Baza is the largest municipality in Granada, known primarily for its sulphurous waters and the Sierra de Baza Natural Park, which boasts a fairly high average altitude. This park is a paradise for nature lovers, offering a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as hiking trails and bird-watching areas.
With a continental Mediterranean climate, Baza is a perfect place to enjoy historical monuments and natural tours through its mountains. The combination of its rich cultural heritage and impressive natural landscapes makes Baza an ideal destination for tourists seeking an authentic and diverse experience.
Although the current name was given by the Romans, Baza was already inhabited in the Iberian period, being the capital of Bastetania and known as Basti. During this period, Basti was an important commercial and cultural centre. After the Muslim conquest, the city became known as medina Batza, and it became an important strategic and defensive enclave in the kingdom of al-Andalus.
The history of Baza is marked by its cultural diversity, with Iberian, Roman, and Muslim influences reflected in its architecture, traditions, and customs. Among the most notable monuments are the Alcazaba, an Arab fortress offering panoramic views of the city, and the Iglesia Mayor, built on the site of an ancient mosque.
Additionally, Baza is famous for its Dama de Baza, an Iberian sculpture dating back to the 4th century BC, discovered in 1971. This figure is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and is exhibited in the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid.
Baza is a municipality with a rich historical legacy, located near the Sierra de Baza Natural Park, with peaks reaching up to 2270 metres in height. This park offers a wide variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, bird watching, and cycling routes, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.
Some of the places you can visit in Baza include:
A visit to Baza can include tasting its rich gastronomy. Among the typical dishes of Baza, we highlight:
Don't forget to try the sausages and serrano ham from Baza, which are of high quality and have a unique flavour from the mountains. These products are ideal for enjoying as tapas or as part of a more elaborate meal.
The Fair and Festivals of Baza are one of the most anticipated events of the year, held from the 6th to the 15th of September. During these days, the city comes alive with a wide variety of activities for all ages, including concerts, craft fairs, and sporting events.
One of the most notable events is the Cascamorras Race, a tradition that dates back over 500 years and has been declared a Festival of International Tourist Interest. In this race, participants paint themselves black and run through the streets of Baza and Guadix, creating a festive and unique atmosphere. The Cascamorras Race is a celebration full of energy and excitement, attracting visitors from all over.
To get to Baza from Málaga by car, take the A-92 road towards Granada. Along the way, you will pass through the towns of Loja, Granada, and Guadix. As you approach Baza, you will skirt the impressive Sierra de Baza Natural Park. The journey takes approximately just over 2 hours, offering panoramic views and a pleasant drive.
If you need a rental car in Málaga or a taxi to Baza, feel free to contact us. We have a wide selection of vehicles to suit all budgets, ensuring you find the perfect option for your trip.
In the following map, you can see the recommended route to get to Baza: