Sitting on the southwest outskirts of Alhama de Granada, Zafarraya has become a hot destination in the past decade. In 1995, Jean-Jacques Hublin made an incredible discovery - one of the world’s oldest cave systems. The lower jawbone of a Neanderthal was discovered along with a number of ancient tools offering new evidence of this ancient tribe’s existence.

 

With the flat streets and attractive buildings, Zafarraya is an excellent spot for a day trip. Thanks to its location in a mountain pass, the summer temperatures are cooler than in other areas, yet the close proximity to beaches makes it a favourite spot to beat the heat.

There is proof now that the area of Zafarraya dates back to the days of Neanderthals. At some point in the first millennium B.C., the ancient Argar tribe settled in the area. The mountain location provided a great means for defense. Eventually the area’s control passed from Argar tribes to Phoenicians to the Romans. Each group of settlers left their mark on the area by leaving artifacts behind.

 

Zafarraya’s history is more known after the Moors entered the area. Named Fahs al-raiyya (Field of shepherds), the area provided fertile soil for a variety of crops, while the mountainous location ensured that armies could set up extensive fortresses and defensive barriers. Eventually, Christian armies took control of Zafarraya. The large watchtowers were reinforced and the mountain gap became part of the Nasrid Royal Road. Sadly, many of the historic buildings fell to the ground when a major earthquake hit in the late 1800s. The town needed to be rebuilt from scratch. It was not until the 1910s that the town of Zafarraya was named and repopulated by many farmers.

Two area churches provide outstanding architectural details that are well worth viewing. Church of the Immaculate Conception fell to ruin during the Earthquake of 1884. The church was rebuilt using any portions that could be saved. The reconstructed church was completed at the end of the century a little over a decade later. At the time, the funds were provided by Cuba who had strong ties to that area of Spain. Hermitage of Nuestro Señor de las Tres Marias draws in a large crowd courtesy of a hand-painted image of Jesus on glass located within the church.

 

Every May, a festival celebrating Nuestro Señor de las Tres Marias occurs. As the glass image of Jesus makes its way through the town before returning to its resting place inside the Hermitage, locals stand in awe. During this time, locals and artisans recreate the image of Jesus on pieces of glass or crystal in tribute to the original. 

 

In September, a celebration honouring Nuestra Señora de Monsalud is held. This festival, also called the Big Fair, starts with parades and lasts well into the night with street dancing, live music, and many food booths.

 

El Boquete de Zafarraya is the cave system located in the mountain ridge sitting slightly above the town of Zafarraya. It is in this cave system that artifacts dating back to the Neanderthals were discovered. Many of the caves are open for tourists.

The soil in fields surrounding Zafarraya is supreme. The cooler climate helps crops such as beans, wheat, grains, avocados, almonds, and olives thrive. Agriculture and farming make up the bulk of the area’s economy.

Most of Zafarraya’s cuisine is similar to that of Malaga. The food may not be to everyone’s taste. Ajo Blanco (white gazpacho) is one of the town’s standard soups. The mix of water, almonds, garlic, breadcrumbs, vinegar, and olive oil create a cold, creamy starter to any meal. Chanquetes are not legal, yet many taverns and restaurants serve them to frequent patrons. Chanquetes are whitebait, undersized fish (sardines, anchovies, and other similar fish) that are preserved in either a mix of chemicals or urine. Despite the stomach-churning preparation, locals seem to find these fish to be delightful treats.

 

It may be more to your taste to stick to Spanish stews cooked in clay pots. These stews usually feature beef, lamb, or wild game, slowly cooked in tomatoes, garlic, seasonings, and wine. Lamb chops are grilled to perfection in many restaurants. Top your meal off with sticks of sweet dough that are fried and served with honey.

Apart from a bar or two in the town, there is little to do at night if you are looking for plenty of activity. It is important that you are aware that you will need to head to larger towns for nightclubs and discos.

 

Otherwise, a few tapas bars located in the town centre offer impressive snacks with your alcoholic beverages. Typically, tapas bars are an excellent way to meet locals and sample a wide variety of local cuisine.

The sleepy town of Zafarraya may not offer a lot of entertainment for an extended vacation, but the town makes up for its small size in charm and beauty. This is an excellent location for true rest and relaxation.