Oria is a municipality with a marked rural character and a great attachment to its traditions, which allows it to maintain the essence of small villages. It is this deep-rooted tradition in Oria’s society and the way of life of its inhabitants that allows the visitor to be surprised and discover the charm and uniqueness of a town that is unique in the Almanzora Valley in many respects.
Its origins date back to 3000 BC, with the remains of Argaric settlements such as those of “El Picacho” and “El Villar”. However, many of its main monuments and architectural elements date from the time of the Marquisate of Los Vélez: Basílica Menor Ntra. Sra. de las Mercedes (1779), Ermita Vieja (XVI century) or the Casa de la Tercia (XVIII century). We also highlight Arab vestiges such as watchtowers and the remains of a 13th century Alcazaba known as “El Castillo”, completed with the oldest building in the area “Ermita de San Gregorio”, built on the remains of an ancient mosque and two beautiful churches such as the Virgen de las Mercedes and San Bartolomé, located in the districts of Rambla de Oria and Los Cerricos, respectively.
If you visit this municipality and want to know what to see and do in it, we have selected on this page a series of suggestions to make your stay easier and more interesting.
We hope you enjoy it.
FREE PLANS
30 WONDERS OF THE ALMANZORA (Oria)
DAY TRIPS
Moorish Vega and Oria Castle
Visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy, take a gentle stroll through the town up to the “Castle” where some remains of the 13th century Alcazaba now adapted as a “Mirador” and walk along the path of the vega.
Did you know that the only Basilica of Almería is in Oria?
Oria is a small town in the province of Almería that has a rich history and cultural heritage. It is especially known for its impressive Church-Basilica of Nuestra Señora de las Mercedes, which is the only Basilica in the province. In addition, the town has other elements of interest such as the Hermitage of San Gregorio and the remains of the Castle of Oria where a spectacular viewpoint is located.
See excursionCAR ROUTES
Route of the villages of the estancias
For lovers of hiking and outdoor excursions, routes on foot or by bicycle can be organised starting from Albox. The most attractive are from Albox to Los Vélez via the Saliente and from Velez Rubio to Oria. On the latter route there are routes very suitable for cycling.
See Route by CarWEEKEND GETAWAYS
Saliente Sanctuary + Oria Basilica
2 day plan for couples, family or friends. Enjoy a visit to a pottery with many years of history, visit a sanctuary-monastery with more than 300 years old, be surprised by a baroque basilica of the 18th century and stroll through one of the villages of the estancias.
See the getawayMTB ROUTES
WALKING ROUTES
WHAT TO SEE IN ORIA
ACTIVITIES FOR HIRE
GUIDED VISITS
Historical Route through Oria
A village located in the Sierra de las Estancias at a high altitude, with a rich cultural and natural heritage. A quiet route, where you will learn about the history of Oria and see its emblematic buildings.
Visit to Bodegas Garcia Gil and wine tasting
Learn how wine is made at Bodegas Garcia Gil in Oria (Almeria). Visit a small family winery and discover how passion and perseverance is the main ingredient to get a quality wine. At the end of the visit, we will have a wine tasting.
See Guided TourPLANS AND ACTIVITIES
Gastronomic Route “Flavours of Oria”
Experience the sensation of making bread or sweets in a wood-fired oven with an artisan baker. Discover how homemade sausages are made and how Oria ham is dried. Taste some delicious homemade sausages. Visit a winery and discover how grapes are made into excellent wine.
Gastronomic Route“Shake off the stress” route
Spend a morning or afternoon in contact with nature. Release your stress, anxiety, calm your mind and feel happy. Walk in a natural environment surrounded by trees, learn Mindfullness, breathing and meditation techniques. Village of your choice: Zurgena, Oria, Serón or Purchena.
Shake off the stress