Illora Castle - Castillo de Illora

This medieval fortification is situated on the rocky elevation that arises in the middle of the town
This walled castle was built by the Muslims in the 10^th and 11^th centuries and includes Caliphate and Taifas elements. It was restored in the 14^th century in the Nasrid period, during which the building’s definitive configuration was planned and built.

 

It was the backdrop of a number of important political events. It has three enclosures: the house, the fortress and the surrounding areas.

It was captured by the Catholic Kings in 1486.
On the top the towers of the castle are easily recognisable. They are fondly called ‘the old woman’s teeth’ because of their appearance. Further down, there are the remains of two walled enclosures that protected the castle’s surrounding area, which was also where the Aljamá Mosque was situated.

In 2011 Illora town was awarded a European Grant to restore the castle, and work commenced on 30 July 2012.  Funds have been received from the Ministerio de Fomento and the Ayuntamiento of Illora, with costs running into millions of Euros.

Initially, excavations took place to ascertain the archeological importance of the site.

Work is ongoing and very impressive ...... (following pictures from Angel Lopez)

Medieval Market In Illora

Traditionally each year there is a Medieval market held in front of the Church in Illora.
Initially this began as a few stalls selling items and a refreshment stand, but has now progressed to something much larger, with around twenty stalls selling a variety of crafts and handmade goods, herbs and spices, sweetmeats and wooden goods.

 

This year it also featured a display of Birds Of Prey, and for the pricely sum of €3 you could have your photo taken with a huge yellow snake coiled around your neck! Not for the faint hearted.

The aromas from the food stalls were enticing, from the huge BBQ joints of port to the waffles with cream and chocolate spread, something for everyone.

Corpus Christi in Illora

Corpus Christi in Granada is celebrated with a week long fiesta and many processions in the City.
Here in Illora the streets were decorated on Sunday evening with altars, plants and decorations.  On Sunday evening a procession made it's way around the streets, with the Priest making a blessing at each altar on route. The children who have recently been confirmed into the Church also took part.

Fiesta for new Pilar Alto (Horse Fountain)

This weekend saw the celebration of the opening of the new Pilar Alto (Horse Fountain) after it's restoration.
As with any fiesta party in Spain, plenty of drink and tapas was on offer, and music with Spanish dancing on display.

Coffee & Colours (previously Bar Elstribo)

In April 2015, Bar Elstribo has been taken over by new Management, and is now known as Coffee & Colours.

With an interior restyle, the theme is "modern and trendy", now serving coffees, cocktails and fruit tobaccos.
The terrace has been renovated and now offers a relaxing place to sit and have a drink under the rocks of the castle of Illora. Tables and chairs are also placed outside on the front terrace on the street in the summer evenings.

Pepe is your friendly bar Manager, serving a variety of tapas.

Avenida D'Tapas

Earlier this year, Bar Fran changed hands and now has a new Manager, Christian, formerly of Elstribo Bar.

The Bar has been renamed Avenido D'Tapas, and now serves a variety of tapas of your choice from the menu card.

 

A very popular bar with an outside terrace, and also showing football on large screen TVs inside the Bar.