Almeria Information

In 2005, Almeria hosted the Mediterranean Games and a sporting spirit still prevails in the city. It is the perfect place to enjoy all sports - especially water sports such as sailing, windsurfing and rowing.

In Almeria the modern city co-exists with the old town. There is a good selection of art galleries, museums and shops. La Rambla, in the centre of the city is a long avenue populated with squares, street cafes and children’s play areas. There is a popular sports marina and a busy ferry terminal from which it is possible to take a trip to North Africa.

The city has been influenced by many civilizations including the Phoenicians, Carthaginians, Romans, Arabs and Christians. Today there are a large number of migrant workers from Morocco and Tunisia giving an African air to the city.

Evidence of the rich history of Almeria can be found throughout the city. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the town is the Alcazaba. It is an imposing Arab fortress once capable of holding an army of more than 20,000 men. Built in the 10th Century by Abd-erRahman 111, the fort dominates the city and affords fabulous views of the area. It is considered to be one of the greatest forts in Andalusia

The Cathedral of Almeria is located in the old part of the city. It is heavily fortified having been built in the 16th century when area was being raided by pirate forces from Turkey and North Africa. The corner towers once held cannons to protect the city’s port. The architecture has both gothic and renaissance influences. Inside is a wealth of priceless artwork and the tomb of the founder of the cathedral the Franciscan Bishop Diego Fernandez de Villalan.

The parish church of Santiago Apostol in the Calle de las Tiendas is listed as a national monument. Built in 1559 its architecture is a synthesis of gothic, renaissance and mudéjar styles.

Gastronomic specialities of the area include: Gurullos (stew with pasta), Trigo (stew with grains of wheat, pork, beans and herbs), Gachas (hot and spicy clam stew) and Escabeche e Sardines (fresh sardines in spicy sauce).

As well as cultivating tourism over the past decade, Almeria has become an agricultural centre. Here the bulk of the province's fruit and vegetables are grown, much of it for export.