The history behind “Sacromonte” and its Tortilla

Buried within the majestic city of Granada, the neighborhood of Sacromonte, high up in the hills, has its own culture, origins, and some traditional dishes you don’t want to miss out on. One of these dishes is the tortilla Sacromonte. This tortilla is believed to have originated as a hearty dish, often eaten by the cave-dwelling families who lived in the neighborhood. 

The neighborhood is located in the Andalusian region of southern Spain. This unique and fascinating neighborhood is home to folklore, and boasts its unique cave houses, flamenco shows, and traditional cuisine – in particular the tortilla.

The History of Sacromonte

The history of the Tortilla Sacromonte is closely tied to the history of the neighborhood itself. Its inital development dates back to the 16th century, when the area was settled by Muslim refugees who had been exiled from the nearby city of Baza. It was in this harsh landscape that these refugees built cave dwellings into the hillsides and began cultivating the land around them. 

The neighborhood maintained its identity as being the home of outcasts throughout time, but was primarily home of Muslim,Tziganes. Over time, Sacromonte became known for its unique architecture and culture. The neighborhood also developed its distinct cuisine, which included dishes made with local ingredients such as broad beans, ham, and eggs.

Is Sacromonte the birthplace of Flamenco?

It is widely believed that Sacromonte is the original birthplace of Flamenco. The neighborhood has a long history of Flamenco music and dance, and today there are many ‘Tablaos’ (flamenco clubs) where visitors can watch traditional performances with local dancers.

Can you see the Alambra from Sacromonte?

Overlooking the city of Granada, Sacromonte is located on a hillside looking straight at the Alhambra Palace, one of the most famous monuments of Spain. From this belvedere, visitors can enjoy the stunning views of the palace, Granada, and the surrounding mountains.

With this view in mind, you can imagine the lives of those who created this neighborhood. Many of the houses in Sacromonte are built into the rocky hillsides and are caves that have been turned into homes to appreciate these views. Some of these caves have been inhabited for centuries and have been passed down through families from generation to generation. 

When you walk down its streets, you can experience the history and culture of Sacromonte, celebrated in the form of festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most famous festivals in Sacromonte is the Fiesta de San Cecilio, which takes place in February and includes processions, live music, and traditional food.

Surprising Ingredientes in the Tortilla Sacromonte

Perhaps this traditional dish is still a living monument of the original Sacromonte culture. The original Tortilla Sacromonte actually includes sheep’s brains and testicles – it’s not considered Tortilla de Sacromonte otherwise. Other ingredients can also be added like ham, peas, and chorizo. Sometimes even habas con Jamón (a dish made with broad beans and ham).

Nowadays, it’s difficult to find a real and traditional Tortilla Sacromonte. At Food Lover Tour, we know the best restaurants in Sacromonte that specialize in traditional Andalusian cuisine. Although the recipe has evolved over time, the dish still retains its hearty and comforting character, and is a beloved part of the region’s culinary heritage, and this particular Tortilla is still a very popular dish in the Granada region.

So while visiting Granada‘s gorgeous landmarks, don’t forget to head to the neighborhood of Sacromonte for some unusual, yet typical, Tortilla Sacromonte. The dish that was often eaten by the local cave-dwelling families and a testament to the unique and flavorful cuisine that is beloved in the Granada region.