Antequera: history, prehistory and strange rock formations

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Antequera is an Andalusian town of about 40,000 inhabitants located 47 km from Málaga. The city stands at the foot of the El Torcal mountain range and the strange 880 m. high mountain called La Peña de los Enamorados. Antequera is located at a height of 575 masl, in the center of a fertile area where cereals, asparagus and olives are produced.

The visit to the city of Antequera is a visit to the deep history of Andalusia. In fact, in the area there are historical evidences that start from the Bronze Age. Things to see range from the sepulchral hills, to the dolmens, to the Roman baths, to the remains of the Arab domination (including a Moorish castle), to Gothic churches, to Renaissance fountains to end up with the Baroque bell towers.

WHAT TO SEE: THE MAIN ATTRACTIONS OF ANTEQUERA

Going through the history of Antequera over time, we will be able to begin our visit to the Dolmens, which are located in the park west of the town. The most spectacular of which is the Cueva de la Menga, a tomb made up of huge boulders, dating back to 5,000 years ago.

We can then move on to visit the Roman Baths, which are located near the Collegiate. Through the Arco de los Gigantes (Giants’ Arch) (1585) you can enter the 13th century Arab Castle (Alcazaba), which dominates the city from a cliff.

From the period following the Arab occupation, the magnificent Renaissance collegiate church of Santa María la Mayor (16th century), and the church of Nuestra Señora del Carmen are worth seeing.

Alcazaba, Antequera, Andalucia, Spain. Author and Copyright Liliana Ramerini

The 18th century palacio de la Nájera is home to the Municipal Museum. The highlight of the museum is the Ephebe of Antequera, a bronze statue 1.54 m high. which dates back to the first century. Other city museums are the Museo del Aceite (Oil Museum), the Taurino Museum, and the Museum of Uses and Costumes.

In the vicinity of Antequera, the El Torcal natural park, characteristic for its beautiful and strange rock formations, and the Fuente de Piedra lagoon where flamingos nest are to be visited.