culture
The historic area of Barribarto is a candidate for the Príncipe de Asturias award this year, which will be presented in Seville
26.07.10 - 10:42 -
With its charming, narrow streets and whitewashed houses, Frigiliana’s historic quarter known as Barribarto, is not only a haven for tourists who want to photograph a ‘typical Andalusian pueblo,’ it is also testament to the presence of Muslim culture in this part of Spain as recently as 400 years ago.
Now, the Blas Infante Foundation has nominated the descendants of that Moorish-Andalusian community, who were expelled from the region in 1610, for the Príncipe de Asturias de la Concordia award which will be presented in Seville. Should Frigiliana win, the historic centre of the village will be awarded with a commendation which recognises the architectural and historical value of the area.
Heather Gallagher, who has contributed to an English-language tourist guide to this and other nearby villages, says that such high level recognition is important for Frigiliana. “People come up from the coast and think it is pretty and take a few holiday snaps but it would be great, and more rewarding for them, if they realised that what they’re photographing is a living, breathing piece of Spanish history. The Moorish influence can be felt all over Andalucía, and here, in Frigiliana, you get to see a near-perfect example of that architecture and design.
"The award would also help protect the old centre for generations to come,” she adds.
Local business owner, Lucas Kuefer, who runs a property firm, believes the commendation would help raise the profile of the village. “It would help boost the promotion of Frigiliana to both domestic and international tourists. Not only that, but it may also encourage those who are looking to buy a first or even second home in this part of the area to look at Frigiliana, as it would then be protected from any ugly developments in the future."
