El Zambrón Bridge, Ánimas hermitage, Chorillo Fountain and La Pileta
Beires - Almería

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We find ourselves in an important place, which is key to the history of Beires. This ravine and bridge mark the divide between the original settlement, the so-called El Zambrón neighbourhood, and the new, which has been taking shape from the repopulations to the present time. Key elements are located here, like the Ánimas hermitage, with whitewashed walls and a gabled roof. Small in size but much appreciated by residents, with a long tradition in the village

The El Zambrón Bridge connects the two neighbourhoods divided by the ravine, El Zambrón, the ancient original settlement, where there are neolithic remains, and Beires, which would have been the expansion of the population. The 17th Century bridge is built with stonework and ceramic bridge edges. By the side of the bridge, high up, is the La Pileta pond, which is still functioning and which irrigates part of the traditional orchards. Its waters come from a nearby mine, and its distribution is still done in rounds. Due to its proximity to the urban centre, it has also been a place for bathing and fun, of social and festive gatherings.

Next to the Ánimas hermitage is the Chorrillo Fountain, a key element in the history of Beires, which collects water from the Nacimiento Canal. This place, which would have been the entrance to the old Al-Andalus settlement, is also the site of a popular legend about a Moorish princess who shed tears here for a lost love, tears which turned into crystal pearls and water which had the property of beautifying anyone who drinks it.

Very close by we find the old Washing Place, which receives water via the Almazara Canal. It has a tunnel and other elements related with the Al-Andalus water culture.

At this entrance to El Zambrón you also find one of the murals made on the initiative of the Local Council in collaboration with the Azucena del Andarax Women’s Association to embellish the municipality. This group of women has also made other decorative elements with recycled objects which decorate the municipality’s streets, and which has turned it into a special attraction.

A walk through the streets to the highest point offers a very beautiful sight, with the foliage of the ravine, the white, steep street which retains the original Medieval outline.