Explore El Torcal de Antequera, a World Heritage Site famous for its unique karst landscape and geological formations

Beloved by nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, the reserve offers an unforgettable experience: apart from stunning views it provides insights into the geological history of the area and its rich biodiversity that make this site into a treasure trove of natural heritage.

Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, El Torcal de Antequera Spain is renowned for its striking geological features.Pin

El Torcal de Antequera: A Geological Wonder

Designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the mountainous formations of El Torcal de Antequera represent a natural monument within the famous Antequera Dolmens site.

The reserve is renowned for its striking geological features, particularly unique limestone formations that date back to the Jurassic period over 150 million years ago.

The origins of the amazing karst landscape that we see today in fact date back to an even earlier era. Scientists believe that its formation began during the Triassic period, when the region was submerged under a shallow sea. The accumulation of sediments, primarily composed of limestone, set the foundation for what would later become this stunning karst landscape.

Nature as a sculptor

The most notable aspect of the area is the intricate network of cliffs and rock formations known as “torcas.” These torcas have been formed through a combination of physical and chemical weathering and an erosion process that gave rise to the dramatic cliffs, deep ravines, and sharp peaks we’re seeing today.

While hiking El Torcal de Antequera one can’t help but be fascinated by the way natural processes have led to the creation of an amazing array of shapes and structures that inspire visitors to recognize familiar forms and figures in nature-made sculptures.

One of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain, El Torcal is located about 50 kilometers (or 30 miles) inland from the bustling city of Malaga on the Mediterranean coast of southern Spain.

Due to limestone erosion, one will see in El Torcal de Antequera many strange structures, shapes and figures Pin

Don’t forget:

El Torcal de Antequera is on our list of Best Day Trips from around the Malaga and Benalmadena metropolitan area. From there it will take you only about an hour to get to the reserve by car along a very scenic route. It’s one of the reasons why Benalmadena boasts one of the most advantageous locations on the Costa del Sol.

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