Bérchules facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Bérchules
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 Bérchules
Location in Spain
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| Country |  Spain |
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| Autonomous community | Andalusia | ||
| Province | Granada | ||
| Comarca | Alpujarra Granadina | ||
| Judicial district | Órgiva | ||
| Area | |||
| • Total | 69 km2 (27 sq mi) | ||
| Elevation | 1,319 m (4,327 ft) | ||
| Population
(2018)
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| • Total | 719 | ||
| • Density | 10.42/km2 (26.99/sq mi) | ||
| Demonym(s) | Berchulero, ra | ||
| Time zone | UTC+1 (CET) | ||
| • Summer (DST) | UTC+2 (CEST) | ||
| Postal code |
18451
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Bérchules is a small village and municipality in Spain. It is located in the central Alpujarra region, within the province of Granada. The village has a long history, with its origins tracing back to Arab times.
The municipality of Bérchules includes two main villages. These are Bérchules itself, which sits at an elevation of 1350 meters, and Alcútar, located a bit lower at 1250 meters. Both villages are found along a road that connects Órgiva, Trevélez, and Ugíjar. In 2018, the total population of the municipality was about 719 people.
Contents
The River Grande de Los Bérchules
The Grande de Los Bérchules river flows right past the village. This river starts high up in the Sierra Nevada mountains. It then makes its way down to the Mediterranean Sea near Motril. As it travels, the river changes its name to "Guadalfeo." It is the most important river in the Alpujarra region.
Population Changes
Like many rural areas, Bérchules has seen its population decrease over time. Since the mid-20th century, the number of people living here has gone down significantly. Back then, there were probably around 5,000 inhabitants. Many people moved away to other countries like Germany, Switzerland, France, Brazil, and Argentina. Others moved to coastal areas of Almería, such as El Ejido.
Local Economy
Traditionally, the main ways people made a living in Bérchules were through farming. They grew crops like tomatoes and almonds, and also raised cattle. These activities are still important today.
In recent years, tourism has become more and more important for the local economy. Also, since the year 2000, some people from northern Europe have moved to the area. These new residents have also helped the local economy.
Things to Do and See
Many tourists come to Bérchules for hiking. The village is located right on the GR7, which is a very long walking path.
One interesting local spot is the "fuente agua agria." This is a natural spring with water that has a lot of iron. People believe this water has special medicinal properties.
Local Festivals
Bérchules is known for its unique and fun festivals:
- New Year's Eve in August: This is a very special celebration that happens on the first Saturday of August. It's a fun way to celebrate New Year's Eve in the summer!
- Festival of San Marcos: This festival takes place on April 25th. During this time, there are parades where people bring their farm animals.
- Festival of San Pantaleon: Celebrated on July 27th, this festival honors San Pantaleon, who is the patron saint of Bérchules.
- Festival of Santo Cristo: This festival is held in the village of Alcútar on August 9th.
Notable People
A well-known person from Bérchules is Virginia Tovar Martín.
See also
In Spanish: Bérchules para niños
