Introduction:

Boasting a little more than 3,000 hours of sun per year, Armilla is one of Spain’s warmest Mediterranean towns.  Set in the plains near Granada, Armilleros grow many crops creating a strong base for fresh produce in all of their cuisine.  Their diet focuses mainly on locally grown vegetables. With both an Air Force pilot training centre and the Technological Park for Health Sciences, Armilla carries a strong industrial base.  The town is suitable for a night’s stay and is easily reached by those staying in the larger city of Granada.

History:

Armilla’s ancient history is hard to prove.  While historians are certain that the town was populated before the Romans, little evidence exists into who the first settlers were and where they came from.  Documented proof of settlement brings historians to the Moors (Arabs). The Moors came across the area that would become known as Armilla.  They immediately saw the beneficial qualities in the plains’ soil and set up irrigation systems utilizing the Genil River.  Armilla was in a perfect area for merchant traffic.  The town saw many silk merchants and industrialists pass through on their way to Granada.  The Moors capitalized on this and turned Armilla into a thriving stop along the trade route. As is true in many Spanish towns, the Catholic Kings saw the desirable land and brought in their armies to conquer the Moors.  They drove the Moors out but kept a few of the Armillenses (silk specialists) to created impressive silk veils that made Armilla one of the areas most wealthy towns.  Unfortunately, the Spanish Reconquista hit Armilla hard and by the time the battle ended, Armilla was a virtual wasteland.  Fields and groves of fruit and nut trees were destroyed. In the 16th century, Castilian families began repopulating the area.  Twenty families were selected to repopulate and redevelop Armilla.  It took time, but eventually they were successful.  The population today stands at well over 19,000.

Site Seeing:

The Bonfires of San Antón is the most popular celebration in Armilla.  During this January day, competing teams gather up any firewood, dead branches, sticks, etc. that they can find and set up a huge bonfire on one of the surrounding hillsides.  The teams then light their bonfire come nightfall and the townspeople gather to see which team will conquer.  Judging is based on the brightest and tallest flames. In May, residents gather in the streets to create showy displays of flowers and other artistic means for the Celebration of Cruces.  The winners are awarded monetary and item prizes.  During this time, the streets come to life with colours and activity. Monument of the Three Crossings is another popular attraction.  The three crosses are rumoured to be owned by the Archbishop.  There is a legend that one of the crosses (the centre cross holding a crucified Jesus) underwent an amazing transformation during the war when Jesus’ feet changed position. Parochial Church of San Miguel Arcángel was built during the 16th century.  The church was built in the Moorish tradition with many of their architectural features.  The church did undergo one major change in the 1930s when the bell tower was increased so that the ringing of the bells could be heard by those in the outlying areas of town.

Industry:

Almost half of Armilla’s revenue comes from the service industry.  Restaurants, hotels, bars, and nightclubs bring in money from both residents and tourists.  Tourism is one of the town’s biggest industries. Beyond the service industry, a few industrial companies that take up another 40% of the town’s economy.  The town is home to an Air Force pilot training centre, located in an old sugar mill, bringing many pilots and airplane mechanics to the area. The Technological Park of Health Sciences is new.  Currently, development of the park is still on going.  The intention, however, is that eventually college courses in health sciences, medical laboratories, and even the possibility of crime labs will all find homes in the park. The remaining 10% of the area’s revenue comes from the area’s cattle ranchers.  While this is not a large percentage, locally grown beef cattle is an essential component to the restaurant industry.

Gastronomy:

Bulk wines and liqueurs are easily found in Armilla.  Huge warehouses draw in tourists looking for a good deal on local wines.  These are bordered by Churros kiosks and open-air courtyards.  Anyone can stop, pick up a cup of coffee or hot chocolate, and then indulge in Churros (fried bread dipped in sugar or honey). Armilla’s famous dish is Pot of San Anton.  This slowly simmered dish blends dried beans, onions, peppers, garlic, ham, thyme, rice, potatoes, and bacon.  It is perfect for a cool winter day. Another dish is Habas with Ham.  Habas are broad beans that are simmered with a ham bone, chives, and olive oil.  Yummy! Finally, a delightful soup is made by stewing pumpkins in chicken broth, tomatoes, and garlic.  Once the pumpkin is soft, the soup is pureed.  The resulting soup is creamy and satisfying.

Nightlife:

As Armilla is pretty much a suburb of Granada, you will find for your nightlife you end up in Granada anyway.  Armilla does have some decent pubs, bars, and even a disco or two, but Granada offers far more in the way of entertainment.  Embrujo de Grana is a kid-friendly restaurant.  Come around at 9.00/9.30 pm when live band music takes the stage and the restaurant transforms into a popular establishment for drinks and dancing.

Summary:

Located on the outskirts of Granada, Armilla’s hotels tend to be less expensive.  Because of the proximity to the big city, you can book a hotel in Armilla and save money.  You can then travel back and forth between the area attractions and Granada’s offerings and relax in a quieter setting at night.

Useful Business Links for Armilla:

Do you offer a service in this area?  If so, why not put a link here directly to your website.  Contact Ask Olive today.