This trip is a historical bridge between modern-day Spain and its rich Islamic past. In 1491, Muhammad Abdullah, the last Nazari king, handed over the Muslim Kingdom of Al-Andalus to the Catholic Monarchs, Isabelle and Ferdinand. Both parties signed the Treaty of Granada, under which the Catholic Monarch agreed to respect and protect the religious practices of the lost kingdom. However, a couple of decades after the treaty's signing, the Muslim (and Jewish) population meets persecution; in public squares, baptisms are forced under threat of death. The injustice provokes a tension that would later lead to the Morisco Rebellions. Yet the Muslim situation only worsens and, eventually, they are forced into exile or hiding. Despite this dark history, today we can still witness Islam's presence in Andalusia; whether its in architectural designs, traditions or cultural practices. Join our tour as we explore Andalusia's main geographical and historical points. Enjoy Spain's beauty as we unveil its rich history.
Day 1.Valencia or Alicante arrival; Valencia overnight
When in season, enjoy Valencia's "Morisco" traditional and local festivities, such as "Tribunal de Agua" and "Moros y Cristianos."
Day 2. Transfer to overnight in Murcia
Day 3. Transfer to and overnight in Almería
Day 4. Transfer to the Rosales Islamic Education Center and Retreat
At Rosales, listen to lectures, enjoy open air activities, accommodations and great meals.
Day 5. Rosales Stay; Visit to local, Morisco villages
We continue our pleasant stay at Rosales, going on trips to visit local Morisco villages.
Day 6. Tour the Alpujarra valleys into Granada
The excursion will take us through and over the Sierra Nevada mountain range into the Alpujarra region. There, we can witness the traditional lifestyle of the last, Muslims Spaniard. The day concludes at Granada.
Day 7. Tour through the Alpujarra valleys into Granada
The day will conclude at Granada where we will have a welcome dinner prepared for us.
Day 8. Tour of Granada
Upon arrival at Granada, we take a guided visit to the Alhambra palatial town, including the Nashrid Palaces, Alkasba fortress, Generalife summer palace &gardens, and the old medina of the Alhambra. After, we pass along onto the opposite hill to visit Granada's older parts, divisions and city walls. We will visit the Mosque of the Albayzin at the Mirador de San Nicolas, most famous viewing point of Alhambra. From there, we walk down to the town's center to visit the souq streets. There will be time for shopping before dinner.
Day 9. Excursion to Ronda, tours and overnight there
Continuing west, through the mountains of Granada, we see Gibraltar on our way to Ronda. At Ronda, we witness a very different phases in the Iberian Peninsula's history. We tour the fortress town, visit its monuments and expositions. This includes the city's famous Hammams, palaces and the new bridge. After a midday meal, spend your fee afternoon enjoying sights of Spain's oldest bull ring or the town's more modern areas. We stay overnight at Ronda.
Day 10. Excursion to Gibraltar and transfer to Malaga
From Ronda, we continue South West until we reach Gibraltar. We stop at La Línea de la Concepción, during which those interested may take a bus tour through Gibraltar's Natural Park Reserve, containing natural cave formations, centenary cork oak forests with wild monkey species, a Moorish defence tower, and other attractions. Within the modern town of Gibraltar, you may enjoy English food and shopping. From La Línea we leaver for Malaga, where we check into our hotels and have dinner.
Day 11. Tour of Malaga's historical quarters
In the morning, we take a tour through Malaga's historical area, with the possibility of visiting the Cathedral and other sites. Our tour concludes with a visit to the Alkasr fortress. You may choose to visit the Roman ruins below the fortress. Enjoy your last Spanish afternoon walking or catching up on last minute shopping.
Day 12. Departure from Malaga international airport
A transfer bus to Malaga airport will be scheduled 3 hours before your departing flight. Any time available before the shuttle is free time to do as you please.
