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Today we are going to visit Roquetas de Mar in Almeria from Malaga. This is a popular destination on the coast of Andalusia that we are sure you will like, especially during the summer season, although there are enough tourist attractions to make you want to visit all year round.
We are going to know a little about the origin of Roquetas de Mar and things to do. Remember that we can take you whenever you want.
Origin of Roquetas de Mar
The origin of Roquetas de Mar is diffuse in time. It is known from remains found that it was an important place for the production of salted fish during Roman times. A Roman road has also been found that linked the ancient town of Linares with Malaga.
During the Muslim period, some defensive towers were built; one of those would later become the site of the Castle of Santa Ana. There are more remains that we will find out below, under the recommended places to visit.
After the conquest by the Catholics Monarchs, the population began to settle in the area around the Castle of Santa Ana. This population began to grow timidly but steadily until the second half of the 20th century, when it experienced a great demographic boom.
Visiting Roquetas de Mar
Roquetas de Mar is the main tourist destination in Almeria with more than 21 three to five star hotels and high quality beaches. Among the favourite activities for visitors to Roquetas de Mar are playing golf, visiting the Aquarium or having fun in the town’s Water Park.
Another recommended activity for those who visit Roquetas de Mar is to enjoy its gastronomy. There are plenty of restaurants and bars, so you will be able to find one where you feel comfortable to enjoy the gastronomy or have a nice time while having a drink.
Places to visit
The history of Roquetas de Mar has left an important legacy of monuments and places of tourist interest that you can visit. We are going to recommend you some of them, in case you want to go.
Santa Ana Castle
This castle was built on the remains of an ancient defensive tower of Muslim origin. The fortification was built throughout the 14th century with the aim of defending the coast. Pirates used to attack the area, which slowed down the expansion and trade. This castle underwent numerous restorations, due to the constant earthquakes that devastated the area; the last major reconstruction was carried out from the end of the 20th century until 2003.
Today there is an interpretative museum on the ground floor, permanent exhibitions on the first floor and an exhibition of period ships on the first floor. The lighthouse, although it was in service for a long time, is now part of the exhibition museum.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/DGewZqJHfWiaMw8z9
Remarks: Nearby, in El Ejido, we find another castle in a good state of preservation. This is the Castillo de Guardas Viejas (Map), another of the defensive fortresses facing the coast which is a favourite place for many to take photos and experience the majesty of our past.
Cerrillos Tower
This tower is one of a series of defensive towers that were built during the period of Muslim domination. The current tower was built on top of the old one at the end of the 16th century. The aim of this kind of towers was defending the coast against pirate attacks.
The tower, which could hold only a few people, was intended to raise the alarm if enemy troops were sighted. The proximity of the towers to each other facilitated communication by means of bonfires, an alarm message that was transmitted from one to the other.
Despite having been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, its current state is one of abandonment and free access.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/1tPwXr36EpdvrQu8A
If you fancy a walk and enjoy the scenery, we recommend you visit the Cerrillos Geodesic Point area.: https://goo.gl/maps/iTLsfDUr9t7sZN9PA
Bullring
This bullring was built in 1888. It is the place where bullfighting festivals and other cultural events are held every year. It also has a museum and exhibition hall, where paintings and art related to bullfighting are exhibited.
If you are interested in the world of bullfighting, you will find historical posters on its walls. It is also located in a well-kept and pleasant setting with beautiful bullfighting sculptures.
Location: https://goo.gl/maps/cvjPHVPXEFWGafmL6
Las Marinas
This town was founded in the mid-20th century and has a parish church which houses a figure of the Virgen del Mar, whose festivities take place from 3 to 7 July every year.
Another recommended place to visit in Las Marinas is the market, built in 1988, where you can buy local products.
Other places of interest
- Spanish Civil War airfield: https://goo.gl/maps/JhXXc6FvGrboBaX8A
- Lighthouse of El Sabinar: https://goo.gl/maps/iTLsfDUr9t7sZN9PA
Activities
In Roquetas de Mar there are several population centres, each one with its own festivities and events every year. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular activities; just in case you want to get a closer look at the popular culture in the municiality.
- Virgen del Carmen in Aguadulce in mid-July.
- San Isidro Labrador in El Parador de las Hortichuelas in mid-May
- Virgen del Rosario in Roquetas centre at the beginning of October.
- Virgen del Mar in the Marinas in early July.
- Noche de San Juan on 23 June.
- Las Moragas Each year on 29 December.
- Semana Santa and processions.
Las Moragas
This traditional and exclusive festival in Roquetas marks the end of the year. During this day the people of Roquetas gather on the beach with barbecues. They eat grilled sardines or horse mackerel while having fun with the different events that take place.
The origin of this festivity is seafaring and it is celebrated at the end of the sardine fishing season. Nowadays it is a very popular event that brings together people of all ages on the night of 29 December.
Transfer to Roquetas de Mar from Malaga
If you would like to visit Roquetas de Mar we can offer you a transfer from Malaga and bring you back. We suggest you visit Roquetas in the morning and return to your hotel or place of residence to sleep, although you may also want staying there for a few days to make the most of your visit.
It is a 2 hour trip and we have vehicles to take the number of people you require. From 4-seater economy cars to minibuses or buses; if you have any doubts about what type of transport to Roquetas you need, ask us.
