The Alpujarra of Granada - Virtually Untouched Villages Since Arab Rule

The Alpujarra is one of the most picturesque regions in the province of Granada situated in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada National Park.

The difficult access to this mountainous area has, until recently, contributed to the region's preservation of such scenic landscapes and architecture.

The Alpujarras (with 's') consist of two areas: the Alpujarra of Granada and the Alpujarra of Almeria.

The Alpujarras cover the area between Sierra Nevada and the sea stretching eastward towards the province of Almeria. To the west, it borders the Lujar mountains, and to the south, it nearly reaches the ocean.

The region of Alpujarra Granadina (of Granada) is simply referred to as 'the Alpujarra' (without 's'). On the map above, you can see the borders of the Alpujarra of Granada.

The Alpujarra is full of mountains and winding roads with stunning viewpoints. Its beautiful scenery, charming villages, and peaceful vibe make it a perfect destination. Once you arrive, you'll find it hard to say goodbye!


It's one of the most visited regions in the province of Granada, steeped in legend due to its rich history and remote location.


In the Alpujarra, the villages are adapted to their geography. Thus, we find houses perched on the mountainside, arranged in terraces one below the other and facing south, as the sunlight is highly appreciated at this altitude.

This type of traditional houses is mostly found in small villages, such as Pampaneira or Bubión, where the streets are narrow and the houses are small.

Many of them have been restored, respecting their old flavor while incorporating the comforts of modern life.

Architecture of the Alpujarra

Virtually untouched area since Arab rule, yet retaining the original Berber architecture unique to Spain.

It was only in the late nineteenth century that artists, bohemians, and backpackers started to arrive in this area.

The picturesque buildings of the Alpujarra are one of the most typical features of its landscape.

Houses of the Alpujarras

Houses in the Alpujarra typically consist of two floors and are often whitewashed.

Upstairs, you'll find the rooms, while the kitchen is located on the bottom floor along with areas for livestock and farm tools.

The houses feature a cubic shape with flat roofs, which is typical of areas with low rainfall, along with round chimneys.

The roofing is made of magnesium clay, which is impermeable to rain, and is covered with stone.

These terrae, which now often serve as dryers, have a kind of hood, resembling almost a cylindrical fireplace, topped by a small slab.

In many cases, there are steps that bridge the gap between one house and the roof of another, effectively covering the street.

Traditional Celebrations and Fiestas of the Alpujarra

Moors and Christians

Among the traditions preserved in the Alpujarra are the popular festivals, including the Moors and Christians, symbolically representing the clashes of the sixteenth century. The Moors and Christians Fiestas of Valor are the most renowned.

The Night of San Juan

The night of San Juan or the Night of the Water is celebrated in Lanjarón, a very special event in which many people, both locals and visitors, participate.

For an hour, the party in the streets of the village involves soaking each other with buckets, water pistols, or whatever is available.

Water is also thrown from balconies to the delight of the participants.

The next day, the ham festival takes place, traditionally featuring a giant paella made in Salaillo Park, where locals enjoy tasting the local ham.

Traditional Music

As for the music, its folklore mainly revolves around guitars, bandurrias, and lutes.

A special mention must be made of the 'troveros' (trouvere, medieval period songs). The trovo improvisation is organized into stanzas of songs, with singers responding to each other.

On the other hand, held annually since 1982, a different village every year hosts the Traditional Music Festival in the Alpujarra. This festival, which takes place on the second Sunday of August, which has helped preserve the traditional folklore of this land.

Chestnut Festival

During the All Saints' Day bridge in villages such as Capileira, Pampaneira and Cástaras, the popular Mauraca or chestnut festival takes place.

This ancient tradition, dating back to Roman times, gathers people around the bonfire to roast chestnuts and enjoy them with brandy and music.

New Year's Eve... in August

Finally, it is worth mentioning the unique New Year's Eve celebration of Bérchules, which has been celebrated since 1994 on the first Saturday of August.

This tradition arose due to a power outage in the village that year, depriving the neighbors of their New Year's Eve festivities.

Typical Handicrafts from the Alpujarras

Craftsmanship in the Alpujarra is not only a cultural expression but also the result of the necessity of these villages, which were sometimes isolated and had to be self-sufficient.

The most interesting handicraft demonstrations can be found in the weavings; silk workshops existed in the area in the past. Curtains, bedspreads and blankets are very popular among visitors.

Old clothes were shredded and mixed in the loom, thus creating beautiful colors.

The pottery, of Nasrid origin, also has its own character in these highlands.

Lost Traditions

Although there are not many workshops with wood-fired ovens in the Alpujarra anymore, and it is not experiencing the revival seen with looms, for example.

The handicraft of esparto grass or wicker is another tradition that is being lost, although you can still see some tourist stores selling these products.

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