Antequera

Antequera is a stunning town with strong ties to the Bronze Age and the Roman domination. Antique buildings grace the scenery, and in the summer vast fields of sunflowers add colour to the surrounding fields. Located in central Andalusia, Antequera is a mere forty kilometers north of Malaga and all of Malaga's services, including the airport and hospital.

Despite Antequera's population of around 40,000 people, the town is relatively quiet with a few shops and restaurants scattered throughout the town. Friday, however, the streets come to life as the town turns into a huge open-air market area. Farmers and craftsmen come from many kilometers to peddle their goods to any interested shopper. Trains and buses run daily in and out of Antequera.

Another highlight is a small bakery called Convento de las Descalzas. This unique bakery consists of a small bakery display with prices listed under each item. To make your purchase you must ring a bell on the wall, vocalize your order to a voice that comes through the wall, and place your payment into a small revolving door. On the other side, a hidden nun packages your order and sends it to you using the same revolving door. It's truly a unique experience.

Besides the historic churches that can be found on every street, Antequera is home of two popular sites. The Dolmen Caves date back to 2500 B.C. These caves were constructed as burial sites for ancient settlers. Lover's Rock is a large stone hillside that resembles a human face. The name Lover's Rock comes from a legend regarding a young Moorish girl and her Christian lover who were banned from becoming a couple. Rather than face life alone, they snuck off and committed suicide by jumping off the rock.

If you come to Antequera looking for employment, you may be surprised to find that most area jobs entail working in the surrounding olive groves. Olive oil is one of the town's largest sources of revenue. Tourism plays only a minor part, but there are some jobs in town that involve working as a tour guide to more than fifty historic buildings. More than one dozen hotels and restaurants also require help during the busier summer and fall months.

If you are bringing your children to Antequera, you may be surprised to find that most schools are open from 7:30 A.M. to 6:00 P.M. This pilot program is the result of many working parents asking schools to lengthen the school day to prevent children from being home alone. The day blends a mix of fun activities with a normal curriculum.

Antequera is a family friendly town with much to experience. Delightful residents are only one of the highlights. You will find your money goes a long way if you shop wisely on Friday. With a warm climate, plenty of sun, and gorgeous scenery, Antequera is like heaven on earth.