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Almeria)
Almería (2003 pop. 176,338) is the capital of the province of Almería (Pop. 604,903) in Spain. It is located in southeastern Spain on the Mediterranean Sea and all its area is an important Mediterranean resort.
The name of Almería stems from Al-Meraya (Arabic, "The watchtower", because of its magnificent castle, built by the muslims - one of the biggest in Europe of that type-). The city was founded by Abd-Al Rahman III in 955 as a principal harbour in his extensive empire. In this period, the city of Almería reaches its best position ever in History, with powerful local muslim kings like Almotacin or Jairan , both fearful warriors but also protector of Arts. It suffered many sieges from other sea republics, and one especially fierce when Christians from all Europe were called to a crusade by Pope Eugenius III. Nevertheless, it was not until late XV century that it fell on Christian hands. In fact, its Spanish roots come from its surrender to the Catholic Monarchs, Ferdinand and Isabella, on 26th December 1489.
See: List of Almería Kings
The 16th century was for Almería a century of natural catastrophes, for there were at least four earthquakes, of which the one in 1522 was especially cruel, devastating the city. Landings and attacks by Berber pirates were also frequent in that century, and continued until the early 18th century. In that time, huge iron mines were discovered and French and British companies come to settle to the area. This brings new prosperity and makes Almería come back to a relative importance within Spain.
In the second middle of 20th century, Almería starts an spectacular process of economic welfare due to Tourism and especially to its intensive agriculture, a world wide reference, which has made Almería products a must item in any quality European market.
From the political point of view, there is a strong feeling for the achievement of the "Autonomous region" status, in spite o the great efforts of Andalusian government to disuade people from that.
Famous natives of Almería include Nicolás Salmerón , who in 1873 was the third president of the First Spanish Republic. And several musicians, like the popular folk singer Manolo Escobar , reputed Flamenco guitar player José Tomás "Tomatito" or Grammy Award winner David Bisbal, record-breaker album seller in America and Spain.
Almería has been chosen to host the Mediterranean Games in 2005.
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Last updated: 08-18-2005 21:00:58
