Centrally located in the province of Almería, Senés is another of Spain’s attractive white villages. Rows of white houses grace the southern slopes of the Filabres Mountains. The white exteriors keep the sweltering summer sun from heating a home’s interior to unbearable levels. Senés is a rural town with a total population of little more than 300 people.

 

As a small town, the residents are often forced to commute to larger towns and cities for work. There are no restaurants or inns within the town, so tourists may stop for a look, but will not find much to offer beyond a few sites.

Established by Moors, Senés was built on the side of the mountains. This offered the Moors excellent defensive strategies, as they were able to see intruders coming from miles away.

 

The Moors were able to make their living growing crops and trading handcrafted goods for necessities. They created a small, yet agreeable, town that remained their home until the Christians conquered much of Spain. Surviving Moors either fled the area or were forced into a life of slavery.

 

Artifacts have been found within the town. These artifacts give evidence that iron was a source used by the Moors during their domain. Some areas of Senés is still largely undeveloped due to rocks, caverns, and cliff walls.  

The Field of Taverns is a large open area between two massive boulders that lead to the town. The boulders form balconies that overlook the area below the town and then the entrance into the town. Many tourists enjoy viewing the surrounding fields and forests from this vantage point.

 

A Moorish church built in the Mudéjar style needed repairs following the battles between the Moors and the Christians. In the 16th century, this small establishment received upgrades and the structure is now a major attraction.

 

The Hill of Rock sits in the northwest section of this town. This large rock plateau is an excellent place for viewing the area’s wildlife.

 

Many of the area homes contain original tablets with Arab inscriptions. It is worthwhile to spend some time walking down the streets and viewing these inscriptions.

Six area businesses bring revenue to the area, but the majority of these businesses are auto repair shops and do not bring jobs to the locals. Two doctors’ offices are available to the locals, but also do not need many workers. Without a school in the area, children are shipped to other towns and adults must commute to outlying towns and cities for employment.

 

Instead, agriculture is the main industry in Senés. Wheat, barley, and rye grow well in the dry soil. Once harvested, the grains are shipped to other areas.

A few dishes stand out as being staples in Senés. The decadent Almerían Garlic Soup involves a hearty broth, local vegetables, and tons of garlic. Spanish Stew is served with freshly baked bread. The filling stew includes blood sausage, tomatoes, garlic, onions, potatoes, and a variety of herbs. Bread cubes are often fried in pig lard and then tossed with cooked sausage and vegetables. This dish known as Migas is very popular and extremely satisfying.

 

Honey has played an important role in the town of Senés. Locals make a sweetened beverage from emptied honeycombs and warm water. Honey is also used in a cool summer Gazpacho made from fresh tomatoes, vinegar, onions, peppers, and cucumbers.

 

Area specialists spend time in the surrounding oak and pine forests foraging edible mushrooms. This is not a safe hobby for everyone. Nonetheless, if you are clear on identifying non-poisonous species, the forests offer a mass of delicious mushrooms.

 

Honey is also used to sweeten desserts. Sweet buns dipped in honey are common. The chocolate substitute, carob, also grows in the area and can be used in sweets. Almond paste and almond flour is often used to create buttery sugar cookies. These desserts are popular with the younger children.

Without restaurants and bars within the town of Senés, there is little to do at night. Locals stay in their homes and spend quality time together. The only exception to this normal pattern comes in August. During this warm summer month, outdoor movies are often shown. This allows residents to leave their homes and enjoy a movie in the cooler night air.

 

However, the capital city, Almería, of the same-named province is less than fifty-five kilometers from Senés. You can journey towards Almería and its suburbs if you need active bars, dance clubs, and restaurants.

Senés is a small town, but it is not without its charm. Pleasing scenery, friendly locals, and appealing historical sites attract the occasional tourist.