Huércal-Overa is a large town within the Valley of the Almanzora. With a population of well over 16,000 people, Huércal-Overa is a favourite destination for the British. In fact, more than 10% of the current population of Huércal-Overa includes former Brits. Huércal-Overa is the second largest municipality in Almería.

 

What makes Huércal-Overa such a popular destination? Part of the reason is that more than 60% of the population is between the ages of 21 and 64. Huércal-Overa is an excellent community for families. There are numerous schools and a number of doctors within the municipality. Jobs are scattered throughout the area. A few restaurants and hotels can also be found within Huércal-Overa. Despite this, the town retains a rural feel due to the expansive fields and olive, citrus or almond groves.

Huércal-Overa’s origins date back to the Phoenicians, Greeks, Carthaginians, and Romans. Ruins, remnants of mines, and historical artifacts give evidence of these ancient cultures. 

 

Romans perhaps had the biggest hand in building the town of Huércal-Overa. Evidence of their defensive structures is clear. Documentation of a Roman emperor giving control of Guércal and Overa to the Tarraconense province has been discovered. This proves there were originally two communities. They would have met and battled Barbarians from other regions, meaning defensive strategies were necessary. Their defensive structure may be in ruins, but its presence cannot be denied.

 

As is true in much of Spain, the Moors (Arabs) took over the former domains of the Romans. Starting in the 700s, Arabs left their homes in northern Africa in search of new communities. Many came over to Spain and settled in towns founded by other cultures. By adding a huge fortress on the mountainside, the Moors were able to boost the defensive zone surrounding the two areas that would later merge and become Huércal-Overa.

 

In the late 15th century, Christian armies following orders attacked Moors throughout southern Spain. The battles were long and bloody, but eventually they triumphed. Control of Huércal-Overa passed to the Catholic kings. As Moors had been driven from their homes, many towns, including Huércal-Overa, were left with little population. It would take decades before the town recovered. Another century would pass before Huércal-Overa received its first school and church.

 

Moors who had survived the battles settled in Guércal, while the Christians took over Overa. Both cultures continually battled as the Moors tried to regain both sections of their former town. By the early 1700s, Guércal and Overa were joined into one town. The new name, Huércal-Overa, would become permanent. The century would find much of the population succumbing to the plague, droughts, earthquakes, and epidemics.

 

It has taken time, but Huércal-Overa has regained its former glory and large population. Buildings that were damaged in wars have been rebuilt, and the community has become a strong unit.

Our Lady of Asuncion is a magnificent parish church. Dating back to the 18th century, the church can be seen from miles around. It is huge with three towers pointing to the heavens, a main room that is more than 39 metres long, and a circular vault that is more than 16 metres in diameter. This is one of the town’s most impressive structures and certainly requires a visit. Outside of the church sits the Monument to Cura Valera, a noble priest who was the protector of the poor.

 

Castle of Santa Barbara is an old Moorish fortress that dates back to the 12th century. While the castle is in a state of disrepair, the tower, water tanks, and walled perimeter can be seen. Another 12th century castle, Huércal of the Old One is also a popular attraction. Only the perimeter walls remain.

 

Presently the 14th century Posito is closed to the public. Once privately owned, the town has put the building up for sale and is hoping to open it to tourists soon.

 

Palacete of Four Torres dates back to the 19th century. The large building possesses four large towers on each corner. The building is currently undergoing renovations and is hoped to reopen soon.

 

In December, Huércal-Overa holds a huge medieval market. During this two-day event, medieval style goods are sold to the public, traditional foods are served, and wandering musicians stroll through the marketplace offering entertainment to all.

 

Take time to stroll through the town. You can visit the old bullring, explore the neat shops, and dine in some of the area’s exquisite restaurants. Restaurants vary from pizza parlors to traditional cuisine.

Lettuce, maize, citrus fruits, olives, and almonds are the key crops of this large farming community. Farming has been the way of life for many residents within Huércal-Overa for centuries. Citrus fruits and olives bring in necessary revenue, but other crops are beginning to show signs of increased harvesting. Herbs like basil, tarragon, and mint are being tested in many farms. In many cases, the herbs can help keep harmful insects away from crops.

 

Herbs are also used for aromatherapy oils and essential oils. Following a sharp growth in herbal medications and therapies, it makes sense that farmers within Huércal-Overa begin testing out new markets. The herbs thrive in the fertile soil, so there may be much money to be found in this market.

Huércal-Overa’s culinary traditions are based on ample amounts of fresh produce. Tomatoes, garlic, lettuce, and watermelon are usually available at farm stands or in stores.

 

During the cool, rainy winters, freshly baked bread is commonly served with steaming bowls of Pimentón, a soup made from chicken broth, paprika, garlic, and cumin. Stews involving wheat berries and pumpkin or rabbit with fresh vegetables are also common.

 

Blood sausage, garlic sausage, and longaniza are common for all meals, including breakfast. One might expect to find freshly scrambled eggs with these delicious sausages in the morning.

 

During the hot summer months, tangy bowls of gazpacho and salads are both refreshing and satisfying. All meals include fresh ingredients that are available during that season.

Huércal-Overa does offer a variety of restaurants and bars for both locals and tourists. You can enjoy a delicious meal (be sure to sample the traditional cuisine) and then hit the bars for a nightcap or two.

 

During some months, cinematic festivals are held offering additional activities to the masses. These festivals offer the best in cinematic art.

Huércal-Overa offers so much to do. You should plan to stay in the area for at least a week to ensure you have time to experience everything. There are activities for children and adults, so everyone will be happy!

 

With gorgeous scenery, charming locals, and breathtaking buildings, you are guaranteed to leave Huércal-Overa with a smile on your face. Once you’ve arrived, you will never want to leave.