Useful information
LOCAL TIME
The Spanish Peninsula uses the Central European Time.
MUSEUMS AND MONUMENTS
Antequera, located in the heart of Andalusia, Spain, boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage, reflected in its museums and monuments. Here are some notable ones:
1. Alcazaba of Antequera (Alcazaba de Antequera): This Moorish fortress dates back to the 14th century and offers panoramic views of the city. Its impressive walls, towers, and gates showcase the city’s Islamic history.
2. Dolmens of Antequera (Dólmenes de Antequera): Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, these megalithic burial structures—Menga, Viera, and El Romeral—predate even the Alcazaba, with Menga being one of the largest dolmens in Europe.
3. Antequera Castle (Castillo de Antequera): Located on a hill overlooking the city, the castle provides a glimpse into Antequera’s medieval past. Its strategic location has made it a key defensive structure throughout history.
4. Royal Collegiate Church of Santa María la Mayor (Real Colegiata de Santa María la Mayor): This Renaissance-style church is a significant religious monument, known for its beautiful architecture, intricate altarpieces, and historic religious artifacts.
5. Municipal Museum (Museo Municipal): Housed in the former Noble Collegiate Church of San Juan, this museum showcases Antequera’s archaeological and artistic heritage. The exhibits cover various periods, from prehistory to the present day.
6. Belén Convent (Convento de Belén): A former Franciscan convent, this site now serves as an art museum, featuring religious art and artifacts from the region.
7. Church of San Sebastián (Iglesia de San Sebastián): An emblematic church in the city, known for its Mudejar and Gothic architectural elements. The church houses important religious artworks.
8. Antequera Bullring (Plaza de Toros de Antequera): This historic bullring, built in the 19th century, reflects Spain’s cultural traditions. It hosts bullfighting events during certain times of the year.
These sites collectively offer a captivating journey through Antequera’s past, showcasing its cultural, religious, and architectural diversity. When visiting, be sure to check for any guided tours or special events that might enhance your experience.
TYPICAL STORE HOURS
Large Supermarkets:
Monday to Saturday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Some may close during lunchtime).
Some may open on Sunday mornings.
Small Local Shops:
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Some may close on Monday afternoons.
Shopping Centers:
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (or until 10:00 PM).
Some may open on Sundays.
Neighborhood Stores:
Hours may vary but often follow a structure similar to small shops.
Clothing and Fashion Stores:
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM.
Souvenir and Craft Shops:
Hours may vary, but generally follow the hours of small shops.
TYPICAL RESTAURANT HOURS:
Lunch:
Served from around 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
Many restaurants offer a fixed-price menu (menú del día) during lunch hours.
Dinner:
Served from around 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
Dinner is typically a later affair in Spain compared to some other countries.
Tapas Bars:
Open throughout the day, but evenings are especially popular for tapas.
Tapas bars often serve small, complimentary snacks with drinks during specific hours.
Weekends:
On weekends, especially Fridays and Saturdays, restaurants may stay open later into the night.
Closed Days:
Some restaurants may close one day a week, often on Mondays or Sundays, but this can vary.
TYPICAL BANK HOURS
Monday to Friday:
Morning hours: 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Afternoon hours: 4:30 PM to 7:45 PM
Saturdays:
Some banks may be open on Saturday mornings, typically from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, but this can vary.
Sundays:
Banks are usually closed on Sundays.
ATM Access:
ATMs (Automatic Teller Machines) are widely available and can be accessed 24/7 for basic transactions.
TYPICAL INSTITUTION HOURS
Monday to Friday:
Morning hours: 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM
Afternoon hours: 4:30 PM to 7:45 PM
Saturdays and Sundays:
Public institutions are usually closed on weekends.
ELECTRICITY AND PLUGS
In Antequera, Spain, the electrical appliances operate on a standard voltage of 220 volts and a frequency of 50 Hz using the European system of round pin plugs. If you plan to bring electrical devices such as an electric shaver or hairdryer from a country with a different voltage system or plug configuration, it’s essential to have a transformer and a plug adapter. These can be crucial for ensuring compatibility with the local electrical infrastructure.
Many of the larger hotels in Antequera provide transformers and plug adapters for their guests’ convenience. Additionally, you can purchase these items at specialized stores and major department stores. This way, you can stay connected and use your electronic devices without any issues during your stay in Antequera.
CLIMATE
In Antequera, located in the Andalusian region of Spain, the summer climate is generally characterized by hot and dry weather. During the summer months of June to August, temperatures often rise, with daytime highs frequently exceeding 30 degrees Celsius (86 degrees Fahrenheit). Antequera experiences a Mediterranean climate, and summers are marked by clear skies, abundant sunshine, and limited rainfall.
The surrounding landscape, with its olive groves and rugged terrain, can contribute to the warm temperatures. While coastal areas in Andalusia tend to have milder temperatures due to the influence of the Mediterranean Sea, Antequera’s inland location may result in higher temperatures, occasionally reaching above 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit).
Visitors to Antequera during the summer should be prepared for warm conditions and take precautions to stay cool and hydrated. It’s advisable to plan outdoor activities for the cooler parts of the day and to be aware of the potential for high temperatures, especially in the midday hours.
PERSONAL SAFETY
Antequera is a generally safe destination, but, as with any place, it is crucial to be mindful of pickpocketing. The local authorities provide a set of general recommendations for tourists.
In Your Accommodation:
Avoid leaving money or valuable items visible; instead, utilize a strongbox for added security.
In Public Places:
1- Maintain constant awareness of your luggage and personal belongings.
2- Secure your wallet or purse, particularly in crowded areas.
3- Take only what is essential when heading to the beach or swimming pool.
4- Keep your camera or video camera secure at all times.
5- Steer clear of street gambling games, as they may be rigged.
6- Exercise caution with any suspicious requests for help.
7- Be wary of seemingly effortless business deals, as they are likely to be fraudulent.
8- When using a car, refrain from leaving any valuable items visible.
By following these guidelines, you can enhance your personal safety and minimize the risk of theft or scams. Always stay vigilant and take necessary precautions, especially in areas with high tourist activity.
WATER
Tap water in Antequera is safe for consumption. However, it is common for locals and visitors alike to opt for bottled water.
EMERGENCY TELEPHONES NUMBERS
National Police (Policía Nacional): 091
Civil Guard (Guardia Civil): 062
Local Police (Policía Local): 092
Emergency services (Servicios de Emergencia): 112
TELEPHONE
Making calls to Antequera:
When calling Antequera from another country, dial 0034 followed by the recipient’s number. In Spain, whether it’s a landline or mobile number, all telephone numbers consist of 9 digits.
Making international calls from Antequera:
To make an international call from Antequera, dial 00, followed by the country code and the recipient’s number.
TIPPING
Tipping is an optional practice in Spain. It is customary to leave a tip in bars, restaurants, taxis, and hotels. While it’s not obligatory, it is appreciated as a gesture of satisfaction for good service. Feel free to tip according to your level of satisfaction with the service provided.
CURRENCY
The official currency used in Spain is the euro (€).
OFFICIAL LANGUAGE
Spanish.