Sightseeing in Almeria - what to see. Complete travel guide

Almeria is a capital of the province of the same name, a large port town and a famous tourist center. The rich heritage of the city is reflected in multiple historical monuments. Here you will see amazing buildings, visit entertaining museums, and attend interesting exhibitions.

Alcazaba castle is known as the most famous sight of the city. It was built in the times, when the city was ruled by the Moors. The castle was built by order of Emir Abd al-Rahman in the 13th century. Later the castle has been rebuilt and expanded a number of times, that’s why today this is a huge architectural complex. The highest tower of this castle, Torre del Amenahe, has a viewport site, from which tourists can see a panoramic view of the city and its suburbs. Nearby the caste is located La Chunka village. It is widely known for one peculiarity – the locals have turned small caves as their houses. Today these homes are equipped with facilities and electronics, but the main work of the locals is still fishing, just as many centuries ago.

One more important medieval building is the Cathedral that was built in the middle of the 16th century. During the medieval period the city was often ambushed by pirates and the Cathedral saved lives of the locals many times. The Cathedral looks more like a castle or a fortress than a religious shrine. It was destroyed several times, so some parts of it are made in different architectural styles and the Cathedral today is a mix of gothics, classicism, and renaissance. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Also don’t forget to visit Templo de San Juan, the building of which took place in the 17th century. In front of the temple is located the mayor’s office. It is so beautiful and unusual that it resembles a wonderful castle. Finally, if the idea of attending archeological excavations sounds attractive for you, you should visit Gador. Several prehistoric settlements have been found in this town and archeologists continue working there.

The old hospitals are difficult to attribute to one of the classic attractions, but Hospital of St. Mary Magdalene, situated in Almeria, is a true exception. It is located in the immediate vicinity of the Cathedral, and the building of the hospital today is the oldest in the city. It was built in the 16th century, after several hundred years its main facade remains completely unchanged. Old hospital is a set of beautiful historic buildings, in its territory there is a chapel, and an old shelter. Interesting tours of this architectural complex are available for tourists, during which you can see its numerous hidden details. 

Be sure to visit the city's head museum - the Museum of Almería. A significant part of its exposition are the archaeological finds that were discovered during the investigation of the city and its surroundings. The opening of the museum took place in 1933, and since its collection was constantly expanding, the museum repeatedly moved to new buildings. Today, the museum features a number of unique exhibits dating back to the Paleolithic period, as well as thematic exhibitions devoted to the history of primitive people. 

Among Almeria’s religious attractions the Church of St. James (son of Zebedee) definitely stands out, that was built in the late 15th century. This church was finished only in 1559, and during the years of its existence it was repeatedly rebuilt and supplemented with new elements. Latest reconstruction of the church took place in the first half of the 20th century; its facade decorated with new bas-reliefs then. 

In the vicinity of Almeria, travellers can visit many curious archaeological areas and see the sights that are approximately 1000 years old. An excellent example is “Aljibes arabes” - the Arab aqueduct that was built in the 11th century by order of the governor of Almeria - Hairan. These water communications were built in order to provide the city and the troops guarding it uninterrupted supply of drinking water. Underground channel length is more than 6000 meters, and considering the times it was built in, it is truly a grand structure.