Riogordo was formerly an Arab village, noticeable today in its white houses and the layout of its steep streets. Situated in the Axarquía region, it is known for its ancestral buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries, as well as its enactment of El Paso (Episode of the Passion of the Christ) during Holy Week.

With gorgeous surroundings, Riogordo is perfect for enjoying nature and learning about the local rural customs. This inland municipality forms part of the Ruta del Aceite y de los Montes de la Axarquía, a tourist route through mountains and olive groves.

THERE"S NO GETTING LOST IN RIOGORDO

MONUMENTS

The most important monument in Riogordo is the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de Gracia, built in 1490. This church has a basilica floor plan with naves separated by semi-circular arches. The alcove and square tower with a hipped roof are the most outstanding features.

The Museo Etnográfico is on the same street as the church. Located in a former oil press, the displays at this ethnographic museum include oil and flour mills, wine cellars, a winery, objects from a typical 19th century house and El Paso de Riogordo chapel.

Strolling among the ancestral buildings and white-washed houses, you"ll arrive at the Ermita de San Sebastián o de Jesús Nazareno. This 17th century chapel has a nave and barrel vault with richly decorated lunettes. The alcove adorned with an image of Jesus is a Baroque treasure.

There are many more examples of religious devotion throughout the village, with thirteen alcove chapels and the mural dedicated to El Paso de Riogordo.

This municipality in the Axarquía region is also home to interesting archaeological remains such as Phoenician tombs in the Sierra del Rey and Roman mosaics in the Villa de Auta. At Tajo de Gómer and Cerro de la Capellanía, remains from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages have been discovered.

Riogordo is an essential stop on the Ruta del Aceite y de los Montes de la Axarquía. The objective of this route is for visitors to learn about the customs and traditions of the villages they travel through, as well as to promote the excellent properties of verdial olive oil. Its itinerary includes the municipalities of Alcaucín, Alfarnate, Alfarnatejo, Colmenar, La Viñuela, Periana and Riogordo.