The Torcal de Antequera is a unique natural site, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Torcal de Antequera, an exceptional natural site located in Spain, holds the prestigious distinction of being declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. This recognition underscores the remarkable geological formations and rich biodiversity that characterize the Torcal de Antequera. Visitors to this stunning location can marvel at the intricate limestone rock formations sculpted by millions of years of natural processes, creating a landscape unlike any other. The Torcal de Antequera stands as a testament to the beauty and significance of our natural world, offering a glimpse into the intricate wonders of Earth's history and evolution.

El Torcal: A Natural Wonder in Andalusia

El Torcal (fully known as Paraje Natural Torcal de Antequera) is a 1,171-hectare nature reserve located in the Spanish region of Andalusia, approximately 14 kilometers away from the provincial town of Antequera in the province of Málaga.

Renowned for its exceptional karst formations, the park stands out as one of the most impressive landscapes in Spain.

100 million years ago, today's area was completely covered by the Tethys Sea, from which only the Mediterranean Sea still exists. Over time, sedimentary deposits formed layers of limestone. The Alpine orogeny, caused by the collision of the African and Eurasian tectonic plates, led to the uplifting and folding of these layers, forming hills and mountains. During this process, extensional fissures were formed, which were widened by the ingress of water. The typical carbonic acid weathering in karst areas played a decisive role in the formation of the wildly jagged rocky landscape and fantastic stone formations that we see today. The varying resistance of the originally horizontally deposited sedimentary rocks also contributed to the formation. Depending on the strength of the rock layers, more or less material was and is eroded, which explains the horizontal patterns.

El Torcal is a remarkable geological formation nestled at the base of the undulating Sierra Subbética, with an elevation ranging from 1100 to 1400 meters. Its landscape is a captivating interplay of jagged cliffs and deep ravines, sculpted into a mesmerizing array of organic shapes. Towering pillars of stone slabs, varying in size and orientation, create a surreal sight as if meticulously arranged by a skilled hand. In this rugged terrain, the transition from imposing rock formations to serene pools nestled within smooth, flat slabs unfolds unexpectedly, adding a touch of tranquility to the dramatic scenery of El Torcal.

The Torcal de Antequera Natural Area has a network of trails for public use that run through part of the natural space. The routes for public use are open access, free and are marked so that anyone can travel them without the need for authorization or prior reservation.

It is recommended not to leave the marked trails, since it is a terrain where it is very easy to get disoriented. In addition, the terrain is very rocky, uneven and extremely slippery with humidity.

The visitor is also requested to take special consideration with the natural space they visit, leaving no residue, whether organic or inorganic, respecting the native flora and fauna and any other element that belongs to the landscape (fossils, minerals, etc.).

Photography workshop with Eric Berger from Academia Fotografia y Diseno in El Torcal

Join us on Saturday, 18 May 2024, for an exciting and instructive photography workshop at the Academia Fotografia y Diseno in the midst of the breathtaking landscape of El Torcal.

18 May 2024 16:00 to 20:00

Capture the beauty of this photogenic region under expert guidance, hone your photography skills and discover new perspectives. Whether you're a beginner learning the basics or an experienced photographer looking to hone your craft, this workshop will inspire you and improve your photography skills.

Details and registration

We will meet at 4pm at the Visitors Centre of El Torqual National Park.

Secure your spot by accessing the registration form. Don't miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the art of photography and enjoy the breathtaking views of El Torcal.

Unleash your creativity and improve your photography skills with us on this unforgettable day!

Antequera - El Torcal - Photo Workshop 18.5.2024 - Register NOW