Ugíjar

Ugíjar consists of five areas: Ugíjar, Cherín, Jorairátar, Los Montoros and Las Canteras. Granada poet Pedro Antonio de Alarcón once described Ugíjar as “aristocrática” (aristocratic).

In Ugíjar, tourists can visit various buildings of historical and artistic interest, including Iglesia de la Virgen del Martirio, constructed in the 16th century in a typical mudéjar style; Fuente del Arca, Fuente de la Estrella, Plaza de los Caños, Ermita de San Antón and Pozo de la Virgen. The latter has a legend regarding the origins of its name; that during the Morisco uprising, the statue of the Virgen del Martirio was burnt and used as a bridge over an irrigation channel. However, a faithful Christian rescued her and hid the sculpture inside this well. Forty years later, when a resident cleaning the well, it lit up and said “Maritirio me llamo”. (I am called Martyr.)

 

 

In Jorairátar, as well as the marvellous views resulting from its location in the Sierra de la Contraviesa. visitors can enjoy the Museo de Labranza y Costumbres Populares and the Museo Etnológico, located in a magnificent 19th century house. Here you can see a collection of old cameras, radio apparatus, post-war toys, period costumes and firearms, as well as the first telephone installed in Ugíjar.

Cherín is surrounded by olive groves, whereas Las Canteras and Los Montoros are located in an almost desert-like landscape.

As in other villages in the area, crafts in Ugíjar are typical of the Alpujarra. Visitors can purchase traditionally made carpets, tapestries and rugs.

Gastronomy

If you want to try the most characteristic dishes from Ugíjar, ask for those made with game, such as perdiz en escabeche (partridge in a vinegar-based marinade), mojo de aceitunas y bacalao (an olive and cod dish), jamón (ham), and turrón (nougat) made to a traditional recipe.

Fiestas

Each area has its own specific fiestas which usually take place in summertime. In December residents celebrate Fiesta de las Ánimas; and between 10 and 14 October, the patron saints’ festivals in honour of la Virgen del Martirio.

Directions

Ugíjar is 120km from Granada city. Take the E-902 (direction Jaén) and leave at exit 118 to join with the A-92. Then join with the A-337, at exit 312, which takes you to the centre of Cherín. If you want to get to the centre of Ugíjar, take the A-348A.

ugijar
Hover the cursor over Ugíjar to see bigger map and click to go to the maps page.

Booking.com