Eloise HorsfieldBy Sally Harrison
ALCAUCIN is situated on the western slopes of La Maroma mountain, a short distance from the spectacular Zafarraya gap where you enter Granada province.
At an altitude of 510 metres, the views are understandably stunning, with the nearby hills covered in pine trees, almond groves, vineyards and orchards.
The village – which translates into ‘arches’ from the Arabic name ‘Al Cautin’ – has narrow winding streets, whitewashed, stone houses and interior courtyards brimming with beautifully coloured flowers.
Sadly, an earthquake on Christmas day in 1884 badly affected the village with loss of life as well as the destruction of property, and the alteration of subterranean streams.
And if that wasn’t enough there was also heavy snowfall that year preventing assistance. But Alcaucin recovered.
On entering the village one of the first points of interest is the fountain with five jets of water inviting you to stoop down and drink.
Village life centres around the pretty town square, Plaza de la Constitucion, which boasts the 18th century Parish Church of Nuestra Senora del Rosario and the town hall.
The eight areas that make up this municipality are Puente Don Manuel, Los Morales, Los Cortijillos, Las Monjas, Venta Baja, Venta Alta, El Pilarejo and El Espino.
When you have finished your tour of the village you can walk back down the Paseo de las Barriadas and take your pick of any one of the decoratively-tiled benches, which bear the names of these districts.
Or if strolling through the village hasn’t been exercise enough then why not take the challenge of reaching the highest point of the Axarquia by climbing to the top of La Maroma? Don’t forget your camera!
Contact sally at sallyharrison@axarquiaproperties.com
