Nestled in the province of Almeria, the municipality of Sorbas is a hidden gem located 58 kilometres from the capital city. Perched at an elevation of over 400 metres above sea level, Sorbas offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. The village is home to the Natural Park "Karst in Yesos de Sorbas", a geological wonder featuring over 1000 cavities carved into gypsum over millions of years. This unique attraction draws visitors from around the world, eager to explore its ancient caverns and learn about its geological history.
The name 'Sorbas' is believed to be of Arab origin, possibly meaning "sand port", a nod to the clay pots crafted in the area since Neolithic times, particularly around Las Alfarerías.
Archaeological remains suggest human settlements dating back to 2000 BC. It's believed that an Iberian village settled here, maintaining trade relations with Phoenician villages in the area.
The Romans who settled in Sorbas initiated gypsum exploitation. The subsequent Arab occupation, lasting approximately 700 years, left a legacy of functioning ovens, distinctive street layouts, and a unique style of ceramic fabrication.
In 1488, Sorbas was ceded to the Catholic Kings. Only a few reconverted Muslims, known as 'Moriscos', remained. However, due to church pressure, they too eventually left for North Africa. The presence of Arab rebels made repopulation challenging, with incursions continuing until 1577.
When wandering around the Constitution Square in Sorbas, you'll encounter the Santa Maria church, an old religious building erected on the remnants of an ancient mosque.
During your visit to Sorbas, be sure to explore its major tourist attractions:
Upon visiting Sorbas, you'll be treated to a rich and diverse gastronomy, primarily rooted in the use of local produce for the creation of its exquisite black pudding, spicy red chorizo, and an array of dishes such as salads and soups.
Some of the traditional dishes of Sorbas that you'll also find in Almeria include 'gurullos' with rabbit, partridge, 'migas' (a breadcrumb dish), and of course, a varied selection of fresh fish sourced from the nearby Almeria sea.
The "Karst in Gypsums in Sorbas" Natural Park, spanning approximately 2400 hectares, has been gradually sculpted over centuries by the erosive power of water on the gypsum of the municipality of Sorbas in Almeria. This has resulted in a multitude of cavities, both on the surface and underground, making it one of the most significant natural areas globally.
Within this Natural Park, the Water Cave, Covadura Cave, Gypsum Cave, and Treasure Cave stand out. These caves offer visitors a magical experience, showcasing gypsum columns of various colours, crystals, and stalactites and stalagmites of immense natural beauty.
The park offers opportunities for potholing and guided tours around the caves, along with various trekking routes:
This path covers the northern part of the municipality of Sorbas in Alicante. During this trekking route, you'll enjoy the typical flora and fauna of the area.
This approximately 4.5-kilometre path will showcase the main surface features of the Natural Park.
The faster route to get from Malaga airport to Sorbas is through Granada and Guadix, from where we must head to the south until we reach Tabernas and then to the east where Sorbas is located. If you rent a car with us you can check the following link to know how to get from Malagacar to Sorbas.
Sorbas Town Hall
Plaza de la Constitución, 1 - 04270 Sorbas (Almería)
Teléf.: 950 364 701 - Fax: 950 364 001
https://www.sorbas.es/
Credit cards accepted
