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Arboleas is a town in the province of Almeria rich in history and culture. From Roman times to the modern era, Arboleas has been an important centre of the region and has been home to a variety of cultures and religions. It came under Christian control in 1488, when they all surrendered jointly to the Catholic Monarchs at Real de Vera. Today, the rich history and cultural heritage of Arboleas can be seen in various highlights throughout the town, such as the Espejuelo mine, the Torre Vigía, the Pedro Gilabert Museum and the parish church of Santiago.
Watchtower
Arboleas has a history full of surprises, we can find Argaric, Phoenician, Arab and Roman remains. The tower of Arboleas is a watchtower that belonged to the defensive system along the Almanzora river. This marvel of the Nasrid period is an octagonal tower characterised by its smooth and simple walls in which there is a cistern where rainwater is stored.
Espejuelo Mine
The Espejuelo mine is one of the most important tourist attractions in Arboleas. The mine is located about five kilometres from the village and dates back to Roman times. The Romans extracted from this mine the well-known material called ‘lapis specularis’, which was used to build the first translucent windows in history. The mine is located in a privileged natural environment and has a great geological and palaeontological wealth. In addition, the mine is an ideal place for history and archaeology lovers as you can see the galleries excavated by the Romans more than 2000 years ago. It is a unique experience that offers a fascinating insight into the history of the region.
(*) The mine is currently closed because it is undergoing improvement works.
Pedro Gilabert Museum
Another highlight in Arboleas is the Pedro Gilabert Museum, which is located in the centre of the village. The museum is dedicated to the artist Pedro Gilabert, who was born in Arboleas in 1915 and is one of the most important artists in the area. The museum has an extensive collection of Gilabert’s works, including sculptures and other art forms. The museum also hosts a wide range of temporary exhibitions featuring the work of other local and national artists.
Parish Church of Santiago
Finally, the parish church of Santiago is a very important piece of heritage in Arboleas. The church is located in the centre of the village and dates back to the 19th century. The church is an impressive work of architecture, with a bell tower and an impressive façade, as well as three Gothic-style oculi. Inside, the church has a wide range of sacred art, including altars and religious paintings. The church is the main place of worship for the local Catholic community and is an important spiritual centre for the municipality.
If you are looking for a unique and fascinating tourist destination in Almeria, Arboleas is definitely an option that will not disappoint you.
