LA AXARQUIA
- ARCHEZ INFORMATION
Archez, Salares, Sedella, Canillas de Albaida, Canillas de Aceituno,
Competa, all cities which stand at the foot of the impressive Tejeda
and Almijara Sierras; all morisco (Moorish convert to Christianity)
towns, where vines were the main crop and are still an important element
in the landscape as well as the economy; all display similar characteristics,
reflecting the true essence of the Axarquia region, its scenery, its
way of life and its history.
The layout of their streets and the architecture of their whitewashed
houses, which create unforgettably-picturesque corners, gives them
a unique seal of identity, so much so that, together, they make up
what is known as the Mudejar Route (Ruta del Mudéjar).
The highlight of the village is the minaret of Our Lady’s Church.
History
Few historical details exist regarding the town’s origins; however,
the design of its streets and its urban appearance are, like those
of so many villages in the Axarquia area, typically Arabic. The presence
of the Almohades is more evident, with the magnificent minaret of
the former mosque still visible today; over 15 metres in height, its
exterior features interestingly decorated with sebka material and
tiling. Now the bell tower of the parish church, it was declared a
Monument of Historical and Artistic Importance and part of the National
Heritage in 1979.
When Velez-Málaga was captured by Catholic Monarchs in 1487, Archez
also fell under Christian control; it soon became part of the estate
of the Count of Cabra, Don Diego Fernandez de Cordoba.
On Christmas Eve 1884, the village and its municipal region were affected
by a major tremor known as the Andalusian Earthquake which caused
alarm among residents as well as heavy material damage.
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