Real Estate & Economy

Blanco Macael Marble Moves Toward EU PGI Status, Protecting Almeria’s White Gold

Workers cutting macael marble in a quarry in the Sierra de los Filabres

Published December 1, 2025 | Category: Real Estate & Economy

TL;DR: Macael marble, long celebrated as Almeria’s “white gold,” is entering a new European recognition process. Beyond the administrative aspect, the initiative highlights the cultural, economic and historical importance of this iconic natural stone.

Macael Marble Moves Toward New European Recognition

For centuries, macael marble has defined the landscape, culture and economy of northern Almeria. Its unmistakable white and grey tones, exceptional durability and refined texture have earned it a reputation as one of Spain’s finest natural stones. Today, the sector is taking an important step forward as macael marble begins a formal European process designed to better protect and strengthen the identity of this historic material.

This new procedure includes the possibility of geographical protection at EU level, but the significance extends far beyond any technical classification. What truly matters is what the initiative represents: a renewed effort to recognise the heritage, craftsmanship and economic value embedded in macael marble, a stone that has shaped civilizations, supported families and contributed to the international image of Almeria for more than two thousand years.

A Stone Rooted in History and Civilisation

Macael marble has been used continuously since antiquity. Archaeological evidence confirms that the Romans extracted and transported the stone for theatres, temples and public buildings across the peninsula. Its purity and strength made it ideal for large-scale structures, sculptures and decorative elements that needed to withstand both weather and time.

Across the centuries, the stone retained its prestige. One of the most iconic examples is its presence in the Court of the Lions in the Alhambra of Granada. The 124 slender columns and the central fountain—perhaps the most photographed element in Andalusian architecture—were all carved from macael marble. Its soft luminosity, when touched by natural light, gives the courtyard its distinctive atmosphere of elegance and calm.

The stone also appears in the Roman Theatre of Merida, the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, the palatial complex of Madinat al-Zahra, several Renaissance and Baroque monuments across Andalusia, and important areas within the Royal Palace in Madrid. Few natural materials in Spain can claim such a uninterrupted lineage of prestige.

Today, macael marble continues to be used in luxury interiors, contemporary architecture, high-end restoration projects and international design work. Its distinctive balance of colour and texture makes it a favourite among architects and decorators seeking timeless natural materials.

A Sector That Grounds the Local Economy

Beyond its cultural value, macael marble is a cornerstone of the economy in the Sierra de los Filabres. The region’s quarries, factories and workshops provide stable employment and sustain a vibrant network of micro-enterprises, artisans, transport companies and design studios. Many families have worked with marble for generations, preserving techniques that combine traditional craftsmanship with modern technology.

The economic relevance of the stone sector has grown over the last decades, with macael marble reaching markets in Europe, the Middle East and North America. Export figures continue to rise as international demand expands. High-end residential projects, boutique hotels, commercial spaces and restoration programs increasingly rely on authentic macael marble for its quality, appearance and longevity.

Given this global reach, ensuring the authenticity and distinction of macael marble is essential. The current European recognition process supports this goal: it strengthens the identity of the material and helps protect it from imitation stones produced elsewhere.

Why European Recognition Matters

Europe’s updated framework for artisanal and industrial products allows materials with a strong regional identity to be formally recognised and protected. For macael marble, this represents an opportunity to highlight its geological origin, historical continuity and the skilled craftsmanship behind its production.

The Junta de Andalucia, together with the national Ministry of Industry, Energy and Mines, is supporting the sector through this multi-stage process. While geographical protection is one component, the broader aim is to reinforce the competitive position of macael marble in global markets, support rural employment and safeguard one of Almeria’s most emblematic industries.

The process also encourages sustainable practices, innovation and collaboration between companies, helping strengthen the long-term resilience of the entire value chain.

A Future Built on Heritage

The sector’s development is closely aligned with the CRECE Industry Plan for the Stone and Marble Sector, promoted by the regional government. This strategy focuses on modernising traditional industries, improving sustainability, adopting new technologies and strengthening innovation.

For the stone and marble industry, the plan supports improved extraction techniques, digital transformation in factories, product diversification, training for new professionals, and international promotion. Together with the current European recognition process, it creates a solid foundation for the sector’s future development.

Macael marble is more than a building material: it is a symbol of Almeria’s identity, a legacy handed down over centuries, and a source of cultural and economic strength. As the recognition process advances, the objective remains clear—preserving the value of a stone that continues to define the character and reputation of the province.

For more updates on local industry and economic development, visit our Real Estate & Economy section.

Real Estate & Economy

Tourist Rentals Surge in Almeria Towns and Strain Housing Market

Tourist rental homes in Almeria have surged nearly 50% since 2020, with Mojacar dedicating over 10% of housing to short-term rentals, straining.

Coastal town in Almeria showing a mix of homes and tourist rentals under Mediterranean light.

Published 25 June 2026 | Real Estate & Economy

TL;DR: Tourist rental homes in Almeria province have surged by nearly 50% since 2020, with some towns now dedicating over 10% of their housing stock to short-term rentals, highlighting growing pressure on local housing markets.

Growth of Tourist Rental Homes in Almeria

Sharp Growth in Tourist Rentals

Tourist rental properties in Almeria province have seen a significant increase over recent years. According to the National Institute of Statistics (INE) data from May 2026, there are now 7,092 homes officially registered for tourist use, marking a 47.4% rise since 2020. This rapid expansion has fueled debates and prompted local authorities to address how such rentals affect the housing market amid an ongoing housing crisis.

Concentration in Key Towns

The distribution of these short-term rental homes is uneven across the province. Coastal and tourist-oriented towns have the highest numbers. Vera leads with 1,171 properties, closely followed by Nijar with 1,065, Roquetas de Mar with 1,040, Mojacar with 1,033, and the provincial capital Almeria with 960. In contrast, 27 smaller municipalities report no tourist rental properties at all, illustrating a clear divide between hotspots and more rural areas.

Local Housing Stock Under Pressure

Looking beyond raw numbers, the proportion of housing dedicated to tourist accommodation offers a clearer picture of the impact on communities. Sixteen towns now have more than 1% of their homes set aside for tourism, a seemingly small figure but significant in local terms. Towns including Enix, Garrucha, Turre, Roquetas de Mar, Almeria city, Cuevas del Almanzora, Oria, Velez-Blanco, and Tabernas fall between 1% and 2.5%.

More markedly, six municipalities exceed 4%, with Carboneras at 4.28%, Pulpi 4.49%, Vera 5.59%, and Nijar nearly 7%. An unusual example from inland Almeria is Laroya, where 7.39% of homes are tourist rentals, outpacing comparable rural towns. However, Mojacar stands out with the highest pressure, dedicating over 10% of its housing stock to short-term tourist rentals, a steep increase from 7.66% in 2020.

Regional and National Context

These figures place Almeria within a broader regional trend. Andalucia as a whole has the highest percentage of tourist rental homes on the Spanish mainland, with 1.94% of its housing stock used in this way. This is well above other regions such as Castile and Leon, Murcia, Madrid, or Aragon. Only the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands have higher proportions nationally, at 3.27% and 4.44% respectively. Meanwhile, the average percentage of tourist rentals across Spain remains low at around 1.28%, highlighting the particular intensity of this phenomenon in Almeria’s tourist hubs.

Balancing Tourism and Housing Needs

The soaring numbers of tourist rental homes are impacting local housing availability and affordability, raising concerns among residents and local governments alike. While tourism remains a key economic driver for Almeria’s coastal and rural areas, the challenge lies in balancing visitor accommodation demand with the housing needs of long-term residents. The evolving regulatory landscape reflects growing efforts to manage this balance, though the trend suggests the issue will remain a key community topic in coming years.

For updates on local community life, public services and local developments across the province, follow our latest posts in the Real Estate & Economy section.

Real Estate & Economy

Almeria property prices rise sharply in luxury home market

Almeria property prices luxury homes with sea view and villa

Published 08 May 2026 | Real Estate & Economy

TL;DR: Almeria property prices are rising sharply, with luxury homes in coastal areas like Roquetas de Mar, Nijar and El Ejido seeing strong demand.

Almeria property prices rise sharply in luxury home market

Almeria property prices are rising rapidly, with the luxury segment showing the strongest growth across key coastal areas.

Over the past year, the price of existing homes has increased by close to 19%, placing the province among the fastest-growing housing markets in Spain. This growth, based on recent property data, reflects a combination of increasing demand and limited availability in prime locations.

Where Almeria property prices are rising fastest

The strongest activity is concentrated in areas such as Roquetas de Mar, Nijar and El Ejido, particularly in locations close to the coast.

The rise in Almeria property prices is especially visible in these coastal zones, where demand continues to outpace supply.

These areas offer a mix of accessibility, established infrastructure and proximity to natural attractions like the Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park, making them increasingly attractive for both domestic and international buyers.

What the top end of the market looks like

The upper end of the market highlights how far prices have moved.

In Aguadulce, properties are approaching €3 million, with large villas offering multiple bedrooms, terraces and extensive outdoor space. Similar levels are being seen in parts of Nijar, where unique properties within or near protected natural areas continue to attract premium buyers.

In El Ejido, particularly around Almerimar, high-end properties are also reaching above €2 million, supported by marina access and established residential developments.

What is driving the trend

The current price growth reflects a combination of factors. Demand for coastal property remains strong, while supply of prime locations is limited.

At the same time, Almeria continues to be positioned as a more affordable alternative compared to other coastal regions in Spain, which is drawing attention from buyers looking for value at the higher end of the market.

There is also a gradual shift towards higher-quality developments, which is pushing average values upwards.

What it means for the wider market

Growth in the luxury segment does not exist in isolation. Rising prices at the top tend to influence the rest of the market, affecting availability and pricing across mid-range properties.

This can create additional pressure for local buyers, particularly in areas where supply is already limited.

broader shift

The current increase in Almeria property prices reflects a broader shift in how the region is positioned within the Spanish housing market.

With continued demand in key areas, especially along the coast, price growth is likely to remain a defining factor in the local real estate landscape over the coming years.

Follow the latest developments in property, investment and local business across the province in our Real Estate & Economy section.

Real Estate & Economy

Former El Cantal campsite in Mojacar set for redevelopment

El Cantal area in Mojacar near former campsite with coastal view

Published 08 May 2026 | Real Estate & Economy

TL;DR: The former El Cantal campsite in Mojacar is set for redevelopment into a mixed-use area with hotel, commercial and possible residential elements, pending urban planning approval.

Former El Cantal campsite in Mojacar set for redevelopment

The long-closed El Cantal camping site in Mojacar is moving towards redevelopment, with plans to convert the coastal area into a mixed-use zone combining hotel, commercial and potentially residential space.

The site, located in the Los Lomos del Cantal area close to the beach, has remained largely unused for years, making it one of the last significant undeveloped coastal plots in this part of Mojacar.

What is planned for the site

Current plans point towards a combination of tourism facilities, retail space and housing, although the final balance will depend on planning approvals.

Initial activity on the site has already started with the creation of a parking area, aimed at easing congestion during the summer season.

Planning depends on PGOU changes

The project is linked to the adaptation of Mojacar’s PGOU (General Urban Development Plan) to align with the Andalusian land use law known as LISTA.

This process is expected to move forward around 2027, when the municipality plans to introduce targeted modifications to urban land classifications.

Until these adjustments are approved, large-scale development on the site remains conditional.

Why this area matters

El Cantal is not just another plot of land. The former campsite has historical significance as one of the earliest tourism sites in the area, attracting international visitors over several decades.

Its location, close to Punta del Cantal and the Mojacar coastline, also makes it strategically important in terms of future development.

At the same time, it represents one of the few remaining coastal spaces where large-scale changes are still possible.

What happens next

The immediate focus remains on planning approvals. Without the PGOU adjustments, the project cannot move into full development.

In the meantime, the use of the land as a parking area suggests a phased approach, where smaller interventions are introduced before any major construction begins.

The scale of the project, covering around 10 hectares, means that any future development will have a visible impact on this section of the Mojacar coastline.

Broader pattern

The redevelopment of El Cantal reflects a broader pattern in Mojacar, where older tourism infrastructure is being reconsidered and repositioned.

If the final outcome leans more towards tourism, residential use or a balance of both will depend largely on how the planning framework evolves over the coming years.

Follow the latest developments in property, investment and local business across the province in our Real Estate & Economy section.