History Of Garrucha
Situated in the East of Almería, which has all the flavours of the Mediterranean Coast. Garrucha was created around a fishing port, where boats fished under the protection of the "Torre de la Garrucha" ("Garrucha Tower") which was located by the sea, next to the "Alfolí" (Salt store), where today we can find the Town Hall. That typical Nasrid building was made with adobe walls; it was probably built as a refuge for the Muslim fishermen when they were attacked by the Christians who came from Lorca (Murcia). This tower was destroyed by the earthquake of 1518.
Being traditionally fishing village, Garrucha was called "the small San Sebastián", the big port for the mines which once had Vice-consuls from ten different countries after the expansion of the shipment of silver, iron and lead in the middle of the 19th century.
Garrucha was the centre of antique historical remains, which go back about 5,000 years. A natural port which supplied several armies, exported esparto grass and marble, and always had a good fish catch. The active Garrucha was attacked by pirates, and reached its golden age under the shelter of such mining wealth, as well as being chosen as the summer residence by those families enriched thanks to the mining industry.
At turn of the 20th century, Garrucha was enjoying a feverish economic and social life: casinos, ballrooms, and tennis club gave to the village the glamour so different from the
Garrucha Now
Garrucha is located between the beaches of the nearby picturesque village of Mojacar and the town of Vera. Running the length of the town is a beautiful palm tree lined promenade with a marble balustrade. The beach below is one of the main features of the town. As well as a fishing port the town boasts a small yacht marina. Every evening the fishing boats make their way back to Garrucha and the daily fish auction, which is held each evening in the port. This can be a colourful and exotic event and is a great favourite with children and adults alike, as shark, swordfish and squid are sold off alongside more familiar fare such as mackerel and sardines. Exploiting this wonderful daily catch a great many restaurants line the promenade, with colourful displays of fish and shellfish, a feast for the eye as well as the palate.
Surrounding Attractions
Car hire is recommended, if you would like to explore the surrounding area and visit the nearby deserted beaches and the lovely mountains to the north of Mojacar. There are many, many places of interest to visit for some really interesting day trips. Granada, for example, with its legendary palaces and gardens, is only two and a half hours drive away.
Almeria in the south east corner of Spain is one of the sunniest areas in the whole country with an average of about 340 days sunshine in the year. The nearest airport is Almeria which is approximately 45 minute drive away. Alicante airport is about two hours and Malaga is about three and a half hours.