Illora is a white town located just northwest of Granada city. The town is packed with whitewashed buildings that turn the small town into a stunning visual feast. Large homes, churches, small shops, restaurants, and bars line the winding cobble streets.
History:
Located in the shadow of the Parapanda mountain range, Visigoths, Moors, and Christians have all helped shape the town of Illora. The Moors built the impressive fortress that helped turn Illora into a secure village for its people.
Once known as Illywra, the town’s nickname was “Right eye of Granada.” The town was a thriving agricultural village right up to 1486 when Catholic Kings sent their armies in to conquer the Moorish fortress. As the Arabic Moors were forced from the area, the population plummeted. It took a number of years to rebuild the town’s population, but once again, the town became a thriving agricultural community with the church forming the heart of the town centre.
Site Seeing:
Shoppers will not want to miss the weekly market held in the town centre. On Thursday, Illora hosts an open-air market where many food products, crafts, and handmade goods are sold by local vendors. The market is open from 9.00 am to 2.00 pm
Alcazaba de Illora is an Arabic fortress that encircles the town. The Alcazaba de Illora is crumbling a little, but visitors are still encouraged to view the stunning fortress, gates, and all of its towers and surrounding walls.
Area churches include Church of the Dolores, a neoclassic church built in the 18th century. The church features the impressive painting, La Adoration de los Pastores, done by Juan Melgarejo in 1703. Built in the mid-1500s, Church of the Encarnacion features both Renaissance and Gothic features. Impressive vaults, chapels, and pillars are only part of the church’s charm. Be sure to view the antique artwork that is displayed throughout the church interior. Finally, Church-Convent of San Pedro de Alcántara was completed in 1688. Rather stark when compared to other churches, this church lacks any elaborate décor. The main feature of the church is the set up of the vaults that allow sunlight to pass through them letting light into the main sections.
Constructed during the late 1800s by Spaniards returning from Cuba, the Lopez-Font House is known for its grand architecture and elaborate gardens. The two-story house features an interior chapel that is full of impressive detail.
Residencia del Duque de Wellington is one of Illora’s largest mansions. The property boasts a large section of fields and gardens located within Illora. Constructed for Manuel Godoy, “the prince of peace,” the mansion was later claimed by Spanish government and given to the Duke of Wellington. The manor and surrounding gardens provide gorgeous scenery that will delight photographers and gardeners alike.
A neoclassic house that once served as the town hall holds a wide array of artifacts discovered in the Alcazaba de Illora. Known as the area’s municipal museum, historians will not want to miss all that the museum has to offer.
Industry:
Farming is Illora’s most important industry. Olive and almond trees thrive in the warm climate. A small weaving company within Illora also adds to the area economy. Sacos Durcal makes woven sacks used for packaging.
Gastronomy:
Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans) and Kidney Beans thrive in Illora’s fields. Therefore, main dishes revolve around these key ingredients. Decadent chickpea stew utilizes the beans, tomatoes, garlic, and even a dash of wine. Wild asparagus and artichokes are also available during certain seasons. The area’s traditional soup, Gachas de Mosto, mixes cubed bread, seasonings, and wine. Remojón, a salad made from cod and oranges, is popular.
Nightlife:
There are a number of tapas bars located within Illora where you can enjoy a glass of locally made wine, a cold beer, and small portions of area cuisine. The tapas bars are usually packed with locals so you can learn a lot about the area while enjoying a night out. If you need a more active nightlife, you will have to head to larger cities.
Summary:
Illora offers a nice balance of things to experience and places to eat. A small number of properties offering comfortable accommodation will help ensure you enjoy a hearty dose of rest and relaxation in a comfortable climate. Illora is an excellent place to kick back your feet and forget about the stress of everyday life.
Useful Business Links for Illora:
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