Uniquely Troglodytic Guadix

If you were to travel to Almeria from Granada, you would pass through an ancient Moorish town called GUADIX that has a huge and unique cave landscape. This old Santiago quarter still has around 10,000 residents.

Its unique habitation

This Spanish barrio covers more than a square mile beyond the Alcazaba ruins, which serves as a sign post on entering the ancient town walls. There is an adjoining school of theology, which serves as an entrance to this part of the quarter.

Lower caves located on the quarter’s outskirts seem to impose themselves here over the quaint town of Guadix, but they are actually local cottages of 2 levels, complete with basic amenities, such as electricity and running water.

Further away, the homes are simpler in design, taking on the typical whitewash and chimney structure.  Right through to the back may be some abandoned caves or ‘homes’ that are no longer suitable for inhabitants.

The special Cueva Museo will enlighten the visitor on the cave culture and habitat providing intriguing insights on the troglodytic life from its habitat reconstructions.

Getting around Guadix

There are different types of accommodation available in Guadix; the budget hotels along the main road or the more luxurious hotels with some astounding atmosphere in some refurbished 12th century buildings, now hotels.

There is a bus station just 5 minutes outside the town walls running to and from Granada and Guadix. The town’s train station is located northeast along Murcia road, 2km away; it provides 4 trains coming in and out of Guadix between Almeria and Granada every day.

Interesting Landmarks

Besides the unique cave habitats, there is also a 16th century cathedral which still stands impressively with its red sandstone structure. Another major landmark of Guadix lying 16km away from the town is another 16th century castle that looms majestically over the La Calahorra village on a hill. This cathedral offers splendid Renaissance artwork on its inner patio. You may come across the Mini Hollywood of Guadix, which is the preserved stage set of the famed movie ‘A Fistful of Dollars’.

Gastronomy

There are plenty of restaurants offering a good and wide variety of food on their menus. Besides these, there are the local cuisine of raciones and tapas or the Western fare of hamburgers and other popular fare. Most of the hotels here have their own restaurants that will dish out some good food for your taste buds while there is the Cafetería Hawaii near the plaza and cathedral that offers a popular and economical menu.