The History of Rojales
Rojales Spain is a traditional Spanish village which lies inland from the Guardamar Del Segura, south of Costa Blanca. It is rich with history in which the local inhabitants, both Spanish and foreign, enjoy every day of the week. The River Segura which flows right across the town is its most identifiable feature which has dominated and shaped the history of the town.
Its history can be traced to Spain’s occupation by the Arabs in the 8th to 13 century. It was founded by the Muslims, and it was them who created the amazing irrigation systems that were used to water the crops of the farmers, the irrigation systems still exist to this day. The irrigation systems have contributed to the town being known for its agricultural products which are mostly oranges and lemons.
An essential Part of the Arab irrigation system built in the earlier centuries, is the Water Wheel, which is surrounded by some vast stonework which helps to protect it from damage that can arise when the river is flooding.
Another prominent feature of the river is the Azud which is dam with stone works. It has a length of 40 meters and a width of 10 meters, it was built in the 16th Century and it was specifically built to increase the water level of River Segura and redirect its flow to the irrigation channels and to the Water Wheel.
The Gasparito Wells are another features worth visiting. They were built on sandstone in 1920, and they were built to collect rainwater which is extremely precious to the people of Rojales. One of the wells has been transformed into an exhibition site, the other well however is used by the local inhabitants and surrounding villages who collect the rainwater from it.
The Charles III Bridge built in the 18th century crosses over the river with its 3 extraordinary arches, its definitely a site worth seeing.
