Olive Press Andalucia Issue 423

Dive

A PERUVIAN expat has called in lawyers over claims he was beaten up by police and left in hospital with a ruptured bladder.

In the alarming alleged attack, Diego Armando Torres, insists he was punched and kicked by six Guardia Civil agents on a Friday night. Even more shocking, he claims he was tied up and a plastic bag was put over his head nearly suffocating him.

“I actually feared for my life, particularly when one officer told me ‘you’re going to die’,” he told the Olive Press this week.

The incident happened when he and a friend were heading home to Sabinillas at 9:15pm, on June 16.

Diego, 37, who arrived in Spain to work as a builder two months ago, had been out for some drinks in nearby Estepona.

“We were pulled over at a motorway police check just before arriving in Sabinillas,” he explained.

“They stopped us and asked my mate to step out of the car. I ini-

Costa del Sol resident says he was brutally beaten up by Guardia Civil officers

EXCLUSIVE

By Alberto Lejarraga

tially stayed in the passenger’s seat, but then got out to ask what was going on.

“The agents told me to be quiet and not to speak, but I asked again if everything was okay.

“The police are now saying that I used force and kicked one of them, but this is not true.

“Suddenly they snapped and forced me to the ground and I was handcuffed and taken to a police car.”

His mate, from Bolivia, who wants to remain anonymous, confirmed the heavy-handed arrest.

“But when I dared ask a policeman why they were doing it, he replied; ‘do you also want to get hit?’

“Diego was put in a car and that was the last time I saw him that day,” explained his friend, who is also a builder.

The victim claims he was then taken to the Guardia Civil barracks in Manilva where he was grilled on what he was doing in Spain.

“I was very scared and just wanted to call someone,” he said. “Eventually they agreed but as I left my phone in the car I couldn’t remember any numbers apart from my brother’s, who lives in Norway, and they refused to call a foreign number.”

It was then that a couple of the officers started slapping him in the face telling him to ‘shut up’.

“I remember there were up to six of them taking turns to slap me,” he insisted.

“After a while

they took me back to the car. I was terrified and I started screaming for help. Then, one of the officers punched me in the face through the open window, cutting open my left eyebrow.”

At this point the attack got far more sinister, he claims, after the police took him back to a different smaller and darker room at the station.

“They tied my ankles and wrists together, covered my head with a plastic bag and started punching and kicking me in the stomach,” he claims. “When I was about to asphyxiate, they would remove the bag then put it back on. They did this many times.

BEATEN: Diego with ruptured bladder and (far left) face with cuts and bruises

around 3am with agonising stomach pain.

“An officer also stepped on my head, causing me injuries and bruises. They kicked and punched me in the stomach until I passed out from the pain.

“The worst ones were, I estimate, in their 30s and 40s, while two younger agents, probably in their 20s, did not do anything and actually tried to comfort me.”

After the brutal assault, he was taken to the Policia Local Station in Estepona, where he was put in a cell and fell asleep, but woke up

Despite begging to go to hospital it wasn’t until 9.20am that three Guardia agents returned and took him to a GP in Estepona, where the doctor told the officers he had to be taken to hospital urgently.

He was taken to Marbella’s Costa del Sol Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery on a ‘ruptured bladder’.

He also ‘presented bruises on the head and face’ according to the official medical report seen by the Olive Press.

Diego has since taken legal advice and is currently waiting to hear back from a public defender to file an official complaint.

A Guardia Civil official report claims Diego was arrested for kicking one of the

Continues on Page 2

in and keep cool as the heatwave arrives Full story, see page 28 & 29

Dangerous summer

TWO agricultural workers in Seville died from heatstroke while out working in the midday sun, causing calls for measures to protect workers during heatwaves.

Historic Low

LA Viñuela reservoir in Spain's Axarquia is already at an historic low just at the start of summer, dropping to 9.2% of its capacity.

Medical emergency

A FLIGHT had to make an emergency landing at Malaga airport after a four-year-old boy had an epileptic fit.

Migrant trauma

SPANISH rescuers saved 187 migrants from drowning in the waters off the coasts of Tenerife and El Hierro.

BUSTED

ROTTEN: Drugs hidden in fruit

POLICE brought in a huge haul of 6.5 tonnes of cocaine stashed amongst a shipment of bananas in the port at Algeciras with a market value of €233 million.

They also managed to make 13 arrests including high-ranking kingpins after the search of several homes in Algeciras, Malaga and Castellar de la Frontera.

Raids in two industrial warehouses in Algeciras and Antequera also garnered around €1.5 mil-

lion in cash and various cars, along with highend watches. The operation began last October 2022 when investigators detected a criminal organization, whose Malaga-based leader was regarded as one of Spain's main cocaine traffickers. One of his key associates was a member of a well-known family in Castellar de la Frontera who used a frozen fish company in Algeciras to launder the money from the illicit activity.

Stash house

AN ABANDONED armoury linked to the Kinahan gang has been found in a flat in Estepona. Revolvers, silencers, hacksaws, and over 40 shotguns and pistols, as well as balaclavas, tracking devices and ammunition were discovered in the terrifying arsenal.

The major haul, one of the largest ever seized on the Costa del Sol, had been sitting there since November 2021 and went completely unguarded for six months.

Police discovered the weapons in May last year, but they only

Police discover huge weapons stash abandoned for months in Costa del Sol apartment

By Alberto Lejarraga

made it public now.

A police source revealed to the Olive Press that the weapons stash was found in a residential complex known as Costalita. The flat where the arsenal was found has been described as a second floor apartment in a residential complex in the munici-

BRIT KILLED

for the three assailants with the incident said to have shocked the local community.

pality of Estepona. Located near Cancelada and in front of Saladillo beach, the complex is a series of private communities centred around gardens and pools. “I didn’t know they found them here. I am glad they are gone now,” a holiday-

maker in the urbanisation told the Olive Press. A waitress in a nearby restaurant was less surprised. “This sort of thing happens all the time on the Costa del Sol,” she said.

It has been reported that the property was rented by two expats using fake IDs. The two bizarre tenants never had money problems and had been paying rent for several months until they suddenly disappeared.

Brutality

agents, which he completely denies.

Leading Marbella lawyer Antonio Flores, described the case as ‘an atrocity’.

“If proved, this would be an atrocity. First, these officers should be given a precautionary suspension and then tried for assault and abuse of authority,” he insisted.

A spokesman for Spain’s Ombudsman added: “If he has been beaten up, he needs to file a report and the justice system will do its job.”

A Guardia Civil press officer said: “I don’t know if this is true or not, but it sounds strange to me. I have been a Guardia Civil for 30 years and I have never seen anything like this. It sounds like a science fiction movie. Once he files a complaint, this will go to court and a judge will decide.”

The reason the duo left the property is unknown as the stash would have considerable value on the black market.

It could be linked to the arrest of the gang’s money launderer, Johnny Morrissey, in Marbella a few weeks earlier.

It is believed all weapons had been acquired on the black market, as the guns had their serial numbers erased.

The DNA of one of the gang’s infamous members was found on one of the weapons by Policia Nacional, who continues the investigation.

A BRITISH expat died in hospital three days after being assaulted during a home burglary in Sevilla province. The 81-year-old victim was attacked on July 2 at his property on Calle Puente in Estepa. The Guardia Civil is leading the search

ARMED: Over 40 shotguns

HE had been walking down a Barcelona street in the early days of the Spanish Civil War when a striking figure captured his eye.

It was July 25, 1936, and the woman standing on a barricade really stood out.

Antoni Campañà jumped into action training his camera on the attractive Spaniard wearing militia fatigues.

Smiling broadly with all the early optimism of the Republican cause, she held up the classic black flag of Spain’s CNT anarchist trade union.

The picture - like Robert Capa’s legendary Falling Soldier photo taken in Cordoba - would go on to become one of the most emblematic symbols of the war.

But the famous photo would also spark a decades-long mystery – just who was this iconic woman?

Her identity remained unknown for an incredible 87 years, until a breakthrough five years

Richie’s return

THE seemingly ageless Lionel Richie returned to play Marbella last week after an eightyear hiatus.

Just 72 years young, the crooner, who rose to fame as part of the Commodores in the seventies, performed some of his greatest hits at the auditorium of the Starlite festival. “It's been an amazing night and I hope to see you again soon," Richie said on stage at the end of the concert.

Our aunt Anita

ago, when the identity of the photographer was first discovered.

A Barcelona local, Toni Monne, was rummaging around in his old family house in Sant Cugat when he discovered a box containing thousands of wartime photographs belonging to his grandfather, Antoni. And among them was the iconic image.

Step forward a few years and Monne began working with the National Art Museum of Catalunya (MNAC) to prepare an exhibition of Campaña's work. Then, as if by fate, when the exhibition finally opened a family member of the unknown woman attended while visiting Barcelona from France.

“We got goosebumps,” François Gomez Garbin revealed, on seeing his aunt Anita in the photo. And by chance Monne, who happened to be there at

THAT’S THE PITS!

Formula One hotshot Lando Norris’s Spanish rental villa burgled while out for dinner

HE may be blessed with wealth, good looks and a career as F1 driver, but Englishman Lando Norris’s good fortune seems to have deserted him in recent times.

Not only is the 23-year-old hotshot enduring a less-thanstellar racing season, but he recently became the victim of a very expensive robbery – the second in two years.

The McLaren driver revealed he had been burgled while he had gone out in Marbella with a group of friends to eat. The group, that included the

By Walter Finch

popular influencer Jennie Dimova, found their luxury villa in the nearby hills ransacked and most of their possessions gone.

"We were out for dinner, and our place got robbed," Norris, who is currently ninth in the standings, revealed.

"A mixture of many things were stolen. Some were expensive and some were not so expensive,” he continued.

“It is still an ongoing investigation so I cannot say too much."

HEDGEHOG RESCUE

A TEAM of unique 'hedgehog-saving' dogs have been trained to rush into action after the first summer wildfires razed parts of the Doñana national park.

The canines have been specially trained by an environmental group to sniff out injured hedgehogs.

Once located, the hedgehogs are treated and cared for and then returned to their natural habitat.

The shocking turn of events left Dimova shaken up, as she shared her anguish on TikTok.

"If you're wondering why I look like this, it's because our villa got robbed," she said.

"Everything I owned - my clothes, my shoes, my bags, my jewellery - everything has been taken.

“I'm left with literally nothing. I cried for two hours, but what can I do?"

The blow didn’t stop Norris from coming second in the British grand prix at the weekend. It is a big improvement having only managed to secure points in four of the other nine races this season.

that moment, was told that the woman’s name was Ana Garbín Alonso.

And finally her story was known.

Born in Almería in 1915, Alonso was 21 years old when Campaña took her photograph, which was then distributed throughout Europe on the postcard album, The Fight in Barcelona.

When the war ended with a win by Franco's fascist army, Alonso was forced to cross the Spanish border and settle in Beziers, France.

She became a dressmaker and had a son, Pepito, yet incredibly never once returned to Spain.

Despite this, Spanish culture pervaded the walls of her home, its music, food and humour. And now, this month, her story is being told in an extraordinary exhibition in Montpellier entitled; Hidden icons. The Unknown Images of the Spanish War. Alonso died in 1977, but the exhibition remembers her fighting spirit and includes a selection of many other of Campaña's works.

Choli-days

DIEGO Simeone has been spotted enjoying a break from the daily pressures of the Atletico Madrid hotseat with the missus. The 53-year old waded into the shallows with his bikini-clad paramour Carla Pereyra, nearly 20 years his junior, during their getaway in Ibiza.

The Argentine, often known as ‘Cholo’, needed to let his hair down after a so-so season with Atletico. His side notched their customary third place finish and crashed out of the Champions League in the group stages.

JUDICIAL SHOCKER

THE Supreme Court has quashed a rape conviction of a Moroccan bricklayer for a sexual assault that took place more than 30 years ago.

Ahmed Tommouhi, 72, was incorrectly convicted of a series of sexual assaults in 1991, and spent 15 years in jail. However the assaults had in fact been carried out by another man who had a very similar physical appearance.

The key to the ruling was semen gathered at the scene had no genetic match to Tommouhi. The only evidence was his identification in a police lineup.

Furthermore, one of the rape victims, identified only as Nuria, has since admitted she mistakenly identifyied Tommouhi, due to his similarity to the true rapist.

Tommouhi was 40 years old when he arrived in Spain, but was arrested just six months later for these crimes that he did not commit.

He revealed this week that he refused to return to his home country until his name was cleared in Spain.

EYES PEELED

Appeal for missing child abducted by his father in Portugal thought to have crossed into Spain

By Walter Finch

A CHILD who was abducted by his biological father while on holiday in Portugal a year ago is thought to have crossed into Spain. Jayden Pearson, 14, is believed to have been moved into Andalucia, having lived further north.

The Doncaster-native is slim, 5ft tall, with bluegreen eyes and light brown hair.

He was last seen by his mother, who has legal custody, when she waved him off on a 10-day trip to the Algarve with his

ABDUCTED: Jayden’s dad Andrew has ‘brought him to Spain’

father Andrew Pearson, 33, in August last year. However, when the airport taxi did not pick Jayden up on his return flight and Andrew blocked her number, mother Re -

becca Jones, 35, began to fear the worst. Police investigations in both Portugal and the UK initially pinpointed the pair in Alcobaca, between Lisbon and Porto, and lat -

CHILD DIES IN HOT CAR

A THREE-YEAR-OLD child died on Thursday after his mother accidently left him in a locked car. The youngster passed away after spending several hours in temperatures of around 25ºC in the Pontevedra province in the northeastern Galicia region.

The mother reportedly forgot to leave the child at the daycare centre where he was due to be looked after, and travelled instead directly to her place of work. The authorities were alerted to the child’s plight by a passer-by, who called the emer-

gency services at around 5pm.

An ambulance crew could do nothing for the child however, apart from to certify his death.

The alarm was also raised when the boy’s father went to pick the boy up from the daycare centre, and found that he was missing. The local council of O Porriño, where the family lives, has declared three days of mourning.

See letters on p18

Think local for your financial planning.

Now you’re living in Spain, your UK adviser is unlikely to have in-depth knowledge of the intricacies of the Spanish tax and succession regimes, which change frequently. UK planning solutions could backfire in Spain. And postBrexit, UK-based advisers are generally not regulated to advise EU residents.

Blevins Franks advisers live locally in Spain and are regulated and authorised to provide advice here. They have built up years of first-hand experience of living in Spain and the local regulations. They react quickly to tax and succession reforms, updating and guiding clients whenever necessary.

Social inequality panacea

SPANISH labour minister, Yolanda Diaz, is proposing to give every 18-year-old in the country a one-off payment of €20,000 to use on education, training, or establishing a business.

This ‘universal income’ would be accessible to all young citizens, regardless of their economic background and would come with guidance on how to spend it wisely.

To fund the €10bn program, Diaz plans to tax citizens earning more than €3m a year.

er in Castelo Branco. But it is now feared his father could have brought him into Andalucia in efforts to evade capture. Rebecca gained custody of Jayden and his brother, Mathew, 11, in 2019 after her relationship broke down with Andrew. But she agreed to let him go on the holiday with his father, unaware of what he was planning.

If you spot either Jayden or Andrew, you are advised not to approach but contact South Yorkshire Police on +44 114 2196905.

Alternatively email newsdesk@theolivepress.es

Triple death on beach

THREE men drowned while swimming off the Catalan coast on the same day despite the incidents taking place on beaches where lifeguards were present. A 60-year-old Cuban man died while bathing in Girona province with emergency crews unable to save him, while a 55year old man drowned in nearby waters. Further south, an Indian man drowned in Tarragona. Again, lifeguards managed to pull him out of the water but medics could not save his life.

Mystery plunge

A YOUNG man was found dead in the street after falling from a second floor balcony in Conil de la Frontera (Cadiz).

The 34-year-old was with friends celebrating a stag party.

The group was at a nightclub when the victim started feeling unwell so his friends took him back to the apartment and returned to the club. But when they got home later he could not be found and when they started looking they found his dead body lying in the street below. Police confirmed an investigation has been launched.

ON THE WAY

SPAIN'S second major heatwave of the summer arrived this week and could serve up highs of 48 degrees in some inland areas, threatening the all-time record in the Western Mediterranean.

The highest temperature ever was observed just two years ago in Sicily, Italy on August 11, 2021 when the mercury hit 48.8 degrees.

The country's state weather service, Aemet, suggests

TURTLE DELIGHT

MOTHER: A leatherback chose Marbella to lay her eggs

established since 2001

Stoking racism

FAR-RIGHT party Vox and eviction company Desokupa teamed up to make false claims a murder in Madrid was committed by an immigrant.

By Alex Trelinski

The Mediterranean is facing prospect of highest temperatures ever recorded that the hot weather could be around for some time - as much as two weeks.

There is nevertheless some respite this weekend predicted for coastal areas, with 31 degrees for Malaga, 30 degrees in Benidorm, and 32 degrees in Valencia.

Higher temperatures of 35 degrees for Torrevieja and 33 for

Palma are forecast.

The high temperatures are being caused by a mass of very warm and dry air known as ‘Cerberus’ travelling from the Sahara desert that has been expanding into Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia towards south Europe.

A LATE night beach walker stumbled upon the near-miraculous discovery of a loggerhead turtle in the midst of laying her eggs. The hard-backed mother was busy laying close to 70 eggs in the middle of summer on one of Marbella's busiest beaches, just west of Puerto Banus.

This is only the second nesting of loggerhead turtles on the Marbella coastline, who usually prefer the beaches of the eastern Med. In August 2020 a loggerhead turtle nested on the beach of Los Boliches, in Fuengirola. And in June this year, one laid 80 eggs in the town of Denia, while another laid 62 in Gandia in Valencia province.

It has been speculated that the progressive warming of the Mediterranean coastline could be one of the causes of these rare nestings.

Heat warnings have been issued both to residents and tourists across Spain.

The Cruz Roja has urged people to check on the most vulnerable during the high temperatures, such as children and older people, while also calling on people to stay hydrated and to watch for signs of heatstroke, which can include vomiting and fainting.

The new heatwave comes after the World Meteorological Organization said the beginning of this month was the hottest week on record for the planet. 'The world just had the hottest week on record, according to preliminary data,' the WMO said in a statement, after climate change and the early stages of the El Niño weather pattern drove the warmest June on record.

El Niño is a naturally occurring pattern that drives increased heat worldwide, as well as drought in some parts of the world and heavy rains elsewhere.

However, a pair of Spaniards are alleged to have stabbed to death the owner of a clothing store in the central Tirso de Mollina square, in what looks to be a robbery gone wrong.

These facts were ignored by both Vox – a party that could end up in a coalition government with the Popular Party after the July 23 general elections – and Desokupa in order to stoke anti-immigrant sentiment.

Both organisations published information on social media stating that the crime had been carried out by immigrants. Desokupa wrote on their Insta: “Today an Algerian has stabbed the owner of this establishment. She died.”

While Vox leader Santiago Abascal later admitted that he had made a mistake by linking to a story ‘that included an error’.

The public prosecutor is reported to be investigating whether the posts could constitute hate crimes.

Voted top expat paper in Spain

A campaigning, community newspaper, the Olive Press represents the huge expatriate community in Spain with an estimated readership, including the websites, of more than two million people a month.

OPINION

OUR DUTY

IT is the moral duty of any public-serving media outlet in a healthy democracy to expose abuses of power.

At the Olive Press, we stand together with anyone, particularly foreigners, who have been bullied by the authorities.

So when we heard about the alleged police assault on Peruvian Diego Torres, we had an obligation to investigate it fairly and without prejudice.

It is true that when we first spoke to him, his story came as a shock.

But after meeting him and having gathered evidence, while naturally sceptical we could not find evidence that he was dishonest.

The Guardia Civil listened carefully when we explained to them the charges and promised us they will investigate when a complaint is formally filed.

The Olive Press maintains an excellent relationship with the law and order body, which we hope will continue.

Founded in 1844, the Guardia Civil is one of the main pillars of Spanish democracy, playing an essential role in the fight against crime and protecting us all.

‘Firm without violence’ were the words used by the Duke of Ahumada, its founder and first general director.

A motto that the vast majority of agents do follow, and we, as citizens, are thankful to them for taking care of us.

But if there are individuals that deviate from this purpose, and abuse the power vested in them as officers of the law, they must be rooted out.

So we are publishing Diego’s story to speed up the Guardia’s investigation into the issue and ensure that all their officers are on the right side of the law.

Because, if the charges turn out to be true, they probably have done it before, and are likely to do it again.

And if they turn out to be false, we can feel satisfied that we did our duty to society.

PUBLISHER / EDITOR

Jon Clarke, jon@theolivepress.es

Dilip Kuner dilip@theolivepress.es

Alberto Lejarraga alberto@theolivepress.es

Jo Chipchase jo@theolivepress.es

John Culatto

ADMIN

Victoria Humenyuk Makarova (+34) 951 273 575 admin@theolivepress.es

ELECTION FE

ON July 23, Spaniards will be heading to polling booths for the fifth time in the last 10 years, to choose the next prime minister and the government.

But according to the polling, it is far from clear who will be picked by voters and indeed whether any party or parties will get enough votes to avoid a stalemate.

Here is a complete guide to everything you need to know ahead of this key moment in Spanish politics.

WHY ARE WE HAVING ELECTIONS NOW?

After forming Spain’s first coalition government since the country returned to democracy in the 1970s, PSOE Socialist Party Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez has repeatedly stated that he would see out the entirety of his fouryear term.

His administration was formed in early 2020 thanks to the support of junior partner Unidas Podemos, and the PM could have called elections as late as December of this year.

But after the May 28 local and regional

WHO ARE THE MAIN PARTIES STANDING?

Sanchez is running for reelection as prime minister, despite his reputation having taken a hit over the last four years thanks to the deals he has done with smaller, nationalist parties such as the Catalan Republican Left and EH Bildu, the former political wing of Basque terrorist group ETA. His main opponent is Alberto Nunez Feijoo of the PP, followed by Santiago Abascal of the far-right Vox.

A newcomer is Sumar, a leftist alliance that has absorbed the two component parts of Unidas Podemos, the United Left and Podemos itself, as well as other smaller leftist parties from Spain’s splintered political spectrum. The candidate for Sumar is current deputy prime minister and labour minister, Yolanda Diaz.

HOW DO GENERAL ELECTIONS WORK IN SPAIN?

Spaniards will be voting for the 350 deputies who will take their seats in the lower house of parliament, the Congress of Deputies.

Spain uses the D’Hondt method, which allocates Congress seats in proportion to the number of votes received, as well as a closed-list system of candidates, meaning that voters choose the party rather than the politicians who are running.

As for the Senate, the 208 seats are allocated using an open-list system, where electors vote for candidates rather than parties.

WHAT DO THE POLLS SAY?

While the predictions vary as to what will happen, one thing seems certain: no single party will win an outright majority of 176 seats in the 350-seat Congress, meaning a coalition is inevitable. The latest poll from Spanish daily El Pais predicts the PP and Vox will fall eight seats short of an absolute majority, with 125 seats for the former and 43 for the latter, a total of 168.

The survey, carried out by pollster 40dB, also predicts 111 seats for the PSOE and 35 for Sumar, for a total of vative newspaper ABC has predicted that the PP tween 175 and 183 seats, potentially paving the way mation of

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‘GET TXAPOTE TO VOTE FOR YOU’

‘QUE TE vote Txapote’, roughly translated as Get Txapote to vote for you. This seemingly innocent Spanish phrase, which is nice and catchy thanks to its rhyme, is causing an ongoing headache for Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, and pain for the victims of terrorism.

The slogan about ETA that is plaguing the prime minister and victims alike

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But who is Txapote? And who came up with the slogan that has dominated the ongoing electoral campaigns in Spain?

The slogan first appeared on September 3, last year, when Sanchez was making a visit to Sevilla.

While he was received warmly by supporters, the Socialist Party leader was also confronted by a group of protestors, likely Vox supporters, who whistled, jeered and proffered insults.

Among the group was an older, portly gentleman, who was carrying a sign above his head with the now-immortal words: ‘Que te vote Txapote’.

Txapote’s real name is Francisco Javier Garcia Gaztelu, and he is a convicted terrorist from the now-defunct Basque group ETA.

Aged 57, he is currently serving a 152-year prison sentence for his crimes, which include some of the most shocking murders during ETA’s decades-long bloody campaign for an independent Basque Country.

Among these was the killing of Miguel Angel Blanco, a local PP councillor who was kid-

napped by ETA, who demanded their prisoners be brought to jails in the Basque Country, closer to their families, in exchange for Blanco’s release.

The then-PP government of Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar refused to negotiate, and Blanco was shot twice in the head and left to die.

The kidnapping and the murder shocked Spain, and galvanised social rejection of ETA and its bloody campaign.

In fact, more than 500,000 people turned out to a demonstration in Bilbao while Blanco was still alive and being held by ETA, a phenomenon that was repeated in several other parts of Spain. So what does Txapote have to do with Pedro Sanchez?

The reason why the slogan works, and why it has stuck, is to do with the political deals that the prime minister has had to make over the last nearly four years of his government.

After the inconclusive elections of 2019, Sanchez formed a government with junior coalition partner Unidas Podemos (United We Can), but the administration still lacked a working majority in Congress.

As a result, to pass legislation – including the

all-important budget – Sanchez has done deals to gain the support of a series of smaller parties, including EH Bildu, which is the former political wing of ETA.

This has caused huge controversy among victims associations, as well as opening up a political flank where the opposition can attack him – and also gave rise to the now-infamous phrase, ‘Que te vote Txapote’.

EH Bildu is a legitimate political party, but its history and its often-timid condemnation of ETA violence means it is anathema for parties such as the PP and Vox.

The appearance of the slogan has prompted hundreds of column inches in Spanish newspapers, and it became a regular phrase used on social media.

It gained further traction on January 25, when a man who was being interviewed by broadcaster TVE about a speed camera issue suddenly started shouting it and other insults against Sanchez.

It has also been seized upon by far-right party Vox, and members of the PP. The regional premier of the Madrid region, Isabel Diaz Ayuso, cited the slogan during a debate in the Madrid assembly as a way of criticising the Socialist Party.

VER

WHO COULD DO DEALS?

Polling data has prompted analysts to predict that a PP-Vox government is the most likely outcome of the July 23 polls.

But if the groups fall short of a majority, they could struggle to find support. This is mostly due to Vox’s hardline policies on issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, domestic violence and illegal immigration (see over). The Basque Nationalist Party, for example, has already made clear it won’t support a PP-Vox administration.

ANOTHER ‘FRANKENSTEIN’ GOVERNMENT?

This paves the way for a repeat of the 2019 election result, whereby the PSOE teams up with new leftist alliance Sumar, and seeks support from a myriad of smaller parties. The current administration has been governing in a minority this way over the last few years, but it has cost Sanchez dear: his concessions to Catalan separatists, including pardons for the jailed leaders of the 2017 independence drive, have come with huge political fallout, while agreements with EH Bildu in order to pass legislation have raised the ire of conservative voters and victims’ associations alike.

A REPEAT ELECTION?

Another possible outcome from July 23 is that Spaniards will be forced to return to the polls: if the result is inconclusive, and no party can find the support in Congress to select a prime minister and form a government, the elections may have to be rerun. This, however, could mean that the country is left with a caretaker administration until well into 2024.

IT is in many ways the Doomsday scenario for Spain … and certainly Gibraltar (you’ll need to read to the end).

But, what seemed impossible a year ago is now a terrifying reality with Spain’s July 23 general election set for next weekend.

As Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez sweet-talks his way around Spain on the traditional campaign tour, he may just be sleepwalking his way into allowing a fascist party into Moncloa Palace.

For (far) right up his rear-end - and with activists shadowing his every move - is the extreme nationalist party Vox, which is odds-on to become the dealmaker by the end of the month.

With an anti-EU agenda and policies to ban abortion, scrap gender violence laws and eject immigrants from Spain, the new party has understandably been labelled as ‘fascist’ and ‘neo-Nazi’.

So it’s alarming that Vox will likely hold the balance of power, expected to win between 11 and 14% of the vote (37 to 40 seats, next week). As, when coupled with the expected 135140 senators (33-35%) for the right

THE COWARDLY HYPOCRITE

Santiago Abascal

Leader Santiago Abascal will once again stand as the party's candidate for the Presidency. The 47-year-old - who appeared a-la-Putin, riding a horse during the last election campaign as if he was a Spanish Conquistador - is well-known for his blatant hypocrisy.

SURPRISE VOX

The Olive Press analyses four of the most controversial members of Spain’s far right party with the general election looming this month

wing PP party, the chance of Vox getting into a coalition government inches ever nearer.

While left wing coalition, Sumar, is making in-roads and threatening to grab up to 15% of the vote, it may not be enough to save Sanchez.

Here, we take a look at four controversial characters in Vox.

While he strongly advocates the eradication of useless public bodies he refers to as chiringuitos, Abascal actually benefited from one in the past.

In 2013, in fact, he was appointed Director of the Foundation for Patronage and Social Sponsorship in Madrid. This was a public body with no obvious activity and only one employee, in addition to Abascal, who was assigned a staggering wage of €82,491 per year.

Abascal, a former PP member who has never worked outside politics, created VOX on December 17, 2013, the very same day the Foundation for Patronage was dissolved. He later described this organisation as ‘unnecessary.’ But didn’t, of course, give the money back.

The VOX leader has also - no surprise as a fan of former dictator Francovehemently supported the return of compulsory military service in Spain, which ended in 2001.

Something Abascal never undertook, coincidentally, as he asked for three consecutive extensions that allowed him to postpone his enlistment, until it was scrapped.

THE CLIMATE DENIER Marta Fernandez

Marta Fernandez is a 56-year-old lawyer who became Chairwoman in the government of Aragon last month.

Fernandez, from Zaragoza, be-

came infamous for her several tweets dismissing the existence of gender violence, the covid pandemic and, even, wait for it, climate change!

Indeed ‘gender violence does not exist,’ she insisted just two years ago, telling feminists ‘you are the granddaughters of the Christians, who kicked Muslims out of the Iberian Peninsula so you can now walk around topless in the street.’ Granddaughters, Marta? How well did you do at history?

Fernandez, who thinks climate change is invented, also thinks that the Covid-19 pandemic was a conspiracy.

“Wash your hands regularly, because the Government and media are responsible for brainwashing,’ she railed.

And of course, she is also against the LGBT movement and, predictably, defined the arrival of migrants as an ‘invasion.’

ANTI-ABORTIONIST Javier Ortega Smith

Javier Ortega Smith is one of the VOX founding members and most controversial characters.

Smith, a 54-year-old lawyer, became well-known in 2018 after swimming (yes splashing in the briny) to Gibraltar to erect a Spanish flag of 180 metres wide. “Gibraltar is Spain. Pirates out of the rock,” he later He also has an unserved arrest warrant, only effective in Gibraltar, for stealing a concrete block in British waters in 2014.

The councillor for VOX in Madrid, he was criticised for boycotting a minute of silence for the victims of gender violence by carrying a banner that said ‘gender has no violence.’ Smith, who will be number four in the Madrid list for the general election, also believes ‘abortion is not a right’.’ “A woman can decide what to do with her own body. She can decide what haircut she wants, her nail colour, or what to eat, but when you have created life, it is not your body, but an independent living being.”

WIFE-ABUSER

Carlos Flores

mother of his three children.

Sanchez himself is outright furious about it. He recently insisted: “It’s evil, it’s making use of the suffering of the victims without scruples nor principles.”

And ETA victims are equally unhappy. “The victims deserve to be treated with RESPECT,” wrote the sister of Gregorio Ordoñez, who was killed by ETA and heads up the victims association.

“Using a hashtag to trivialise the murder of so many innocent people, including my brother Gregorio, shows a lack of principles and how

unimportant we are,” she added.

As for the man who carried the sign first using the phrase, no one has been able to track him down. But sources at El Confidencial claim he is a keen Vox supporter.

Whoever he was, he has created a slogan that has likely done untold damage to Pedro Sanchez and his electoral hopes.

As fellow politician, Pablo Iglesias, the former deputy prime minister and founder of Podemos, insisted: ‘the phrase has won the elections’.

Carlos Flores, who led the party’s list for the Parliament of the Valencian Community, was sentenced for gender violence in 2002.

Although many VOX members, including Marta Fernandez, don’t believe in gender violence, Flores was convicted for this offence as he ‘insulted, coerced and harassed’ his ex-wife, a staggering 21 times a court heard.

The 59-year-old was handed a prison sentence and given a threeyear restraining order against the

According to the court sentence, he once told her ‘I will be screwing you all your life until you die and I am done with you.’

Flores - who is also coincidentally a former member of pro-Franco party Fuerza Nueva - was forced to step down from the PP-VOX coalition for the Valencian Parliament because of his conviction…

However, it has not stopped leader Abascal placing him as number one in the list for the Valencian Community in the general election. Be careful what box you tick, fine people of Valencia!

The polls put the conservative PP in the lead, but deals will likely have to be done with farright Vox in order to govern

RUN!

SAN Fermin is back once again and madder than ever.

The scenes in Pamplona on the eve of the festival were a sight to behold as the main square and every single balcony were packed with cheering sanfermineros. There was not an inch to move among

This year’s brave - or barmy - San Fermin participants take their turns to run with the bulls

a sea of red scarves as the president of Osasuna, Pamplona’s football club, gave the opening address from a balcony.

The festival is running until Saturday the following week.

Each morning at 8am six fighting bulls are released along with four oxen to

run the 825 metres route from the Corrales de Santo Domingo to Pamplona’s Plaza de Toros. So far the escapades have already seen 26 runners hurt at the time of writing. Here are some of the best pics of the action so far…

To kick things off, visitors wearing the traditional San Fermin white t-shirt and red handkerchief eagerly crowd around the gates where the bulls are being released. Eager participants hold their hand out in hopes of touching the bulls as they run past.

A bull runner doesn't dare look back as a bull barrels toward him. It is virtually impossible to run the whole 850 metres of the encierro. Instead, participants choose a section of it when the bulls are threateningly close and then run for their lives to stay in front of the horns.

Some fiesta-goers walk a pedestrian 'car' through the crowded streets of Pamplona. For San Fermin, the roads shut down and the fiesta pours out from every corner. The festivities are non-stop from sun-up to sun-down for seven days in July.

Taking rather a lot of care, participants run alongside the bulls, looking back to avoid being gored on the raging bull horns. Since 1910, 16 people have died and hundreds are injured annually.

The four angry bulls part the sea of runners with their horns. As well as the dangers of getting hooked by a horn, sprinters run the risk of being trampled by the 600kg animals—or stampeded by their fellow frightened runners.

A view of the bull runners from an Estafeta Street balcony. Spectators can rent space on a balcony, catch the finish at the bullring, or watch from the start, where the nervous runners sing the traditional “A San Fermín pedimos" before the bulls are released.

TRAIN-CATION

BIZARRE SIGHT: London DLR train cruises down Spanish highway

CARRIAGES from London’s Docklands Light Railway were spotted taking a summer break from ferrying London commuters back and forth.

British motorists returning from the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona were surprised to see the familiar London sight cruising down the A10 to Vitoria.

But the train carriage was in fact heading to its new home after rolling off the manufacturing line at the CAF factory in the Basque country.

Spanish company Construcciones y Auxiliar de Ferrocarriles (literally ‘Construction and Other Railway Services’) won a contract to deliver 43 state-of-the-art trains to Transport

for London (TfL) in 2019. Four years later, London commuters will soon get to enjoy air conditioning, the latest real-time travel information on internal screens and mobile charging points. They are also designed to accommodate passengers with limited mobility, featuring three dedicated wheelchair spaces and three multi-use areas. These areas can be used to store pushchairs, bicycles or luggage. The UK is currently the biggest customer of

Spanish-built trains with a total of 216 on order across several operators, including Northern, West Midlands Trains and Transport for Wales. Despite Spain’s proud train-building prowess, it was CAF that was at the centre of a recent bungled train order that saw 31 trains designed that were too large for the tunnels they would pass through. The farcical €258 million blunder resulted in two heads rolling - but not at CAF.

State-owned railway company Renfe announced that its rolling stock manager had been fired, while Adif, the organisation which manages railway infrastructure in Spain, said goodbye to its technology inspectorate. The mistake was spotted before any train was constructed but it has delayed the delivery of the project by several years. The trains will now likely arrive in 2026.

Fire sparks mark the beginning of the traditional Bull of Fire parade. Festival-goers gather around the mock bull as it is carried out during the San Fermin festival in Pamplona.

THE Conservative opposition Partido Popular (PP) will create a National Water Authority to deal with Spain’s water supply issues for farmers and other sectors should it win the July 23 general election.

The proposal would provide ‘governance, investment, and management’ solutions to water problems right across Spain as the country grapples with the worst drought in decades.

A potential PP government would want a uniform approach to water policy and to do away with local governments coming up with ad hoc initiatives.

Its manifesto also talks about ‘the use of technologies to optimise resources’.

Despite opposition from some environmentalists, the party feels that defending farming and irrigation is a potential vote winner ahead of the snap

Climate goals

THE Spanish government has pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 32% of its levels in 1990, after receiving a backlash against the previous target of 23%.

The decision came after pressure from Greenpeace España, which has brought two lawsuits against Madrid demanding a 55% reduction of emissions.

They accused the government of failing to create a national climate strategy for the end of 2030 required by EU law.

The Spanish government countered they are not bound by law to meet a specific reduction percentage and the Ukraine invasion has led to a step back in climate change efforts.

By Alex Trelinski

election.

The PP, led by Alberto Nuñez Feijoo, wants the ‘participation and collaboration’ of the regional governments along with a ‘scientific and social consensus’ to set up the new national body.

It also aims to make the maintenance of irrigation for agriculture compatible with natural areas like the Doñana Natural Park, and those badly affected by farming overexploitation such as the Mar

The

Menor lagoon.

The commitment to irrigated crops is clear with the PP electoral programme: “We will promote a modern and sustainable irrigation, efficient in the use of water and energy, which generates an agriculture of greater added value and capacity to generate employment.”

It also mentions collaboration with the 17 regions and municipalities for a ‘more efficient’ use of water and fertilisers in irrigation and to modernise supply channels to cut water losses in distribution chan-

Toxic spill bill

nels.

The PP plan talks of ‘priority investments’ for sanitation, supply, and flood control, as well as ‘guaranteeing’ water needed for irrigation.

The proposal also refers to a plan to modernise the country’s infrastructures and to use resources to minimize flood and drought risks.

Over flooding the manifesto mentions the ‘prioritisation of restoring riverbeds, especially urban ones, which allow increasing the protection of people, property and the environment’.

THE junta is suing mining company Boliden for €90 over the 1988 toxic spill that contaminated the wetlands in Andalucia’s Doñana National Park.

The disaster occurred when a wastewater reserve pool burst at Boliden’s mine in the city of Aznalcollar. More than five million cubic metres of heavy metals escaped into the river, devastating the aquatic life. The junta spent millions on the clean up in the national park, although Boliden claims that it voluntarily supported the clean up, spending €80 million of its own cash. The case is underway after failing to go through in 2001 when a Seville court ruled that Boliden was not criminally responsible.

NOT FIRE….BUT ‘TYRE EXTINGUISHERS’

IT is quite amazing the way civil obedience can take on new formats.

Especially when it comes to climate protest. Get this.

There is an international climate direct action group called The Tyre Extinguishers.

They target SUV vehicles as this type of vehicle has disproportionately high carbon emissions. Their aim is to ban large 4x4 vehicles in the world’s urban areas.

ATTACK THE POSH/MIDDLE CLASS AREAS (all you need is a lentil and a leaflet)

That’s what they say online, along with detailed instructions on how to stick a lentil or other type of pulse into the tyre valve of a car, then replace the cap, leaving it to bleed air overnight.

The activists / saboteurs then leave a leaflet on the windscreen with an explanation of why the owners have been targeted.

The group is not the first to embrace this type of action .

Back in 2007 a Swedish group called ‘The Indians of the Asphalt Jungle’ targeted 1,500 SUVs. The Tyre Extinguishers kicked off last year and the movement is snowballing.

Last September the group claimed to have deflated over 600 tyres in the UK, France, Germany, Switzerland, the Netherlands, Norway, Denmark, the Czech Republic and Canada.

Last month direct action started in Australia. The elegant upmarket zona de Sarrià in Barcelona was attacked last month.

The disciples of this group have now stepped their approach… many tyres are not just deflated, they are being slashed.

Vandalism in the name of climate action does not sit right with me.

The level of activity has increased since the lockdowns (Covid-19) have been lifted.

CHAOS IN MARBS

Just imagine the devastation that will happen if this movement takes hold in Marbella and Puerto Banus.

The Yummy Mummies will miss their Yoga classes. Mrs Oligarch will not get new nails. Wayne will not be able to race between the speed bumps in his Wange Wover.

Oh dear, oh dear.

Martin Tye is the owner of Mariposa Energía, a

Green Matters By Martin Tye

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The importance of taking time for yourself

WHAT does it mean to be productive? How should we value productivity? The Centre Pompidou Málaga poses these questions with their latest semi-permanent exhibit.

‘A Time of Own: Free yourself from the Shackles of Everyday Life’ focuses on stepping back from daily routines and reflecting on what it means to dedicate time for oneself.

Featuring artists such as Matisse, Picasso, and Max Ernst, through sculpture to video, the exhibit is inspired by the isolation that communities were forced into during the Covid pandemic.

WINE NOT?

SALTY: Lead ingots weighing 2,820 kg were found on board

RISING FROM THE BRINY

AN archaeological team has made an extensive survey of a 2,500-year-old Phoenician ship to work out the best way to extract it from the sea. The Mazarron II is named

OP QUICK CROSSWORD

By Alex Trelinski

after the town in Murcia, where it was found off the coast in 1994. Eight metres in length it

Ancient Phoenician ship surveyed for rescue bid

is regarded as the most complete ancient ship to be discovered, but unless raised, it risks further damage from currents and storms.

The vessel was found largely intact with a cargo of lead ingots weighing 2,820 kilos.

A total of nine archaeologists have worked for over a fortnight to log any cracks and fissures across the ship, which lies 60 metres from Mazarron's Playa de la Isla.

Later this year, the experts from Valencia University will recommend how to protect and retrieve the wreck.

Its new home would be the National Museum of Marine Archaeology in Cartagena where Mazarron I - restored 30 years ago - is

currently on display. It was discovered by chance in 1988 during the construction of a new marina.

Historians have used the Mazarron II, probably made around 580 BC, to document how the Phoenicians shipped metals such as lead from the Iberian Peninsula. After it sank, it remained buried in sediment for more than 2,000 years until changes in currents unearthed it in 1994. It now lies under about 1.7 metres of water surrounded by sandbags and a metal structure built for protection.

The structure however is sinking into the sand at a faster pace than the wreck and threatened to crush it, so it was partially removed.

ACCIDENTAL FIND

A CORDOBA area farmer stumbled on a large ancient Roman artefact weighing three tons. He discovered the huge stone relic used for pressing olives, while uprooting an ancient olive tree. The mill stone is about 2,000 years old and it has a circular shape with three large grooves, possibly cracks, running down its side.

A circular track is carved into the top, giving it the appearance of an upside-down mushroom with its stalk cut too short.

These types of olive oil mills, known as a trapetum, originated in Greece and spread throughout the ancient Roman empire. It will be restored at Baena's Municipal Museum.

A NUMBER of Andalucia’s leading wines went on a tour of Japan last month in an effort to dazzle Japanese connoisseurs with their quality. Nine wineries from Malaga, Cadiz, Huelva and Cordoba attended the event, organised by Andalucia TRADE.

Held in the cities of Fukuoka and Kumamoto, the conference is set to boost current trade relations between Spain and the Land of the Rising Sun.

Japan has become the largest Asian market for the export of Spanish wines, and it continues to grow.

Wine sales from Analucia to Japan grew almost 20% last year, generating over €8 million for the region.

Japan is the eighth largest market in the world for Andalucian wines, making up 40% of total sales in Asia.

Celebrating Picasso

THE Picasso Celebration 1973-2023, an initiative promoted by the governments of Spain and France that pays tribute to the artist on the 50th anniversary of his death has registered more than a million visitors in its first half of the anniversary.

PICASSO: ‘Tete de cheval’ (‘Head of a Horse’).

LA CULTURA

The Terra Mítica Amusement Park

For thrill seekers, this amusement park has a range of roller coasters and water rides.

It is only open during the summer season but offers activities that people of all ages can enjoy. Ticket prices and hours can be found here: https:// www.terramiticapark.com/

L’Aigüera Park

Adding to the blossoming environmental side to Benidorm, this man-made park offers an oasis from the fast-paced buzz of the resort. Its large walkway is lined with trees that give way to gardens and two auditoriums that host city events.

Beaches, nightlife and skyscrapers… but

lot more going on in Spain’s biggest tourist resort, writes Regina Roberts

IT’S best known for its stag parties and excessive boozing - not to mention its own TV programme. But there is a lot more going on in Benidorm than most people realise.

Spain’ biggest tourist resort - which receives between 10 to 15 million tourists a year - is surprisingly popular with Spanish visitors and has a distinctly middle class feel in many

The Serra Gelada Natural Park

There are many ways to connect with nature during your time in Benidorm, and this natural park is an ideal option for those looking to hike or catch scenic views.

On the trail, visitors can see the La Escaleta watchtower ruins and get a great view of the sea from the La Cruz lookout. This portion of the sea has a diverse marine environment, making it a great place to snorkel or scuba dive.

The church of San Jaime y Santa Ana

Located on the top of Benidorm’s old town, this 18th century church is dedicated to Benidorm’s patron saint. Inside there is a statue of the Virgen del Sufragio and the saint’s chapel. Unlike the rest of the city that boasts skyscrapers, the courtyard around the church speaks to the city’s past architecture.

parts.

The giant skyscraper resort, which is considered the ‘birthplace of package tourism’, was first launched as a holiday destination in 1925, but didn’t become popular until the 1950s and 1960s.

While in the 1980s and 90s, it garnered a reputation as being the preferred destination of British and

Maritime Cultural Centre

While art might not initially be on your mind in Benidorm, there is some art on offer at the cultural centre, which hosts art exhibits and workshops throughout the year.

Its large glass windows and location in the port makes it an ideal place to learn about local culture while taking a break from the heat. Entrance is free, so it is a great place to stop by anytime.

there is a

THE HIDDEN SIDE OF BENIDORM

German lager louts, it has massively cleaned up its act today.

Best known for its excellent beaches, it has a permanent population of 71,000 people, more than Ronda or Cuenca, and was the first place in Spain where women could wear a bikini.

Around 30 buildings reach 100 metres in height, while the Intempo building truly scrapes the sky at 187 m.

The fifth most visited place in Spain (after Madrid, Barcelona, Sevilla and Palma), its first nightclub, Penelope

opened in 1968, while in 1970, CAP 3000 opened with a concert from Led Zeppelin. Today, the city boasts of being one of the most sustainable places in Spain.

It has many green spaces (see photo) and the resort has recently kick started a ‘green initiative’ to improve the environment.

More than 200 trees were planted earlier this year to help with offsetting carbon dioxide absorption.

Town hall officials currently have other plans underway to improve cleanliness and the environment, including installing new underground bins and energy-efficient lighting. As the resort makes efforts to showcase how important the environment is to its tourism, a new side of Benidorm is being uncovered that moves away from its stereotypical elements. Here the Olive Press offers half a dozen interesting sites worth seeking out on a visit to Benidorm:

Balcony over the mediterranean

This lookout point with views over both Benidorm and the Med is one of its most popular landmarks.

Although most people have no idea of its important historical significance, between the 14th and 17th centuries, a castle stood on the headland to protect the city from pirates. However, when the French took over the castle in the 19th century, the English navy destroyed it. Now, only leftover stone from the castle is visible on the balcony along with a small monument with cannons as a nod to its history.

OFFICIALLY MAGICAL TOWNS

ACCORDING to Spain’s Magicos accreditation scheme, magical towns should have traditions, festivals, gastronomy, architecture, tourist resources, views and a natural environment that makes them feel ‘alive’ and ‘unique’.

The scheme intends to give obscure towns ‘the presence they deserve’. Its vetting team includes historians and specialists from rural and local development, architecture, sociology, tourism and web development.

Obviously, the beauty and quality of the place is taken into account – although, from personal observation, the criteria can be applied to just part of a town, such as an old barrio or ancient castillo.

The scheme assesses architecture, recreational areas, hiking trails, parks, squares, fountains, monuments, plac-

By Jo Chipchase

es of worship, museums, and – what all visitors want - easy access and parking.

It also examines tourist accommodation, restaurants, gastronomy, and shops selling local produce. Not forgetting those annual fiestas and whether they are of cultural interest.

A town with historic monuments or

architecture, or a legacy of prehistoric civilisation and culture gets bonus points.

Some ‘magical’ towns are set amongst

national or natural parks or conservation areas and may have stunning features, like springs and waterfalls.

Which towns have this status in Granada?

A trip through the Granada region reveals there are several: Officially designated magical towns include Alpujarra de la Sierra, which comprises Yegen (former home of Gerald Brenan), Mecina Bombaron, El Golco and Montenegro.

The south-facing Contraviesa town of Sorvilan has just received the status. This beautiful mountain pueblo has striking views; steep, narrow streets; decorated balconies; and a history of wine production. Castell del Ferro (which the Olive Press recently featured in a guide to the hidden gem beaches of the Contraviesa) wins for historic features –and is perfect for a tranquil day at the seaside. Portugos, in the heart of La Alpujarra, no doubt scored points for its obvious

attraction: the Fuente Agria, an impressive waterfall with red, ferrous water. Torvizcon also has magical status, possibly for its beautiful almond blossoms above the town, and

its springtime rambla. Another magical town, Velez de Benaudualla, boasts the Nazari garden – listed among the Junta de Andalucia’s Assets of Cultural Interest – and a

history of Moors and Christians. There’s also the Granada region town of Salar, which has a long and tumultuous history and a Roman villa; La Calahorra, on the road to Guadix, with its amazing castle; and several other places, including the pretty Gualchos, Víznar, Orce, Puebla de don Fadrique, and Polícar.

A ‘Magic Passport’ has been designed to help you plan trips to magic towns – and get discounts from some businesses. The passports are available from participating ayuntamientos and must be registered online. Sounds like an effort? Tripadvisor might be an easy option. Some readers aren’t convinced about what constitutes ‘magic’: “My ‘magic’ town has plastic from greenhouses on its rambla,” said one. “Ours is still dirty from the 2022 calima,” com-

plained another, “and the main recreation zone has been filled with tarmac”. There’s more information about the scheme and a route map on the Pueblos Magicos website (www.pueblosmagicos.es).

The strange case of Trevelez

TREVELEZ, one of Spain’s highest villages, lost its ‘magico’ status in September 2022 for applying to be part of the rival ‘Mas Bonitas de Espana’ scheme, and for installing ‘plastic-type’ animals and effigies throughout its three barrios.

Although a cute tourist attraction, the magicos team would rather see

the likes of traditional lavabos (public places where people used to scrub their clothes). Just down the road from Trevelez, the installation of spooky effigies and a witchy theme turned the once depopulating village of Soportujar into a trailblazing tourist success. Today, it is the most searchedfor tourist pueblo in Granada province. The beauty of the plastic animals is clearly in the eye of the beholder!

Driving through rural Granada, you’ll see signs on municipal boundaries saying ‘Magicos de Espana’ or ‘Bonitas de Espana’. It’s obvious what makes a town bonita (beautiful) – but what makes a town ‘magical’?

ROMAN: Catholic lavabos, basins, in Castell del Ferro (Granada)

ANCIENT: ruins in Catell del Ferro add to its other-worldly vibe

THE ENCHANTING: Castell de Ferro (Granada) at dusk

And the Pueblos

Mas Bonitas?

IT’S easier to see why the ‘beautiful’ towns have their status. There’s no denying that the traditional white villages of Pampaneira, Bubion and Capileira radiate visual appeal, with colourful flowerpots adorning balconies; traditional crafts on display in the streets; Spain’s highest mountain peaks towering behind them, and a tourist industry that caters for every need.

Over at Los Mas Bonitas website, there’s a ‘merch’ section. You can buy a t-shirt (they aren’t the height of influencer looks) or a guidebook covering the many beautiful towns throughout Spain.

Highest of standards

Hotel Nueva Alcazaba de Busquistar –4-star luxury at affordable rates near the Alpujarra’s highest village of Trevelez

THE Nueva Alcazaba is a stunning hotel complex set in the heart of the Alpujarra Alta, just 4.5km from the area’s highest village of Trevelez, at 1,476m.

With this privileged position, the Nueva Alcazaba is one of the highest hotels in the Iberian Peninsula to hold a 4-star rating. It is also one of the few hotels in this area to admit pets, meaning Fido can enjoy the local walking routes with you.

On 1 July, the hotel celebrated its third birthday with its current owners, who offer a friendly, personalised service. They come from two families – one from the Alpujarra, the other from Argentina.

Although the hotel lies within the municipality of Busquistar, it shares a main road with Trevelez, and is ideally located for cyclists, hikers, remote workers, single travellers, and those wanting a romantic or family break.

With its large restaurant and public salon, it is also perfect for special events including weddings, vow renewal ceremonies, communions, baptisms, private parties, and other celebrations.

The restaurant, which is open to the public, serves a range of Mediterranean dishes, using fresh ingredients. There are vegetarian and vegan dishes and special dietary requirements can be met. Many dishes are available as half portions, all are at reasonable prices.

The Iberian Peninsula’s highest 4-star hotel complex, in the heart of the Alpujarra

Just 4km from Trevélez. Spacious rooms and apartment. Mountain views. Large salon available for private events. Restaurant with fresh Mediterranean ingredients. We cater vegans & vegetarians. Pool open until October.

Pet friendly! Cyclist friendly, facilities for remote workers.

HOTEL NUEVO ALCAZABA DE BUSQUISTAR

Carretera Órgiva Laujar km 37, Busquistar, 18416 – Granada Tel: +34 679 07 63 38 contacto@hotelnuevaalcazaba.com

10% DISCOUNT – USE CODE OLIVEPRESS VIA WWW.HOTELNUEVAALCAZABA.COM OR WHATSAPP

Guests can enjoy a cocktail from the bar or chill out on the terrace with a quality ‘vino’.

For those wanting to stay in this inspirational hotel, the accommodation ranges from double rooms to junior suites and apartments for 2, 3 or 4 people. All rooms are bright and airy. Many have mountain views and private balcony, where you can relax amongst natural beauty.

The hotel has a well-equipped gymnasium, large games room (including ping pong), kids’ play area, basketball court and an outdoor swimming pool - open until October. Cyclists benefit from a workshop and secure parking for their bikes.

In the winter, the hotel is occasionally below the snowline, for a picture-postcard scene. Some rooms are equipped with wood-burners for the colder months.

The hotel has ample free parking with video surveillance.

Visit www.hotelnuevaalcazaba.comand use the code OLIVEPRESS for 10% discount or contact the hotel via WhatsApp for bookings

Hotel Apartamento Nueva Alcazaba

Carretera Órgiva Laujar km 37, Busquistar, 18416 – Granada

Teléfono: +34 679 07 63 38 contacto@hotelnuevaalcazaba.com

THE 16th CENTURY Castel of La Calahorra, near Granada

Vox threat looms over Gibraltar

IN the light of the upcoming parliamentary elections in Spain, residents of Gibraltar are seriously concerned about the settlement of the dispute over our territory. The right-wing radical party Vox has a real chance to seize power and start having a significant impact on the policy pursued by Spain.

As you know, Vox representatives are actively promoting the idea of returning Gibraltar to Spanish sovereignty and even have paid special attention to this issue in their election campaign.

In their email, the deputies from Vox Santiago Morón and Manuel Acosta once again confirmed the intention of the right-wing radicals to conduct a policy of

Children’s poor future

NATIONALIST

THREAT: Vox has Gibraltar in its sights

protecting the interests of Spain in Gibraltar. They are ready to work on restitution of the territories occupied, in their opinion, by the British Crown.

I READ the tragic story of the toddler who died trapped in a hot car on your website and found it a sobering metaphor to the behaviour of the human race towards its children in general. We are in an escalating climate and ecosystems breakdown, and yet we are still pursuing the growth economics that deny us all a future. Anyone who is aware of the cascading tipping points that are now falling fast will realise how irresponsible it is to bring a child into such a ‘lost cause’ scenario.

With our current attitudes and trajectory, all our children will experience insurmountable existential challenges in their lifetimes. We have now denied them any sliver of a chance at enjoying stable climate and ecosystems, and yet we still perpetuate the economic model that is exacerbating the collapse.

As parents we have categorically failed, we need to recognise that we are all unfit as guardians.

Barbara Williams, Oxfordshire

In this regard, it is possible that the would-be right-wing government of Spain will exert significant pressure on all participants of this negotiation process, which can lead to extremely negative consequences for Gibraltar.

It is very important to take into account the fact that Spain has lots of leverage that can make the life of Gibraltarians much more complicated. There are the agreements concluded earlier with the EU which are under threat, being extremely important for the security of Gibraltar and the well-being of its residents.

Marie Ross, Gibraltar

Going down

INFLATION in Spain has dipped to below 2% for the first time since March 2021.

Inflation fell by more than one percentage point in June, reaching 1.9% year-on-year, down from 3.2% in May, with fuel, electricity and food price increases easing.

The June inflation rate puts Spain in a better place than most of its neighbours within the eurozone, where inflation reached 6.1% in May.

It’s a significant change from a year ago when inflation in Spain hit 10.8% in July 2022its highest level since 1985.

SME’s struggle

COSTS for SME have increased by 27% since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

And they crept up a further 2.2% in the first quarter of 2023.

A new report shows that labour costs have risen by 4.4% in the same period. This has been put down to increases in social security contributions and minimum wage. But the main struggle for SMEs is linked to energy prices.

While electricity prices fell by 3.5% in the first quarter of the year, they are still 107.8% more expensive than two years ago.

HEY! GETIR GOING

HOME grocery delivery company Getir has announced that it plans to get rid of its entire workforce in Spain - barely two years after the Turkish firm began operations in the country.

1,560 Getir employees in Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Zaragoza, Sevilla and Malaga are set to lose their jobs as the company begins discussions with unions.

The redundancies will affect couriers, store and office staff.

Mañana mañana

A NEW survey seems to confirm what some might long have suspected: Spaniards prefer cushty government jobsfor-life over high-risk high-reward entrepreneurship. The polling, conducted by Funcas, found that only a

Good job

IN more great news for the purring Spanish economy, the jobless total has fallen by over 50,000, to 2,688,842 in June.

It is at its lowest level since 2008, just before the financial crash.

Government figures show that 54,541 new workers were registered in the Social Security system, making a total of 20,869,940 - the highest number ever.

952 147 834

By Alex Trelinski

entrepreneurship small minority of the Spanish public (13%) would advise a young person to become an entrepreneur and go into the private sector.

Jobs for life clocking off at 2pm: Spaniards prefer government jobs over

Instead, over half would recommend young people to put their feet up in the public sector as civil servants.

The survey also reveals that 20% would advise young individuals to work as employees for others, 7% would suggest self-employment, and the remaining 13% were uncertain or opted for an alternative option.

The results surprised the researchers behind the study, Elisa Chuliá and Juan Carlos Rodríguez.

“It is striking that the proportion of respondents revealing a professional preference for the public sector exceeds the combined responses related to occupations in the private sector,” they said. They went on to speculate that preference for government

jobs may be rooted in a perception of increasing uncertainty across various aspects of life, particularly in the last decade.

The public sector offers stability and shorter working hours - often clocking off at 2pm - in a time of economic insecurity. It is also more compatible with other responsibilities and appealing to the rising value of leisure time. However, the researchers voiced concern about the findings.

“Is a society that overwhelmingly encourages its young people to work in the public sector forgetting that the income to pay these civil servants depends decisively on private sector businesses and workers generating sufficient wealth?”

And unemployment among people under 25 also fell by 3,552 last month, leaving the number at a new low of 184,491.

“These data are very positive,” Yolanda Diaz, Spain’s Ministry of Labour said. She insisted: “Unemployment has been reduced in all sectors and in every region of the country.”

Electric incentive

SPAIN will pay back up to 15% of income tax to people who buy an electric vehicle before the end of the year in a bid to encourage sustainable driving.

The maximum income tax deduction would be €20,000.

“The aim is to place Spain at the forefront of Europe’s rollout of electric vehicles,“ said Economy Minister Nadia Calviño.

DOING IT FOR HEM!

WHEN I was first taken to a bullfight in Spain, it was against my will.

I had stopped by Sevilla in 1998 and returned with my parents in 2000 to show them the wonders of the city. They had seen El Cordobes in the 1970s and believed, given it was part of Spain’s culture, one should view it before passing judgment.

As a zoologist doing a philosophy postgrad at the university of London, with memberships

cards for the WWF and Greenpeace, it was not an easy sell. However, what I saw that day changed the course of my life and while I don't expect many readers to agree with me, they should at least take a moment, as I did, to con-

sider the millions of cattle killed for meat as they watch documentaries by David Attenborough on the likes of lions killing buffalo. We are not so different, and certainly not so morally superior, as we might like to think.

Years later, I developed a more serious interest in bullfight-

ing: things that exist on moral borderlines often attract writers.

Speaking no Spanish, my first teacher was Ernest Hemingway, who knew more than most (if not as much as he claimed.)

He himself first attended a bullfight a century ago, on May 27, 1923, in the old ring in Madrid, and soon after went to his first 'Fiesta' in Pamplona.

His bestselling novel, The Sun Also Rises, was published two years later and gave most English speakers their first taste of that esoteric, arcane and violent world.

I have actually celebrated that centenary by bringing out a special edition of my own book, The Bulls Of Pamplona, co-authored with his grandson John Hemingway.

As a result, I currently find myself running under the absurd

Fermín, that begins this weekend. I’ll be up there from Sunday.

Nowadays, I no longer run for the sheer alegría, 'joy', as I have seen too many men injured or killed in my 200 or so runs in Pamplona and a dozen other towns - there are around 15,000 such events each year in Spain.

My American paymasters, Running Of The Bulls, Inc., fly in my team, including matador Eduardo Davila Miura - whose uncles breed bulls so famously dangerous they named the first Lamborghini after them - and also Sergeant Connor Quinn of the 101st Airborne whose experience as a medic in Afghanistan also has its uses. Our clients are equally varied, from wealthy heart surgeons to the board of directors of NASCAR.

I have always been impressed by my clients' courage.

I myself have done this so many times that fear has become an old friend and I can still light a cigarette when the bulls are a wall of horns a mere ten yards away at a 40 kph gallop. However, I am still stuck with the memory of the one famous client, Evgeny Lebedev, who never showed up, and this time not for six half ton bulls, but a single 12 stone calf in a private

AT HOME WITH XANDER

XANDER: Coming face to face with fear

ring on a ranch. Instead, his assistant attended in his place, a charming Belgian lady in her early twenties.

At the time I thought nothing of it, but when my invoices went unpaid, I made something of a fuss in the press, including the Olive Press.

Eventually I was paid, and the story has been written various times, but one part never has which I have always thought should see the light of day.

Lebedev had recently purchased two British newspapers and one, the Independent, I had written for in the past.

The editor of that newspaper, newly promoted to that august role telephoned me in person to say, in what I can only imagine he thought was his most threatening demeanour, "I am X, the

editor, and I want you to tell me that your problem with him is over. Over! Do you understand me?”

After I had done the mathematics - the circulation of the newspaper was already so low as to be laughable and has since gone out of print. All I could think of was the threat was reminiscent of what great parliamentarian Dennis Healey once said about being attacked in the House of Commons by Geoffrey Howe. "It was like being savaged by a dead sheep."

The editor in question still has a fairly senior role in broadcast journalism - but surely it’s not wise to threaten a man who not not only regularly runs with three tonnes of horned beasts intent on killing him, but does so shoulder to shoulder with pupils who range from the American Special Forces to the French Foreign Legion. And so I return to my running in the burning sun, preparing to deal with genuine threats in the days ahead.

Xander has written two books on bullfighting, Into The Arena, and The Bulls Of Pamplona, with John Hemingway.

It’s a century since Ernest Hemingway first attended Pamplona’s famous festival. Columnist Xander FiskeHarrison, who has just published a book with his grandson, explains how he was first seduced by ‘the bulls’ in Spain as he heads to run with them this weekend

DARING: was first seduced by ‘the bulls’ in Spain

Pizza the action

IF you think of pizza, then thoughts inevitably turn to Italy, but Spanish pizzerias are having a louder and louder say these days.

So much so that Sartoria Panatieri in Barcelona has been declared the best pizza restaurant outside of Italy, according to the prestigious Italian pizza ranking guide, 50 Top Pizza.

The restaurant has notices around the premises informing customers of its farm-to-table pizzas with the majority of its ingredients coming from nearby farms.

The restaurant features specialities with a number of unlikely ingredients including cauliflower, Brazil nuts, and even egg yolk.

Rafa Panatieri, the man behind the pizza - and one-half of the

Spain’s winning pizzas to challenge Italy

By Alex Trelinski

Sartoria Panatieri team - had an interesting journey into the world of gourmet pizza making.

The chef first discovered his passion for pizza during his childhood in Brazil where he learned to embrace his Italian heritage while cooking with his grandparents.

Panatieri briefly worked as a veterinarian before trading the operating room for the kitchen when he opened his now-fa-

Upscale Malaga

mous pizzeria in the Gracia district of Barcelona. Even though Italy is still largely known as a pizza heavyweight, Spanish pizzas have been giving

UPSCALE tourism is on the rise in Spain, with Malaga well-positioned as one of top locations in the country to snare the highend traveller.

Malaga itself is the leading province in Andalucia for Michelin stars with a total of 10 out of the 22 stars awarded to all of southern Spain. Revamped and revitalised, the Costa del Sol boasts sleek ports, an exciting culinary scene and a growing clutch of cultural attractions, all of which attract the big spenders.

British tourists continue to rank first in this sector on the Costa del Sol. Last year, 2022, Brits made up 16% of the high-end tourism visitors.

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their Italian counterparts some stiff competition, even before Sartoria Panatieri's big win. While Italian pizzas focus on the subtle flavours of a few carefully selected ingredients, Spanish pizzas incorporate a myriad of creative elements that bring complementary flavours together.

Italy who?

In addition to the first place spot on the Top 50 list, Spain also snagged six additional spots on the 50 Top Pizza list, more than any other country. The other honoured Spanish outlets are Frateli Fugurato(Madrid); La Balmesina(Barcelona); Baldoria(Madrid); Demaio(Bilbao): Oro di Napoli(Tenerife); and Infraganti Pizza Bar (Alicante).

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FANCY: Malaga brings in the money

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

Little suns rising

SPAIN’S Repsol restaurant guide has updated its Soletes category for the summer with 88 in Malaga, including chiringuito beach restaurants and ice cream parlours.

Unlike the acclaimed ‘Suns’ that mark a certain exclusivity, the ‘Soletes’ (little sun) are given to eateries that are popular locally, for appealing places that you would recommend to a friend and within reach of any pocket.

In Spain some 3,300 establishments have been included in the Soletes category since it began in June 2021.

FROM HEAVEN TO HELL

A TOP sommelier has been given a two-year prison sentence for secretly selling luxury bottles of wine in Spain’s Basque Country.

Guillermo Cruz, who was named the best sommelier in Spain in 2014, sold a number of high-end bottles from a two-star Michelin restaurant where he worked in Gipuzkoa. The 39-year-old wine expert worked at Mugaritz restaurant from 2012 to 2019, where he was the dining room manager.

Great Mosque

Top sommelier gets jail time for flogging high-end wine bottles under the table

By Alberto Lejarraga

Cruz has now been sentenced for selling a number of the restaurant’s most expensive bottles - worth €22,487 - to third parties. The accused admitted to the deeds, but he claimed the bottles belonged to him and the restaurant consented to the sales. Cruz added that he had his own wine collection in the restaurant’s cellar and

THE Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba - a World Heritage Site since 1984 - is on the verge of breaking its record for number of visitors. The monument, the first stone laid in the 8th century AD, is already at 92% percent of visits compared to its best year, 2019, at just past the halfway point of 2023.

In 2019 a total of 2,079,160 people visited the monument and though the high season for tourist trips to Cordoba is late springearly summer (April to June), everything points to this year being the best for visitors in the ancient mosque’s history.

Top level access

ALICANTE-ELCHE airport won the European ‘Accessible Airport Award’ at a recent industry event in Barcelona for going above and beyond.

that he had even bought some of them himself from the establishment. He claimed he had

bought over 200 bottles of wine from Mugaritz, which he paid with cash. But the court dismissed this version and ruled that the sommelier ‘was not authorised to sell wine bottles from the restaurant for his own benefit’.

However, it could not be proved that all the bottles he sold belonged to the two-star restaurant. Mugaritz initially asked for a compensation of over €60,000, but it was decided that Cruz would only need to pay €22,487.

However, the sentence is not final and the well-known wine expert can appeal to the High Court of Justice of the Basque Country.

Airports Council International (ACI) gave Alicante the nod for ‘its work and commitment to achieve a more accessible airport for people with disabilities and reduced mobility’.

The ACI highlighted measures such as specific lanes for people with reduced mobility, the implementation of a loading area for electric wheelchairs and the creation of a sensory room for people with hidden disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder, which is currently under construction.

Cruising in

Cruise tourism is on course to set records this year in Andalucia as the sector gets back on track.

Up until May, Andalucian ports have received a total of 387,129 passengers, compared to 191,199 in the same period last year.

This represents an increase of 202%, according to stats published by the State-owned Spanish Port System, Puertos del Estado.

MICHELIN: Top wines went missing

FOOD, DRINK & TRAVEL

Treasure Cave

THE Cueva del Tesoro, located in Rincón de la Victoria in Malaga province, has experienced a notable boom in visitor numbers during the first half of 2023.

Some 35,824 visits made for an increase of 31.5% compared to the same period last year.

This Treasure Cave is the only underwater cave in Europe and one of the only three marine caves known in the world. Given that the other two are in Asia and Central America, it is no wonder that visitor numbers are on the rise.

Welcome back

THE big return of foreign tourists to Spain continued in May, which recorded an all-time high for international visitors in that month.

The National Statistics Institute said 8.2 million people arrived in the country during May - 17.6% up on a year earlier, and 3.8% more than the previous May record set in 2019.

RINCON de la Victoria is home to one of the best preserved Roman villas in Andalucía, found on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.

The mystical third century Roman villa, which still stands centuries after its construction, was initially discovered almost 20 years ago.

During the first half of 2023, a total of 9,242 people came to marvel at the incredible wonders of this Roman villa, considered one of the best preserved in Andalucia.

Spain is back in the big leagues as the visitors come roaring back

By Alex Trelinski

Spain continues to enjoy having Brits as their number one foreign visitor with 1.8 million arrivals, accounting for 22% of the total.

France and Germany may

Villa Antiopa

have made eternal peace on the battlefield, but they continue to vie for the silver medal in the tourists-toSpain stakes. As it was, in May France broke with historical patterns to just shade Germany with 1.2 million visitors versus 1.1 million respectively. Cumulatively, foreign tourist numbers have risen by 28% in the first five months of 2023 compared to the same period in 2022. The most popular destination for visitors were the Balearic Islands, accounting for 21.9% of the total, followed by Catalunya (21.8%) and Andalucia (14.7%).

The biggest percentage rise in tourist numbers was the Valencian Community- up 26.3% on May 2022.

Monday to Saturday: 11am-12am Sunday: 11am-6pm

Ctra. de Ronda, A-397, Km. 44, 29679 Benahavís, Málaga

A unique dining experience in a inspiring location boasting stunning views of the Andalusian landscape all the way down to the Mediterranean Sea

King of the

IT was listed as an ‘Experience of tomatoes, consomme, sorbet & confit’... and on the hottest night of the year (plus the absence of gazpacho) it was about all I fancied eating. Fortunately, if anyone understood this it was head chef Clive Rogers, who insisted drolly: “If it’s 35 degrees out here can you imagine what it’s like in the kitchen?” (actually pretty cool and calm, if you really want to know). And off he went to reappear 15 minutes later with one of the stand out dishes I’ve tried this year (and certainly this summer). Beautifully presented, like a crow's foot, its colours alone cooled me down. Comprising half a dozen types of toma-

AFFORDABLE: The road to Ronda is graced with elegance and fresh flavour

to in five different guises, its textures were as interesting as its flavours. I started with the consommé in a shot glass, before being blown away by the intensity of the sorbet and then a crunch of skins.

“After we mix up the ingredients we then filter it all through a muslin cloth for 48 hours to create the concentration of flavour,” explained Rogers, 42, who is also the co-owner - alongside Lord Stanley Fink, the former chairman of the UK’s Conservative Party.

The South African knows a thing or two about cooking, having done his time in the UK, helping win a Michelin star for charming Feathers hotel in Oxfordshire, before heading to the Alps, where he ran various Michelin-starred kitchens.

Alongside sous chef Sam Tineo ( the cousin of celebrity chef Dani Garcia, no less, and a former charge at Sketch, in London, plus Calima, in Marbella) they have sculpted a short, but varied menu, heavy on local ingredients and top quality produce.

“And we are working really hard to keep the prices down,” continues Rogers, who estimates the average spend is only about €50 to €60 a head. On first glance it does seem extraordinarily cheap for its location, sandwiched between the two most expensive urbanisations in Andalucia, La Zagaleta and Madronal, 15 minutes up the Ronda road from Marbella. The costliest dish on the menu was a splendid beef fillet and foie gras with lemon thyme Rosti potatoes, spinach, carrot and ‘Coto jus’, at just €37.60…

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

mountains

Halfway up the windy road to Ronda, El Coto is one of the most exciting openings this year on the Costa del Sol, writes Jon Clarke

a ‘real winner’ insisted my dining partner, Olive Press sales executive Matt Jones.

The ‘Tomato experience’ at €12.81 was an absolute steal, while another delicious starter of smoked mackerel, with roasted peppers and parsley on toast came in at €12.48.

These are keen prices cleverly worked out on market costs and overheads and it’s perhaps no surprise that they are starting to finally see diners driving up from the nearby Golden Mile and even Sotogrande, 30 minutes away. Word is spreading.

It is certainly one of the most exciting openings of the year so far. Not to mention most costly, with the renovation and interior design alone, coming in at ‘well over €1 million’.

But the money spent really shows the moment the place appears on a bend of the windy

A-397 to Ronda. Nestled in oak woodland, interspersed with carobs and umbrella pines, the original claret-coloured building is really striking. And its views, particularly from the top floor terrace towards the Serrania de Ronda and the emblematic La Concha mountain, are incredible, while surprisingly you don’t hear the road, thanks to a clever use of fountains.

“When I first saw the place I thought it

was too big,” explains Rogers. “It was expensive for just a huge shell with ev erything stripped out. But my business partner thought otherwise.”

That was four years ago and, after a combination of hiccups, including the pandemic and the war, it finally opened this Spring.

And what a stunning intervention the architects have made; a wonderful use of space inside, with original art works, natural wood floors and un usual recessed ceilings and skylights, maximising on light in winter.

The only thing that didn’t change was the wine cellar by the front door, which today is stocked with some incredible chestnuts. Part of Rogers collection that includes a 2015 Mouton at €2,200 and a 1994 Petrus at ‘many thousands’ more, but thankfully with plenty of local Spanish wines, some starting at €25.

Back to the food. And, well, it’s exceptionally good, as it has to be half way up a mountain and with Andalucia’s dining capital of Marbella right on its doorstep.

I would have tried one of the specials of the day, in particular the spicy ginger and carrot soup, if it hadn’t been for the heat. The lobster ravioli with a samphire

and shellfish bisque, plus the pork belly and pigs cheek with kimchi, were tempting as starters, while the fish pie with tempura pickled clams as a main did tickle my fancy. A vegan dish of strudel, filled with sweet potato also intrigued me. But I plumped for the pan-fried turbot, with beetroot, fennel and orange salad, vanilla and cardamom and was certainly happy, if there wasn’t quite enough actual fish (and yes, I do get the cost of proper line-caught fish these days).

I must give a mention to the stunning lemon cheesecake which was very light, coming in a crunchy shell of white chocolate with delicious lemon rind. A real work of art… as was head waiter Andy, who grew up in George Formby’s

house near Manchester and went off to fight as a helicopter pilot in Afghanistan, next to Prince Harry, and ended up with 750 stitches in ‘first contact’ hand to hand combat. But that’s a whole different story. My advice: get in there now, nice and early, while the average price per head is far too reasonable, and before it wins anything silly like a Michelin star. www.cotorestaurante.com

It is certainly one of the most exciting openings of the year so far

TATS: Head chef Clive Rogers shows off matching El Coto tattoos with sous chef Sam Tineo

2nd Disfrutar, Barcelona

MODERN techniques and personal talents come together in Disfrutar’s gastronomic experience.

Set up by the trio of chefs, Mateu

Casañas, Oriol Castro and Eduard Xatruch, it sits behind a typical tapas joint, unfolding into a cavernous space behind. This is the first of ‘many surprises’ in what the judges describe as some of the ‘world’s most modish dishes’. Punters experience the classic

3rd Diverxo, Madrid

TOP OF THE WORLD

tasting menu, which takes four hours, with its wine pairing options.

Playing with shapes, textures, and flavours, Disfrutar’s experimental style has earned it two Michelin stars and its place as Europe’s best restaurant.

THE bold, rule-breaking flavours by chef Dabiz Muñoz are part of a greater, more marvellous story.

Immersed in a fantasy-world of outlandish decor, staff dressed in punky uniforms serve a range of stunning, creative dishes.

For foodies, the DiverXO experience makes dreams feel tame.

Passing through the hands of five or six chefs before plating, the gastronomy follows Muñoz’s love for avant-garde art from conception to completion – he describes the experience as ‘something like the Cirque du Soleil’.

WITH a trio of restaurants in the World’s Top Five, it’s fair to say that Spain is still leading the way in the kitchen. The three long-time competitors have been jostling for their positions in the prestigious 50 Best list since 2019… but it’s the first time they all made it so high. Indeed, it’s the first time for over a decade that a trio of Spanish joints have dominated the top five in the 50 Best poll. You have to go back to 2010 when legendary El Bulli, Mugaritz and Cellar de

Can Roca were in the top five.

The trio this yearDisfrutar, Diverxo and Asador Etxeberri - have been consistently leading the charge creatively for decades.

The team at Disfrutar, at number two, fittingly worked together under Ferran Adria’s incredible guiding eye at El Bulli from the late 1990s and when it shut they set up together in 2014.

At Diverxo, Dabiz Muñoz and his exwife even slept on the floor of their legendary food factory so dedicated were they to getting their first Michelin star.

While at Etxeberri, Victor Arguinzoniz just

Spain has officially ground down its rivals to once again prove it’s the global dining capital, insists Jon Clarke

did his own thing on his rustic Basque grill for 30 years as he slowly found the world starting to beat a wooden spoon to his door. But there is more. In the 50 Best list this year Spain once again has six revolutionary restaurants… with Valencia’s Quique Dacosta very much back in the limelight, Elkano picked for its amazing

20st Quique Dacosta, Denia

JUST two years after he began his career as a chef in 1986, at just 16 years of age, Quique Dacosta began working at a restaurant that would later share his name. His food takes an artistic approach to the geographies and cuisines of the Mediterranean and nearby Montgo Natural Park. Putting Valencian cuisine very much on the map, his respect for nature — the roots of the restaurant — comes forth in every bite.

Our A La Carte menu is also available on Sunday

LIVE MUSIC EVERY SUNDAY FROM 14.00

SUNDAY ROAST

Served every Sunday from 1:00pm to 4:30pm and from 6:00pm

Chicken, roast pork or beef, all served with fresh seasonal vegetables, roast potatoes and Yorkshire pudding

Set in its own grounds, El Muro Mijas has a relaxed atmosphere and offers ample private parking.

We have a chill out area as well as a terrace looking up to Mijas Pueblo as well as two other terraces and an inside dining area.

Our menu has many different dishes including meats, fish, pasta, pizza, Asian cuisine and others to suit all, including various vegetarian options.

Come and check out this exciting new restaurant found on the road up to Mijas Pueblo!

Wednesday - Friday: 17.00 - 23.00

Saturday & Sunday: 12.00 - 23.00

T: +34 951 104 424

www.aicorestaurants.com

use of turbot (and other fish) and Mugaritz, thanks to the legendary Andoni Luis Aduriz, Spain’s genius extraordinaire!

And finally, four more restaurants make the Top 100 meaning 10% of the world's best places to eat are in Spain. Here the Olive Press tells you everything you need to know about them:

22nd Elkano, Getaria

AT this incredibly picturesque spot, Aitor Arregi uses his method of whole-grilling fish over a wood fire as the foundation of his flavour.

Playing off Getaria’s gastronomic heritage, this method of cooking has become an integral part of the town’s cuisine and a tradition for Arregi, whose father, Pedro, opened the first Elkano back in 1964. There is a distinct emphasis on sustainability and the local connection is reflected within the dishes and maritime decor.

Restaurant reviews by Isabel Max and Regina Roberts

FOOD, DRINK & TRAVEL

4th Asador Etxebarri, Atxondo

IN the small village of Axpe in the Basque region, the asador is a total contrast to its rivals on the list, favouring simplicity over experimentation.

But that doesn’t mean there isn’t magic and his place has become a true destination restaurant noteworthy for its grill techniques.

Chef Victor Arguinzoniz’s more than 30 years of experience with ‘fire cooking’ contributes to his traditional approach and meticulous style – every dish that exits the kitchen is given his signature touch.

The restaurant thrives off local produce and elevating ingredients by highlighting their natural flavours.

31th Mugaritz, San Sebastian

AT Mugaritz, presentation is anthropomorphic in the most intimate and wondrous ways.

Take the dish ‘heart that does not feel’ which is a flat, almost 2D slice of meat with ribbons of fat representing the aorta. Mugaritz has long taken a phil-

64th Aponiente, Cadiz

osophical approach to food thanks to its intellectual chef

Andoni Luis Aduriz.

He’s probably now one of the world’s most boundary-pushing cooks and has been in the 50 Best list for well over a decade.

81st Azurmendi, Biscay

A NOSE FOR SUCCESS

DIVERXO’S Miguel Ángel

CHEF Ángel León is recognized as “The Chef of the Sea” for utilising ingredients from the Mediterranean and Atlantic sea in his evolving menus. The current rendition, based on the infinite sea, commits to sustainability and new techniques. Even in the dessert section, the restaurant blends together traditional sweets with seafood.

82nd Enigma, Barcelona

ENIGMA uses seasonal ingredients in their monthly menus and offers different wine experiences. The finishing touches on the meals are added right at the table so guests can witness the ever changing techniques.

AZURMENDI’S emphasis on sustainability has contributed to its standout relationship with its environment, including its use of new technol ogies to develop dishes.

96th Ricard Camarena Restaurant, Valencia

THE different proposals offered here emphasis utilising every part of an ingredient, with menus based on homegrown vegetables that are added to sauces and even drinks.

Millán has been voted the Beronia World’s Best Sommelier of 2023. Millán has been working in the restaurant since 2019, expanding the wine cellar to include rare sakes, amongst other wines, and creating two pairing menus to complement Diverxo’s unique culinary experience. After graduating top of his class in sommelier training, he gained experience at Spain’s Santceloni and Kabuki, a Japanese fusion restaurant. His acclaim is in part due to his dedication and perseverance as he often travels across the world in search of specific vintage wines. In the dining room, his connection with diners allows him to meet their needs and cater to their experiences. The award recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge of the craft and excellent customer service, showing how influential Millán has become in the dining world.

TIME TO CHILL

AS the weather heats up, nothing is more enticing than spending time in the water to cool down.

For those looking for a change from busy, sweaty beaches, there are dozens of natural bathing spots around inland Spain.

Be they rivers, reservoirs or man-made pools, they offer an amazing alternative and usually with scenic views and a decent walk around them.

These naturally-forming hideaways, most within an hour or so of the coast, offer visitors the ability to not only

ANDALUCIA MAJACEITE RIVER TRAIL, BENAMAHOMA TO EL BOSQUE

Change your cool down routine in Spain with these dozen inland natural swimming spots, writes Regina

Roberts

swim, but also participate in watersports or hiking. From adventure seekers to those just wanting to take a dip to cool down, there are so many options from Andalucia to Valencia.

The upper part of the Majaceite River between El Bosque and Benamahoma is found in the heart of the Grazalema Natural Park, in Cadiz, and offers one of the most magical midsummer walks. Mostly in the shade, the walk follows the course of the river, criss-crossing it with bridges. But best of all - with a dozen fantastic places to jump in for a swim. Even better, there are superb restaurants for a cool, shady lunch at either end, in particular in Benamahoma.

CANON DE LAS BUITRERAS, CORTES DE LA FRONTERA, MALAGA RIO GUADALMINA, BENAHAVIS

POZA DE LOS PATOS, NERJA

This natural pool is formed by the Chillar River, which has created small canyons that can be so narrow that visitors can touch both walls at once. In order to access it, visitors must embark on a short hike that runs along the river and leads to the wider portion meant for swimming. Since there is only one main area for swimming, it is best to go earlier in the day to avoid the crowds.

An official natural monument since 2003, this canyon makes for an adventurous swimming spot due to the Guadiaro river that runs through it, with its winding watercourse and vertical stone banks more than 100 meters in height. Visitors here can easily transition from swimming, to hiking and to canoeing. Due to its occasional fast-moving water, visitors are advised to wear a full wetsuit, to really enjoy the water.

While the Guadalmina River is 28 km long, this wider portion of the river offers a great place to swim or go on an exciting 30-minute river tour. The river can be easily accessed from the A-7175, where visitors can park in the lower area of Benahavis and take a short walk down to reach the starting point. Keep in mind that it has been growing in popularity due to visitors' ability to safely jump from the small rocks surrounding the water. Unlike other natural swimming ponds, this river is regulated for swimming use and is only open between 10am and 8pm.

CUEVA DEL GATO, BENAOAN

Formed by a cavern that gives way into the Guduares river, this natural pool has icy cold water that is derived from the cave itself, which visitors can explore while wading in the water. After leaving the mouth of the cave, the water creates a natural pool that is shaded by the nearby forest and mountains.

FOOD,DRINK & TRAVEL

MURCIA

SALTO DEL USERO, BULLAS

Located in the town of Bullas beside the Mula River, this natural pool area has several waterfalls and walkways for those wanting to explore the above canyons after a swim. During

SOMOGIL THERMAL POOL, MORATALLA

This hidden wonder in the town of Moratalla is for those looking to still enjoy a warmer atmosphere while swimming, this natural pool contains warm water from inside the earth. Its waterfall and surrounding vegetation create an oasis that is covered in shade.

VALENCIA

TURIA RIVER PARK, TURIA BERCOLON WATERFALL, CASERIO LOS FELIPES

the summer season (June 29th to September 2nd), access is limited and guests must reserve a trip here prior to visiting. Reservations are not required during the other seasons.

EL JARRAL, ABARAN

Located on the bank of the Segura River, the dams and shallow water in this area offer the perfect atmosphere for those wanting to cool off and simply wade in the water. This area is a popular rest stop for cannoneers and others participating in water sports in the main river but is also a great family-friendly option.

This waterfall on the outskirts of Tuejar is situated underneath a naturally forming rock bridge where those who are more experienced with rock climbing can abseil down the canyon to directly access the water. Otherwise, visitors can walk down the rocks in order to enjoy a more private swimming experience.

POR CLAR, ONTINYENT

Located three kilometers from the center of Ontinyent, this river consists of multiple pools with varying lengths. It can only be accessed on foot, bike, or by free bus service that runs from the local sports center on the weekends, but its clear waters and waterfalls make the area worth the journey. Due to its popularity, you must book your reservation in advance in July and August here.

GORGO DE LA ESCALERA, ANNA

Near the village of Anna, you can directly access this natural pool from the car park by taking stairs that descend into the water. Apart from the pool, visitors can see the area's large waterfalls by walking the “route of the three waterfalls,” which begins in the village. You can see the natural attractions throughout the year but in the summer it costs two euros per person due to council regulations.

This large 27 kilometer river runs alongside a forest track, making it an excellent place to swim, go tubing, or participate in other water activities. It can be accessed through any of the Valencia municipalities through which the river passes and does not get too crowded due to the multiple entrance points.

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Long hot summer concerns

THE government has announced plans for a new department to investigate and alleviate the effects of higher temperatures on human health.

Ecological Transition Minister Teresa Ribera said that a Health and Climate Change Observatory will be set up to look at the impact of extreme weather.

With summer temperatures reaching new highs, Ribera said vulnerable people like the elderly were at risk and more work is needed to understand how to prepare for longer, hotter summers.

“We must investigate what happens to our bodies in response to the effects of climate change, in order to mitigate the consequences on our health,” Ribera commented.

Dangerous patients

THE number of assaults on doctors in Spain increased by 38% in 2022, according to the Spanish Medical Association (OMC).

The worrying figures reveal that medical professional associations made a total of 843 complaints for physical and verbal assaults last year, almost 40% more than in 2021. Almost two thirds (64.3%) are linked to anger over waiting times.

Within Spain, the regions where this problem is most serious are Cantabria, Catalunya, Ceuta and Melilla, as they register over five assaults in every 1,000 doctors.

PUBLIC HEALTH

Farewell masks

SPAIN has said goodbye to the last remaining Covid-19 pandemic restriction dating back to spring 2020.

By Walter Finch

A NEW terror is stalking the south of Spain after a Costa del Sol expat had a painful encounter with a swarm of highly aggressive hornets.

Trevor Hamilton, 72, from Nottingham, had the terrifying run-in with what have been identified as Oriental hornets while he was out walking his dog in Estepona on Monday.

The first inkling that the ex-professional drummer had of the world of pain he was about to enter was when he heard a ‘very loud’ buzzing sound.

And then one giant hornet flew at his head.

“I don't know who pissed on their cornflakes, but they were very, very agitated,”

Trevor told the Olive Press.

“I shied away and within about five seconds I was surrounded by a lot - dozens and

WATCH OUT: Man suffers horrific hornet attack in the Costa del Sol

dozens.”

“I don't think I can explain how it felt. It was like being stabbed with a hot knife, multiple times.

“I screamed - and I don't scream.”

The incident resulted in four stings to his ankle but thankfully Trevor, who has owned his property in Estepona for over 20 years, managed to protect his dog and run away before things got worse.

Swelling started within minutes and both legs from the knees down turned bright red.

Two days later and his feet are ‘a little better.’

“It has been said that if they had been Asian hornets - or ‘murder hornets’ - I would have been dead,” Trevor said.

“I was probably in the wrong place at the wrong time.

“But my concern is that I'm pretty sure it would kill a dog and I'd be very concerned if it was a four or five year old kid because the pain is excruciating.

“So I think it's quite a serious issue and I'm gonna get it dealt with one way or another.”

Trevor puts down the fact that he got off relatively lightly to the strong insect repellent he had sprayed on his body before heading out of the house.

A nest of highly-aggres-

LIVER CANCER BOOST

A NEW combination of immunotherapy treatment could be used to fight liver cancer, and tests on mice are underway.

Dr. Ignacio Melero at Navarra's Cima University said: “We are using mice with a gene transfer from the liver where we have been able to test new immunotherapy combinations," he added.

Liver cancer is one of the fastest growing cancer types and the sooner it is detected, the higher the survival rate.

Symptoms include loss of appetite or losing weight when you’re not trying to; increased tiredness; a lump on the right side of the stomach; and the skin or whites of the eyes turning yellow.

OP Puzzle solutions

Quick Crossword

Across: 7 Beaches, 8 There, 9 Odium, 10 Cobwebs, 11 Monkhood, 13 Bees, 15 Time, 16 Unbutton, 19 Colonel, 20 Rifle, 22 Loser, 23 Species.

Down: 1 Mali, 2 Thimphu, 3 Psychoanalyse, 4 Stubs, 5 Tenement, 6 Senses, 7 Bloom, 12 Nameless, 14 Guarded, 15 Tackle, 17 Needs, 18 Inert, 21 Fail.

SWARMING: Oriental hornets are aggressive when defending their nests and can pose a serious threat

sive hornets - ‘four times larger than a wasp’ - will present a public health threat in an area where families live and children play.

The hornet’s nest, set into a wall, is located in the Puerto Romano urbanisation in Calle del Pinsapo. The local Linea Verde (Green Line) have been notified of the presence of the giant in-

sects.

Oriental hornets, despite being native to Asia, are also found in Europe, especially the south of Spain. When threatened, Oriental hornets can be aggressive in defending their nests. They possess a potent venom and can sting multiple times, causing pain and potential allergic reactions in humans.

Last week’s meeting of the Council of Ministers abolished mandatory mask wearing in areas like hospitals, health centres, and pharmacies.

The wearing of masks on public transport was abolished in February and the 17 regional health ministries that form the Interterritorial Council voted in favour on June 23 to end all remaining mask wearing rules.

Health Minister, Jose Miñones, said: “We have a totally different situation compared to 2020 with more than 90% of the population with a full dose of vaccination (105 million doses), and less than 1% of deaths and hospitalisations are down to Covid.” He nevertheless appealed for mask wearing to continue when close to vulnerable people who have symptoms of infection, as well as in hospital ICUs.

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Change through relocation abroad can also add to mental health pressures and these life changes are never easy.

Counselling and therapy has changed the lives of many. Getting in touch is the first step.

Recognising that there is an issue is the first step on the road to recovery.

Help is available through our confidential counselling service.

In case you missed it

CONTRARY to all perceptions, last month was actually the second-rainiest June of the 21st century, according to Aemet.

Dead body

A GROUP of kids in Cantabria fulfilled the plot of many an 80s movie by stumbling across a dead body while playing around in an abandoned wasteland.

Tone deaf

THE speaker in the Congress of Deputies, Meritxell Batet, was forced to apologise for claiming that ‘most of the population has no problem paying their rent’.

O P LIVE RESS

KISSED OFF

A BRAD Pitt fan suffered anguish after her dream of starring in a movie with the Hollywood icon turned out to be a very expensive fraud.

The middle aged Granada woman was wooed by a charming con man, posing as the A-lister, into an online relationship that ended up costing her €170,000.

The victim joined a Brad Pitt fan club on social media and, over the course of exchanges

BUS TO HELL

Heartbreak for Brad Pitt fan scammed out of fortune by smooth-talking imposter

By Alex Trelinski

with an online figure, began to believe that she was actually in direct contact with the actor himself.

The fake Brad Pitt sent her images of his alleged attendance

at red carpet premieres and even some photos with a message addressed directly to the money to fund the bogus production costs.

woman. He even made grand promises that he would come to Spain and make a movie with her, if she would just transfer him

Look but don’t touch

BEACHES along Spain’s east coast are reporting strange fried eggs appearing in their waters - but not ones you would be advised to eat.

Thousands of jellyfish that resemble huevos fritos have been appearing in increasing numbers, according to authorities. Warmer temperatures are thought to have caused the proliferation of this unique species.

And although bathers won't enjoy spotting one of them, it should be noted their sting has little or no effect on humans, at most mild burning sensation and irritation of the skin. Handily, the Spanish Ministry of Ecology recommends washing the affected area with sea water - something which should not be hard to find.

The woman's lawyer, Antonio Estella Aroza, said that the fraudster gained the 'trust, friendship and even the love of the victim' with a relationship that became almost like that of a couple. However, over time the victim began to realise that the man’s promises were not materialising and that perhaps something was off. The penny eventually dropped for the fan, who instigated legal proceedings after she realised she had been scammed out of a six figure sum. Her solicitor has filed a legal complaint for fraud, identity theft, and money laundering, but no arrest has been made.

VETERAN rockers Kiss have been playing to adoring crowds in their trademark black-andwhite face paint and outlandish costumes since 1973. But the curtain was pulled away a little when the members of the band were snapped heading to their gig in Cartagena on an Alsa bus.

The scene - with Gene Simmons and company in full regalia looking bored - went a little way to puncturing the image of the septuagenarian rock gods.

High life

A BRITISH woman on a flight home from Ibiza got the VIP treatment after she was the only passenger on a flight to Jersey. Staff with carrier Blue Islands - some of whom had not even heard of the destination - doted on lucky Hannah Maden-Adams.

The cabin crew entertained the 38-year-old personally while private cars met her at both ends of the flight. “It was very surreal, but it was just fun as well — how often does something like that happen?” Maden-Adams said.