Have you ever visited Yecla Spain?
It is one of those small charming Spanish cities almost impossible to forget.
A unique atmosphere.
The culture.
The people.
The gastronomy.
If you are really thinking about moving to Spain, away from big cities and coastal areas, I promise that you will love Yecla.
There is a special energy in this town… and there are not many expats, so you will have to learn Spanish, no choice 
Before we start… Yours Free
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Where is Yecla Spain?
Yecla is located some distance inland of the coastline of the Costa Calida, in the province of Murcia, 96km north of the provincial capital, Murcia city.
The major city of Alicante is a similar distance to the east.
(Yecla Spain – Google Maps)
The international airport of Murcia Region is in San Javier, located around 135 km from Yecla.
The airport of Alicante is closer, around 85 km from Yecla.
What is the History of Yecla?
There is evidence of settlement in the area from the time of prehistoric man at the site of Monte Arabi to the north west of the city.
Wine production has a long history in the area with records of vines being planted during the Phoenician period and later continued by the Romans.
The city was originally called Yakka.
General Information about Yecla
The city of Yecla has a population of around 35,000 people.
The coastal area of Murcia is around 134 km away, where we can find two important towns such as San Pedro and Los Alcazares.
Apart from the wine industry, it is regarded as an agricultural trade centre in the production of olives, cattle and cereals.
Other light industries here include shoemaking, distilling and the manufacture of furniture.
The city and its surrounding area are ringed by a number of low mountain ranges that contribute to the region having its own microclimate.
If you are thinking about moving to Spain from the UK, Yecla Spain could be the beginning of your Spanish journey
(Yecla Spain – Google Maps)
The wine from this region takes its name from the city.
The wine industry here has survived due to its keeping a strong dedication to its traditions and heritage.
The historical city of of Cartagena is around 1.5 hours driving from Yecla.
What is the Weather like in Yecla?
The climate of Yecla is largely controlled by the surrounding foothills of the low lying mountains of between 400-800 metres in height.
The climate is considered to be continental, and somewhat tempered by it location in the south east of Spain.
The temperature ranges from a low of -5C in the winter months up to a high of 39C during the long hot months of summer.
The annual rainfall of around 30cm occurs mainly in the months of spring and autumn, although Yecla is also known for its rare but sometimes heavy downpours.
The coastal town Aguilas is one of the farthest towns within the region of Murcia.
Gastronomy
The culinary options in Yecla are typically that of the region of Murcia.
Salads are a popular option, such as Ensalada Murciana, which combines escarole, tomatoes and watercress.
There is also another dish that combines sweet green and red peppers.
Mojete Murciano is eaten with chunks of bread.
Tortilla Murciana is an omelet containing tomatoes, peppers, courgette, aubergine and ham.
A vegetable stew known as Menestra is a combination of locally grown vegetables.
Dorada a la Sal is a fish dish, covered with bread and served with a garlic sauce, garlic mayonnaise or parsley and oil.
What Architecture can be seen in Yecla?
The Phoenicians brought the first wine grapes to Yecla Spain and evidence of a 1st century wine cellar have been uncovered by archaeologists near Fuente del Pinar.
There is also evidence of the Stone Age settlement at Monte Arabi.
(Yecla Spain – Google Maps)
More recent architecture can be found in the ruins of a castle, and the city’s two most prominent churches:
- The Gothic Church of the Saviour dating from the 17th century
- The Romanesque style Basilica of the Immaculate Conception which was completed in the year 1868.
How much does it cost to rent or buy property in Yecla?
There are some amazingly cheap properties for sale in Yecla with two or three bedroomed apartments and houses available for less than 25,000 Euros. Some even as low as 16,000.
There are lots of newly built properties available for around 40-80,000 Euros in the city with modern detached villas available from around 1-200,000 Euros.
(Pasarela in Yecla )
There is not a big selection of long term rental properties available in Yecla with 3 or 4 bedroomed apartments costing from 300-495 Euros per month.
A four bedroomed completely renovated country house will cost 550 Euros per month.
What are the most Interesting Attractions I should visit in Yecla?
Visiting Yecla’s Wineries
There are a total of 11 wineries listed in the Yecla area and many are open for tours of the vineyard and wine tasting sessions.
Many require a booking to be made in advance and these visits may include a tour of the wine cellar and even a meal on site.
If you would like to do a wine tour, here is the official website.
Mount Arabi
Mount Arabi stands out in the surrounding flat landscape rising to more than 1000 metres high.
There are several walking routes to explore and these routes include caves that were used in prehistoric times.
There are some incredible formations created by wind and water to view as you climb towards the mountain peak.
The principal features to see are the Caves Horadada, Mediodia and the Buitrera Ravine.
The Cantos de Visera is another site which includes cave paintings but permission from the city hall is required to visit here.
Yecla Town Hall
The old town hall of the city of Yecla is worth a visit just for its architecture dating from the 18th century.
The facade is decorated in carved stone and features double arches that help to define the portico and Tuscan style columns.
Virgin Mary Museum
Also known locally as the Virgin Mariano Del Castillo Museum, it is located next to the Shrine of the Castle a property of the Franciscan monks.
Among the exhibits are the items used during the festival in honour of the Immaculate Conception celebrated every December and includes the float of the Virgen del Castillo.
The museum is open on Thursdays from 4pm until 8pm, and at the weekends from 9am until 1pm and from 4pm until 8pm.
Fiestas de San Isidro
This festival has been held during the month of May and celebrates the arrival of San Isidro at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.
The festival began during the 19th century and includes the election of the Queen of the fiesta.
Special thanks to the Oficina de Turismo in Yecla. Here is the official website.
Yours Free
Spain 101 is a free ebook full of unique tips that will save you thousands of Euros when moving to / living in Spain.
Would you like to get it now?
Please click / tap on the image below:
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