Away from the tourist in old Spain
After walking miles and miles exploring the captivating Gib, We were in need of just some Spanish countryside for our beloved motorhome, Alma the Adria, a slice of the quiet life, an undiscovered back water, a place to rest and relax, that hidden gem away from the throngs of tourists.
After a few kilometres of nice twisty roads we found ourselves in the captivating Antequera, a city steeped in history and brimming with natural beauty.
But we may have failed completely, the town offers not one but two motorhome aires, both are completely rammed and any excess bit of space is also taken up by vans, but this isn’t a bad thing at all…..
No sir, tonight from what we can see we are the only non Spainish in town, a different type of tourist.
Thankfully just as we arrive at the in town aire, a single space appears, it was meant to be !
After a quick nip up into the town, it became very apparent why, due to inclement weather forecast, the 3 kings parade had been brought forward a day and was now tonight.
Our first stops next morning was the awe-inspiring Antequera Dolmens Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
This extraordinary complex comprises three megalithic monuments: the Menga Dolmen, the Viera Dolmen, and the Tholos of El Romeral.
Amazingly the entire site is free to access, the museum has an English version for each of its attractions and explains the exhibits perfectly, but the real beauty is just outside .
The Menga Dolmen, in particular, is a marvel of prehistoric engineering. This massive, corbelled tomb, constructed around 3,600 BC, is one of the largest and most impressive megalithic structures in Europe. Its sheer scale and the intricate craftsmanship of its construction are awe-inspiring.
The Viera Dolmen, while smaller, is equally impressive, showcasing the advanced engineering skills of the ancient builders.
Exploring these ancient monuments was a truly humbling experience. To stand within these structures, built thousands of years ago, and to contemplate the lives of the people who created them, was a profound and moving experience.
But the towns history doesn’t stop there, our exploration of Antequera led us to the imposing Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress that dominates the city skyline.
As we approached, its imposing presence commanded attention.
This formidable structure, perched atop a hill, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
The Alcazaba, a testament to the ingenuity of Moorish architecture, was built in the 14th century as a crucial defensive stronghold.
As we walked through its fortified walls, we imagined the bustling activity of past centuries – soldiers patrolling the ramparts, the clatter of horses, and the whispers of secrets.
The Alcazaba is more than just a fortress, it’s a journey through time.
We explored its intricate network of courtyards, towers, and chambers, each with its own unique story to tell.
The views from the ramparts were simply stunning, offering a panoramic vista of the city and the surrounding countryside.
Paul.