In the region of the Alpujarra of Almeria, located on the left bank of the Andarax river, is the town of Canjayar, located at the foot of the foothills of the Sierra Nevada and facing the Sierra de Gador, in a transitional landscape between the lower part of the mountains and the desert. The town still preserves features of its Moorish origin, such as the staggered arrangement of its houses and streets, following the slope of the land. Its two main neighbourhoods are Alcora and Nieles.
Climate of Canjayar
Canjayar enjoys a continental Mediterranean climate, with low rainfall, hot and dry summers, and cool winters.
History of Canjayar
Historically located at a crossroads and natural border of the region, its origins lie in the Al-Andalus period, between the 10th and 11th centuries, under the name of Qansayar.
At the end of the Middle Ages, Canjayar was documented as a rural nucleus, dedicated to intensive irrigated agriculture, and, to a lesser extent, livestock. The most important crops were cereals, mulberries, fig trees, vines, and olive trees. Irrigation required infrastructures for the collection and distribution of water, which was achieved using a dam and ditches.
In 1788, a national lead factory was created in the Alcora district. This fact has had repercussions for communications, and a road was built that connects Canjayar with the coast.
Since 1840, the cultivation of the Ohanes grape gained great importance, producing an economic development that lasted until 1924, with the cessation of exports to the United States. At present, the varieties of vine cultivated have diversified and the cultivation of the olive tree has increased in importance.
Popular Festivals in Canjayar
The patron saint festivities of Canjayar in honour of the Holy Cross of the Voto are celebrated in April, with its big day being the 19th.
Another important festival in the city is the last weekend in May, when the feast of Mary Help of Christians is celebrated. Likewise, on September 14, the exaltation of the Holy Cross is celebrated with a water festival.
What to Visit in Canjayar
Constitution Square
This is the nerve centre of the town, leading to the main streets. There are the City Hall building and the parish church.
Church of the Holy Cross of the Voto
This church was built in the 16th century, in a late Romanesque style. It contains a replica of the Holy Cross. The current church is a restoration of the previous one, which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1804.
Hermitage of Saint Blaise
This was built on the hill of San Blas, on the ruins of the old Islamic castle. The remains of the wall can still be seen at the entrance to the hermitage. Next to the cover is a sculpture with the image of Christ of Nazareth with open arms looking towards the town.
Viewpoint of Pará
This viewpoint is next to the raft that gives it its name. From here, one can see the entire town and most of its surroundings.
Open Museum "History of the Villa de Canjayar"
This is an open-air gallery where one can find 22 ceramic murals installed in different corners, showing the important historical moments of the town. The itinerary and the first murals are in Constitution Square and Real Street.
Canjayar Gastronomy
The gastronomy of Canjayar is very rich, with a great variety of dishes. It is based on greens, vegetables, and meats, which, in turn, are used to make stews and pots. We can also enjoy their typical desserts.
Since 1840, the cultivation of the Ohanes grape gained great importance, producing an economic development that lasted until 1924, with the cessation of exports to the United States. At present, the varieties of vine cultivated have diversified and the cultivation of the olive tree has increased in importance.
