Archidona and Antequera Guide
Our Guide To Archidona and Antequera
Archidona and Antequera are inland Andalucian towns, under 20km apart as the crow flies.
Archidona‘s history traces back to the Paleolithic era, evidenced by human settlements discovered within the Cave of Las Grajas. Millennia later, the Phoenicians left their mark, erecting the initial fortifications.
During the Roman period, Archidona flourished, witnessing the construction of significant structures like the Archidona Castle, erected atop ancient walls. Subsequently, the Muslims seized control, fostering the area’s growth until 1326, when Castilian forces prevailed in the Battle of Guadalhorce.
Under Seville’s dominion, Archidona served as a strategic hub for various campaigns. Later, in 1579, the town formally took shape, witnessing the construction of notable landmarks such as the Church of Santa Ana, the Plaza Ochavada, and numerous hermitages.
Antequera is akin to embarking on a journey spanning nearly 5,000 years, beginning with the Bronze Age and the indigenous Iberians. The town is full of archaeological treasures: burial mounds, dolmens, Roman baths, a Moorish Castle, Gothic churches, Renaissance fountains, and baroque bell towers.
The town’s silhouette evokes the essence of a medieval town, with the towering spires of its numerous churches and the formidable walls and towers of the majestic Moorish fortress etched against the sky.
Both towns sit amongst farmland nourished by the Guadalhorce River. The region stands as a prominent producer of asparagus, cereals, and olives.
Accommodation
A Few of Our Favourite Places to Stay in Archidona and Antequera
Parador de Antequera
The parador de Antequera brteaks the mould where Pardores are concerned; rather than a historical building, this is modern and filled with light. Located in the garden area of Antequera, it has an outdoor pool and a restaurant which provides traditional, local food at a gastronomy level.
Hotel Fuente del Sol
Outside a small Antequera village called Joya you’ll find a hotel and spa which give you incredible views of the surrounding countryside. The hotel is in the style of an Andalucian farmhouse, with outdoor pool, vineyard and restaurant. A delightful place to stop.
La Bobadilla
A Royal Hideaway hotel outside the village of Joya, this 5* has a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa and wellness centre with indoor and outdoor pools, and family sports. Accommodation is ideal for both romantic couples and large families.
Restaurants
A Few of the Best Places to Eat in Archidona and Antequera
Arte de Cozina, Antequera
An absolute TOMA favourite, Arte de Cozina is dedicated to bringing traditional foods back to a new generation of diners. A calm and relaxed atmosphere in which you can savour the true flavour of Andalucia.
Arxiduna, Archidona
Arxiduna Restaurant is a place where good cuisine and atmosphere are combined in a very special way. A fusion of tradition and modern, distant lands and Malaga products – bringing Andalucian gastronomy into the future.
Bar Central, Archidona
For an authentic Spanish vibe, family-run Bar Central in Archidona is the place to go. The tapas and ‘media ración’ portions are bigger than usual, so you’ll also be getting great value for money!
Things To Do
Activities in and around Archidona and Antequera
Antequera’s Alcazaba
Perched atop the hill overlooking the town, Antequera’s Alcazaba stands as a testament to the Moorish efforts to safeguard its populace from the Christians. From the vantage point of Mirador Plaza Santa Maria, you’re treated to panoramic vistas, with the added delight of glimpsing the Roman baths unveiled in 1988. These baths reveal a network of chambers with some mosaics still visible.
Explore the Churches in Antequera
Known as the “City of the Churches,” Antequera has over 30, more than anywhere in Spain in terms of churches per inhabitant. Among the notable examples are two structures dating back to the mid-16th century: the Real Colegiata de Santa María, with the view over the Roman baths, and the Parroquia San Sebastián, distinguished by its magnificent bell tower added in the early 18th century.
Head back to prehistory and the dolmens
The Menga, Viera and El Romeral Dolmens in Antequera are among the most important megalithic structures in Europe. 5,000-year-old burial chambers, they are a UNESCO heritage site. There’s a visitor centre which gives you background on these impressive structures.
Plaza Ochavada, Archidona
Situated in the heart of the town, this square stands as a hallmark of Archidona. Its expansive octagonal layout highlights its architectural splendour. Each side has a different architectural feature, so you see a uniform but unique structure from within the ‘square’.
Archidona’s Hermitages
There are four hermitages scattered throughout the town. The most remarkable one, on top of a hill, is the Hermitage-Sanctuary Virgen de Gracia built in the 10th century.
Archidona Castle
The Castle and Walled Enclosure of Archidona looks down over the town and the surrounding countryside. Declared a site of Cultural Interest, the first castle was built in the 9th century.
Practical Information
Where are Archidona and Antequera?
Archidona and Antequera are in the province of Malaga in Andalucia. They are around 50km from Jaen, and 9km from each other.
Getting There
The nearest international airport is Malaga, 61 km from Antequera.
Trains run frequently from Malaga station to Antequera, taking around 20 minutes on the AVE, or an hour on the local train. +
There are four buses daily between Antequera and Archidona.
When to Go & Climate
The best times to visit are winter, spring and autumn. Summers (mid-June – end of August) are very hot inland, so it is best to avoid this time if possible.
Tourist Information
Antequera
Calle Encarnación, 4
Telephone: 952 70 25 05 / 952 70 83 05
Opening hours: Monday to Saturday and holidays: 09:00 to 18:30 Sunday: 10:00 to 14:00
Safety Tips
In case of emergencies, dial 112 for assistance.
Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun during outdoor activities, especially in the summer months.
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