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NERJA - SPAIN
Nerja is a tourism-oriented town on the Costa
del Sol in the province of Malaga, which lies in one of Spain's 17
autonomous region's, Andalucía, on the country's southern, Mediteranean
coast. It lies about 50 km east of the city of Málaga, and is within two
hours drive of the city of Granada and skiing in the Sierra Nevada mountains.
Nerja has a long history, evidenced by the paintings found in its famous
caves, discovered in 1959 and now Spain's third most-visited tourist
attraction (after the Prado in Madrid and the Alhambra Palace in Granada).
The Romans gave the settlement the name Detunda, and it was later taken over
by the Arabs. Under the Muslims, it became "Narixa" which means abundant
spring", and is the origin of its present name. It is the most eastern town
in the area known as the Axarquía, and has a official population of around
20,000 - a fifth of which are foreign residents, predominantly British -
although the true population is probably twice that. In the summer months,
tourism swells the population to several times this. In the centre of the
old town is the Balcón de Europa, a mirador or viewpoint which gives
stunning views across the sea. Its name was coined by King Alfonco XII who
visited the area in 1885 following a disastrous earthquake, and was
captivated by the scene. Nerja has several fine beaches and one of the best
climates in Europe. It is a great base for exploring the region and to enjoy
its unique food and drink.
This small quaint
little town is brilliant. There is a restaurant for every day of the year
and plenty to do. My favourite restaurant ever is in Nerja, it is called
Haveli and it is the best indian food on the planet. i love it. i want it
right now. Carryduff.
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