Alcaucín: Archaeology, El Alcázar and La Maroma

Archaeology and history

The Cueva del Boquete de Zafarraya is located in the municipality of Alcaucín (Málaga) and is classified as an Asset of Cultural Interest (BIC) in the archaeological zone category. Excavations in the Cueva del Boquete de Zafarraya uncovered human remains that confirm the continued presence of Neanderthals in Andalusia. Further finds from the Upper Palaeolithic and Neolithic indicate that the cave was continuously inhabited.

The Centro de Interpretación Valle de Alcaucín (CIVA) displays replicas of Neanderthal bone finds, models of Neanderthal families and information panels. The CIVA covers 600 square metres and is spread over two floors. One floor is dedicated to prehistory, while the other addresses the history of Alcaucín as a border area. The CIVA therefore presents archaeological finds alongside a local history that explores Alcaucín as a border area. The division of the exhibition spans a period from prehistory to local history. The Fiesta de la Castaña also preserves an old All Saints’ Day tradition in Alcaucín. Traditionally harvested chestnuts from the region play a role in this tradition.

Landscape and views

El Alcázar has abundant water and vegetation, as well as numerous different facilities for public use. The ruins of an old Arab fortification have been preserved in the surroundings of El Alcázar. The Los Tajos del Alcázar Natural Monument is also located nearby. Historical traces and a natural monument thus come together in the area around Alcázar.

From the Pedro Aguilar viewpoint, you can see the La Viñuela Reservoir and the Mediterranean Sea. The Pedro Aguilar viewpoint can be reached on foot or by bicycle from Cortijo del Alcázar. It is also possible to drive there in a motor vehicle via a small drivable farm track that branches off from the road between Alcázar and Alcauca. The viewpoint combines views of the inland La Viñuela Reservoir with the more distant Mediterranean Sea. Both destinations can be observed from the same viewpoint.

Alcázar–La Maroma hiking trail

The Alcázar–La Maroma hiking trail begins at the Cortijo del Alcázar recreational area. From Alcaucín, the recreational area is reached via the Camino del Alcázar after approximately 6 kilometres. The trail is a linear route with a one-way distance of 10,523 metres. It leads to La Maroma, which is 2,068 metres high.

The hiking trail takes 8:30 hours. It is classified as difficult to very difficult. The linear route therefore connects the Cortijo del Alcázar recreational area with the destination of La Maroma. Together with the stated distance, duration and difficulty rating, this describes a clearly defined, long route.

Other places

You can find other places here: Portugalejo, Los Llanos de Antequera, Alameda, Carratraca, Sierra De Yeguas, Benalauría, Benaoján, Ronda.

For the higher-level travel overview: Málaga.