El Majuelo, Archaeological site and botanical garden in Almuñécar, Spain
El Majuelo is a former fish processing facility on the Almuñécar coast featuring large stone vats that once held salted fish. The site blends archaeological remains with landscaped gardens filled with tropical vegetation.
The facility operated from the 4th century BC as a factory making garum, a pungent fish sauce sold throughout the Mediterranean. It remained active during the entire Roman period and was a major food production center for the region.
The site is named after a local rock formation and now displays artworks by Syrian artists scattered among the vegetation. These installations give the grounds a contemporary character and host music performances and cultural gatherings throughout the year.
The grounds are easily walkable with marked paths through the gardens and information signage throughout. Early morning or late afternoon visits are most pleasant, as the midday heat can be intense.
The site reveals how an ancient production factory was organized, with separate areas for processing, administration, and storage all still visible. Few places show so clearly how food was made 2500 years ago.
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