Écija
Favourite / Share
Google
FriendFeed
Twitter
Myspace
Linkedin
Meneame
Technorati
Facebook
Delicious
Digg
History
Its name comes from the Greek name Astigi, which means "land of
citizens".
Under the Roman domination it was called Colonia Augusta Firma
Astigi, and was quite well known. It was the centre of a
jurisdiction which included 49 cities, and later became an
Episcopal seat. The first monastery of virgins was founded here in
the 7th century.
The present-day town is located on the site of the old Roman city,
and Roman remains are frequently discovered in the AREA.
During the period of Al-Andalus it was called Estadja, which means
"wealthy city". In order to convert to Christianity, its
inhabitants had to first obtain their freedom.
The Christian conquest was undertaken by Ferdinand III in 1240.
Following the conquest many illustrious Castilian families settled
in the town, greatly contributing to its social and economic
growth.
In 1402 Henry III granted the town its own law code. The first
guilds were established in the 16th century and attained their
maximum importance in the 18th century.
The large number of religious and civil buildings built between the
11th and 18th centuries reflect the past importance and prosperity
of the town.
The 18th century is considered to be the "golden century" of Ecija,
due to its economic prosperity and artistic vitality at that time.
In 1966 the city was declared Historic-Artistic Site.
Eminent citizens
Pablo de Aroca, bandolero (bandit).
Luis Vélez de Guevara, playwright and novelist.
Fernando Valero y Toledano, tenor.
Jaime Ostos Carmona, bullighter.
Manuel Ostos y Ostos, writer.
Benito Mas y Prat, writer.
José Más, novelist.
Lope de Medina Chirinos, sculptor.
