Activities & Attractions

Pulpi Geode: Intense Summer with 250 Visitors Daily

Published September 21, 2025 | Category: Latest news

TL;DR: Pulpi’s world-famous geode ends a record summer with 250 daily visitors, expanded exhibitions, and a growing UNESCO bid.

Pulpi Geode Bids Farewell to an Intense Summer with 250 Visitors Daily

The Pulpi Geode, one of Andalusia’s most extraordinary natural treasures, has concluded what officials describe as an “intense” summer season. Since its reopening on June 7, 2025, the site has welcomed an average of 250 visitors per day, the maximum number allowed to safeguard this fragile environment inside the Mina Rica mine. Demand has consistently exceeded expectations, reinforcing the geode’s growing international prestige.

Visitor Capacity and Conservation
Expanded Attractions and Activities
Discovery and Geological Significance
UNESCO World Heritage Candidacy
Tourism and Local Impact
How to Plan Your Visit
Looking Ahead

Visitor Capacity and Conservation

Groups of no more than 15 people enter every 30 minutes, maintaining the delicate balance of humidity and air quality required to preserve the crystal formations. Deputy Mayor Juan Bautista López highlighted that interest remains strong throughout the week, with no significant drop on weekdays. The site is closed only on Mondays to carry out maintenance and research activities without affecting the visitor experience.

This careful management underscores the fragile nature of the space. The crystals lining the chamber are made of selenite (a form of gypsum), and even slight changes in temperature or humidity could alter their clarity. Restricting numbers ensures that conservation and visitor access go hand in hand.

Expanded Attractions and Activities

In 2025, the visitor experience was enhanced with new cultural and scientific offerings. These included a virtual tour of the seabed, an exhibition dedicated to esparto grass and minerals, and a room showcasing the works of painter Pedro Antonio. Combined tickets allowed entry not only to the geode but also to Pulpi Castle, encouraging visitors to discover more of the town’s cultural landscape.

Complementary events such as the summer cultural program “Spláyate” further diversified the experience. By integrating local culture with natural heritage, Pulpi has strengthened its position as a multifaceted destination rather than a single-attraction stop.

Discovery and Geological Significance

The Pulpi Geode was discovered in December 1999 by members of the Madrid Mineralogist Group while exploring abandoned galleries of the Mina Rica. Its sheer scale and the transparency of its crystals immediately distinguished it from any other known geode in the world. Measuring approximately eight meters long, 1.7 meters high, and 1.8 meters wide, with a volume of 10.7 cubic meters, it remains the largest accessible geode in Europe and one of the most impressive globally.

While other famous geodes exist—such as the Naica Mine in Mexico, home to giant selenite crystals—Pulpi’s uniqueness lies in its accessibility and preservation. Unlike Naica, which is submerged in extreme heat and humidity and closed to the public, Pulpi allows visitors to come face to face with pristine crystals formed millions of years ago under unique geological conditions.

UNESCO World Heritage Candidacy

Since January 2025, the Pulpi Geode has been included on UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage status. The candidacy involves the Regional Government of Andalusia, Spain’s Ministry of Culture, international experts in crystallography and geology, and the University of Almeria. Establishing a dedicated academic chair is also under discussion, emphasizing the geode’s scientific and cultural value.

UNESCO recognition would not only elevate the site’s global status but also guarantee long-term protection and funding for conservation. According to López, the process may take several years, as it requires extensive technical reports, national review, and final evaluation by UNESCO. However, he stressed that the geode already meets the most important criterion: being a unique asset of universal value.

Tourism and Local Impact

Beyond its geological marvel, the geode has become a driver of local development. Restaurants, accommodation providers, and cultural venues in Pulpi have all benefited from the steady flow of visitors. The combined ticket system has successfully encouraged exploration beyond the geode itself, distributing economic impact throughout the municipality.

López emphasized that “the whole town is moving forward,” with visitors discovering landscapes, traditional crafts, and cultural events alongside the crystalline wonder underground. In this way, the geode is not only a natural monument but also a catalyst for rural tourism and economic diversification in the Levante Almeriense region.

How to Plan Your Visit

For those planning a trip, a few tips are essential:

Book in advance: demand is high, especially during summer, and tickets often sell out weeks ahead.
Check Mondays: the geode is closed for essential maintenance.
Consider the combined ticket: including Pulpi Castle offers added cultural value.
Arrive early: occasional cancellations may free up last-minute spots.
Respect conservation rules: flash photography is prohibited, and visitors must follow the guide’s instructions at all times.

Looking Ahead

With expanded exhibitions, ongoing media attention, and a formal UNESCO bid in progress, the Pulpi Geode is set to remain at the forefront of Andalusia’s tourism offer. Officials stress that maintaining the balance between high demand and strict conservation will remain the top priority. As López noted, even with constant attention from the press—what he called a “Coca-Cola effect”—the geode continues to attract new audiences while preserving its aura of uniqueness.

Looking ahead, the municipality aims to further integrate the geode into a broader network of cultural and natural attractions in Almeria, ensuring that visitors leave not only with awe for the crystals but also with a deeper appreciation of the region as a whole.

For more updates from across the province, visit our Activities & Attractions category.

Events

Las Norias Welcomes Christmas with Its Traditional Festive Market

Published December 1, 2025 | Category: Events

TL;DR: Las Norias has welcomed the Christmas season with its traditional festive market, featuring local associations, crafts, children’s activities and the long-awaited visit of Santa Claus.

Las Norias Opens the Christmas Season with Its Traditional Festive Market

The community of Las Norias, in the municipality of El Ejido, is officially embracing the Christmas season with the celebration of its long-standing festive market. Organised for more than a decade by the Junta Local de Las Norias, with support from the Asociación Cultural Activa Las Norias de Daza, the event transforms the Centro de Usos Múltiples into a lively meeting point for neighbours and visitors alike.

Throughout the day, local associations, AMPAs and small businesses are showcasing handmade decorations, Christmas accessories and traditional seasonal sweets, including mantecados, roscos and turrones. For many groups, the market is also an important opportunity to raise funds that help sustain their activities during the rest of the year.

Representatives from the municipality, including the councillor for Education and Youth, have visited the market to speak with exhibitors and discover this year’s proposals. According to the Ayuntamiento de El Ejido, the programme includes a wide range of activities such as a Christmas wreath workshop led by Alba Floristería, face painting, balloon modelling, a children’s zumba show and a performance by the parish choir of Santa María del Águila scheduled for the afternoon.

One of the most anticipated moments for the youngest visitors has been the arrival of Santa Claus, who has been collecting letters and taking photos with families throughout the day. The festive market will remain open without interruption until 19:00, offering residents a place to enjoy the atmosphere and come together as the holiday season begins.

For more upcoming events and celebrations across Almeria, visit our Events section.

Events

Terreros Slalom 2025: 35 Drivers Compete in a Key Andalusian Championship Round

Published November 28, 2025 | Category: Events

TL;DR: The San Juan de los Terreros Slalom 2025 takes place this Saturday with 35 drivers competing in a decisive round of the Andalusian Slalom Championship on a 1,000-metre asphalt circuit.

San Juan de los Terreros Gears Up for a High-Stakes Slalom 2025

Motorsport returns to San Juan de los Terreros this weekend with the eagerly awaited Terreros Slalom 2025, the penultimate round of the Andalusian Slalom Championship. The coastal town is preparing for an intense afternoon of racing on a fast 1,000-metre circuit set up next to La Pinada Park, where every second could influence this year’s title fight.

The event, organised by the Balcón del Almanzora Motor Club, brings together 35 drivers across multiple categories, including juniors and women competitors. As one of the most followed stops on the calendar, the Terreros Slalom is also part of the 2025 Almería Provincial Council Cup, adding even more weight to this weekend’s results.

A Crucial Moment in the Championship

The standings arrive in Terreros extremely tight. Francisco Javier del Buey leads with 64 points thanks to a season of consistent performance, followed closely by Luis Miguel Collantes on 61 points. Third-placed Francisco J. Mena sits on 53 points and remains mathematically in the fight. With the top competitors separated by just a few points, the Terreros Slalom is expected to play a defining role in the championship’s outcome.

Event Schedule

10:30 – Documentation & Administrative Checks – Dulche Gusto Café
11:00 – Technical Checks
11:30 – Publication of Authorised Vehicles
11:30 – Circuit Opening & Track Reconnaissance
11:45 – Race Director’s Briefing – Dulche Gusto Café
12:15 – Qualifying Heats – 1,000 m Asphalt Circuit
Following – Final Checks (if required) – Parc Fermé
Following – Publication of Official Results
Following – Awards & Trophy Ceremony – Dulche Gusto Café

Free Entry and a Family-Friendly Atmosphere

The Terreros Slalom will showcase touring cars, buggies and car-cross vehicles, all supervised by certified officials and supported by a full safety and medical team. Every participant will receive a trophy, with additional awards for Divisions 1 and 2, as well as the Scratch, Junior and Women’s categories.

With the Andalusian championship nearing its conclusion and gaps between the favourites tighter than ever, Saturday promises to be one of the most exciting racing days of the year for motorsport fans in the Almanzora and Levante regions.

Official event details and updates are available on the Ayuntamiento de Pulpí website: Ayuntamiento de Pulpí – Slalom Information.

For more events across the province, visit our Events category.

Events

Vera Magical Christmas 2025: over fifty activities, events & surprises

Published November 22, 2025 | Category: Activities & Attractions

TL;DR: Vera launches its Vera Magical Christmas 2025 season with more than fifty activities, including a Local Trade and Crafts Fair, concerts, family workshops, children’s shows, festive parades, sports events and the traditional Monumental Nativity Scene.

Vera Magical Christmas 2025: lights, markets & festivities

Overview: how Vera welcomes the Christmas season
Presentation in Plaza Mayor
Christmas lights and opening weekend
Local Trade and Crafts Fair
Monumental Nativity Scene
More than fifty activities for all ages
Fun, shopping and decorated streets
Sports and Christmas cooking workshops
Practical information and full programme

Overview: how Vera welcomes the Christmas season

Every year, Vera turns its historic centre into a warm and lively Christmas setting filled with lights, music and family activities. Under the banner of its Vera Magical Christmas, the town brings together a programme that mixes tradition, culture, shopping and outdoor events. The 2025 edition stands out for its scale: more than fifty scheduled activities between late November and early January, aimed at residents and visitors of all ages.

From the lighting of the Christmas decorations in Plaza Mayor to the final Three Kings Parade, the heart of the town becomes the main stage for concerts, parades, workshops, markets and community events that define Vera Magical Christmas each year.

Presentation of the programme in Plaza Mayor

The official presentation of the programme for Vera Magical Christmas took place in Plaza Mayor on November 21, 2025. The Mayor of Vera, Alfonso García, together with the Councilor for Festivities, Antonia Marín, unveiled the main details of the event while families and children enjoyed a special show in the square.

During his speech, the mayor welcomed “Christmas and all the magical characters who will join us to make these holidays truly special”, and encouraged residents to support local businesses throughout the Vera Magical Christmas season. He also announced a forthcoming consumer voucher campaign, designed to help households manage their seasonal expenses while strengthening local commerce.

The Councilor for Festivities highlighted that, once again, Vera embraces the motto “Christmas as we know it, like you’ve never experienced it before”, with a programme designed for the whole family and rooted in the spirit of Vera Magical Christmas.

Christmas lights and opening weekend

The festive season officially begins with the switching-on of the Christmas lights. On Saturday, November 29 at 20:30, Plaza Mayor will host the opening ceremony of Vera Magical Christmas, now one of the most anticipated events of the year.

The evening will feature a live concert by the Vera City Orchestra and will end with a pyrotechnic musical display that combines fireworks and music. Once the Christmas lights are switched on, the decorations illuminate the town for the entire Vera Magical Christmas period, inviting evening strolls and outdoor gatherings.

Local Trade and Crafts Fair

One of the main new additions in 2025 is the 1st Local Trade and Crafts Fair, running from December 6 to 8 on Paseo Miguel de Cervantes. The fair strengthens the commercial side of Vera Magical Christmas by giving visibility to local artisans, small shops and independent businesses.

The fair will include:

a synthetic ice rink
a Family Christmas Sweets Workshop
an Advent Calendar Raffle organised by the local Merchants Association

These activities reinforce the message that Christmas shopping can be combined with culture, leisure and shared experiences during the Vera Magical Christmas season.

Monumental Nativity Scene

A tradition deeply linked to Vera Magical Christmas is the annual Monumental Nativity Scene, installed in the Convent of La Victoria. It will be inaugurated on Sunday, November 30.

Known for its craftsmanship, detailed scenes and atmospheric lighting, the nativity scene attracts both locals and visitors and serves as a quiet, reflective complement to the more festive outdoor events of Vera Magical Christmas.

More than fifty activities for all ages

The programme of Vera Magical Christmas 2025 includes over fifty activities designed for all ages. The goal is to fill the town with life through workshops, entertainment, concerts and creative experiences.

Highlights include:

children’s workshops across the historic centre
family and cultural shows at the Vera Auditorium
a festive atmosphere throughout the decorated old town

The programme features major performances such as the Sleeping Beauty Ballet and a rendition of Handel’s “Messiah”. Music lovers can also enjoy flamenco zambombas, concerts and tributes like “ABBA Symphonic”. The New Year’s Concert by the Municipal Band on January 1 closes the musical programme of Vera Magical Christmas.

Fun, shopping and decorated streets

The streets of Vera are once again transformed by the festive designs of Haro Arquitectura de Interiores y Escenografía. Their decorations connect key areas of the town and create a walking route that invites residents and visitors to enjoy the heart of Vera Magical Christmas.

This festive backdrop encourages people to shop locally and enjoy the town at a relaxed pace. As part of the celebrations, several key family activities take place:

the Asprodalba March
the Santa Claus Parade
the Children’s New Year’s Eve Celebration
the spectacular Three Kings Parade on January 5

Sports and Christmas cooking workshops

Sports also play a role in the Vera Magical Christmas season. The Vera Christmas Race brings together local runners and visiting participants for a festive route through the town.

Meanwhile, the popular Christmas sweets workshops allow children to prepare and decorate traditional festive recipes, mixing gastronomy with creativity and fun as part of Vera Magical Christmas.

Practical information and full programme

During the presentation, the Councilor for Festivities invited everyone to enjoy a season that “combines tradition, culture and fun”. Given the large number of events, it is advisable to check the official programme while planning any visit to Vera Magical Christmas.

The full programme is available at navidadesmagicasvera.es.

General updates from the municipality can be found via the Ayuntamiento de Vera.

For more ideas on what to do in and around Vera during the festive period, visit our Activities & Attractions and Events categories.

Events

Vera Christmas Race 2025: full programme and registration details

Published November 20, 2025 | Category: Activities & Attractions

TL;DR: Vera has opened registration for its 12th Annual Christmas Race on December 13, with children’s races, two urban routes for adults and a charity “Solidarity Bib” supporting mitochondrial disease research.

Vera Christmas Race: running, community & solidarity

Overview: date, place and atmosphere
Children’s races: full schedule
Adult routes: 10 km and 3.3 km
Solidarity Bib: run for a cause
Registration and fees

Overview: date, place and atmosphere

Vera is getting ready for the 12th edition of its traditional Christmas Race, a sporting event that has become a classic in the town’s December calendar. The race will be held on Saturday, December 13 in Plaza Mayor, bringing together families, local runners, clubs and visitors for an afternoon where sport, community spirit and Christmas atmosphere go hand in hand.

The event is organised by the Vera Town Hall in collaboration with the Southeast Athletics Club, and is designed so that everyone can find their place: from the youngest children to experienced runners, and even those who prefer to contribute through a charity bib.

Children’s races: full schedule

The afternoon will begin with the children’s races, one of the most popular parts of the day. Each category has its own distance and start time:

16:30 — Sub 12 (800 m)
16:35 — Sub 10 (600 m)
16:45 — Sub 8 (400 m)
16:55 — Sub 6 (150 m)
17:05 — Chupetín (100 m)
17:15 — Mini Chupetín (50 m)

These races usually create some of the most joyful moments of the event, with children running through the historic centre while families cheer them on from the sidelines.

Adult routes: 10 km and 3.3 km

At 18:00 it is the turn of the adult categories, with two urban routes through the streets of Vera:

10 km — aimed at runners looking for a more demanding course
3.3 km — a shorter and more accessible route, ideal for recreational runners or those who simply want to take part in the festive atmosphere

Both distances allow participants to enjoy the town’s streets in a different way, surrounded by spectators and the Christmas decorations typical of mid-December.

Solidarity Bib: run for a cause

One of the most important aspects of this year’s edition is the Solidarity Bib, a non-competitive option created to support the NGO AEPMI (Spanish Association of Mitochondrial Pathologies). Through this initiative, participants can make a donation even if they do not run in any of the timed races.

The funds raised will support:

research into mitochondrial diseases
support and advice for affected families
awareness of these rare, degenerative conditions

The organisers encourage everyone to join under the slogan “Help us to help!”, reminding residents and visitors that collaborating is possible even if they cannot be physically present on race day.

More information about AEPMI can be found on its official website: AEPMI – Asociación de Enfermos de Patologías Mitocondriales.

Registration and fees

Registration for the 12th Vera Christmas Race remains open until Thursday, December 11 at 14:00. Entry fees are set to be accessible for all participants:

€2 — children’s categories
€13 — adult races (10 km and 3.3 km)
From €5 — Solidarity Bib (minimum donation)

Year after year, the Christmas Race brings together local residents, sports clubs and visiting runners, creating one of the most vibrant community events of the season.

For official updates, visit the Ayuntamiento de Vera.

For more events across the province, visit our Events category.