Intriguing Discoveries at Mojacar

Mojacar is a very picturesque section of Costa Calida that is very calm, without much change over the years despite some big developments around it.

It is situated in Almeria province at the south east side, enjoying great protection from the Cabrera Mountains; it is one of Spain’s ancient villages begging for discovery. Its old quarters, Mojacar Pueblo, are 2 kilometers away from Mojacar Playa beach situated precariously on a rocky hillside offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean sea, countryside and mountains.

History
Mojacar’s history stretches as far back as 4000 years. The various civilizations that visited it include Phoenicians, Romans, Carthaginians, Moors and Greeks; this accounts for its multi-cultural influences still existing today.

Mojacar flourished only during Moorish rule when the town walls were enlarged and made stronger with the construction of the castle, although Mojacar suffered much bloodshed before that.

When Mojacar’s population declined in the mid 19th century, it did not fare well economically as severe droughts raged relentlessly and it was located in the midst of desert land. When the poor economy continued, Mojacar was offered for sale in the 1960s with the hope of a revival. This offer attracted many artists who captured Mojacar’s natural beauty on canvases which, in turn, attracted tourists who brought in foreign investment that revived the town.

Attractions
Mojacar’s beach is the main point of attraction with many wealthy overseas expatriates relocating here in the past 30 years. It is said that Mojacar is the birthplace of the legendary Walt Disney; the interesting folklore relates that he was an illegitimate son born to a local washerwoman who went off to America because of the stigma, but gave him up for adoption; the adopting parents were none other than Elias and Flora Disney. The rest is history.

There are no official records to prove or disprove this folklore, especially since the Mojacar archives were destroyed in Spain’s Civil War.

Mojacar’s iconic symbol is a cave called the Indalo where prehistoric drawings were found close to Velez Blanco. These drawings show a male figurine lifting a rainbow above his head, which the locals symbolize as good luck, making it a popular icon everywhere in Mojacar.

For those who love an interesting discovery, especially at every turn, Mojacar will hold enough charms for you as it has an intriguing network of cobbled streets that wind their way around the town.