Deifontes
by Shenai Martínez Fernández
If there is something peculiar about Deifontes, it is the love of chess that exists among its inhabitants.
The town's buildings include the Palacio de los Marqueses de Casablanca, a late 19th century building that now houses the town hall. To enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area, a visit to the Torre-Atalaya, of Arab origin, is sufficient.
The most outstanding religious monuments are the 17th-century neo-Mudejar church of Cristo de la Vera Cruz and the hermitage of San Isidro. The Venta del Nacimiento and Las Erillas archaeological sites are evidence of the Roman occupation of Deifontes.
Handicrafts are an important activity in the municipality, with esparto grass and aluminium smelting, as well as taxidermy, crochet and embroidery.
Deifontes has a very varied gastronomy in which the production of olive oil with designation of origin Montes de Granada stands out.
Other typical local products include homemade olives, asadura de matanza, cazuela de vigilia, choto al ajillo (kid with garlic), orange salad, pipirrana, roscos de huevo, sopa de lluvia and gachas con pimientos (porridge with peppers).
The festivities in Deifontes are spread throughout the year. On 2 February, the Candelaria festivities are celebrated with bonfires in the streets and squares, and later, on 15 May, there is a pilgrimage in honour of San Isidro.
The most curious celebration takes place in mid-August, on the occasion of the festivities of Cristo de la Vera Cruz and Virgen del Milagro, when motocross competitions are organised.
Deifontes is located about 26 kilometres from Granada, which can be reached by taking the A-44 road in the direction of Motril and taking exit 108, which will take us to our destination.
