Mudéjar route: a journey into the Arab past of the Axarquía

Mudéjar route: a journey into the Arab past of the Axarquía

Although there are countless corners that evoke the Arabian past of the eastern Costa del Sol, the six small towns in this region of Malaga hold a special enchantment. To discover it, all you have to do is take the Mudéjar de la Axarquía route, a cultural journey through these lands steeped in history, tradition and legend.

Located on the slopes of the Sierras de Tejeda Natural Park, Almijara and Alhama, these towns nurture the best examples of Andalusian architecture in the area. And if walking among the minarets, parapets, arcades and algorfas sounds like a good plan, wait until you see what this route has in store for you.

ARENAS , viewpoint of the Axarquía

Our route begins in Arenas, a village located at the foot of the ruins of Bentomiz Castle, which was an important fortress during the Arab rule. No less interesting are the Church of Santa Catalina Mártir, built in Mudejar style on top of a mosque, and the Daimalos Minaret, one of the oldest in Spain.

The Church of San Pedro de Corumbela was also built on top of an Arab temple, whose minaret was converted into a bell tower. Nearby is the Mirador de la Era , ideal for enjoying the landscape of the Axarquía . But if you prefer to go deep into nature, you can walk the Camino de las Tres Fuentes that leads to Sayalonga.

ARCHEZ AND SALARES

Known as the Merinita jewel of the 12th century, Árchez retains the indelible Islamic imprint in its streets and kitchens. The large emblem is the minaret of the mudejar church of La Encarnación. Although the Arab memories are also observed in gastronomy dishes such as fennel stew or codfish tortillas with jaggery.

Less than seven kilometers separate Árchez from Salares. Walking through the steep streets and among the whitewashed houses you will come across the parish of Santa Ana, with its interesting paintings. Special mention deserve the Almohad minaret of the primitive mosque and the Roman bridge over the river Salares, surrounded by exuberant nature.

SEDELLA AND CANILLAS DE ACEITUNO

The next stop is Sedella, a town with a beautiful view of the Sierra de Tejeda. The most important monuments are the Mudejar-style Casa Torreón, the Church of San Andrés and the hermitage of La Esperanza, built among the remains of the Arab castle. The confectionery is also of Moorish origin, in which the so-called "roscos tontos" stand out.

Our route ends in Canillas de Aceituno , whose territory extends to the top of La Maroma . A city with white streets decorated with pots and flowers, its most precious jewels are the Rosario Church, the Arab Cistern and the Tithe House. And that without forgetting the remains of the old Arab fortress. Will you come and discover them?

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