Sacromonte is the hillside district of Granada, in Andalusia, where Roma communities have lived in whitewashed cave houses since the 16th century. It is also the cradle of the zambra granadina, a flamenco form danced in the caves. The Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte, a set of cave dwellings on Barranco de los Negros, displays traditional rooms, workshops for pottery, weaving and basketry, and a botanical trail. Flamenco is performed in cave venues such as Cueva de la Rocío, Los Tarantos and Venta El Gallo, usually in two shows each evening, some with dinner. At the top of the road, the Abbey of Sacromonte (Abadía del Sacromonte) has a Holy Caves museum and views of the Alhambra. The district is steep, so comfortable shoes are needed, and the C34 minibus is the best way up. Shows should be reserved in advance in summer and during Easter week. The caves are cool in summer and warm in winter.
| Admission | Cave Museum about €5 (~$5.75); flamenco show with drink about €25–€40 (~$28.75–$46) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Cave Museum (Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte): about 10:00–14:00 and 17:00–21:00 in summer, 10:00–18:00 in winter; flamenco shows from about 20:00 |
| Typical visit | 1.5–3 hours |
| Best time | Late afternoon for the museum, then an evening flamenco show |
| Getting there | Minibus C34 from Plaza Nueva to Sacromonte; or a 20-minute uphill walk along Camino del Sacromonte |
| Address | Barranco de los Negros, 85, 18010 Granada, Spain |
Location
Barranco de los Negros, 85, 18010 Granada, Spain
37.1838, -3.5887 View on map
Highlights
- Traditional cave homes at the Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte
- Zambra flamenco in cave venues
- Abbey of Sacromonte and its Holy Caves
- Views of the Alhambra from the hillside
Tips for visiting
- Book flamenco shows directly with the venue or through the tourist office
- Use minibus C34 and return by taxi after late shows
- Combine the museum with a sunset at Mirador de San Cristóbal
- Wear sturdy shoes; paths are steep and cobbled
- Ask about drink-only and dinner-show prices before booking
When to visit
Late afternoon and evening; spring and autumn are comfortable.
Accessibility
The district is steep with uneven surfaces. The Cave Museum has some level sections; caves have narrow doorways and steps.
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Are the caves still lived in?
Yes, many are homes, some are venues and some are open as a museum.
What is a zambra?
A flamenco dance of the Sacromonte Roma tradition, performed in cave settings.
How late do shows end?
Most evening shows finish before midnight; check each venue.