Benamocarra: A Charming Escape in the Axarquia

Welcome to Benamocarra, a delightful village in the province of Malaga, nestled in the heart of the Axarquia region, just a stone’s throw from Velez-Malaga. This hidden gem in Andalusia offers a perfect blend of history, natural beauty, and local culture, far from the hustle and bustle of tourist hotspots.

With breathtaking views of the Sierra de Tejeda, Almijara, and Alhama, the Montes de Malaga, and the Costa del Sol, this village invites visitors to immerse themselves in its rich cultural heritage. Moreover, its strategic location makes it an ideal base for exploring the charming white villages of the Axarquia. Therefore, this guide will take you through Benamocarra’s history, must-see attractions, local cuisine, and how to travel from Malaga Airport.

History of Benamocarra: A Tapestry of Moorish and Christian Heritage

The name Benamocarra traces its roots to its Moorish origins, meaning “Sons of Mukarran”, likely referring to a Berber tribe. This heritage reflects the deep Islamic influence in the region. The Christian conquest, which occurred almost simultaneously with other Axarquia villages, marked a turning point in its history. At the time, the village had 115 inhabitants, 87 of whom were Muslims, with the rest being Christians brought in to repopulate the area.

The intolerance of the Christian conquerors led to tensions, culminating in a rebellion in 1568 that spread across the conquered territories. Cardinal Cisneros played a key role in this turbulent period. Consequently, Benamocarra retains its historical essence in its streets and landmarks, inviting visitors to explore its storied past.

Attractions in Benamocarra

Like many Axarquia villages, Benamocarra boasts winding, Moorish-inspired streets and whitewashed houses that cling to the hilly terrain. A stroll through the village reveals its rustic charm and cultural depth. Here are the key attractions you shouldn’t miss:

1. Santa Ana Church: Built in the late 16th century, this church blends Moorish influences in its architecture, serving as a testament to Benamocarra’s cultural richness. (Map)
2. Benamocarra Mosaics: The village’s facades are adorned with mosaics that narrate its history and legends, adding an artistic touch to its unique identity.
3. Patio de Amalia: This historic house, once a Nasrid stronghold with a mosque, later served as a mill in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, it stands as a symbol of Benamocarra’s multifaceted past.

Cuisine of Benamocarra: Flavours of the Axarquia

Benamocarra’s cuisine reflects the Axarquia’s traditions, combining local ingredients with time-honoured recipes. As a result, visitors can enjoy an authentic dining experience in the village’s bars and restaurants. Here are some typical dishes:

• Fritos morunos with morcilla: A hearty dish of marinated, fried meat paired with morcilla, a traditional blood sausage.
• Avocado salad: Fresh and healthy, showcasing locally grown avocados, a regional highlight.
• Gazpachuelo: A warm Malaga-style soup made with fish, potatoes, olive oil, and garlic.
• Sopas de maimones: A winter soup of bread, garlic, olive oil, and paprika, perfect for chilly days.
• Migas with bread: Fried breadcrumbs with garlic and olive oil, a comforting winter dish.
• Fried gazpacho: A unique Christmas variation of traditional gazpacho, fried for a distinct flavour.
• Cod tortillas: Served during Holy Week, these cod-based tortillas are a local classic.
• Gachas: A porridge-like dish made from flour cooked with water or broth, typical of rural cuisine.
• Tomato soup: A warming soup made with fresh tomatoes, simple yet delicious.
• Coles moreás: Cooked cabbage with additional ingredients, a traditional regional dish.

Festivals and Local Events in Benamocarra

Benamocarra’s festivals offer a chance to dive into local culture. The most prominent is the Festival of Cristo de la Salud, held on the third Sunday of October. This patron saint celebration draws locals and visitors alike, blending devotion with festive cheer. Additionally, other events enliven the calendar:

• Easter Sunday: Known as “la pava”, this festival sees villagers gather along the banks of the Rio Iznate for a picnic featuring hornazo, food, and drinks.
• San Isidro: Around mid-May, a pilgrimage follows a religious ceremony at the parish church, steeped in tradition.
• Patacos: In the first week of September, bonfires called “patacos” light up both the village centre and surrounding countryside, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Axarquia Aerodrome: A Gateway to Adventure

The Axarquia Aerodrome, also known as Leoni Benabu, is located in Trapiche, about 6 kilometres from Benamocarra, roughly an 8-minute drive. This sports aerodrome houses a pilot school, making it a draw for aviation enthusiasts. Its location in the Axarquia, surrounded by mountains and white villages, makes it an ideal spot for those looking to explore the region from a unique perspective.

Getting to Benamocarra: Your Travel Guide

Benamocarra, located in the Axarquia, is easily accessible from Malaga Airport, about 50 kilometres away. Since there are no direct public transport options, such as buses or trains, from the airport to Benamocarra, hiring a car or taking a taxi are the most practical choices. These options allow you to explore not only Benamocarra but also the charming white villages of the Axarquia, such as Velez-Malaga or Comares, at your own pace.

Car Hire: Explore the Axarquia

Hiring a car at Malaga Airport is the ideal way to enjoy the freedom of exploring Benamocarra and the picturesque Axarquia villages. The 45-minute drive along the A-7 and secondary roads lets you discover hidden coves, hiking trails, and the region’s natural beauty at your leisure.

Car hire in Malaga

Taxi: Hassle-Free Arrival

A taxi from Malaga Airport to Benamocarra offers a stress-free journey. Perfect for those who want to relax and enjoy the Axarquia’s mountainous scenery without worrying about parking or directions. The trip takes about 45 minutes.

Book Your Taxi

Other Transport Options

If you prefer public transport, you can take a bus from Malaga Airport to the Velez-Malaga bus station, about 6 kilometres from Benamocarra. From there, a local taxi or short drive will get you to the village. For the more adventurous, the commuter train from the airport to Malaga city centre is an option, though you’ll need to connect with a bus or taxi to reach Benamocarra.

Tourist Information for Benamocarra