About 20 km north of Alicante, buried deep in the mountains lies the city of
Jijona (Xixona in Valencian), the World Capital of the Turrón. According to the legend the beehives there produce honey so pure and
sweet like anywhere else. Jijona and its
7500 habitants are famous all over Spain for its turrón when the Moorish (Arabic)
inhabitants invented the delicious sweet of Turron over 500 years ago. This specialty made of sugar, honey, almonds
and eggs is the most typical sweet eaten during Christmas. The honey is combined with almonds, from the local Almond tree orchards,
which are also in abundance in that part of Spain.
 |
| Landscape around Jijona near the Turron Factory |
Jijona is a very old town with lovely little
streets. On top of the hill next to it,
you can see the ruins of the old city castle, with an impressive overview on
the landscape. The view straight over to
the Costa Blanca is really spectacular. Jijona’s history is deeply rooted in
its Arabic past. The region has
inherited many customs and traditions that Europe and the ancient Arabic world
shared during so many centuries.
 |
| The Impressive Turron Museum Entrance |
At the outskirts of Jijona you will see the
turrón museum. The museo del turrón is
located and maintained in the same factory which also makes the famous “EL
LOBO” and “1880” turrón brands.
 |
| The Museum Logo |
The museum offers a guided tour which shows
you the very detailed museum and the factory from a high above balcony area
inside the plant where you can see the machines running. A very impressive sight.
 |
The Ancient Mixing and Rolling Tables
The Crushing and Mixing Tubs from not so Long Ago
Delivery Truck from the Early Days |
The museum gives you a wonderful overview on
the different kinds of sweets they offer.
From the two types of Turrón (the Alicante Turrón to the Jijona Turrón),
to marzipan and other varieties you will be sure to find something to satisfy
your sweet tooth.
 |
| The Last Stop of the Visit - The Shop with all the Goodies |
The Turrón museum visit over, we headed to the Penya Redona Restaurant for a well-deserved late lunch. This restaurant is located near Jijona up in the hills. It boasts a great location, magnificent views and simple but absolutely delicious food. we were even treated to an aerial display while lunching.
 |
The Penya Redona Restaurant
The Penya Redona Inside Dining Room
The View from the Penya Redona Restaurant
The Tables at the Penya Redona Restaurant Terrace
Entertainment While we Had our Lunch
We Even Waved Hello to this Guy |
No comments:
Post a Comment