham is being sold and has also established certain standards of quality with regard to the same. In order to understand that labeling, we need to have a basic understanding of why Spanish ham is considered to be so special and why there are distinctions between pork products. In the Andalusian provinces of Huelva and Cordoba, there exists a native breed of pig identified as an “iberico” (Iberian). Usually, this type of pig is distinguished by its characteristic black hooves, described as “pata negra” (blackfoot). What makes the meat from this pig especially tasty is that an iberico is raised on a free-range diet of acorns and wild vegetation found in the hills of these provinces and makes for some very tasty meat. One of the most well-known areas that produce this product is found near the village of Jabugo, in the Sierra of Aracena. These hills are covered with small oak trees and are also areas that are known for producing cork. The small forested areas are called “dehesas” (woodlands or groves). Of course, where there are oak trees there will be acorns. Therein lies the difference. (I would think it would be something similar to the States, where some beef producers stress that their beef has only been fed corn and no other type of feed). Generally speaking, the cured ham that comes from pigs that are raised in these areas could all be called jamón “serrano” (originating from the sierras, or mountain).The problem, however, is that not all of the pigs that are raised in these areas are “ibericos.” Some are from Spanish“white” pigs that have a whitish to light brown appearance and are distinguished by their similarly white or light brown colored hooves. Oftentimes, pork from these white pigs is called jamón “serrano” while the jamón from Iberian pigs is called jamón iberico. It can be very confusing when looking at labels. This
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March 27, 2014
ÓN ESPAÑOL by A.M. Ávila
where the new regulations come in. esearching this topic I found a wealth of informan, (as I have in the past, on every Andalusian topic ginable) at our friends´website: www.andalucia. m. I found the following article, written by Fiona res Watson, which summarizes and explains se new changes. Of course, we provide you s information, with both Ms. Watson´s and Mr. aplow´s (Managing Director) permission.
s of January 2014, a new labeling system has been roduced for Iberico products, including jamon rico – cured ham.
ere are two DOs (Denominacion de Origen) of on iberico in Andalucia: Jamon de Huelva and Pedroches (Cordoba). In the Alpujarras, the age of Trevelez is famous for its ham made from te pigs, but they don’t come under this system t’s only for ibericos. e system makes jamon iberico product labels ch simpler, so you know exactly what you’re buy– what the animal ate and where, and whether a pure iberico.
e labeling takes into account three main factors: he breed of pig e Iberian pig, the small brown breed native to in, is the finest jamon producer. Some pigs will 100% Iberian, with both parents pure-bred. hers will be part Iberian mixed with another ed – mother pure Iberian and father mixed; the centage of Iberian must be specified so its exact ealogy can be traced. What it was fed on ere are now three categories, down from four: ota (acorns), cebo del campo (natural grazing) cebo (fodder). Where it was raised – owed to roam free (eating acorns or grazing urally), or kept enclosed in a pen (and fed fod). When being raised free-range, the number of s allowed per hectare is 0.25-1.25. For those captivity, pigs weighing over 110kg must have a nimum of 2 square meters each. ese are the color-coded labels: ACK LABEL - Jamon 100% Iberico de Bellota s is the top category – the finest available – and icates a pure-bred Iberian pig which has been only on acorns during the montañero period ctober to February). It is free-range, being alwed to roam around the dehesa. D LABEL - Jamon Iberico de Bellota s is a pig which is part-Iberian – the percentage berian breed must be specified. The pig has also en allowed to roam free, eating acorns.
GREEN LABEL - Jamon Iberico de Cebo de Campo This pig is at least 50% Iberian, and has been allowed to roam freely, eating both natural grazing and fodder. WHITE LABEL- Jamon Iberico de Cebo This pig is at least 50% Iberian, and has been kept enclosed in a pen and given fodder. The length of time ham is cured for is more strictly controlled now, and a minimum weight of leg is being introduced. The system also applies to paleta (smaller front legs – jamon is typically the hind leg) and caña de lomo (loin) made from Iberico pigs. Images, logos and symbols are strictly controlled – pictures of acorns and dehesa (savannah-like open woodland with oak trees) can only be used on the label for an Iberian pig which actually ate bellotas, and roamed on this type of land.
Comakut
The labeling will come into force gradually; all newly produced Iberian hams will have to bear the color-coded labels, but those products already on sale will not. So until all existing ham products are sold, some will remain that aren’t coded as per the new system.” Note: Cured ham from the white pig will now be exclusively called “Jamon Serrano” and will have three different labels based on the length of curing time.
Comakut
Vicky Miller
Vicky Miller
March 27, 2014
The view from CView Bar La Feria – Rota Now you can enjoy a Flamenco show with dinner right here in Rota. Bar La Feria located at Calle Mina, 42 is once again offering Flamenco Shows with dinner on Friday evenings from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Dinner consists of appetizers: garlic tomato, fried peppers and Iberian ham; a main course, the choice of garlic shrimp, fish Rota style, pork loin or beef tenderloin in pepper sauce: dessert and beverages. During the dinner and show there is an open bar with your choice of beer, white or red house wine, water or soda.The cost is 30 euros per person and enjoyment is guaranteed. Calle Mina is one of the typical
walking streets in downtown Rota. On nice days and evenings, it is filled with tables with everyone enjoying refreshments and being outside. For reservations, call 664 026525. Ajedrez Beach Club Good news for all the fans of the Ajedrez Beach Club in Chipiona; they will open a week from tomorrow, April 4th. This is a sure sign spring has arrived. This year they will once again be serving Mediterranean and Asian cuisine with the difference that both cuisines will be available at midday and evenings instead of alternating. Ajedrez Beach Club is a wonderful spot to enjoy great food and a fabulous setting for a day or an evening. It is located right after Costa Ballena as you go towards Chipiona. For more information, please visit www.ajedrezbeachclub.es.
to help leaders understand the work of the ministry, and throughout the conference, God will use His servant to edify the body by explaining your role as leaders in ministry. Our hope and prayer is that you come with an expectation and that God will release a special anointing upon each attendee. The time to take your place in the five-fold ministry is now! We pray that at the conclusion of this conference, every mind, gift, hope, talent, and life will be totally transformed and without any doubts, we will all go forth willingly to evangelize, teach, and preach the gospel of Jesus Christ.” For more information or to sign up, contact Clarice Brown at 608 854130 or judabrownrota@yahoo.com
ROTA
Higher Praise Christian Fellowship Church Higher Praise Christian Fellowship Church is hosting a leadership conference April 3rd through April 6th. I asked Clarice Brown to tell me about the conference so I could pass it along. Here is what Clarice had to say. “The primary goal of this conference is to assist attendees in identifying and understanding spiritual gifts to maximize your leadership potential. This conference is designed
Shamrock Bar & Eatery Shamrock Bar & Eatery announces that tomorrow night they will have a variety of Mexican specialties to spice up your Friday
Concert at Meteoro Friday 28 "Murder is Dead". Another perspective of the Smiths. Free entrance. Calle Higuereta, 57, La Costilla. Tour The Bay By Sail Boat This 2 hour trip leaves at midday and sunset Price is 15€ per person with a minimum of 4 persons and a maximum of 5. Information and reservations,Tourism Office, tel 956 846345. Organized by Diverta Sail Flamenco & Dinner at Bar La Feria, Calle Mina, 42, every Friday 19:30 – 21:30. 30€ per person. For reservations, call 664 026525. Red Lion English Pub Concert Friday 28th, Optimusic Cosmic Show with Merche Corisco - La Musa Difusa
II Half Marathon Toruños-Algaida; Organized by Tri-Puerto Triathlon on 30 March in Los Toruños. Tapa Route `Cucharón y Paso Atrás´ Saturday, 15 March through Sunday, 14 April Many gastronomic eateries of the town, together with the Ayutamiento, have orgainized this route so that we can have a tapa and a drink (beer, fino wine, red wines and soft drinks) for a 2.50€ price. Details will follow. Rock Scene: Steve Wynn & Friends (only concert in Spain); Thursday 27 March at 21:00 in the Teatro Municpal Pedro Muñoz Seca. Entrance 8.50€ Sherry, Sevillans & Tapas; Sunday,
Authentic American Grill
Anything you want us to pass along? Let us hear from you about your favorite places or coming events. We do like hearing from you! Send an e-mail to Karen@ coastline.e.telefonica.net or give a call to 607-564132. Support your paper by supporting the advertisers.
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Molly Malone Next Friday, April 4th is Thai theme night at Molly Malone. It is one of their best so don’t miss it.
Auditorio Municipal Alcalde Felipe Benítez; Avda. San Fernando - Processional Marches Concert; Friday, 28 March at 21:00. Entrance 3€ - Dance: Swan Lake and Song of the Sea by the Youth Ballet of Málaga, Saturday, 29 March at 21:00. Entrance 5€ IX Processional Marches Concert by Our Father Jesus of Nazareth Brotherhood Band Saturday, March 29th at 20:15 in Our Lady of O Parrish II Saeta Encounter (The Saeta is a song typical of Holy Week); Saturday, 29 March at 21:00 in the Paña Viejo Agujetas on Calle Argüelles, 2.
night. Saturday night starting around 11 p.m., go on over and show off your BEER PONG skills and win prizes. Sounds interesting!
PUERTO DE SANTA MARIA
March 30th at Peña Flamenca El Nitri. The presentation will be in English. Tickets: 22€ per person, Kid´s plate: 8€. Tickets must be purchased in advance. For more information call 673 204 003 or 600 898 066. Concert “Mikel Erentxun” (Duncan Dhu) in Sala Milwaukee, Saturday, March 29th at 23:30. Entrance 12€. Avda. Bajamar, 10. Thai Theme Night in Molly Malone, Friday, April 4th. Tribute to Blas de Lezo at Calle Larga 70, on Saturday the 29th, starting at 11AMSpanish admiral and one of the greatest commanders and strategists in the history of the Spanish Navy.