Almanzora between Palace, Watchtower and Long-Distance Route

In Almanzora, an important architectural monument, traces of medieval fortifications and a regional long-distance route come together. The Palacio del Almanzora was declared a historic-artistic monument in 1982. At the same time, it is located in Almanzora and is considered one of the most significant examples of the Neoclassical style in the province of Almería. Its history dates back to the 18th century: at that time, the Marquisate of Los Vélez divided its territory into three administrative areas.

Palace, Chapel and Former Railway Station

The Palacio del Almanzora includes a right wing with a chapel that still serves as the church of Almanzora today. Other landmarks that help with orientation in the town and its surroundings include the railway bridge over the Rambla de Albox, the Puente Ferroviario sobre la Rambla de Albox, the Mirador de la Cerrá, Las Minas and La Cimbra, as well as the former railway station. The former station is now used as a function room.

Púlpito and the Watchtowers

Another historical trace leads to the Torre Alto del Púlpito. The tower dates from the 10th century and is partially preserved. The Torre Alto del Púlpito is also known as Molino de Viento and is located in the Púlpito hollow in the Pedanía Almanzora. The two names refer to the same place, while the surviving sections visibly indicate the limits of what remains of the historic structure. For a tour through the history of the surrounding area, the Torre Alto del Púlpito is therefore a distinct point of reference alongside the Palacio.

The Torre Alto del Púlpito was connected to another tower on Cerro de La Copa. This tower, in turn, was connected to the other watchtowers in the area, which controlled the routes from the coast inland. The towers mentioned therefore reveal a spatial relationship between individual hills and historic routes, without grouping the structures together as a single complex.

Long-Distance Route through the Almanzora Area

The former transport infrastructure also shapes regional orientation. A long-distance route leads from the former station in Zurgena via Arboleas, Almanzora, Cantoria, Fines and Olula del Río to Purchena. The sequence of several towns means that the route is not a single local circuit, but a connection through the wider surrounding area. In the wider region around Almanzora, it can be travelled on foot and, in sections, by car or bicycle. Different modes of transport open up various options for planning the stages, while the place names make the route easy to follow.

The Mirador de la Cerrá is a viewpoint in Almanzora. Together with the railway bridge, Las Minas and La Cimbra, it provides another specific point of reference for exploring the town. In Almanzora, the second week of August is also associated with a festival. Those wishing to organise their stay around cultural and regional events will therefore find, alongside the palace, towers and route, a seasonal point of reference.

For the overarching travel overview: Cantoria.