Salares, nestled at the edge of the Tejeda National Park and Game Reserve, is a historic village perched 579 meters above sea level. It boasts a rich history, with Phoenician, Greek, and Carthaginian inhabitants. The Romans called it Salaria Bastitanorum due to nearby salt beds. Its urban design, characterized by short, steep streets built on a hill, has remained largely unchanged since the Muslim era. There is no central square, but fitness enthusiasts can enjoy the free outdoor gym equipment before visiting the Parish Church of Santa Ana, a Mudejar-style structure built atop an ancient mosque. The red-brick tower minaret, a National Historic and Artistic Monument since 1979, is an exemplary piece of Almohade art in Spain.
Roman influence is not prominent in Salares, except for the bridge, while Arab rule has left a significant mark on the village layout and fortress. The church is close to the remaining fortress tower. Salares experienced no casualties during the 1884 earthquake, although many buildings were destroyed. A royal commissioner granted 30,000 pesetas to help rebuild the village.
Calle Puente is the flattest street, leading to the Roman bridge over the Rio Salares. A small supermarket and a new restaurant and bar can be found nearby, as well as a health center open a few days per week. When closed, residents access healthcare in the neighboring villages of Sedella and Cómpeta.
Salares celebrates numerous festivals, including the two-day As-Shark or Al-Sarq festival in September, featuring traditional Moorish clothing, North African dancers, and musicians illuminated by torchlight. Other events take place on January 17th (San Anton) and June 24th (San Juan), with the Feria of Salares occurring in late July.
To reach Salares, take the Mediterranean Autovia A-7 or N-340, exit at Algarrobo, and continue inland past Sayalonga toward Cómpeta. Turn right towards Archez and then left at the bridge. Cross the bridge and turn right towards Salares, which is approximately a 5-minute drive away. The journey should take around 30 minutes from the motorway.
- Features:
- BalconyEn suite bathroomEn suite shower roomExcellent ConditionFitted KitchenFitted WardrobesFull of CharacterInsect screensUtility RoomWalking Distance to CafésWood burnerWooden BeamsWooden doors
- Views:
- MountainsVillage
- Location:
- Village
- Orientation:
- North
- South
- East and West
- Pool:
- NA
- Garden:
- NA
- Parking:
- Street