The Cala Guide app is a free tool part of the Unified Digital Street Map of Andalusia (CDAU) project and developed by the Institute of Statistics and Cartography of Andalusia (IECA). This app offers detailed information about Cala, a picturesque village located in the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche mountains, in the province of Huelva. Its highlights include:
History and Heritage: Cala was known in Roman times as Restituta Llulia and was known for its high-quality brick production. Since the 13th century, Cala Castle has stood on a hill, part of the historic "Banda Gallega" (Galician Band) defensive wall against Portugal. The heritage site includes the Church of Santa María Magdalena, a Gothic-Mudejar temple with neo-Gothic elements and altarpieces of great artistic value, as well as the Hermitage of Nuestra Señora de Cala, a medieval chapel built on Roman remains and home to the image of the patron saint, who has been honorary mayor since 1959.
Activities: Recommended activities include visits to the old Cala mines, the Sultana Mines, and the Teuler Mines, which are part of the local industrial heritage. The old infrastructure is integrated into routes such as the "Santa Olalla del Cala – Teuler Mines" trail or the "Smugglers' Path." Also noteworthy is the panoramic walk to Cala Castle, ideal for admiring the surroundings, especially at sunset.
Local Gastronomy: Although specific gastronomic information is not detailed in the sources, the mountainous environment in which Cala is located suggests a traditional cuisine based on agricultural, livestock, and pasture products.
Festivals and Traditions: The Virgin of Cala, patron saint and honorary mayor since 1959, is celebrated every September 8th with a pilgrimage, novena, proclamation, and a traditional parade through the streets accompanied by music and fireworks. She returns to her shrine on the last Sunday in October.
The app also includes an interactive street map to locate points of interest, bars, and restaurants, making it easier to plan your visit. Immerse yourself in the essence of Cala and enjoy a unique experience with this comprehensive tourist guide.