Almost 70,000 residents call El Ejido their home. The municipality is located within the province of Almería approximately thirty kilometers from the capital city Almería and 140 kilometers to Malaga.

 

What draws the average person to El Ejido? That’s easy! Clean air, warm sun, and vistas of both the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding mountains provide lasting memories. With an average temperature of 15˚C in the winter and 27˚C in the summer, who wouldn’t want to spend a week or two in this delightful city?

For centuries, a number of cultures and communities lived in different areas of El Ejido. Situated along the Gádor Mountains and the Mediterranean coastline, the town offered numerous economic opportunities from farming to fishing.

 

The Tower of Balermo is a huge red clay structure that served as a fortress in times long past. The fortress was erected in the 18th century from rubble and red clay at the demands of Carlos III who felt defense of the coastlines was critical. The purpose of the Tower of Balermo was to guard the Mediterranean coastline.

 

The Daymún is an old burial ground where the area’s Hispanic and Roman elite were interred. The graveyard is in the area where the Murgi culture was thought to have inhabited.

 

Murji dates back to the Bronze Age. This culture spanned a number of centuries, last being occupied by the Romans. In the mid-1980s, historical artifacts were unearthed. These artifacts offer clues into the municipalities past.

 

The Castle of Old Guards is another structure that was erected to protect the Mediterranean coast. This time the structure was built to keep out pirates. During the War of Independence, British troops destroyed the castle. It has been rebuilt during the mid-20th century and is now open for tours if arranged in advance.

 

Another cultural zone, Ciavieja sat at the top of the boundaries of El Ejido. This community was destroyed during the wars, so little evidence remains other than some artifacts, including some impressive Roman tile work. The area now houses the Room Museum of Local History.

 

Oddly enough, the current municipality of El Ejido was not established until 1981. The necessity for a strong agricultural community was needed, so the municipality came to life. Extensive greenhouses and cultivated fields have strengthened the area’s economy and created a strong tourism base with the revenue.

Athletes and sports fanatics will find plenty to do in the areas many sports arenas, nautical clubs, and golf areas. You will find courts for badminton and tennis. A large football arena, diving club, equestrian clubs, and even gymnasiums are all open to the public for a small fee.

 

The Room Museum of Local History is an important destination. The museum’s most popular display is an old Roman mosaic panel done in bright blues and whites. The panel offers some intriguing artwork. The museum is open Monday through Friday.

 

The Tower of Balerma is free to the public. You are allowed to view the exterior. Appointments may be required to see the inside if the schedule is open.

 

Shopping in El Ejido is impressive. Many specialty shops offer unique gifts and handmade items. Everything costs far less than one would expect.

 

Impressive architecture can be found at the town square where many buildings were designed by Francisco Garrido and Jose Martin Palermo. One of the homes in this area happened to be the house that earned Jose Palmero an award for best architecture.

 

In the spring, try to come to town to attend the annual International Theatre Festival. For a few days, the town becomes a hot bed of theatrical performances from all over the world.

Agriculture is El Ejido’s biggest industry. Green and red peppers, oranges, and almonds are all prominent crops. One variety of red peppers is used for paprika and pimentos.

 

Tourism plays another part in the area’s economy, though that aspect is still growing. There are at least a dozen hotels in the area for tourists and visitors to find accommodation.

Culinary styles in El Ejido tend to mix Spanish, Mediterranean, and Moroccan cuisines. Garlic, tomatoes, paprika, and peppers are common ingredients. 

 

Within El Ejido, there are twenty-five restaurants where residents and travellers can relax and enjoy a delicious meal. After dinner, you can head to the local bars, clubs, or even the cinema for a movie.

 

As in any large city, use caution at night. The population in El Ejido is largely Moroccan immigrants.

You can reach El Ejido by rail due to its proximity to the Barcelona-Adra Railway. The municipality is also on route with many major roadways, so renting a car is another option.

 

In the past year, the population of El Ejido grew by 44%. An influx of younger people is taking the town by storm. As the population continues to increase with more youth, the town’s structure should improve. More youth oriented clubs and bars will open leading to one of Spain’s most intriguing cities!