The town of Rota
The town of Rota is located in the province of Cadiz which is in the region of Spain, Andalusia. The population of this town is approximately 27000. The towns - SanlÓºcar de Barrameda, Chipiona and El Puerto de Santa MarÓa border Rota. It is exactly in the middle of Gibraltar and Portugal and is situated on the Atlantic coast.History
It has been found through archaeological evidence that once upon a time there was a Bronze Age Settlement in this place. This town was originally founded by the Phoenicians when Cadiz was founded. During the period of Tartesian Empire, it was called Astaroth. Under Romans it was called Speculum Rotae. This town was called Rabita Rutta at the time of Moorish rule which means watchtower of Rota.
Climate
The average temperatures in a year are as follows:
*Maximum ò€“ 25 Ò°C in the month of August
*Minimum ò€“ 11 Ò°C in January
Art and Culture
Some of the popular monuments in this town are as follows:
1.The Castle of the Luna ò€“ was built in the 18th century over the remains of a Moslem Ribat; this was renovated in 1999 and at present is being used as the council office.
2.The Parish Church ò€“ was built in the 16th century and contains various styles ò€“ Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque and Plateresque. The artistic treasures include the Organ, the choir stalls, the paintings and the statues.
3.San Juan Bautista ò€“ was built in the Baroque style.
4.San Roque Church ò€“ was built in Baroque style.
5.The Merced Tower ò€“ is the remains from the Merced Convent.
Cuisine
Arranque is a traditional dish made using tomatoes, chopped bread, garlic, green peppers, olive oil and salt. The local wine is made from dark ripe grapes. The following food items are popular in Rota:
*Caracoles or Snails
*Menudo or tripe soup
*Chicharron or pork rinds fried deep
*Gazpacho is a cold tomato soup
Sports and Entertainment
Popular sporting activities in Rota are ò€“ scuba diving, Golf, kite surfing, trekking, windsurfing, sailing, horse riding, bike riding, tennis, etc.
Shopping
You can purchase clothing, souvenirs, household articles, toys, etc. from the shops in this place. You can get bargain prices in the Gypsy market that is opened every week on Wednesdays. You can purchase shoes, clothing, jewelry, olives and spices.
Business & Economy
During summer, lots of tourists arrive at this place whereas the fishing industry becomes prominent in the off season. These contribute to Rota"s economy to some extent.
The US/ Spanish naval base was opened in the year 1955 in Rota and all US vessels entering the Mediterranean Sea stop at Rota. 80% of Rota"s economy is contributed by the US Naval base. Cotton is a predominant crop in the surrounding areas.
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