Area Guide for Velez-Rubio, AlmeriaIntroduction:In order to understand Spanish geography, it is helpful to understand the structure. The country of Spain is set up with autonomous communities, provinces, and municipalities. Spain has fifty provinces within their seventeen autonomous communities. Each province then has a number of municipalities. Vélez-Rubio is a municipality within the province of Almería. Almería is located within the autonomous community of Andalusia.
Vélez -Rubio is a medium sized town with a population of a little over 7,000 people. The population has grown considerably in the past ten years making Velez-Rubio an area worth mention.
Located on the northeastern border of Andalusia, Vélez -Rubio (Blond Velez) is one of Andalusia’s famed white towns. For families, the town offers a number of schools and one health centre. Tourists will find the numerous restaurants and lodging options make it an excellent destination for overnight stops.
History:It is believed that Vélez-Rubio was founded as far as 30,000 years ago. The discovery of some diorite axes in the Cave of Ambrosio leads historians to Neolithic, possibly Paleolithic, times. In 1986, an excavation of some of the surrounding hillside brought many artifacts to light. These clues offer a glimpse into times long passed.
The area’s architecture gives proof to the inhabitance of the Moors before they were expelled by Christian armies. The Moors made their homes in many Spanish towns, relying on their crafts to earn money for items or to barter items for other necessities.
Site Seeing:Built between 1573 and the 1700s, the Parochial Church Our Lady of the Incarnation demonstrates much of the area’s architectural and cultural history. Francisco Zesta’s carved altar is both beautiful and much discussed by art lovers. In 1981, Spain added this church to its list of artistic historical monuments.
Church of San Pedro is one of the area’s oldest churches. Erected in 1515, the church sits higher up the hill. In the 1700s, an earthquake destroyed the integrity of the church. The ruins were removed and a new church was built on the site.
Church of Our Lady Of The Carmen, established in the 1600s, houses a restored altarpiece. Church of San Jose is a newer church having been established in the 1800s. Finally, Church of the Convent of the Immaculate is a 17th century church featuring a huge Mudéjar tower and a baroque altarpiece.
The year 1765 saw the completion of the Real Hospital’s construction. The Baroque hospital received a major renovation in the 1980s. If you have an interest in architectural styles, this building is worth seeing. Today, it houses the archeological museum. Also from the 1700s, the Palace of the Catechists is undergoing some improvements. Visitors say the patio is definitely worth viewing.
If you enjoy festivals, come to Vélez-Rubio in August. For four days, the town becomes a hotbed of activity during the Celebrations Of Summer. Parades, sports competitions (soccer, basketball, swimming, mountain bike races, and more), Gymkhana events, music, and culinary delights are all offered during this event. Often the event is immediately followed by a five-day street fair for the next few days. During the street fair, a running of the bulls is held. The street fair focuses on dancing, singing, parades, and games for all ages (chess, table tennis, and bike racing).
Industry:At least 500 locals are employed in the local fields. Barley and almonds thrive in the warm area of Vélez-Rubio. Additionally, cattle ranching brings revenue and jobs to Vélez-Rubio. The balance of grain crops and cattle ranching seem to prosper within the community.
There are a number of small automotive repair shops in Vélez-Rubio. These shops generally employ fewer than five people, but it still brings in some revenue.
As the number of full-time residents increases, new businesses will come into the area. These new businesses have the chance to bring in new jobs to the people. The town realizes the importance of new jobs. Currently, it is working hard to balance the town’s business growth with the population growth.
Gastronomy:Migas is an important dish throughout much of Spain. The recipe varies greatly from region to region. Traditionally, Migas included cubes of stale bread of tortillas that were fried with garlic and olive oil. Each region has its own idea. Some areas add blood sausage to the mix; others top the fried bread portions with scrambled eggs and tomatoes. The options are endless.
In the summer time, the light Remojón Salad is always popular. The dish mixes salt cod pieces with oranges, olives, tomatoes, and onions. The salad is then drizzled with a mixture of olive oil and wine vinegar.
Hornazo is a filling dish. This meat pie is stuffed with hardboiled eggs, chorizo sausage, and pork loin. For dessert, you can sample some Almendrados, delicate almond cookies that are the perfect mix of sweetness and nuts.
Nightlife:Given its size, Vélez-Rubio may have more bars than you would imagine. Close to one dozen bars offer a place for tourists and locals to kick back and enjoy a cold beer or tangy glass of wine. With a good selection of establishments, you are certain to find a bar packed with your peers.Summary:With beautiful vistas of the surrounding Maria Mountains and more activities than one may expect, Vélez-Rubio is an area of growing interest. Nature lovers will enjoy the close proximity to natural parks, and those needing something to do when the sun sets will find the selection of bars to be better than normal. Vélez-Rubio is a charming town with much to offer. Add it to your itinerary!Useful Business Links for Velez-Rubio:Do you offer a service in this area? If so, why not put a link here directly to your website. Contact Ask Olive today. |
