Else Beekman
Spain remains one of the most popular travel destinations globally, with over 94 million visitors flocking to the country in 2024. Iconic cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Seville attract thousands of tourists, but the crowds in these hotspots can often be overwhelming. Increasingly, travellers seek quieter alternatives where they can enjoy the Spanish sun, culture, and cuisine without the hustle and bustle of larger cities. So, why not visit the ‘Spanish Florence’?
A recent article in the British newspaper The Mirror highlights the importance of exploring Spain’s lesser-known locations, away from the heavy tourist traffic. It advises UK visitors to avoid the popular summer destinations and instead discover smaller towns and villages. These not-so-well-known gems offer a more peaceful experience of Spain. Consequently, visitors can embrace the country’s charm without the crowds.
One such destination is Antequera, according to Mirror a hidden treasure in Andalucia, just 50 kilometres from Málaga. Often referred to as the ‘Spanish Florence,’ this town offers visitors the chance to experience rich culture, stunning landmarks, and an authentic atmosphere. With a population of just over 41,000, Antequera presents the ideal escape for those seeking a tranquil holiday away from the more crowded beaches and bustling city centres.
A cultural treasure
Antequera is steeped in history and culture. The town boasts impressive archaeological sites, including prehistoric dolmens dating back to the Bronze Age and among the best preserved in Europa.
Dolmen in Antequera
Additionally, Antequera is home to several significant Roman ruins that reveal the city’s rich history. The Roman Villa de la Estación, discovered in 1998, features a peristyle courtyard with mosaics and thermal baths, marking it as one of the most important Roman sites in the Subbética region. In the town’s centre, the Roman Baths offer a glimpse into Roman daily life and architecture. Furthermore, a Roman necropolis with 54 tombs sheds light on ancient burial practices and social structures.
Visitors can also explore the majestic Alcazaba, the 14th-century Moorish fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From here you get the best view of the ‘Indian Rock’, the mountain Peña de los Enamorados, shaped as the face of a sleeping Indian.
With 33 churches, monasteries and convents scattered across the town, Antequera has the most religious buildings per capita in Spain. Therefore, the town provides a wealth of historical attractions for those interested in Spain’s past. Notable ones include the Iglesia de Santa María de Jesús and the Church of El Carmen. The last mentioned church was built in the late 16th century and is one of the most important monuments in Antequera. It is distinct for its huge intricately carved wooden altarpiece, which is an outstanding example of Antequeran baroque art.
Why the ‘Spanish Florence’?
The nickname “Spanish Florence” for Antequera doesn’t have a well-documented origin or a specific individual credited with coining it. However, because of the wealth of historical buildings and sites Antequera earned to be compared to the famous Italian city. Furthermore, Antequera’s significant contributions to literature, art, and architecture during the 16th and 17th centuries, particularly in the Mannerist and Baroque styles, might also have led to this comparison.
Food in Antequera
For food lovers, Antequera offers a delightful taste of Andalucia. The town is known for its local cuisine, including ‘porra Antequerana’, locally known as pora fría or porra crúa. This is a refreshing soup similar to gazpacho but with bread as extra ingredient and a richer flavour. If you have the chance, try the ‘mollete de Antequera’, bread with a protected recipe and typical for Andalucia.
Antequera also features weekly markets on tuesdays, where visitors can sample fresh local produce and regional specialties. A stroll through these markets provides an authentic experience of Andalusian gastronomy.
Nature
Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Antequera as well. Surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, the town offers numerous scenic walking trails and nature reserves. Nearby you will find El Torcal de Antequera. This natural park is famous for its unique limestone rock formations, which have been shaped by erosion over millions of years. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers and offers some walking trails for every level. Whether seeking a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, Antequera’s landscape provides the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
With just a 20 minutes drive you can visit the Fuente de Piedra lagoon to watch its famous flamingos. Learn more about these pinkish birds in the visitor centre and have a peaceful walk around the lake.
A Peaceful getaway in Andalucia
Unlike the more tourist-heavy destinations, the ‘Spanish Florence’ allows visitors to explore these cultural treasures at their own pace. The town’s relatively undiscovered nature means travellers can enjoy these landmarks in a more intimate and relaxed setting.