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Panoramic view of white houses in Bacares with greenery and hills. Digigalos, CC BY-SA 3.0

Bacares

Andalusia

226Population
95 km²Area
1,206 mElevation
04889Postal code

Bacares is a municipality located in the southern part of the Almanzora Valley in Almería province, Andalusia. Known for its rich history and natural beauty, it features rugged terrain and a variety of flora and fauna.

02Geography

Bacares is situated at the foothills of the Sierra de Filabres, characterized by steep hills and several notable peaks, including Layón, Nímar, and Calar Gallinero. The municipality is bordered by several others, including Serón and Velefique, and encompasses the depopulated area of La Mojonera.

Distance to the coast
73 km
Climate
Mediterranean arid
Average temperature in January
4 to 6 °C
Average temperature in July
20 to 22 °C
Annual precipitation
200 to 400 mm

03History

The area of Bacares has a rich historical background, with evidence of mining activities dating back to Phoenician times. The current settlement and its castle likely originated during the Almohad period, and the region has been influenced by various cultures throughout its history.

Bacares, a municipality in Almería, Andalusia, is known for its rich history and natural landscapes.

04Cultural Heritage

Bacares is home to several significant cultural sites, including the Castillo de Bacares and the Iglesia de Santa María. These structures reflect the municipality's historical and architectural heritage.

River with trees and vegetation along trail in Bacares.
Trail SL-A 298 in Bacares, with a river surrounded by trees and vegetation.
Traditional roscos in a bowl with sugar, on a table with glasses and food.
Traditional Romero roscos in a bowl, sprinkled with sugar, on a table with glasses and other food.

05Festivals and Gastronomy

Bacares hosts several traditional festivals, including the Día del Romero and the patronal festivities in honor of the Santo Cristo del Bosque. The local cuisine features a variety of dishes, reflecting the agricultural heritage of the region.

Bacares · Data
Province
Almería
Autonomous community
Andalusia
Population
226
Area
95 km²
Elevation
1,206 m
Postal code
04889
Website
http://www.bacares.es/
Coordinates
37.2606, -2.4547

Photos

Streets of Bacares with houses and a walkway in Almería.
Streets of Bacares in Almería with traditional houses and a pedestrian walkway.
White church of Bacares with tower and clock, under blue sky.
The church of Bacares with its white bell tower and clock, under a clear blue sky.
Gañotes in a plastic container with honey.
Gañotes, traditional sweet from the Sierra de Grazalema, in a plastic container.
Frontón court with green walls and red floor in Bacares.
Close-up of the frontón at the sports courts in Bacares, Almería.
Dirt path beside the Bacares river with trees on both sides.
Bacares riverbed passing through the town, surrounded by trees and vegetation.

Frequently asked questions

What can you tell me about the history of Bacares?

Bacares has a rich history, with origins possibly dating back to the Phoenicians due to its mining wealth. During the Muslim period, it was known for its iron production and was significant for the Kingdom of Granada. The town saw changes in governance after the Catholic Monarchs took control in 1489, and it faced depopulation in the 16th century due to the expulsion of Moriscos. Mining thrived again in the 20th century but declined by the late 1960s, leading to emigration.

History

What are some interesting natural features around Bacares?

Bacares is surrounded by the Sierra de Filabres, featuring notable peaks like Calar Alto and Tetica de Bacares. The area is also home to the river Bacares, which flows through the municipality, and has diverse flora, including xerophytic plants and ancient pines. The region offers various hiking trails, such as the PR-A 362, showcasing its natural beauty.

Nature

What is the significance of the Día del Romero festival?

The Día del Romero, celebrated on the first weekend of February, is a traditional gathering for Bacares residents, especially those who have emigrated. The festival includes a giant paella on Saturday and olla de trigo on Sunday, along with the consumption of local sweets like roscos. It aims to reconnect the community and celebrate local traditions.

Festivals & events Día del Romero

What are the traditional foods of Bacares?

Bacares is known for its rich culinary heritage, featuring dishes like fritá de conejo, gurullos de perdiz, and various meat stews. Local sweets include roscos dulces and cuerva. The cuisine reflects the agricultural practices in the region, with an emphasis on local produce and traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Food & drink

What can you tell me about the Castillo de Bacares?

The Castillo de Bacares is a cultural heritage site built primarily in the 13th century, showcasing a rectangular layout with five square towers. It has undergone restoration and is a reminder of the town's historical significance, particularly during the Muslim period. The castle features remnants of its original structure, including walls and a central courtyard.

Sights Castillo de Bacares

What recreational activities are available in Bacares?

Bacares offers various recreational activities, including hiking along trails like the PR-A 362 and PR-A 454. The municipality has a sports complex with facilities for football, basketball, and paddle tennis. Additionally, the Club de Pelota Bacares promotes traditional sports in the area, contributing to local culture and community engagement.

Nature For residents

How is the climate in Bacares?

Bacares has a semi-arid Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 4 to 6 °C in January to 20 to 22 °C in July. The area receives limited annual rainfall, typically between 200 to 400 mm, making it essential for local agriculture and influencing the types of crops grown.

Nature For residents

What is the Iglesia de Santa María like?

The Iglesia de Santa María in Bacares is a mudéjar-style church built between 1502 and 1505. It has undergone several restorations, particularly after being damaged during the Alpujarras rebellion. The church houses important religious images, including the Santísimo Cristo del Bosque, a significant figure for the local community.

Sights Iglesia de Santa María

What are the main economic activities in Bacares today?

Currently, Bacares's economy is primarily driven by the service sector, followed by construction and agriculture. Key agricultural products include potatoes, wheat, and almonds. Although tourism is underdeveloped, there are a couple of rural accommodations available, reflecting the potential for growth in this area.

Living there For residents

What is the local fauna like in Bacares?

Bacares is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, boars, foxes, and various birds of prey. The surrounding natural areas support a rich ecosystem, making it a suitable habitat for species like the Iberian water rat and the spotted toad. This biodiversity contributes to the region's ecological significance.

Nature For residents

Map

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Own text, written with AI assistance from the facts in Wikipedia · Bacares · Data: Wikidata Q1157977 · Photos: Wikimedia Commons, see individual licenses. · CC BY-SA 4.0