Pechina: Bayyana and the traces of history
Accommodation in Pechina
Pechina was the dominant Bayyana described by Arab geographers, the origin and mother city of AlmerĂa. Its history unfolds through various themes: the layout of the ancient city, its craft areas and architecture, as well as later buildings and the landscape of the Sierra Alhamilla.
Bayyana: City Life, Crafts and Exhibition
The archaeological site of Bayyana preserves a residential quarter surrounded by a craft area with pottery workshops and a glass furnace. An ancient cemetery is also part of the site. Straight avenues divided the city into three areas. Together, these features offer insight into different parts of the city’s structure at the time: residential life, crafts and spatial layout are all explored here, along with burial practices.
The Centro de InterpretaciĂłn de Bayyana focuses on Hispano-Muslim culture. Its themes range from the city, domestic and social life, and spirituality to silk and ceramics, water and agriculture, and trade. Models show a waterwheel powered by draft animals and an authentic Arab ceramic kiln. Visitors interested in everyday life and production will find different points of connection here than those drawn to spirituality or trade.
To visit the archaeological site of Bayyana and the Centro de InterpretaciĂłn de Bayyana, you must arrange opening hours with Pechina Town Hall. Confirm your visit arrangements before travelling.
Architecture and History of the Sierra Alhamilla
The Ermita de San Indalecio has been documented since the 15th century. Its façade features a plinth of ashlar stones and a basket-handle arch. While Bayyana offers insights into urban quarters and crafts, the Ermita draws attention to the specific features of a single building.
The Balneario de Sierra Alhamilla uses 58 °C hyperthermal springs for drinking cures and hydrotherapeutic treatments. These treatment options also make the place interesting to travellers interested in thermal waters and wellness. You should confirm the availability of treatments before travelling. The history of the Balneario includes its reconstruction in 1777 over Arab and Roman ruins.
The Los Baños de Sierra Alhamilla walking trail (SL-A 162) also offers a close-up view of the transition between the town and the mountain landscape. It leaves Pechina via Fonda, Colón, Bailen and Rioja streets, and follows the old railway route on the way to the baths. The trail ends at an oasis amid an arid mountain landscape. The route as described highlights the named streets, the former railway line and the contrast at the destination.
A distinctive irrigated area at the first foothills of the Sierra Alhamilla forms a green oasis amid widespread aridity and offers a view of the Mediterranean’s blue silhouette. This landscape description complements the impression of the dry mountain world with a green, irrigated area and an expansive view.
Festivals and Film History
The Caldo Minero Festival combines flamenco performances in the Sierra Alhamilla on the first Saturday in August with a tasting of the traditional Caldo Minero; it lasts all weekend. The Verbena Membrillo takes place on the last Sunday in October and features handmade quince confectionery and traditional games from times gone by. The Zoco árabe Bayyana takes place in July. Check the latest event dates before travelling.
On 15 May, the celebration of San Indalecio includes a procession from the church to the hermitage. The saint is carried on a small boat. The procession links the date to a clearly described ritual and an unusual feature. El Chorrillo in Pechina also has a film history: the location served as a monumental backdrop for “Exodus: Gods and Kings” (2014) and was later used again for “Game of Thrones” (2016). Parts of the original sets were dismantled after filming.
When choosing your travel dates, the differences between cultural history, the walking trail, thermal treatments and festivals with set dates can help guide you. This makes it possible to shape your stay in Pechina around the themes that interest you most.
Discover more destinations: Sorbas, Vera, MarĂa, Cantoria, Fiñana, El Hijate, CaserĂo SantopĂ©tar, Las Hortichuelas.
For the main travel overview: Almeria.
