Quéntar
by Shenai Martínez Fernández
This village on the north-western slopes of the Sierra Nevada is that dates back to the 13th century. After the expulsion of the Moors in 1571, it was virtually depopulated. Nowadays it still retains its characteristic narrow and steep streets.
things to see
The scenery in this municipality is spectacular, with views of the Alto Cerro de la Cruz and the Paraje de la Fuente del Lobo, where there is a campsite. Pinos Genil also has hiking trails, fishing reserves and cattle trails.
Those who want to enjoy the views can go to Quéntar and take one of the routes along the Tajo de Castillejo (Gorge) or visit the Quenta reservior above the ville . The best monument in the village is the Fuente de los Morales, which dates from the Muslim period. Amphorae, lamps and storage jars have been found nearby. The parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación is a 17th-century Baroque building with a mural by the Granada painter Nono Carrillo. The Canal de los Franceses, which supplies water to the Alhambra, begins here.
Hotels in Quentar
Book Hotels in Quentar
Handicrafts
The handicrafts of Quéntar are based on the work of esparto grass and pottery by some of the elders of the village.
Gastronomy
The gastronomy of this village includes dishes such as chickpea stew, chops, chicken with garlic, rabbit or partridge in sauce, kid with garlic, 'papas a lo pobre' and pork loin with chestnuts and plums. Other typical dishes include blood sausage, chorizo, sausages, cold cuts, salami, almonds, olives and cherries.
Festivals
The patron saint fiestas of Quéntar are held around 15 September in honour of San Sebastián, when both Moors and Christians are represented. On 20 January, the day of the saint, there is a religious ceremony and a procession. The village also celebrates the Day of the Cross, with crosses placed in streets and squares, and Corpus Christi, with a procession in which altars are set up at various points along the route. On 1 November, a chestnut fair is held and family and friends gatherings are organised.
Directions
Quéntar is 16 kilometres from the city of Granada and can be reached via A-395 of the western by-pass and near Cenes de la Vega take the A-4026 road and, cross through Dúdar crossroads and continue up the valley.
