Vía Ibero Romana de Padul

In the district of Padul you'll find the best preserved remains of an old Roman road, Vía Ibero Romana de Padul. It has left a peculiar footprint on local and provincial history. This road became the main way connecting highway between the cities of Ilíberis (Granada) and Sexi (ancient Almuñécar) during the time when the Padul Lagoon occupied a much greater area than it does today.

There is no doubt that it is the footprint of an ancient wheel and rail road used by vehicles drawn by animals. It may well have been in operation since protohistoric times, although it reached its peak in the Roman era, and it continued to be used until mediaeval times until the regression of the lake made it unnecessary and the current lower access was created.

We should not forget the importance of the Padul depression and its relationship with the area of the Lecrín Valley, the Coast, Granada and the Plain. Historically, this area has produced an important traffic of merchandise, people and cultural influences. In conclusion, a communication channel that speaks of the area's social, political and economic history and contacts between the coast and the interior during the time the Lagoon reached its maximum extension.

This ancient road is located in an area called Los Molinos. Alongside it you'll find a fresh water spring which emerges among large stones at the foot of the Los Molinos hill, and popularly known as the Fuente del Mal Nombre. This spring is one of the most famous, but it is one of the many that exist in the district, since we should not forget that, according to experts, Padul is located over a great mass of water that drains down from the Sierra de Manar mountains and the Dilar Fault and water breaks out to the surface everywhere.

By climbing up just a few metres to the small plateau at the top of this hill, you'll get one of the best views of the Plain and the district of Padul.