A stroll through the Granada of Al-Andalus. Guadix y El Marquesado

The Region of Guadix y Marquesado has a landscape full of contracts, where the green and arid red colours of the lunar landscape of the Montes Orientales are a prelude to the Sierra Nevada. Without doubt the perfect setting for an unforgettable break.

Centuries of erosion caused by the rain, the climate and geological conditions in the region of Guadix, have led to the formation of rocky mountain formations with a unique character. Did you know that the common name for this type of landscape is "badlands”?

Become a genuine "Willy Fogg" flying over beautiful landscapes in the Region of Guadix in a balloon and enjoy an exciting experience you'll never forget. Thanks to Glovento Sur, you'll spend about an hour observing the beautiful Cathedral of Guadix, the neighbourhoods of cave houses with their white chimneys indicating the location of each one, the Alquife mines and the incredible "badlands”, all while enjoying a glass of cava, luxury up in the clouds! And once you've landed you can satisfy your appetite with a delicious, typical breakfast.

The inhabitants of the Region of Guadix and Marquesado have always been able to take advantage of the unusual rocky formations throughout history. Always wear comfortable clothes and footwear for walking along the trails of Hoya de Guadix and discover the uses they have given them.

You'll be surprised by the different shades of the landscape, with an abundance of shades of green, reds, yellows and ochre.

From the El Marchal lookout point you can breathe the fresh mountain air and take beautiful photographs of the landscape with ever-changing colours. You'll be amazed by the gullies and ravines in spectacular colours.

The Al-Andalus is water and so we recommend you bathe in Andalusian culture in the district of Dólar to better understand the close links between the Nasrid culture and water, what it is used for and the status of baths in the Moorish culture, these are the main themes of the Al-Andalus Water Interpretation Centre. You'll also find the remains of Moorish baths dating back to 1566.

A genuine example of underground Troglodyte culture.

Would you like to learn more about the lifestyle in the caves throughout history in the north of Granada? Visit the Cueva Museo la Inmaculada, a fun museum which you reach through a genuine, inhabited cave house! Once inside you'll find a route through three caves, the last of which has a lookout point with views over the picturesque landscape of Purullena.

In addition to the Cueva Museo la Inmaculada, in Purullena you'll find the Almagruz Troglodyte Interpretation Centre, where you'll be able to enjoy a permanent exhibition of the domestic household, the evolution of the habitat in this type of dwelling from prehistory to the present day and various exhibitions of archaeology, handicrafts and local tradition.

But these are not the only ones, throughout the region, there are a great number of interpretation centres and museums related to Troglodytes, and they are all very interesting.

Come and discover them!

Soak up the culture and tradition of Guadix. Roll up your sleeves and make a loaf of traditional Guadix bread, and enjoy wine and cheese from the region in Trópolis, an active museum located in a traditional cave in Alcudia de Guadix. You'll also be able to attend one of the numerous events held in the bullring housed in the centre.

What better way to understand the way of life of a Troglodyte than by staying in a cave?

Enjoy a unique experience in one of the cave accommodations you'll find throughout the Region of Guadix y Marquesado. One option is the caves of the Abuelo José. Not only will you sleep in very special accommodation, you'll also be able to take a Hammam, what more could you ask for?

Pottery is one of the typical products of this region, rich in the pottery workshops and shops selling ceramics. Visit some of them and take home a sample of clay art made in Guadix… and don't miss the over 1,000 pieces of Moorish ceramics on display in the Museo de Alfarería (Pottery Museum), located in a cave dug out under the Alcazaba de Guadix and dating back to 1400. You'll also find the remains of a well and Moorish vats in the museum.

A stroll around monumental Guadix

Welcome to beautiful Guadix. The narrow, winding streets still preserve the character of a lively city which during the Al-Andalus period were full of commercial activity, aromas and colours which could be made out amongst the hustle and bustle of the crowds.

In the centre of Guadix, the largest town in the region, building is dominated by the preponderance of reddish colours. From the walls of the Alcazaba can admire the beautiful white town of Guadix and the settlement of cave dwellings.

How about a fun ride through the town on the tourist train? Visit Guadix in comfort and in a different way, pay attention to the guide and you'll discover the secrets of the city.

You should not miss the Cathedral, built on the site of an Almohad mosque and the ancient Gothic cathedral, it is a marvellous example of pure Renaissance and Baroque architecture. You can also visit the Cathedral Museum where you'll some very interesting artistic pieces and objects.

Every corner of Guadix is presided over by palaces, stately houses and numerous monuments. Get hold of a map of the town and discover them all. The ancient Granary, the market, the Hospital Real, the Puerta de San Torcuato, the Ferro Tower and the remains of the city walls opposite the old church of San Miguel.

Don't think twice, come to Guadix and bathe in the landscape, natural environment, ethnological heritage and monumental beauty.