Sources and Springs of Sierra Cabrera: Natural Treasure and Forgotten Heritage

Sierra Cabrera, located in the province of Almería, is a majestic mountain system that stretches along the southeast coast of Almería, Spain. With its rich geology, predominantly formed by metamorphic rocks and limestones, this mountain range has been an important reservoir of water for centuries through its numerous springs and sources. These natural water resources were vital for the "cortijadas" and "cortijos," small rural communities and scattered homes that flourished in the region until the mid-20th century. However, many of these springs have fallen into oblivion, and today many are dry, buried, or in need of recovery.

Geology and Formation of Springs

Sierra Cabrera features a complex geology that contributes to the formation of numerous springs. Metamorphic rocks, such as marble and schist, along with limestones, allow for the infiltration and storage of rainwater. These natural aquifers gradually release water, forming springs that feed the sources that have been crucial for rural life in the sierra.

Cortijadas and Cortijos: Life in the Sierra

The "cortijadas" were small clusters of "cortijos," typical rural houses of Andalusia, which functioned as self-sufficient units of agricultural and livestock production. In Sierra Cabrera, these communities depended closely on springs and sources for irrigation, human consumption, and livestock maintenance. Examples of cortijadas in Sierra Cabrera include Cortijo Cabrera (Los Pastores), Los Moralicos, La Carrasca, Cufria, El Dondo, La Adelfa, Cortetes, El Jali, Cabrera, Saetias, Royo Morera, Garcia Alto and Garcia Bajo, La Rondeña, and Los Herreras, among others.

Springs and Sources of Sierra Cabrera

Throughout Sierra Cabrera, numerous sources and springs emerged at strategic points, providing vital water resources to the cortijadas. Some of the most notable include:

- Fuente de Mojácar: The most emblematic of the sierra, known for its 12 spouts, this source is a symbol of the abundance of water that once characterized the region. For centuries, this source not only supplied water to the population of Mojácar but was also a meeting point and a key place for community life.

- Fuente de La Carrasca: Located in the homonymous cortijada, this source was essential for the agricultural activities of the area. Although it is currently abandoned, it was once one of the most important in the sierra. - **Manantial de Los Moralicos:** This spring supplied water to several nearby cortijadas and was essential for the irrigation of dryland crops.

- Manantial de El Dondo: It emerges among some rocks below the cortijos, serving as a human supply and meeting the needs of animals and the lush orchard that descends through the terraces.

- Manantial de Cufria: It emerges in one of the bends formed by the massifs of "Cerro de La Mezquita" and "Cerro de La Arraez," consisting of about ten cortijos clustered together. Its location was likely conditioned by the water outflow that served to maintain the small adjacent orchard and the basic needs of the homes.

- Manantiales de Cortijo Cabrera: This enclave deserves special mention due to the presence of several springs in its vicinity. There was one next to the tower of the old fortress (now disappeared), another at the bottom of the ravine on the west side, and two more at the same altitude in two large cortijos. From one of them, water is still extracted today and distributed throughout the region by tanker truck. This enclave is also notable because the "Fortaleza de Cabrera" existed here, the remains of which can still be seen on the hill and at its base. Logically, there must have been a water source for its population, and this was very possibly the spring near the tower, with a lush orchard on terraces irrigated by its waters.

Abandonment and Need for Recovery 

With the rural exodus that affected many regions of Spain during the 20th century, the cortijadas and cortijos of Sierra Cabrera were progressively abandoned. This abandonment brought with it the neglect of the sources and springs, many of which have dried up or are buried under vegetation and landslides. The recovery of these water resources is crucial not only to preserve the cultural heritage of the region but also to ensure environmental sustainability and the possible resurgence of micro agricultural activity and the significant contribution to the tourism industry.

La Fuente de Mojácar: A Heritage to Revitalize La Fuente de Mojácar, with its 12 spouts, is the largest and most notable symbol of the water resources of Sierra Cabrera. This source, whose history dates back to ancient times, is a testament to human ingenuity in utilizing natural resources in an arid environment. Its recovery and maintenance are not only a tribute to the past but also a crucial strategy for the sustainable development of the region.

The water storage system and the acequias that irrigated all the orchards still survive. However, unfortunately, the large mill that was part of this system was not preserved and valued, which would have further enriched the heritage of the town. Revitalizing these historical elements is essential to preserving Mojácar's cultural identity and promoting sustainable tourism that respects and values its historical roots.

Conclusion 

The sources and springs of Sierra Cabrera are a testament to the valuable natural and historical heritage of the region. The recovery and preservation of these resources will not only contribute to the revitalization of the cortijadas and cortijos but will also strengthen the cultural identity and environmental sustainability of Sierra Cabrera, adding value to tourism. Community initiatives and conservation policies are necessary to ensure that this water legacy is not lost for future generations.@GerardoMartinezCabello