Few visitors miss out on seeing the remains of the ancient Moorish castle known as the Alcazaba, the most significant sightseeing attraction in the city, if not the entire province. The Nicolás Salmerón Park is a popular spot for relaxing and enjoying the views; however, for the best in coastal scenery, the unspoilt Cabo de Gata is the best place to head to.
The Alcazaba
Almeria’s answer to Alhambra (in Granada), Alcazaba sits on a hill 90 metres above the city and is one of Spain’s oldest Moorish fortresses, having been built in the first half of the 10th century by Abd ar Rahman III. During its era of usage, the castle was capable of accommodating up to 20,000 people at one time.
Cabo de Gata
A short drive from the city brings you to this unspoilt coastal town where the beaches are deserted and the Mediterranean scenery is truly awesome. Stroll along the pristine white sands of the beach or take a wander in the quiet and traditionally Almerian town centre. The town can be visited as part of a boat excursion from Almeria city.
John Lennon Monument
Though it’s by no means a traditionally Spanish attraction, this tribute to the deceased musical celebrity is interesting from a popular culture perspective and a must-see for any dedicated fan of the famous ‘Fab Four’. The monument remembers the band’s visit to the city in 1966 and how the classic, Strawberry Fields, was penned during their stay.
Nicolás Salmerón Park
This spacious city park occupies a scenic location parallel to the ocean, offering visitors excellent coastal views as well as the chance to relax under its shady palm trees on hot summer days. Open spaces provide opportunity for leisure or sporting activities, while the park’s benches are ideally located for people-watching. The park is split into old and new sections, with the former owing much of its appearance to Jose Maria de Acosta and the latter to Guillermo Blond Langle.
Puerta de Purchena
This part of the city is so named because of the old Gate Pechina that formerly occupied it. The aesthetically pleasing location includes the Paseo Plaza and features 19th century bourgeois architectural influences. Notable among the buildings in the area is the Casa de Las Mariposas, the former property of the Ripoli family.
