Area Guide for Válor, GranadaIntroduction:With a good number of hotels, restaurants, and bars, Válor is a solid choice for tourists needing a town that is near the natural mineral springs. Válor is home to one of the area’s most popular health spa/mineral spring called Cuestra Viñas.
Válor borders a small village called Mecina Alfahar. You should take the time to cross the town lines and visit Mecina Alfahar’s pristine medieval castle.
History:Archaeological finds prove the area of Válor was inhabited during the Bronze Age. Romans continued to develop the town, but it was during the time of the Moors that the town truly began to take shape.
Válor is the former home of the esteemed “King of Andalusia”, Fernando de Cordoba y Válor, also known as Abén Humeya. In 1568, Fernando led Moorish troops into battle against the Christians who had overthrown the Moors. Sadly, Fernando’s cousin Abén Aboo, who became a Christian after Granada was conquered, overturned the Moorish rebellion soundly defeating his cousin. Due to Abén Aboo’s actions, Christians eventually assassinated Fernando. Christians then repopulated the area of Válor and helped establish a strong commercial and tourism base.
Site Seeing:Válor is home to the Rammed Earth hut. The small enclosure is built solely from water and dirt is poured into forms and then is sun-baked. The resulting product is much harder than concrete. Though it will not require more than a few minutes to see the hut, it is definitely worth viewing. House of Abén Humeya was erected in the 16th century. The building is a tribute to the famed Moorish leader. The Church of San Antón is a 15th century construction located just outside the town lines. Inside, a 17th century wooden carving of the patron saint is located near the altar. Iglesia Parroquial de San José is a Mudejar style church constructed in the 16th century. Two cherished carvings are well preserved within the church walls. Puente de la Tableta is an ancient Roman bridge spanning the Válor River. The construction of this bridge withstands time. The red bricks are appealing. This site cannot be missed. El Castillejo is located right outside of the city. The castle’s defensive walls, watchtowers, interior rooms, and courtyards are all of exceptional beauty. Celebration of Cristo de la Yedra is Válor’s biggest festival. Held every October, parades, dancing, live music, local foods, and cultural activities and games fill a four-day span. This is the one festival that you should plan to attend! Within the town is a gorgeous medicinal mineral spa area. Cuestra Viñas is known throughout the world as having mineral waters with healing powers.Industry:There is a strong base for tourism within Válor because of the appeal with Cuestra Viñas. Many flock to the town in hopes of abating or curing their ailments that range from arthritis to emphysema.
Agriculture is another key industry within Válor. Figs, almonds, mulberry, olives, orange, lemon, and other fruit trees grow abundantly in the rich soil.
Two thriving area industries - a goat cheese plant and an olive oil mill bring plenty of money into the town’s economy. Both jobs and sellable products are provided by these plants.
Gastronomy:Desserts are specialties of Válor. Meringues made from almond are staples of the area. Also deep fried sweet dough dipped in chocolate or cinnamon and sugar are important traditional desserts.
Meals often include pheasant that has been cured. Local game is slowly cooked sauces containing garlic, tomatoes, and olive oil.
Nightlife:There is an excellent selection of bars within Válor. Many serve tapas with drinks. Do not miss the opportunity to sample the local cuisine at a tapas bar.
While some bars host live bands and musicians from time to time, there are no nightclubs within the area.
Summary:If you need some serious rest and relaxation, Válor is an excellent start to your time away. With soothing mineral water springs, gorgeous historical sites, and quaint shops, you will want to spend a couple days in Válor.Useful Business Links for Válor:Do you offer a service in this area? If so, why not put a link here directly to your website. Contact Ask Olive today. |
