MOJACAR
Spain
×
×
×
Top Attractions in Spain
Mojacar is both an ancient hilltop village and a laid-back beach destination. In fact, it is divided into two distinct sections: Mojacar Pueblo (village) and Mojacar Playa (beach). While the pueblo has been around for at least 4,000 years, the newer playa neighborhood only began to be developed in the 1960’s.
Thankfully, no high-rise buildings have ever been built here and Mojacar still retains an easy-going beach vibe. With a 17km stretch of coastline full of beaches and absolutely beautiful weather, it’s no wonder why Mojacar is such a beloved destination. Visiting Mojacar is, without a doubt, one of the top things to do in Almeria.
Mojacar has nowhere near the number of visitors as Malaga to the south and Alicante to the north. The closest airport is Almeria city which is a 55 min drive away.
Because of its relative isolation, Mojacar has traditionally been more popular with local Spanish holiday makers (although more and more foreigners are discovering it). As such, hotels in Mojacar are often much more affordable and the beaches are far less crowded.
The urban beaches are the most popular and offer the most amenities. The further north you go, the more sparse the beaches become. To the south, there are even a few spectacular naturist beaches that sit at the foot of the Sierra Cabrera Mountains.
Legend has it that Walt Disney was born in Mojácar. It is believed that he was the son of a young washerwoman, Isabel Zamora, and a married Catholic doctor, Ginés Carrillo.
This area gives an introduction of what awaits in the Cabo de Gata Natural Park that is just a little further down the coast. One of the park’s most famous beaches is the Playa de los Muertos which can be reached in about 30 minutes from Mojacar.
Of course, if you are staying in the area, you must take an excursion to where it all started – Mojacar Pueblo. The small whitewashed Moorish town is set on a hilltop and offers commanding views of the surrounding mountains and the playa neighborhood. Take a stroll through its narrow labyrinth-like streets and enjoy a meal outside at one of the numerous restaurants.
This article might include affiliate links, allowing us to earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Check our disclosure page for more info.
The Indalo man has become the symbol of Mojacar and of the entire Almeria province. The drawing is based on a cave painting found near Vélez Blanco in 1868. Since then, it has become a good luck charm and talisman. The Indalo man can be found on all kinds of souvenirs and is plastered on just about everything in Almeria (company logos, sculptures, etc).
The Indalo was popularized by the painter Jesus de Perceval when he founded the Indaliano Movement in 1943. This movement was formed during Spain’s dictatorship and was meant to popularize Almeria’s nationalism.
Most indications are that the name Indalo came from San Indalecio, who was the patron saint of Almeria. No one is sure what the symbol actually means, however, many claim that it is a man holding a rainbow over his head, creating a pact between God and man.
Similar symbols have been found in Cadiz and Malaga, both of which were Phoenician cities that worshipped the Godess Tanit. It can’t help but be noticed how similar Tanit’s symbol is to that of the Indalo man.
Locals separate themselves into groups names “kábilas” (representing the Moors) and “cuarteles” (representing the Catholics). They parade through the village wearing colorful and flamboyant costumes to commemorate the negotiation and peaceful surrender of the village to the Catholic kings at the end of the 15th century.
When? Closest weekend to June 10th
Celebrations are held for Mojacar’s patron saint, San Agustín, that include concerts and several other activities such as corridas de cintas which are races on bike and horseback. Traditionally, women don a local costume called traje mojaquero. They carry water and flowers in a procession that starts at the fountain and ends at the church.
When? Closest weekend to August 28th
Has España Guide helped plan your trip?
If so, please consider booking your hotel through the links to booking.com found on our website or use the following link: https://www.booking.com/?aid=1802409
That way, you get the best rates on your hotels and at the same time, it helps us to continue contributing to this site. Everyone wins!