Explore the Municipality of Caniles
In the northern part of the province of Granada lies the large village of Caniles. In fact, it is the third largest municipality in the Altiplano region, in the Baza area, of Granada. With a total land area of 216-220 km2 (83 sq mi) and an elevation of 911m above sea level, it has approximately 5,000 inhabitants.Caniles is situated on the edge of a plateau, in between the Sierra de Baza Natural Park (south-east border) and La Hoya de Guadix, where two rivers meet. This historical village surrounded by fertile and picturesque countryside is considered as the gateway to the Natural park of Sierra de Baza.
The village is composed of several other smaller communities such as the Balax, Valcabra, Los Olmos, Cantarranas, La Juaca, El Pertiguero, Los Gallardos, Estacio de Hijate, Las Molineras, El Frances and Rejano.
Summers can be really long and dry yet tolerable, mainly because evenings tend to be cool, compared to other hotter areas of Andalucia. Winters can be really cold and snowy considering the area's altitude.
Historical Facts
Numerous archaeological remains discovered in and around the village, particularly in the areas of Poblado de los Montones de Piedra and Cueva de la Pastora, can be dated back to prehistoric times.
The Phoenicians, Iberians, Romans and the Moors are some of the early settlers who left some significant traces of their existence in the village. The Moors have the strongest influence in the village.
Historical remains from the Bronze Age are also evident in the areas of Carriza and Rejano. Gold is believed to have been mined during the Roman and Moorish times from the area of Morax.
The original name of the village is 'Canilles' and thought to have been derived from a Latin word. It was then known as 'Qanalis' during the Moorish period, and eventually became Canilles de Baca (Baza).
In 1646, it had to pay a large amount of money in order to gain an independent status. It then became a separate entity from Baza and renamed Caniles as it is now known.
What to See and Do
The municipality thrives on agriculture, and the locals seriously live by the customs and traditions of Andalucia. Apparently, most of the popular traditions in Spain came from the Andalucian culture. The people of Caniles are known for their amiable disposition and for their hospitality to any visitors.
The village offers a stunning countryside with lush vegetation and serene rivers. It is a dream destination for nature-lovers and outdoor photographers as well as to those individuals seeking exceptional adventure. It is one of the best places to consider if you aim to relocate or retire in Spain.
You can walk around the town and enjoy the beauty of the streets, the traditional cave houses and fascinating whitewashed houses along with other impressive structures that ooze with the architectural influences of different cultures. Several aristocratic mansions can also be found in various areas.
The 'Libro de Apeo y Exencion' or the Survey and Exemption Book and the 'Libro de Reparto de Tierras' or Land distribution book are some of the most important historical relics in the village.
The church of Santa María y San Pedro, built around the 16th to 17th century, is of great cultural interest not just to the village but throughout the region of Andalucia. This impressive structure has traces of Mudejar craftsmanship. You should also go over the Hermitage of San Sebastian and the Posito theatre.
The food and fiestas should never be overlooked. In fact, you simply can't resist the flavours and aroma of the village's famous local dishes. Moreover, the festivities in this area will bring about some unexplainable vigor in your soul, especially if you are an ardent fan of Spanish religious celebrations.
The festival of San Sebastian, also known as 'El Robo del sant' or the stealing of the Saint, is celebrated on the 18th to 20th of January. You should witness how the villagers celebrate the Day of the Old Woman or the 'Día de la Vieja' and the fiesta of San Antonio de Padua. The annual fair (feria) is every August.
Indulge in the gastronomic delights of Caniles by visiting various bars and restaurants. Time-tested recipes await the eager diners. Most of the sought-after dishes include the village's fresh local produce. Rabbits, lambs and other meat are cooked in their signature sauces with some locally grown herbs and vegetables. The local dishes and desserts along with the local wine will surely rejuvenate your spirit.
How To Get There
The village of Caniles is approximately 7km away from the town of Baza. It is quite accessible and the views are spectacular, especially if you take the road of C-323 Baza-Huercal Overa. You may also access the A334 motorway, the road that joins Baza with Almeria through the Almanzora Valley.