Noria

Noria is a town and municipality in the province of Seville, in the autonomous community of Andalusia, Spain. It is located in the valley of the Guadaira River, approximately 25 kilometers west of Seville. The municipality has a total area of 72.4 square kilometers and a population of around 69,000 people.

The town has a long history dating back to the time of the Moors, who built the original settlement in the 11th century. Following the Reconquista, Noria was retaken by the Castilian Empire and later became a significant agricultural center during the Islamic period. The town's strategic location enabled it to advance the cultivation of olive trees, wine, and citrus fruits, industry that shaped the local economy.

Noria is also famous for its striking architecture, characterized by the typical Andalusian style, with many examples of Moorish Revival and Mudéjar buildings. The town has a historic center with significant architectural heritage, including the Santa María Church and the Plaza de la Constitución.

The economy of the town is predominantly based on agriculture, with contributions from the service sector. The town hosts many festivals throughout the year, including the Festival of the Duches in the May and the August Fair. The local cuisine features traditional Andalusian dishes, such as gazpacho, fried fish, and sweets based on honey and nuts.

Noria has grown rapidly in recent years, as part of the wider urban area of the province of Seville. Environmentalists are beginning to highlight the impact of urban growth, as well as water needs of a growing population.