Alhaurin

Alhaurin de la Torre is geographically located at the mouth of the river Guadalhorce in a valley in the Malaga region at about 100 meters above sea level. It has an approximate area of 83 square kilometers. In a sense it facilitated passage from the valley of the river Guadalhorce to the coast. Its territory stretches between the mountains and the valley of Malaqa, across open country that rises to the edge of the Mijas and Cartana mountain ranges.

In the Alhaurin Grande there are marvelous  gardens, lemon and numerous subtropical fruit plantations all blending in well with the new style housing developments that are going up in the area. The proximity of Alhaurin de la Torre to the capital of Malaga has resulted in it being chosen as a second home or a commuter suburb. Even though there has been an increase in population and development, the area has retained its originality, identity and traditions.

Places of interest include archeological sites from the Roman and Muslim eras, San Sebastian Parish Church, Sarto Cristo del Cardion niche, Arcos de Zapata aqueduct, El Alamillo heritage and the Refuges de Torrijos House de la Torre.

Alhaurin has a long history dating back to the Roman era. It was named Lauro Ventud and is mentioned in an old chronicle, therefore it must have been important. The Arab settlers called it Alhaurein. It received its final name after Christian troops conquered it and named it Alhaurin de la Torre, to distinguish it from Alhaurin el Grande.

Alhaurin el Grande is also located in the region of the river Guadalhorce valley adjoining the western Costa del Sol and Malaga regions. It is marginally smaller than Alhaurin de la Torre, having an area of 72.6 square kilometers. The people of this area are called Alhuarinos . Alhaurin el Grande is older than Alhaurin de la Torre, the latter being the more modern of the two.

Alhaurin el Grande has many markets, gardens and extensive plantations, olive gardens, orchards and wheat fields. The urban part of Alhaurin el Grande sits on the north slope of the Mijas mountain range. Due to its location, some of its streets provide picturesque views and turns that make climbing easier. The area is rich archeologically, dating back to the Neolithic Age. Peoples who have at one time or another inhabited this place include the lberians, Phoenecians, Greeks, Romans and Muslims.

The temperature in the region is at an average of 17° C which is why there is an abundance of fruits and vegetables. Alhaurin el Grande and Alhaurin de la Torre are both worth a visit not just for the archeological and historical treasures, but for the scenery and beauty as well.