Infrastructures improved at Caravaca rural tourism sites in Barranda and Archivel

Both of these Caravaca sites contain Roman remains and even older relics from the Bronze Age

The Town Hall of Caravaca de la Cruz has completed work to improve the infrastructures at the popular rural tourism sites of Las Tosquillas in Barranda and the Cerro de la Fuente in Archivel, both of them part of the “Camino a Caravaca” program and requiring a total investment of approximately 84,000 euros (including EU Next Generation funds).

Among the aims of the recent work have been the re-wilding of the sites and the protection of their rich archaeological and historical heritage, as Caravaca attempts to widen the range of tourism options without excluding, of course, the historic centre of the Holy City.

Both spots now boast panoramic viewing points with shaded areas, wooden benches and information panels describing the elements of the vistas, and other signposting has also been renewed. QR codes provide historical background to both sites, as well as information regarding the local flora and fauna.

At Las Tosquillas the path to the archaeological sites of La Cabezuela has been improved and native species of plant have been re-planted, while the barbecue area has been eliminated due to the fire risk. At the Cerro de la Fuente in Archivel, meanwhile, the path to the La Muralla freshwater spring has been improved and again seating has been provided.

Both of these sites are of great historical significance, containing architecture dating back to the 1^st century BC and the times of conflict between Julius Caesar and Pompey the Great. However, human occupation is known to have occurred far earlier, with relics having been discovered from the Bronze Age and the Argaric culture (around 4,500 years ago).

They are also both important as sources of natural spring water, which for centuries supported human life in their resspective areas.

For more local events, news and visiting information contact the local tourist office (see below) or go to the home page of Caravaca Today.