Nestled in the heart of Axarquía, Benamocarra is a charming village seamlessly connected with the surrounding towns of the region. Home to a population of 3,000, this tranquil corner of Andalusia is a treasure waiting to be discovered.
The appearance of Benamocarra faithfully mirrors that of its neighbouring towns, with sun-kissed whitewashed facades and narrow, steep alleys winding their way through the village. Every corner of Benamocarra is a testament to the rich history and culture of Axarquía.
We invite visitors to lose themselves in its streets, to experience the hospitality of its people, and to enjoy the tranquillity of its surroundings. Benamocarra is more than a destination; it’s an experience that beckons you to explore, discover, and fall in love with the essence of Axarquía.
History
Benamocarra, a charming village nestled in the heart of Axarquía, has a rich history that dates back to the Arabic era. The name, derived from “Banu Mukarram,” likely suggests its origins, referring to a Berber tribe.
The turning point in Benamocarra’s history came in 1487 when it was conquered by Ferdinand the Catholic after the capture of Vélez Málaga. This event marked its integration into the broader Spanish realm.
In the early 19th century, the village established its first musical band, one of the oldest in the province of Málaga. This musical tradition continues to this day, adding a melodious rhythm to the daily life of the village.
Today, Benamocarra stands as a testament to its rich history. Its narrow, winding streets and whitewashed facades tell a story of a past that has shaped the village into what it is today. As you walk through the village, you can almost hear the echoes of its history, from the Arabic chants of the Berber people to the melodies that fill the air.
Things to do
In the charming village of Benamocarra, there’s a world of experiences waiting for you. From exploring historical landmarks to immersing yourself in local legends, there’s something for everyone.
One of the most popular legends of the town is related to its Patron Saint, “El Cristo de la Salud”. As the story goes, this revered figure saved the inhabitants from a cholera epidemic that spread throughout the area but never surpassed the town’s threshold. Today, you can visit the statue of this beloved saint in the Chapel of “El Santo Chiquito”, a testament to the town’s resilience and faith.
Another must-visit is the Parish Church of Santa Ana, a significant architectural reference hailing from the Sixteenth Century. This historical monument offers a glimpse into the town’s rich past and is a cornerstone of Benamocarra’s cultural heritage.
As we delve deeper into the ‘Things to Do’ in Benamocarra, we’ll uncover more of the town’s hidden gems, from scenic spots to local cuisine, cultural events, and more. So, are you ready to embark on this exciting journey? Let’s explore Benamocarra together!
Places to Visit in Benamocarra
- Santa Ana Church: This 16th-century church is a significant architectural landmark in Benamocarra. (Map)
- San Isidro Labrador Hermitage: Located in the San Isidro Labrador neighbourhood. (Map)
Hiking Trails in Benamocarra
- Benamocarra Route: This route takes you through fields of olives, almonds, mangoes, avocados, lemons, and oranges.
- Benamocarra-Cerro Patarra-Capellania Circular: A hiking route that offers stunning views of the region.
- Benamocarra Loop: A circular tour that allows you to explore different parts of Benamocarra.
- Benamocarra River Route: This trail follows the course of the river, offering a unique perspective of the local landscape.
More details on hiking trails here: https://www.wikiloc.com/trails/hiking/spain/andalusia/benamocarra
Activities
Among the main festivities is the one held on the third weekend of October in honour of “El Santísimo Cristo de la Salud”. This significant event takes place from Friday 20th October to Sunday 22nd. During these days, the inhabitants of Benamocarra and visitors enjoy a variety of activities, including concerts, popular competitions, and the traditional procession of the Cristo de la Salud.
In addition, it’s worth noting “Pilgrimage of San Isidro”, celebrated on the last weekend of May. During this festivity, the villagers and visitors accompany San Isidro on a walking path, along with decorated floats, towards the school estate “Maestro Santiago Jaen”. Along the way, a jury observes the floats and on Sunday chooses the best ones, which are awarded a prize.
The villagers celebrate the Feast of La Candelaria on the first Friday of September. As part of this celebration, they create “patatacos”, dolls fashioned from unused clothes. The location of this annual festivity rotates among the different neighbourhoods of the town.
Gastronomy
For those keen to explore the local cuisine of Benamocarra, a must-try dish is “Las Coles Moreá”. This is in addition to the hearty chickpea stews, complemented with haricot beans and Swiss chard.
A unique feature of the region’s gastronomy is the cold garlic and almond soup, known as “la sopa de maimones”, and a distinctive cold vegetable soup that is fried with flour and vinegar.
Sweet Treats
Among the standout items in the local confectionery are doughnuts, intriguingly made from the same cold vegetable soup that is fried with flour and vinegar. These doughnuts offer a unique twist on a classic treat, embodying the innovative spirit of Benamocarra’s culinary scene.
How to get
Benamocarra is accessible by various modes of transportation. Here are some options:
By Bus
To get to Benamocarra by bus, you would first need to reach Torre del Mar from Malaga bus station. From Malaga, you can take a bus to Torre del Mar. ALSA operates the bus services, with departures from Puerto Malaga.
Once you reach Torre del Mar, you can then take a bus to Benamocarra.
By Car
If you prefer to drive, you can reach Benamocarra from Malaga by car. The route involves taking the A7 motorway until the exit to Vélez-Málaga, and then taking the MA 3115 road to Benamocarra.
Given that there isn’t a direct bus route to Benamocarra, it might be more convenient to rent a car in Malaga. This would provide more flexibility and potentially save time on your journey.