6. Camino del Santuario (I)

Parque periurbano Sierra de Gracia

Sierra de Archidona is made up of a variety of limestone peaks characterized by vertical cliffs, steep slopes and ravines. The ancient town of Archidona is sheltered by these elevations, taking advantage of the protection provided by such a rugged landscape. The sierra de la Virgen de Gracia, Pico del Conjuro and sierra de las Grajas are the three rocks of singular beauty that give character and personality to the landscape. They rise above the meadow and create a natural viewpoint from which we can gaze at the southern mountains and the Antequera depression.

The Sierra de Gracia Periurban Park is located at the foot of the Sierra de la Virgen de Gracia, which offers an excellent panoramic view of Archidona.

The vegetation consists of extensive areas of bushes that are mixed with holm oaks and enclaves of rock-growing vegetation in the most vertical areas; the repopulated pine forest dominates over the grove. Inside this space, we can find remains of the Castle of Archidona, declared Cultural Heritage Site; as well as the medieval wall, paying particular attention to the hermitage in honour of the Virgin of Gracia, built over the former mosque.