Orce
The Andalusian village of Orce may be small, but is nevertheless of remarkable importance in the search of the first traces mankind in Iberia, with archaeological digs uncovering proof of settlers there from millions of years ago. In the far north of the Granada Province and bordering onto the Province of Almeria, the village of Orce is a also true discovery for anyone in search of real Andalusia. It is 926 meters above sea level and has a population of just over 1,400. At just 150 kilometres from the City of Granada, it is easily accessible by road. Orce is one of the six main villages of the region of Huescar (pronounced ‘Wescar’). This whole area, together with the neighbouring region of Baza is known as the Altiplano de Granada.
The people in the main village of Orce and in the three nearby hamlets of Fuente Nueva, Venta Micena and Pozo de la Rueda enjoy a simple rural life. The prehistoric relics include the much discussed and significant historical remains of a skull, which has become known as “El Hombre de Orce” (Orce Man). There are also fascinating and significant remains of an ancient city from the Bronze Age.
The natural surroundings are as breathtaking as the historic heritage is evident. As is the way with the southern Spanish, traditions and local cooking are taken seriously and the combination of all this elements, promises that a visit to Orce will be a real delight to the senses.
Like the other villages in Huescar, the dramatic contrasts between lush pastoral landscape and dry flatlands is one of the main attractions and something which very much sets it apart from other parts of Andalusia.
Bethina Cave Apartment 