Alhendín

Alhendín is a municipality in the Vega de Granada, with open spaces studded with the green tints of the fringes of poplars and well cared for orchards, which are close to the river Genil in its quiet and peaceful flow to the west, the region benefits both from its situation in these fertile lands and the proximity, just 10 kilometres away, to the city of Alhambra.

In Alhendín prehistoric remains have been found (such as cooking pots and drinking vessels), some of which are in the Archaeological Museum of Granada.

Remains of Roman times have also been found in Alhendín, such as medals and vases that are on show in the museum. Also, in Montevive, a cave showing signs of human habitation has been found.

In Alhendín there is a Moorish fortress, which is partially hidden by later constructions. Its strategic position gave direct control over the communication road between the Vega and the Valle de Lecrín, making Alhendín a place of continued occupation, especially in the Muslim era. Therefore, at least, we can document occupation of the area between the eighth and sixteenth centuries.

In his treatise of scientific geography the scholar Ibn Said, referring to the various districts of Al-Andalus, identified as one of the most important cities near the medina of Garnata, al-Hamdan or Alhendín, the name corresponding to a Arab anthroponym (or name) referring to the Yemeni tribe of Hamdan, some of whom settled here during the eighth century.

During the Nazari kingdom of Granada this region was owned by the crown, and had one of the largest towers of the Vega de Granada, a tower that was part of an extensive defensive network along with those of Padul, Soto de Roma, La Malahá and Gabia.

Monuments

Iglesia parroquial de Nuestra Senora de la Concepcion (Parish Church of Our Lady of Conception XVI-XVII centuries, the interior rich in historical and artistic artifacts).

Gastronomy

Migas de maiz.(made with corn) Various stews. Bean casserole. Collejas tortilla. Bean omelette. Spinach tortilla. Choto garlic. Fried potatoes.

Directions

Leave Granada. At the roundabout, take exit 4 Continue along: E-902 / A-44 direction: Armilla - Motril. Pass near Armilla and Ogíjares. Take the exit towards: Exit 137
Otura - Alhendín. Arrive at Alhendín.

Distances