Podcast Summary: Cuerpos Especiales – “Almedinilla (Córdoba) – GANADOR”
Date: January 12, 2026
Host: EuropaFM – Eva Soriano, Nacho García, Lalachús
Guest: Laura (Embajadora rural de Almedinilla)
Episode Focus: Discovering the small town of Almedinilla in Córdoba as part of the “Pueblos Especiales” competition.
Main Theme
This episode celebrates rural Spain by shining a spotlight on Almedinilla, Córdoba. Laura, a proud local, joins the morning show to share the town’s history, culture, festivals, gastronomy, and unique traditions—competing for the title of “Pueblo Especial” with the chance to win a Cuerpos Especiales kit. The hosts keep the tone upbeat and comedic, uncovering why Almedinilla is worth a visit.
Key Discussion Points & Insights
1. An Introduction to Almedinilla (00:34 – 00:59)
- Laura greets the team and introduces herself as a resident of Almedinilla, a town with just over 2,000 inhabitants, including surrounding villages.
- Quote: “Pues tenemos un poquito más de 2.000 habitantes pueblo conjunto con las aldeas, porque tiene bastantes aldeas, llegamos a superar los 2.000 habitantes.” (Laura, 00:47)
2. Rich Roman and Arab Heritage (01:02 – 01:52)
- The town boasts both Roman and Arab archaeological sites, including a Roman settlement and an ancient Iberian village.
- Each August, Almedinilla hosts a Roman Festival: For one week, the town reenacts Roman customs, complete with markets and dinners.
- Quote: “En agosto celebramos un festival que es un festival romano... es una bacana al que se llama romana.” (Laura, 01:31)
- Roman dinners, or bacanales, feature authentic, festive meals in ancient style, with food, wine, and entertainment.
- Laura jokes about the tradition, prompting laughter from Eva and the team about “dining like Caesar.”
3. Community Spirit & Flexibility (02:21 – 02:37)
- The Roman dinners typically occur during the festival week in August but can also be booked with advance notice throughout the year.
- Quote: “Se hace una semana en agosto, pero... si tú quieres reservar y celebrar una, pues se celebra…” (Laura, 02:24)
4. Architectural and Natural Beauty (03:07 – 03:35)
- Almedinilla features a Roman coliseum, important archaeological digs, a historic church, and stunning landscapes.
- The town sits at a mountain crossroads between Córdoba, Jaén, and Granada, known for its waterfalls and vistas.
- Quote: “Es un enclave muy chulo, hay cascada, son paisajes... muy bonitos.” (Laura, 03:35)
5. Local Gastronomy (03:37 – 04:40)
- Typical dishes:
- Pan de higo: a sweet with chocolate, almonds, and figs.
- Remojón de naranja: a local salad with orange, cod, olive oil, almonds, and sometimes figs.
- The combination of flavors surprises the hosts, who express amazement and curiosity about trying it.
- Quote: “El remojón de naranja es como una especie de ensalada que se hace con naranja... lleva bacalao, aceite, pan de higos...” (Laura, 03:53)
- Reaction: “No entiendo nada de ese plato... es como de repente mar y montaña a la vez.” (Eva, 04:09)
6. Festivals and Community Life (04:48 – 05:27)
- Laura highlights a year-round calendar of events:
- Christmas: Nativity displays, caroling competitions, and a Palace of the Wise Men.
- Spring/Summer: “Cruces” festival in May kicks off a summer full of local fiestas.
- Easter: Processions and traditional Semana Santa customs.
- Theater performances occur regularly.
- Quote: “Aquí en los pueblos pequeños las fiestas no faltan. Desde mayo empezamos con las cruces y ya todo el verano tenemos alguna fiesta.” (Laura, 05:16)
Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments
- Roman Dinner Laughter:
- “Te ponen cinco más o menos [cervezas].” (Laura, joking about the generous Roman servings, 01:55)
- Eva’s Enthusiasm:
- “Voy a tener que ir… al Medinilla a hacer una bacanal de esas.” (Eva, 02:10)
- Inviting All:
- “La diversión está asegurada. Aburriros, no os vais a aburrir.” (Laura, 05:24)
Important Timestamps
- 00:34 – Introduction to Laura and Almedinilla
- 01:02 – Discussion of Almedinilla’s Roman and Arab roots
- 01:31 – Details about the Roman Festival and bacanales
- 03:07 – Architectural and natural highlights
- 03:37 – Local cuisine explained
- 04:48 – Laura’s passionate defense of her town and events calendar
Tone & Style
The episode is lively, playful, and filled with friendly banter. Eva and Nacho engage with Laura’s stories, riffing on Roman history and indulging their curiosity about food and festivals. Laura’s pride in Almedinilla shines through, as she colorfully describes both the town’s heritage and its vibrant local life.
Final Thoughts
Laura’s depiction of Almedinilla paints it as a hidden gem brimming with history, delicious and unique gastronomy, and a packed calendar of authentic celebrations. The hosts are charmed by her stories—especially the promise of a true Roman feast—and encourage listeners to discover the joys of Spain’s lesser-known villages.
