Cruises from Almeria

The city of Almeria is located along the Mediterranean Sea in south-eastern Spain. It is the capital of the Province of Almeria and has a population of almost 190,000 people. It is a little known area although the tourism industry is slowly growing with a few resorts being constructed. There are numerous beaches which are beautiful but a journey inward from the beaches reveals a landscape that is quite barren. As a result, many Italo-Westerns were filmed in Almeria during the 60s.

The Almeria area is known to be one of the dries places in Europe. Visitors can expect a sunny day on their visit as Almeria on average has 330 days of sunshine every year. During the winter months the average temperature ranges between 59 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The summer months typically see temperatures no less than 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

The city of Almeria is modern despite its small size and relative obscurity. There is a ferry terminal that provides access to the city. Visitors wishing to take a quick trip to Northern Africa can do so aboard one of these ferries. A fishing port is also active in the area as well.

A mountain chain surrounds Almeria. The Arab fortress known as The Alcazaba sits on top of the mountains to provide its defenders with a good view of the sea. It was built by Abd-erRahman III who was the Caliph of Cordoba and it could hold up to 20,000 men during times of war. One of the walls of the fortress contains a mosque which is now a chapel. From The Alcazaba visitors will also be able to catch a good look at the impressive gothic cathedral nearby. The Alcazaba is a spectacular site that should not be missed during a visit.

Although you can see the cathedral from The Alcazaba, a trip to inspect this structure up close is also recommended. The cathedral is built in a reinforced way so that it could also act as a fortress when necessary. At one point in time cannons were placed in the towers of the cathedral. It has a very distinctive style and is decorated with numerous antiquities inside. There is a small chapel behind the cathedral which is where the tomb of the cathedrals founder, Bishop Villalan, is kept. Do not forget to take a look up at the cathedrals beautiful ribbed ceiling. The marble that is used in the ceiling was found in the area.

There are several museums that anyone visiting Almeria may want to check out. There is a contemporary art museum which provides a number of different works to explore. There is also a museum that contains artefacts discovered by Louis Siret, who was a Belgian miner, called the Almeria Museum which is also a worthy stop.

Those wishing to visit Almeria will have plenty to do. An adventure into the city centre will reveal La Rambla. This is a long street that is filled with all sorts of cosy restaurants and plenty of areas for children to explore as well.