Almeria History

Almeria is both a province and a city, the latter of which is dominated by the large Islamic fort of Alcazaba which remains as a reminder of Almeria’s heyday. To discover Alcazaba and more, take a cheap flight to Almeria with Jet2.com today.

The Alcazaba fort is Islam’s second largest fortress and represents a time when Almeria flourished as a major part of the Cordoba Caliphate. The Caliph of Cordoba ruled Islamic Spain and North Africa from 929–1031 AD and Almeria enjoyed great success in trade and culture during this period. The silk industry in particular proved especially beneficial for Almeria, due to the area’s dry landscape; perfect for the growth of mulberry trees (a silkworm’s favourite food!).

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Relative peace and economic stability continued up until 1489 when the city of Almeria was seized by Catholic monarchs and the Muslim populace was soon expelled. The sixteenth century saw many set-backs for Almeria, including four earthquakes. The biggest of these, in 1522, devastated the city and full reconstruction would not take place until the 19th century. On top of these natural disasters, Almeria had to endure repeated attacks by Berber pirates throughout this period.

Take a cheap flight to Almeria and visit the restored city in the heart of this exciting Spanish destination.

In the 20th century the Spanish Civil War saw further damage to the somewhat reconstructed Almeria, with shell attacks from the German navy. Along with Malaga, Almeria was the last Spanish city to surrender to Franco and his fascists in the war that lasted from 1936-1939.

Tourism and intensive agriculture has seen Almeria’s economic growth soar since the 20th century. Plants are grown year round in plastic-covered intensive farms and the tourist attractions of Almeria are many. Book a cheap flight to Almeria with Jet2.com and see for yourself just what modern-day Almeria has to offer.

Those seeking sun will not be disappointed with Almeria, which can boast the highest hours of sunshine and the lowest levels of rainfall in Europe. More recent Almeria history is available to explore, in the shape of the Desierto de Tabanas; Europe’s only semi desert and the location for classic spaghetti western films such as The Good, The Bad and The Ugly and A Fistful of Dollars. Find cheap flights to Spain online at Jet2.com and soak up history both old and new.

Almeria’s Old Town offers historical monuments and gothic cathedrals to explore. And the numerous tapas bars let you sample a true taste of Almeria with traditional dishes including Gachos and Escabeche de Sardines. You can read more about Almeria with our Almeria destination guide and then book a low cost flight to Spain to visit this fantastic destination for yourself.

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