Area Guide for Alba, AlmeriaIntroduction:The population of close to 1,500 forms the pleasing whitewashed town of Alba. Rows of white clay houses with thick walls create a stunning image sitting on the rolling hills of Andalusia, Spain. The town has one highly rated medical facility and an outstanding school, which makes it an excellent location for a growing family.
Alba is a quiet town rich with history that sits about fifty kilometers from the city of Almería. The population in Alba has dwindled, but a recent surge of tourists moving into the area has caused a bit of growth. It may not appeal to someone looking for an active nightlife, but the ancient buildings and friendly locals will warm the hearts of anyone willing to get to know the town.
History:
In the 5th century, B.C., Alba, then Abla, was a Spanish settlement nestled in the hills. When the Romans conquered the area, they chose it due to its convenient location along the major Roman trade route.
Located midway between Guadix (100 kilometers) and Almería (50 kilometers), the town received a great deal of trade traffic.
Romans erected the stunning Castillo de Abla to form a strong defensive fortress against attack. The Castillo de Abla’s durable walls protected both the inner rows of whitewashed houses and the area’s beautiful churches and mausoleums.
One of the area churches is the final resting place for Saint Teresa of Avila.
Site Seeing:While the walls of the Roman fortress only remain in bits and pieces, there is still plenty to see in Alba. The Roman Mausoleo is a grand entryway into the fortress that stands tall against the sky. While its appearance shows its age, it makes for impressive photographs.
The 16th century Parochial Church is a remarkable site. The Mudejar inspired church offers impressive structural displays, including a three-column porch that leads to the entrance.
The Shield of Arms of Alfonso Bazan Hacén is another area highlight. Established in the 1600s, Hacén was the town’s original high bailiff. The monument sits in honour of his memory.
Roman settlers are honoured with the Pedestal of Avitiano, a large cross that is embedded in a stone that contains a Roman inscription. The Pedestal of Avitiano sits outside of one of the area’s beautiful ancient hermitages.
Another portion of the original fortress wall is found nearby. All that remains is a Roman rain tank used as the town’s main water source. The construction will impress any history buff.
Industry:Industry within Alba tends to revolve around local businesses and farming. The majority of the area’s revenue comes from auto repair shops, local bars, hostels, and bakeries. In this small town, more than twenty automotive repair shops and garages exist. Hotels, construction, and some small production firms rounds out the area’s industry. There are also many surrounding olive groves, tomato fields, and even masses of potato farms. These groves and farms offer additional income to those willing to prune trees and harvest crops.
Gastronomy:Foods in Alba are prepared fresh and are full of flavour. Items like potatoes, garlic, tomatoes and olive thrive in the warm climate. With the sea about thirty minutes away, fresh seafood is available through the town’s seafood market. A local butcher provides area residents with fresh pork, beef, and poultry.
Meals have a Mediterranean flair. Rich tomato sauces, garlic infused items, and fresh olive oil create delicious and healthy dishes. Topped with a glass of Spanish wine, you cannot go wrong!
Typical area dishes include a rich stew that is packed with chicken meat, green beans, garlic, tomatoes, olive oil, saffron, and bay leave. This stew known as Guisadillo de Habillas is one of the tastiest local dishes.
Gachas Cakes blend flour, pork meat, green peppers, onion, garlic, tomatoes, potato, and salt into a savory olive-oil fried pancake. Gachas Cakes are easy to make and extremely satisfying.
Pimentón with Fish is an inexpensive, easy-to-make dinner. Blue fish is simmered with tomato, garlic, red pepper, vinegar, green pepper, salt, olive oil, and potatoes. This hearty dish is excellent with freshly baked bread.
Many locals hunt partridge in order to stock up on food supplies. Meneos with Perdiz is a tasty stew that contains fresh partridge, tomatoes, chili peppers, potatoes, olive oil, onion, and garlic. The stew is slowly simmered for hours creating a succulent dish rich in flavour.
Nightlife:As a very small town, Alba lacks any nightlife. If large dance clubs, movie theatres, and a variety of restaurants are necessities, you will need to travel to larger towns like Guadix or Almería.
Otherwise, a few small bars, one restaurant, and a couple discos in the town should suit your needs. If you find them not to your liking, grab a bottle of wine, sit out on a patio, and watch the sun set on this quaint little town. Sometimes, it is just as beneficial to stop and enjoy the surroundings.
Summary:If you want a quiet lifestyle with gorgeous scenery, Alba is an amazing destination. Historic buildings create amazing photographs, while the natural surroundings create vivid memories. Bring a camera and plan to take many pictures while you are here in Alba. Sure, you may not find a lot to do when the night falls. This does not matter; the warm climate, clean air, and quiet atmosphere refresh the weary traveller. Alba is an area that is growing at a steady pace. As more European retirees discover this charming town, expect the economy to receive a healthy boost. This will enable it to become a thriving town full of activities.Useful Business Links for Alba:Do you offer a service in this area? If so, why not put a link here directly to your website. Contact Ask Olive today. |
