In the southern Almijara Mountains, the Verde River splits a quiet town into two sections. That town, known as Jete, sits on the Bodijar Ravine and offers impressive views of the towns and sea below.

Many ancient churches and historic buildings offer a glimpse into times long past. Jete is an excellent stop for anyone interested in architecture and history.

Cave burial sites provide clues into Jete’s rich historical past. There is proof that Jete’s beginnings were founded during the Neolithic period. Artifacts left in caves, including tools and ceramics, give insight into times long past. Given Jete’s location, historians believe that settlers came to Jete by sea before traveling up the Verde River.

 

Documented proof of Jete’s past comes from the Moors who named the area Yeth (meaning border of the shore.) The Moors immediately put the rich soil and nearby water to use by creating excellent fields and irrigation systems.

 

Eventually as is true in much of Southern Spain’s history, the Catholic Kings decided they wanted the land for their own. They had their Catholic armies attack and drive the Moors out of town. The only satisfaction in the Moors defeat is that the Christians soon were battling Berber pirates. This led to a severe drop in population until decades later.

 

In the 20th century, Jete’s economy and population have fully recovered. Tropical fruit fields and orchards and tourism have launched the town into a thriving area.

On the last Sunday of April, an elaborate, carved idol representing the Virgen de la Cabeza de Bodijar, the town’s patron saint, is carried through the town before being returned to its rest on the edge of town, four kilometres away. The parade lasts from dusk to dawn and includes lively singing, dancing, and prayer.

 

The Parochial Church of San Antonio was erected in the 16th and 17th centuries. Many historic and artistic features grace both the exterior and interior of the church.

Agriculture is the largest industry in Jete. Of the 800 residents, 90% are employed in agriculture.

 

One of the largest agriculturally related industries is wine making. Grapes thrive in the tropical climate of Jete. One large winery, Horacio Calvente Cellars, create delicious wines every year. Horacio Calvente Cellars specializes in merlots, cabernet sauvignon, muscatel, and many white wines.

 

Groves of mangos, figs, cherimoyas, and avocados thrive in the warm climate. These crops also bring revenue to the area.

 

Tourism is growing steadily. As hotels and restaurants are built, more and more tourists can experience the warm climate, friendly residents, and spectacular views.

With many tropical fruits available for use in cooking, many of Jete’s dishes revolve around the most popular fruits and vegetables. Avocados, mangos, figs, and cherimoyas are the most common. Avocados are used in guacamole, salads, and soups.

 

Typical dishes include sausages and rice, choto al ajillo (livers, onion, fried bread cubes, and garlic), and potaje de hinojos (fennel stew.) As Jete is near the sea, fish is often served a few times a week. Loaves of fresh bread are staples of the Jeteños diet and served along with meals.

 

For dessert, fig bread, fried dough, garrapiñadas (sugar coated almonds), fresh fruit, and cakes are sure to please any sweet tooth. Relax with a glass of locally made wine and enjoy something sweet.

Jete is fast becoming one of Spain’s hottest destinations. Currently, Jete is still small, but it is growing every year. The area’s gastronomy is one reason to come to Jete, but the sights are a reason to stay. The tropical breezes are equaled only by sunshine and citizens who treat you like family.

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