Frigiliana, Spain

Here’s one to add to your bucket list when visiting Spain.

FRIGILIANA, SPAIN – A WHITE VILLAGE IN ANDALUSIA

Voted ‘the prettiest of all the white-washed villages’, the village more than lives up to its reputation. Frigiliana is situated in the eastern part of the Axarquía region, in the foothills of the Almijara mountain range, just on the border of the Sierras de Tejeda y Almijara Nature Park.

History

The area has been inhabited since pre-history times. During the Roman occupation a fortress was built, which no longer exists. In the old quarter of the village there are 12 mosaics, which depict the history of Frigiliana. Dominated for 500 years by the Moors, they were finally defeated in 1569 in the battle at La Axarquia by the army of the Catholic Kings, Ferdinand and Isabel.

According to legend, rather than be captured by the conquerors, many Moors threw themselves down the hill of El Fuerte. Recent archaeological finds of bones at the foot of the hill seem to prove the legend to be true. The Moorish culture which ruled the area for so long, accounts for many unique aspects Frigiliana has today. A combination of southern Spanish style and exquisite mosaics, tiles and fountains of Moorish origin make a picture perfect combination.

Around town

The village bars are popular with visitors who come here to taste the locally produced wine. This is also a great place to buy locally made pottery and ceramics; linen and basket ware.


Places to visit

If you have a car you can enjoy day trips to Malaga, Torrox, Nerja and Torre del Mar. The beautiful Almijara Natural Park is perfect for those who love outdoor activities including walking, hiking or mountain bike biking.

Cuisine

There is plenty of restaurants to choose from in Frigiliana’s main square all offering authentic Spanish cuisine but venture into the back streets and you find lots of little restaurants frequented by the locals. Make your way up to the Mirador at the top of the village, for good food and exceptional views.

By Vicki Williamson

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Your MTA Luxury Travel Expert