History

The first settlements date back to prehistoric times, and remains from the Bronze Age have been found.

Important archaeological sites of Roman origin have been found in different parts of the municipality.

According to the legend, the Vega de los Caballeros, located near the Guadalete river, is where the Muslims finally defeated the Visigothic monarchy.

During the period of Al-Andalus the village acquired importance as part of what was called the Banda Morisca, the border area between the Nazari kingdom of Granada and the Christian kingdoms. The fortress of Cotte was located on the border, strategically placed to control the surrounding country side and one of the routes of access to the Guadalete river.

Following the Christian reconquest shepherds started building their little huts in the hills. These formed the original nucleus of the present-day village, subject to the jurisdiction of Morón de la Frontera and the duchy of Osuna.

In 1788 the king Charles III granted the village the Royal Exemption Charter or Privilege of Township, whereby Montellano became independent and acquired the title of Town.

During the war of Independence it was set on fire twice by the French troops as a reprisal for the hostility of its inhabitants.

Eminent citizens
Francisco Reina, pintor.