Sacromonte. Peso de la Harina Square, Granada

Sacromonte is a unique and picturesque neighborhood in Granada, with a fascinating history and rich cultural heritage. Located on the hillside and in the valley of Valparaíso, opposite the iconic Alhambra, the neighborhood is known for its cave houses installed in whitewashed caves. These caves have been home to the Granadian Romani community since they settled in Granada after the Christian conquest of the city in 1492.

The Romani of Sacromonte have their own language known as Caló, which has roots in India, where the Romani originated. The language has seen a decline in use over the past century, but it is still spoken by some members of the community. The Romani of Sacromonte were famously portrayed by the poet Federico García Lorca in his book of poems, Romancero Gitano.

Placeta del Peso de la Harina (Peso de la Harina Square) marks the beginning of the Camino de Sacromonte and the Sacromonte quarter. It is a popular spot for tourists to start their exploration of the neighborhood. In the square, there is a statue of Chorrojumo, the King of The Gypsies, who earned a living by telling stories about the Alhambra and selling postcards with his picture on them to tourists.

Tourists can wander the hillside roads of Sacromonte to discover the artistic Gypsy homes, which are decorated with vibrant handcrafted ceramics. There are many cave venues in Sacromonte where flamenco is performed, including the famous Cueva de la Rocío. This cave has hosted illustrious guests such as the King of Spain, Bill Clinton, and Michelle Obama. The Cueva de la Rocío is renowned for La Zambra, a special type of flamenco dancing and singing that originated in the gypsy caves of Granada.

Sacromonte offers some of the best views in Granada, with panoramas over rugged ravines, the Valparaiso Valley, and the Darro River. The neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Spain and the Romani community.