Friday, July 17, 2009

Mojacar Costa Almeria

Standing on a towering crag overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, the Costa Almeria town of Mojacar is a spectacular sight. Tracing its history back to the times of the Moors, it was actually occupied much earlier with evidence of settlement some 4,000 years ago. During the Arab occupation the town (or village as it was then) was overseen by the Caliphate of Damascus, under his rule it grew in wealth and prosperity. Later joining the Narine sultanate, it became a strategic frontier town facing invading Christian forces from the east. Constant attacks by Christians led to the surrender of the town in 1488, though Moors, Christians and Jews continued to live and trade together. Mojacar fell into decline in the 19th century due to periods of severe drought, returning to prominence in the late 20th century with the arrival of tourism. Visitors attracted by the beauty and charm of this unique place ensure the future of Mojacar as a thriving town. Map of Mojacar.