Plan a trip to Almeria

Almeria is the beautiful capital city of the Almeria province which is located in the easternmost region of Andalusia. Another of Andalusia’s White Cities, Almeria stretches between the Mediterranean Sea and the arid mountain on which the historic Alcazaba fortress stands, towering over the city. 

The city of Almeria was established by Abdel Rahman III in the 10th century, and, during its heyday, was the largest and most important port city in Moorish Spain as well as the naval base of the Umayyad dynasty. The construction of the Alcazaba, a Moorish palatial fortification, began during the time of Muslim rule in the 11th century, and it was modified or rebuilt several times until the 14th century. Built on high cliffs, its remains are largely intact, and it is one of the best preserved alcazabas (Arabic for citadel) in Spain. The Alcazaba is connected to the 10th century Castle of Gibralfaro, and near the entrance are the remains of a Roman theatre dating back to the 1st century.

Almeria was destroyed by an earthquake in 1522, and it only began to prosper again in the 19th century after the discovery of metal mines. Thanks to the area’s mild weather, Almeria became a fertile agricultural center in the 20th century. Its fruits, vegetables, and flowers, grown in greenhouse conditions using developed irrigation technologies, are exported from the local port.

With stunning, unspoiled beaches, Almeria has also developed into a resort destination. There are abundant cafes and bars in the area, and, with the free plate of tapas that you’ll be served when you order a drink, you’ll be in for an enjoyable, affordable dining experience.