This municipality is located in the western edges of the Hoya de Guadix. It is located on the base of a small hill, next to the so called Juntas river, which crosses its district from Campotéjar in the direction of Colomera, in whose small dam empties. Its orography is formed by mountain ranges, fertile plains, rivers and valleys. The peculiarity of its town centre stands out and its district contains the rests of an Iberian settlement.
The archaeological rests found in the area make think that this place was inhabited by the Iberian population. They have also found vestiges of the Roman Empire, like some coins and a bust of the emperor Trajano. During the Arab time it received great importance strategically because it was located between the kingdoms of Granada and Jaén. It was conquered by the Christians in 1486, numerous skirmishes between the troops in the surroundings taking place. More ahead it was distinguished with the name of villa, and granted to the master of field Fernán Sancho del Cañaveral. This one founded on its territory the mayorazgo of Benalúa and gave origin to one of the most significant noble titles of the history of the province, the one of the count of Benalúa, one of whose more illustrious members, the Duke of San Pedro Galatino, he promoted in the first decades of the XX century some of the most representative architectonic works and engineering of Granada, like the hotel Alhambra Palace, or the already disappeared tram of Sierra Nevada or the road to the Veleta peak. During some years, Benalúa de las Villas suffered a massive depopulation until it was occupied by settlers coming from other parts of the kingdom.
In Benalúa de las Villas cereals and olive oil are produce. Its excellent cherries, from which they put in conserve to enjoy them throughout the year, in brandy or syrup stand out; and the egg twisted rolls that elaborate for Christmas as well. The migas and black pudding of this town are also famous.
© Patronato Provincial de Turismo de Granada I Diputación de Granada
