Pechina combines a long history as a city with a hiking trail that follows a former railway line. When planning your trip, you can focus on Bayyana, the annual festivals, or the landscape and thermal history of the Sierra Alhamilla. The specific highlights range from archaeological structures to flamenco, quince confectionery and a procession—good reason to choose your travel dates according to your own interests.
Bayyana: City History and Archaeological Heritage
Pechina was the dominant Bayyana described by Arab geographers, the origin and mother city of AlmerĂa. The Centro de InterpretaciĂłn de Bayyana brings different aspects of this history to life: on display are models of a waterwheel powered by draft animals and an authentic Arab pottery kiln. The interpretation also covers the city and everyday life, domestic and social life, spirituality, silk and ceramics, water and agriculture, as well as trade.
The archaeological site adds the layout of a residential district, surrounded by a craft area with pottery workshops and a glass kiln, to these themes. An ancient cemetery and straight avenues that divided the city into three areas offer further insight into Bayyana’s layout. The focus is therefore not only on individual finds, but also on the relationship between housing, crafts and the city’s structure. Visiting hours for access to the archaeological site and the Centro de Interpretación must be arranged with Pechina Town Hall. Be sure to confirm visiting times in advance.
The Hermitage and Film History
The Ermita de San Indalecio has been documented since the 15th century. A base of ashlar stones and a basket-handle arch are the distinctive architectural details on its façade. Those interested in architectural forms can focus on these features; the site’s long-documented history gives them additional historical context.
Another kind of history connects El Chorrillo in Pechina with film: the site served as a monumental set 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. The film connections are therefore linked to two specific productions and years; the partially dismantled sets are also part of this story.
Festivals and Dates Throughout the Year
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, and lasts for an entire weekend. The Verbena Membrillo is held on the last Sunday in October. It features handcrafted quince confectionery and traditional games from times past. The Zoco árabe Bayyana takes place in July. The celebration of San Indalecio on May 15 includes a procession from the church to the hermitage, with the saint carried on a small boat. If you plan your trip around one of these dates, check the current annual program in advance.
Thermal Springs and Hiking Trail
The Balneario de Sierra Alhamilla uses 58 °C hyperthermal springs for drinking cures and hydrotherapy treatments. Its history also reaches far back: it was rebuilt in 1777 over Arab and Roman ruins. The thermal treatments and archaeological themes offer different focuses for a trip. Before setting off, check which treatments are available.
The Los Baños de Sierra Alhamilla hiking trail (SL-A 162) leaves Pechina via Fonda, Colón, Bailen and Rioja streets. On its way to the baths, it follows the former railway route and ends at an oasis amid dry mountain scenery. The route is thus described in specific terms through named streets and the former railway line, with the oasis identified as its destination. If you include the hike in your plans, you can make it a focus in its own right alongside visits related to Bayyana and the thermal history.
Discover more destinations: Alhama De AlmerĂa, InstinciĂłn, MarĂa, Viator, Tonosa, Bayárcal, Uleila Del Campo, Macael
For the main travel overview: Almeria.
