Rágol sits at the foot of the Gádor Mountains. In the western quadrant of the Andarax River valley, Rágol is 40 kilometers from Almería. It takes a little time to reach the city because of the difference in elevations between the two.

 

In the past five years, the population of Rágol has declined slightly. While older people remain in the area, younger adults finish school and leave for more populated areas that offer stronger job opportunities. Rágol has a doctor’s office and library, but offers no schools. Children are bussed to outlying regions. This also helps push young adults into leaving Rágol.

 

The truth of the matter is that this is quite sad. Rágol is a beautiful white city lined with old eucalyptus trees. The trees fill the air with their wonderful aroma. The white houses bring people back to times long forgotten with their ancient architecture and dazzling colour. On a sunny day, time passes quickly as the sights and smells surrounding Rágol mesmerize residents and travellers alike.

There is no argument that Moors settled in the town of Rágol centuries ago. The classic white town structure proves their existence. Moors created homes with very thick, whitewashed walls. This architectural structure prevented the intense sun from heating the inside of the home too much.

 

In the 1500s, many areas in Spain fell into the Christian kings’ eyes. Determined to possess these areas, the Kings’ armies drove the Moors out during intense battles. Moors who managed to escape capture fled for the mountains. Others either died in battle or fell into a life of slavery. The kings overlooked one key area however. As the Moors fled, towns were left with no population. Many areas that had been thriving under Moorish occupancy were now virtual ghost towns. The kings had to repopulate these areas. Even after convincing Christians to move from the city to the rural areas, the populations were still meager. By the end of the 1600s, many towns allowed Moors back in.

 

The next few centuries primarily revolved around rebuilding Rágol and defending the town from attack. By the 1800s, Rágol’s economy was improving. All eyes turned to the Ohanes grape, which did well in the area’s soil. The grape turned out to be one of the best tools for improving the economy.

 

Today, lack of employment opportunities and lengthy drought conditions have driven many residents from Rágol. Farmers are finding it hard to grow decent crops without the necessary rainfall. This is leading to a number of people moving to larger towns and cities where jobs do not rely on the weather.

The 17th century San Miguel Church is the town’s oldest and most attractive building. Unfortunately, fire destroyed much of the building. It was rebuilt in 1871. Today, it possesses some of the former historical charm.

 

Every August, the Patron Saint San Agapito is celebrated with a large parade, culinary events, and musical events. The festivities last for six days.

 

The rows of houses in Rágol are worth seeing. Stroll through the town in search of small boutiques while you take in the historic white houses.

Rágol is an agricultural community. The land is covered in vineyards, potato fields, and almond trees. Rich, fertile soil helps grapes thrive and these crops are used in wine making.

 

There are a few automobile repair shops, a couple of construction firms, and a realtor. These businesses are not large enough to support the residents who need jobs. Most people have to commute to other regions for jobs.

 

The area does not have much of a tourism base. A serious lack of restaurants, hotels, inns, and bars keep potential revenue from the town. While it is a nice place to stop and stretch the legs, there really is nothing else worthwhile. Many travellers pass through Rágol in search of accommodation and meals.

Rágol’s culinary bounties revolve around the local produce. Winter finds many families serving a rich tomato broth that is seasoned with paprika and red peppers. Soups are served with freshly made bread.

 

Blood sausage is very common year round. The same is true for locally made garlic sausage. Pork is the most common ingredient in dishes requiring meat.

 

Fried chicken and fried rabbit are usually reserved for special occasions, though rabbit is used year round in stews that are packed with garlic, wine, potatoes, red peppers, and onions.

 

For dessert, it is common to find plates containing fried bread dough that has been flavoured with anise.

Two small bars are located within the town. The seating capacity is small, so arrive early as they fill up with locals quickly. Apart from the bars, there are no restaurants or dance clubs. If you need activities at night, you are better off driving to Almería.

Rágol’s climate is pleasant. Temperatures average 21˚C in the summer and 17˚C in the winter. As the climate remains warm year round, it is an excellent area for those wanting to avoid the bitter cold of winter. The temperate climate also makes it an exceptional area for crops.

 

Admittedly, there isn’t a lot of activity for someone needing dance clubs, restaurants, and live entertainment, but Rágol does have its charm.