An afternoon in Antequera,

I found myself walking through the streets of Antequera under a scorching sun. It was early May and the temperature already hit 35 degrees Celcius.

The short walk (climb) from Plaza de San Sebastian to the Alcazabar was though going. After having cycled that morning in blistering heat from Ronda to Antequera through the stunning El torcal de Antequera natural park made famous for its unusual limestone rock formations, the first heatwave of the year took its toll.

But the uphill struggle was soon forgotten when I cast my eye over beautiful Antequera. Antequera is a town much quieter than the likes of Ronda, Seville, Granada,... still so worth a visit.

The historic monumental wealth can be seen all over the town, from the many churches and convents to the palaces. Then there is the impressive Alcazabar that with its strategic position overlooks the town and provides stunning views all across the area.  

​Just outside Arco de los Gigantes, I bought my entrance ticket for the Alcazabar. Here you can also pick up a handheld audio guide in various languages (Options are English, Spanish, French, Italian and German). Guided tours are also available, but I opted for the self-guided tour.

Arco de los Gigantes:

The Arco de los Gigantes is situated at the entrance to the ancient Arab medina and route to the souk. The outside of the Arch bears the coat of arms of Fernando I, featuring the lion, the castle and stargazer lilies.
Entering the Alcazaba is done by entering the Puerta de la Alcazaba, the outermost gate of the complex.​

Alcazaba:

When entering the Alcazaba, you will get a feel for the cheer size of the Moorish Fortress. The fortress covers an area of 62000 sqm and was originally part of a Roman Citadel. Throughout its 8000 years, it has been an important fortress and cultural centre.
Around the Alcazaba, you can see several Roman ruins that are still being investigated, the first being Roman baths that date back to the 3rd Century AD and tombs. 

In the 11th century, Antequera became an important Caliphate. By the 14th Century, Christian advances from the North had reduced Al-Andalus considerably with the likes of Antequera, Ronda and Almeria defending their borders .  During this era, the Alcazaba was built to counter the Christian advances from the North.  

The Patio de Armas isthe central square that was originally used as barracks for troops. this central square provides you with access to the different parts of the fortress.

a) Torre del Homenaje: the keep, also known as the five-cornered square because it is L-shaped,  is considered to be one of the highest towers in Al-Andalus. It was here that prince Don Fernando commemorated taking Antequera.

b) Templete y Chapitel: Built by the Christians, the pyramidal spire crowns the Muslim tower and houses the original bell and clock. By climbing up this tower, you will be rewarded with stunning views across Antequera and towards the Pena de los Enamorados (Rock of the lovers). The rock's profile resembles a human face and has been the subject of local legends. 

c) Torre Blanca: the white tower dates back to the Nazarid dynasty. The lower floor of this building was used for defense while the living quarters were above this floor.

d) Mezquita y Aljibe: The ruins of the mosque and the water tank are in the central square

​e) Torre del Quiebro: The tower was demolished in 1510 by order of the governor of the fortress and was recently rebuilt.

After an educational visit, I exited the Alcazaba and made my way over towards the Colegiate de Santa Maria la Mayor. Admission to this stunning building is included in the price

Collegiate de Santa Maria la Mayor

The Royal Collegiate church is divided into three naves by the use of huge columns. The beautiful Coffered Mudejar ceiling is just a piece of artwork as is the Tabernacle chapel.

Cerdo IbericoWhere I ran out of time, I didn't get the chance to visit the Antequera Dolmen Site. This complex contains three megalithic monuments: the Menga and Viera dolmens and the Tholos of the Romeral. The Mena dolmen is about 6000 years old. These importance of these three Dolmen along with El Torcal and La Pena de los Enamorados natural formations made it declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2016 due to its status as one of the most notable prehistoric archaeological sites in Europe

After my educational afternoon, I wanted to treat myself to a great meal. Antequera has a huge selection of restaurants and bars, and on this particular evening I opted for Abrasador Bodegas Triana. 
And after a day in the saddle, I was hungry. So on my own, I managed to finish a plate of pate, home made croquetas followed by Cerdo iberico.

This restaurant showed me again how great Spanish Cuisine and restaurants are. Two girls managed to serve about 40 tables efficiently providing them with drinks and food all while the restaurant was fully booked... and this on an ordinary weekday. And with the high quality of the food matched with very reasonable pricing , it isn't hard to see why.
Antequera is a great town to spend a few days visiting the many tourist sites and sampling the great food in the many restaurants.
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