An English speaking guide to Almunecar & La Herradura
You can spend years living in an area, and pass by interesting historical sites, and not even know it. This post will cover the Casillas de Peones Camineros (Road Workers’ House) in Almuñécar, but you can find them all over Spain. It’s easy to overlook not only the building, but the role it played in keeping Almuñécar connected to the rest of Spain.
As you meander the pedestrian streets of old town Almuñécar, you are bound to happen upon the Calle Real Fountain. This fountain was originally built in 1559, with remnants of the Roman aqueduct encased in glass beside the fountain. It 1994, the Calle Real Fountain was restored to its current state.
The Roman Aqueduct runs from Almuñécar to the north of Torrecuevas, between the Rio Verde and Rio Seco. It is believed to have been built in the first century AD, coinciding with the construction of the main Roman monuments in the city.
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As you enter the town of La Herradura, you will notice a large bronze sculpture along the beach. This is the Monument to Shipwrecked Sailors. The deep bay of La Herradura hides the remains of 25 ships of the Spanish Navy, and more than five thousand sailors. The La Herradura naval disaster occurred on October 19, 1562, due to a very large storm.
The Archaeological Museum Cueva de Siete Palacios, also known as the Cave of 7 Palaces. It represents the largest section of the former Roman Palace. The museum is located in what was once the basement of this Roman Palace. Inside, there are remains of the historic past of Almuñécar. Including remains found at the necropolis of Puente de Noy, Laurita, and the fish salting factory of El Majuelo.
When visiting Almuñécar, it is almost impossible not to notice the Blas Infante Arches (Puerta de Almuñécar). As you pass by on the N340, you will see the Blas Infante Arches stand out amidst all of the tall trees. This is a great meeting point in town, as it is easy to find.
Meander the pedestrian streets of barrio San Miguel and you are in for a treat, when you find the Municipal Pottery Center (Centro de Alfarería Municipal). It’s a step back in time to the day of the Nasrid and Sexitanos, right in the heart of Almuñécar. Located just around from the castle is a revived piece of history. The Cerámica Alcaller is hidden in the old town walls above Majuelo Park and the perfect place to see authentic and traditional ceramics in Spain.
.Peñones del Santo is a natural monument with the addition of a man-made cross. You may climb to the top of Peñones del Santo for vast views of Almuñécar and the beautiful cost of Granada beaches. There is a large plaza at the top with a very large cross at the highest point. The surrounding metal railings have become a location for people to leave behind their locks of love.
If boating is your thing, then you must visit Marina del Este La Herradura. The Marina is nestled in a protected cove, between Almuñécar and La Herradura, with a perfectly protected situation protected by natural rock and a manmade wall. La Herradura is the closest pueblo to the Marina, just over the natural headland called Punta de la Mona. This area is full of summer fun with many activities year-round as well, including many beaches, coves, hiking trails and more, it is the perfect getaway for everyone.
El Majuelo Park and botanical garden is full of amazing plants, sculptures, and paths to meander. You will also find authentic artisan workshops where you may see the artists work and purchase goods. In addition, the view of the historic Phoenician and Roman Fish-Salting Factory and Castle are the best. The Pièce de résistance are the wide variety of botanical plants within this park. Often events are held in the botanical garden.Continue reading
