La Atalaya Estate and Historical Gardens

The La Atalaya Estate—formerly known as Huerta de Zurita—extends over 18,000 m² of 19th-century gardens and buildings. Its landscaped grounds partially preserve the original French-style garden design, and host a diverse collection of century-old trees from various parts of the world. The gardens are officially listed as part of Andalusian Historical Heritage (Patrimonio Histórico Andaluz).

Featuring walkways and fountains, the estate was originally developed by the Sánchez Romate family, who acquired three adjoining plots of land around 1866 to create the current park. It remained in their possession until 1943, when it was acquired by another winemaking family, the Vergaras. In 1961, the estate was purchased by Zoilo Ruiz-Mateos.

Following the expropriation of the Rumasa Group in 1983, the facilities were transferred to the newly created Andrés de Ribera Foundation (Fundación Andrés de Ribera) in 1987, which has since been responsible for managing and preserving the site.

Botanical Highlights – Gardens of Cultural Interest
(According to Urban Tree Management specialists)

► Araucaria excelsa
Also known as the Norfolk Island pine, this conical-shaped tree can reach up to 70 meters in height. Originally from Australia, it is a popular ornamental species found in gardens around the world. It can also be cultivated in pots and grown indoors as a small decorative tree.

► Phytolacca dioica – Ombú / Bella Sombra
Commonly known as the Ombú tree or Tree of Beautiful Shade, it is native to South America (Peru, Argentina, Brazil, etc.). Widely cultivated in Spain during the 17th century, particularly in Valencia, Seville, and Galicia. It grows up to 15 meters, retains its foliage year-round, and reaches full height by age 15.

► Celtis australis – European Nettle Tree
Native to the Mediterranean region, this species is valued for its ornamental, medicinal, and culinary uses. It requires minimal pruning (only dead branches), as it heals slowly and does not tolerate heavy trimming. It is highly resilient, withstanding frosts down to -18°C and temperatures above 40°C, provided it has sufficient water.

► Ginkgo biloba – Maidenhair Tree
Also referred to as the Silver Apricot or the “Forty Shields Tree”—a name derived from the price a Parisian enthusiast paid an English horticulturist (40 écus per specimen). This ancient species can reach 35 meters in height and is known for its longevity, with some trees exceeding 2,500 years. Native to China, it also grows in Korea, the eastern and southern United States, and several Spanish cities including León, Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and Cádiz. It has recognized culinary, ornamental, and pharmacological applications.