Estatua de José Mª Muñoz y Bajo de Mengíbar

The statue of José Mª Muñoz y Bajo de Mengíbar stands in Cuevas del Almanzora, right on Plaza de la Constitución next to the town fountain. This bronze figure on a white Macael-marble pedestal honors a man locals still call "Santo Negro" (the Black Saint) — a nickname earned through selfless help he gave the town during two of its darkest moments.

Who was José Mª Muñoz y Bajo de Mengíbar?

José Mª Muñoz y Bajo de Mengíbar is remembered in Cuevas del Almanzora as a benefactor who came to the town's aid after two devastating floods, in 1879 and 1888. The Almanzora River, which gives the town its name, has repeatedly burst its banks over the centuries, destroying homes and livelihoods along its course. His support for the flood victims was significant enough that the local community chose to honor him with a lasting monument — a gesture of gratitude from the whole town.

What will you see at the monument?

The monument follows a classic figurative form: a bronze statue set on a solid pedestal of pale marble quarried in nearby Macael, a stone-working town well known throughout the Almería region. The location is no accident — Plaza de la Constitución sits at the heart of old Cuevas del Almanzora, surrounded by historic buildings and facing the town hall. The fountain beside the statue creates a quiet, intimate corner of the square, popular with locals and visitors alike as they explore the town center.

How do you get there?

Plaza de la Constitución sits in the center of Cuevas del Almanzora, an easy walk from anywhere in the old town. The town itself lies in the province of Almería, in the Levante Almeriense area, close to the Mediterranean coast. By car, the main approach is via the A-7 motorway or local roads connecting Cuevas del Almanzora with nearby towns such as Vera and Huércal-Overa. Once you arrive, park in one of the areas near the center and continue on foot — the square and its surrounding streets are best explored at a walking pace.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October) are the best times to visit Cuevas del Almanzora and see the statue, when temperatures are milder than in the height of summer and the town is less crowded with tourists. Summers in the Almería region can get very hot, making long walks across open squares uncomfortable. The square and monument are open and accessible year-round, at any hour — though early morning or late afternoon visits are more pleasant when the sun is less intense.

Why is this monument worth seeing?

The statue of José Mª Muñoz y Bajo de Mengíbar is a small but telling piece of Cuevas del Almanzora's history. It tells the story of a town that repeatedly battled the river running through it, and of a man who stepped in as a selfless ally to its people in a moment of crisis. For anyone interested in local history and tradition, it's a worthwhile stop on a walk through the town center, blending a layer of history with the relaxed atmosphere of a small-town square.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly does the statue stand? On Plaza de la Constitución in Cuevas del Almanzora, right next to the town fountain and near the town hall.

Why is José Mª Muñoz y Bajo de Mengíbar called "Santo Negro"? Locals gave him this nickname in recognition of the selfless help he gave the town after the floods of 1879 and 1888.

What materials was the monument made from? The figure is cast in bronze, and the pedestal is built from white marble sourced from nearby Macael.

Is there an admission fee to see the statue? No, the statue stands in an open, public town square and can be viewed free of charge at any time.