Purchena: A Vibrant Village in Andalusia
Location and Demographics
Purchena is a village with a population of approximately 1,600, located in the northeastern part of the Almanzora Valley, AlmerĂa province, Andalusia, Spain. It’s 99% Spanish and 96 kilometers from the provincial capital, AlmerĂa, accessible via the A-349 road.
Amenities and Services
Purchena offers a range of amenities for residents and visitors, including schools, healthcare facilities, cultural centers, and banks. Local shops cater to daily needs, from groceries (butcher, bakery, fishmonger) to convenience stores and hardware stores. Beauty shops provide personal care services.
For leisure activities, there’s a gym, running track, an artificial football pitch, and a seasonal public swimming pool. The town hall actively organizes events and fiestas.
Social interaction is easy with cafes and bars within walking distance. The area is a popular destination for hikers, mountain bikers, and road cyclists.
History and Significance
Known as the “Pearl of the Almanzora,” Purchena boasts a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age. It was inhabited during the Roman period and flourished under Arabic rule. Founded in the 10th century as Hisn Burxana, it became the head of the Almanzora region under the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada in the 13th century. In 1489, it became part of the Spanish crown alongside Baza, Guadix, and AlmerĂa.
The current village layout took shape in the 18th and 19th centuries around the Constitution and Larga squares.
Unique Character
Purchena is classified as a city due to its courthouse serving the surrounding areas. However, it retains the charm of a village, offering a genuine Spanish lifestyle. Renovation and modernization efforts are ongoing, with some properties still showcasing remnants of their past use, including areas for livestock.
Accessibility and Surroundings
The A-334 regional highway connects Purchena to nearby towns like HuĂ©rcal-Overa and Baza. The nearest airport is AlmerĂa, a 1-hour 10-minute drive away. Beaches in Vera and Garrucha are reachable within 50 minutes. For nature enthusiasts, Balsa de Cela natural spring is a 15-minute drive, and Lake NegratĂn is a scenic 1-hour drive.
