SPM24 Tour Archidona

Archidona is really surpising for our students.

Its octagonal Plaza Ochavada, an unique example of Baroque architecture in Spain is one of the highlight of that city. They admire its Arab castle, which dominates the landscape from the top of Sierra de Gracia and find the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Grace, patron saint of the city. The Church is built on the ruins of a Moorish Mosque dating back to the 9th century. 

Time to discuss, analyze and compare ancient historical societies, the value of historical and cultural preservation

It was inhabited by Iberians, Romans and Visigoths, but it reached its peak of splendor under the Muslim rule. It wascalled Medina Arxiduna and it was the capital of the Cora of Rayya, which included most of the current province of Málaga. 

In its fortress, Abderramán I was proclaimed emir in 756, starting the independent Emirate of Córdoba.

Archidona resisted several Christian attempts to conquer it until 1462, when it surrendered to King Henry IV of Castile. It suffered a great depopulation and decay after the expulsion of the Moriscos in 1614. It recovered its vitality in the 18th century with the construction of new buildings and monuments, such as the Convent of Santo Domingo.

Archidona became a city in 1901 by royal decree of Alfonso XIII. It was declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1980 for its richheritage and beauty.

Castle and the Walled Enclosure: the remains of the ancient Arab fortress that crown the Sierra de Gracia.

Convent of Las Monjas Mínimas: a convent founded in 1664 by Franciscan sisters. 

Churches of Santa Ana and La Victoria: examples of religious architecture with different styles and periods. 

Historical information, cultural heritage at this religious site, students will learn about changes in society historically and culturally. The importance of preservation and education to share the history of previous societies. The students get an understanding for the history of the area dating back many centuries. Once again the students are developing language skills to further enhance communication between nationalities.