The 10 Most Interesting Facts about Santa Maria

Santa Maria is a city located in the state of California, in the United States. With a population of over 106,000 people, it is the largest city in Santa Barbara County. Here are 10 interesting facts about Santa Maria that you may not know:

1. The Santa Maria Style Barbecue

Santa Maria is famous for its barbecue, which is known as the Santa Maria Style Barbecue. This barbecue is traditionally made with beef tri-tip that is seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic salt, and then cooked over a red oak fire.

2. The Santa Maria Valley

Santa Maria is located in the Santa Maria Valley, which is home to over 30 wineries. The valley is known for producing high-quality pinot noir and chardonnay wines.

3. Historic Santa Maria Inn

The Santa Maria Inn is a historic hotel that has been in operation since 1917. Many famous people have stayed at the hotel, including Ronald Reagan, Charlie Chaplin, and Bing Crosby.

4. Santa Maria Elks Rodeo

The Santa Maria Elks Rodeo is a popular event that takes place every year in Santa Maria. It is one of the largest rodeos in California and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

5. Santa Maria Valley Railroad

The Santa Maria Valley Railroad is a short-line railroad that operates in Santa Maria. It was first established in 1911 and is still in operation today.

6. Allan Hancock College

Allan Hancock College is a community college located in Santa Maria. It was established in 1920 and is known for its strong programs in agriculture, culinary arts, and public safety.

7. Santa Maria Public Airport

The Santa Maria Public Airport is a public airport located in Santa Maria. It is the largest airport in Santa Barbara County and serves over 250,000 passengers each year.

8. Santa Maria Style Salsa

In addition to the Santa Maria Style Barbecue, Santa Maria is also known for its salsa. The Santa Maria Style Salsa is made with chili peppers, onion, and tomato, and is usually served with chips or as a topping for beef.

9. Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum

The Santa Maria Valley Discovery Museum is a children’s museum located in Santa Maria. It has over 20 interactive exhibits that are designed to teach children about science, technology, art, and culture.

10. Santa Maria Energy Oil Field

The Santa Maria Energy Oil Field is an oil field located in Santa Maria. It is one of the largest oil fields in California and produces over 10,000 barrels of oil per day.

In conclusion, Santa Maria is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural resources. From its famous barbecue to its award-winning wines, there is no shortage of interesting facts about this unique and vibrant city.

The Insider’s Guide to Santa Maria, Portugal

Located in the heart of Portugal’s Alentejo region, Santa Maria is a charming city that attracts visitors with its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. If you’re planning a trip to this picturesque town, here are some insider tips on the best places to eat, things to do, and hidden gems to discover.

Local Attractions

Santa Maria is home to several attractions that are sure to delight visitors. The city’s top attractions include:

Convento de Santa Clara

One of Santa Maria’s most significant landmarks, Convento de Santa Clara is a 14th-century Franciscan convent that features beautiful Gothic architecture. Visitors can explore the convent’s gardens, wander through the cloisters, and admire the stunning azulejos tiles that adorn the interior walls.

Castelo de Santa Maria

Perched on a high hill at the heart of the city, Castelo de Santa Maria is a medieval fortress that has been reconstructed several times throughout history. Visitors can wander through the castle walls, take in the panoramic views of the town, and explore the castle’s underground chambers.

Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria

The Igreja Matriz de Santa Maria is a beautiful 16th-century church that features stunning architecture and intricate artwork. The church’s interior is covered in stunning azulejos tiles that depict scenes from the Bible.

Dining Spots and Cultural Experiences

A trip to Santa Maria is not complete without trying the local cuisine and experiencing the city’s rich culture. Here are some of the best places to eat and cultural experiences to have in Santa Maria:

Santa Maria Winery

The Santa Maria Winery is a must-visit for wine lovers. The winery offers tours and tastings of its award-winning wines, and visitors can learn about the traditional winemaking techniques used in the Alentejo region.

Taberna do Adro

For a taste of authentic Portuguese cuisine, head to Taberna do Adro. This family-run restaurant serves delicious local dishes such as grilled sardines and pork stew.

Festivals and Events

Santa Maria hosts several festivals throughout the year that are worth experiencing. The Festa da Flor, held in May, is a celebration of spring and features parades, live music, and flower displays.

Local History and Cultural Gems

Santa Maria has a rich history and several hidden cultural gems that are waiting to be discovered. Here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Museu da Tapeçaria de Portalegre Guy Fino

The Museu da Tapeçaria de Portalegre Guy Fino is a hidden gem that showcases the intricate tapestries and rugs made by local artisans. Visitors can admire the beautiful artwork and learn about the history of tapestry making in the region.

Azulejo Trail

Santa Maria is home to several beautiful azulejo tiles, which are an important part of Portugal’s cultural heritage. Take a walking tour of the city’s azulejo trail to see the stunning tiles adorning the city’s walls and buildings.

Monsaraz

Monsaraz is a medieval hilltop village located just a short drive from Santa Maria. The village features narrow cobblestone streets, whitewashed houses, and beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Conclusion

Santa Maria is a city that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s landmarks, trying the local cuisine, or uncovering hidden gems, there is something for everyone in Santa Maria. Follow this guide to make the most of your time in this charming Portuguese town.