As you can see in our latest articles, at Lagar del Chorro we are truly passionate about our environment.If in the last article we talked to you about the town of Ardalesthis time we are going to show you Carratraca, a charming little town, very close to our rural accommodations, so we recommend that you read this article so as not to miss anything about Carratraca and to know what See in Carratraca for a day visit.
Throughout this article you will find interesting information about Carratracaits monuments and its history, as well as one of its main gastronomic attractions, a food house.
Discover Carratraca with Lagar del Chorro!
History of Carratraca
Let's begin our journey back in time by exploring the fascinating history of this picturesque town, which is located anchored around amazing natural hot springs. This enclave, in Roman times, was already an inhabited place, leaving behind vestiges of a bygone era in the form of walls, tombs, ceramic fragments, vestiges of ancient baths and coins, all of them discovered in the archaeological site known as « "The Glorieta".
In Roman times, the healing magic of the sulfurous waters of this municipality was already appreciated and exploited. Later, it was the Arabs who took advantage of the benefits of these healing waters. In fact, this town was named Carratraca, a word with Arabic roots that comes from the term «Karr-al-krak», que se traduce como «limpiar de lacra», lo que simboliza la purificación y eliminación de impurezas.
Located on the slopes of Sierra Blanquilla, Carratraca has gained renown over the centuries thanks to its spa and its famous natural sulfur water hot springs. These waters, which have witnessed the transformation of this place throughout history, continue to attract visitors in search of healing and relaxation, keeping alive the rich historical heritage that surrounds this charming town.
Once you know its history, you are ready to know what to see in Carratraca in one day!
What to see in Carratraca?
Carratraca is a magical corner in the province of Malaga, where history and natural beauty intertwine in a passionate embrace. Carratraca, a hidden gem in southern Spain, waits to be discovered by those looking for a unique experience.
Immerse yourself with us on a tour that will take you through its cobblestone streets, its historical treasures and its natural wonders. From ancient Roman architecture to exquisite Neo-Mudejar architecture, from the hot springs that have healed generations to the stories of poets and writers who once called it home, Carratraca awaits you with open arms to reveal its secrets.
Join us on this adventure and discover everything Carratraca has to offer!
The historic Sulfurous Water Spa
Let's delve into the illustrious past of Carratraca, a hidden treasure in the province of Malaga. In its historical legacy, a jewel stands out that shines with singular splendor: the Agua Sulfurosa Spa. This idyllic corner has been synonymous with well-being and health through waters since time immemorial. But there is much more to discover.
Located in this charming town, stands the Agua Sulfurosa Spa, whose construction dates back to the beginning of the 19th century under the auspices of Fernando VII. This architectural treasure has been rehabilitated with exquisite taste, turning it into a luxury complex that attracts visitors from all over. Here, modernity is harmoniously intertwined with the original spirit of the place, offering travelers an unparalleled wellness experience.
Immerse yourself in the history and present of Carratraca, where health and well-being are intertwined with the historical legacy, and where the Agua Sulfurosa Spa is just the beginning of an unforgettable experience.
Trinidad Grund Palace, its current town hall
An authentic architectural jewel of Carratraca that you should not miss: the Town Hall of this charming town. But what really makes it stand out is the majestic Trinidad Grund Palace, a neo-Mudejar style marvel that the inhabitants of Carratraca affectionately call "the Arab house." This is a faithful witness to the opulence of the prosperous Malaga bourgeoisie of the 19th century.
Imagine a time when this imposing palace-house, erected in 1885, was conceived as a leisure retreat for the distinguished Trinidad Grund family. With its neo-Mudejar architecture, which pays homage to Moorish influences, the palace is a testament to the era's fascination with exotic and ornamental designs.
Today, this splendid building is not only a historical vestige, but also plays an active role in the life of the municipality. It houses the offices of the Carratraca City Council, a place where local administration comes to life, where decisions are made that shape the destiny of the town. But that's not all, you will also find an exhibition hall that brings local art to life, a majestic Plenary Hall where the most relevant issues are discussed and an Archive that guards the historical treasures of Carratraca.
So, if you are wondering what to see in Carratraca, don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this place, where the past and present merge into a unique experience.
Who is Trinidad Grund?
Trinidad Grund was a prominent Spanish writer and poet of the 19th century. She was born on June 30, 1829 in Carratraca, a town in the province of Malaga, Spain, and died on August 29, 1889 in Madrid. She is known for her participation in the literary movement of Romanticism and her contribution to romantic poetry in Spain.
Trinidad Grund stood out for her poetic sensitivity and her ability to express feelings and emotions through her verses. through her verses. His work "Poems" (1860) is a collection of his best-known poems and was well received in its time. His writings often addressed loving, sentimental and lyrical themes, typical of Romanticism, and reflected his melancholic vision of life.
Despite her short life, Trinidad Grund left a significant mark on Spanish romantic literature and is remembered as an important poet of her time. Her literary legacy continues to be studied and appreciated today.
The bullring carved in the stone
Let's delve into one of the most unique treasures of Carratraca, a true historical corner carved into the rock: its bullring. This impressive amphitheater, with an octagonal shape reminiscent of bygone eras of bullfighting splendor, is located on the outskirts of the town, just a short five-minute walk from the historic heart of Carratraca.
However, what makes this bullring even more intriguing is its current use. Although it remains closed for much of the year, it comes to life during special and festive times. During Holy Week, it becomes a stage where the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Christ is represented, a deeply rooted tradition in which all the residents of the town participate with devotion and fervor.
But that is not all; The Andalusian spell takes over the square in another magical moment. Formerly known as “La Luna Mora”, this festival lights up the night with candles and fills the air with melodies at concerts that take place in this unique enclave. So, when you visit Carratraca, be sure to explore this bullring with such a rich and versatile history, which continues to witness special moments that connect the past with the present.
The Church of the town's patron saint, the Virgin of Health
Let's delve into the spiritual heart of Carratraca, where faith and history intertwine in a beautiful church . The Virgen de la Salud Church stands in the middle area of the town, in the same place that once housed a modest hermitage. Its history is woven through time, with reforms that transformed it in 1802 and a subsequent expansion in 1880.
What makes this church even more special is its architecture. Imagine three naves that open before you, supported by semicircular arches that whisper stories of devotion and faith. At the heart of this venerated building is the dressing room, a sacred corner where the image of the Virgin of Health, the patron saint of Carratraca, resides.
Fonda Casa Pepa
To finish this article about what to visit in Carratraca, we could not miss one of the most popular eateries in all of Andalusia, such as «Casa Pepa«.
This establishment is much more than just accommodation, it is an authentic corner that invites travelers and diners to experience the essence de Carratraca.
From the moment you pass through its entrance, a lattice and a fence lead you to universe of singular beauty. Here, a first dining room awaits you that overlooks a patio full of flowers and plants, a setting that evokes peace and tranquility. But the real magic lies in the kitchen, where a wise cook, with years of experience behind her, prepares traditional dishes, full of flavor.
The most special thing about Casa Pepa is its food. Simple but abundant dishes, loaded with flavor and authenticity, that will transport you to the nostalgia of meals at your grandmother's house. The service, always friendly and kind, adds a touch of hospitality that makes you feel at home.
Weather forecast in Carratraca
Stay in Lagar del Chorro to visit Carratraca
At Lagar del Chorro we put our rural accommodation, very close to Chorro, Caminito del Rey, Ardales and Carratraca. Once you have known what to see in Carratraca, what better way than to visit it and stay just a few minutes from this town so
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