Visit Alameda, an attractive inland village of whitewashed homes near southern Spain's Costa del Sol. This small and picturesque enclave has a long history that stretches back thousands of years, as evidenced by numerous archeological discoveries. Wander through picturesque streets to discover its ancient and recent past.
Head to the 17th-century Church of the Immaculate Conception for its 14th-century wood carving of the crucified Christ and the tomb of Jose Maria El Tempranillo. This 19th-century outlaw stole from the rich to give to the poor and eventually became a police officer. His final resting place is located in the church's courtyard.
Explore the village's ancient past at the Roman Baths of Alameda, an archeological site from the 1st to the 3rd centuries. Lying beside the Roman ruins is the Chalcolithic Necropolis, a series of cavities that are around 4,000 years old. At the bottom of these shafts, archeologists found bones, pottery and stone remnants. Browse the exhibits of the Interpretation Center of Roman Baths and Roman Springs which cover the operation of the baths and their importance in Roman society.
Further historical insights await at the Thematic Center of Campo Andaluz. View artifacts covering traditional ways of harvesting wheat and olives.
Roam around Alameda’s countryside with a hike or drive. Approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) west of the village is the Ratosa Lagoon, a natural reserve where you'll find flamingos and other migrating birds.
One way to discover the area is by taking the Tempranillo Route which encompasses scenery and historical sites that would have been familiar to El Tempranillo.
For a gorgeous view of the town and its scenic surroundings climb up the Mirador de la Camorra, a viewing point located at the highest point of Alameda, a 2,250-feet (686-meter) hill.
Alameda is approximately 45 miles (72 kilometers) from Malaga and 71 miles (114 kilometers) from Granada, which both have international airports. Travel by bus or car from either of these locations to enjoy a picturesque destination with a fascinating past.
