Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park
In Almería, Spain .
More places to visit in Almería
Discover more attractions and things to do in Almería.
Alcazaba of Almería
The Alcazaba of Almería is one of the largest Moorish fortresses in Spain, built in 955 by the Caliph of Córdoba . This imposing structure has witnessed centuries of battles, sieges, and royal intrigues. What many visitors don't realize is that its massive walls were once connected to the now-ruined Castillo de San Cristóbal on the opposite hill, forming a vast defensive system. The palace gardens still contain original irrigation channels from the Islamic period, which were a technological marvel at the time. Hidden within the fortress is a secret underground reservoir , used to provide water during long sieges. Another fascinating fact is that the Alcazaba has served as a filming location for Hollywood movies, including scenes from Game of Thrones and classic spaghetti westerns.
Cathedral of Almería
Unlike most cathedrals in Spain, the Cathedral of Almería is also a fortress , built in the 16th century to protect the city from pirate attacks. Its thick walls, defensive towers, and even cannon placements make it one of the most unusual religious buildings in the country. Inside, the ceiling still bears scars from cannonball impacts, a silent reminder of past battles. The cathedral's crypt holds the tombs of bishops and nobles, but legend has it that one chamber remains sealed because it contains a long-lost royal treasure . Another mystery is its hidden underground escape tunnel , which supposedly led to the Alcazaba during times of crisis.
Playa de los Muertos
Despite its name, which translates to Beach of the Dead, the Playa de los Muertos is one of the most breathtaking beaches in Spain. The name comes from old shipwrecks , as strong currents historically caused many unfortunate accidents along this coastline. However, what makes this beach unique is its perfectly smooth pebbles , which are naturally polished by the waves, creating a surreal, glass-like effect. The water here is so clear that visibility can reach up to 30 meters , making it a hidden gem for divers. Few people know that just beyond the cliffs lies an abandoned 19th-century mine , where rare minerals were once extracted and exported across Europe.
Refugios de la Guerra Civil
Beneath the streets of Almería lies one of the largest air-raid shelter networks in Spain, built during the Spanish Civil War to protect civilians from bombings. The Refugios de la Guerra Civil stretch for over 4 kilometers , with some tunnels large enough to hold hospitals, kitchens, and sleeping areas. One of the most chilling artifacts inside is a child's toy, left behind in the chaos of an attack. Many visitors don't realize that some of the tunnels remain unmapped , and local historians believe that secret passages may still be hidden beneath modern buildings. The shelter system was designed by Guillermo Langle , an architect whose brilliant engineering kept thousands of residents safe during one of Spain's darkest periods.