The heart of Andalucian nationalism celebrates with cheese and fandangos

IF there’s a place in Andalucia that holds extra special celebrations for Andalucia Day, it has to be Casares, birthplace of Blas Infante.

Known as father of Andalucian nationalism, Infante was a writer, politician, historian and musicologist, who initiated an assembly in Ronda in 1913 from which the Andalucian charter, flag and coat of arms arose.

This year the village will commemorate Andalucia Day, February 28, with traditional tributes at 12.30pm at the Plaza de España after which the Andalucian hymn will be sung by Lucia Soccam.

Casares fandango dancing will then take over with a show by the municipal dance school and a flamenco quadrille formed by singers Diego Reyes and Ana Pineda, guitarist Javier Pineda and percussionist Venancio.

Local cheeses and wines will be offered from 2pm.

The cultural centre and the house where Infante was born will remain open for visits on the day from 11am to 4pm.