Ecija is an inland town, with a population of about 40,000. First a Roman, then Moorish town, it has many narrow, winding cobbled streets and whitewashed houses. The historic centre is rich in architectural and archeological detail in the ancient family palaces, convents and baroque churches. The Archeological Museum exhibits the internationally acclaimed Amazona sculpture and Roman mosaics discovered when excavating the town square. Ecija is also famed for its weather. Fortunately, in a school year from September to June you can enjoy all the festivals without having to suffer the extremely high summer temperatures that give Ecija the name of “the frying pan of Andalusia”.
What to Do
If you’re sporty or like socializing and dancing, playing an instrument, photography, walking, riding, canoeing or whatever else your hobbies may be, you’re sure to find a club or group to suit you in Ecija.
This is what Emily, a teacher who has been here for two years says about her experience:
“Working at Tower has offered me the opportunity not only to enjoy teaching and grow professionally, but also to fulfil another dream of living a different lifestyle. Before coming to Spain I had a very strong idea of the kind of life I wanted to have and I feel I have found it here in Ecija. I no longer waste time sitting in traffic jams as I freely bike my way around the whole town! And with everything being so close by, I can pop into the school to plan classes when I want and have time for all the extra things I love to do.
Outside of work I have three dance classes a week including salsa and the traditional dance of the region, Sevillanas. I love learning this popular flamenco style dance because it’s something very cultural, which brings me on to my next point. Ecija is not like a big city that is full of international people. Here I have learnt about and felt part of the culture, from eating tapas at non-tourist prices, dancing Sevillanas at the September fair and dressing up in the Carnival, to watching the parades of the three Kings at Christmas and the Holy Week processions at Easter.
Of course another benefit of living in a smaller town is that learning Spanish is not a problem. The people are so open and friendly you won’t have any difficulty making Spanish friends or simply finding opportunities to practise when you’re out and about every day.“
