Birth of the Spaghetti Western: Almería’s cinematic debut
The classic Western genre clearly distinguished between good and evil through stories about brave cowboys, law-abiding sheriffs, and honest farmers in a world centered on heroism and justice. By the 1960s, societal changes and shifting values made these stories less impactful to audiences.
In response, the Spaghetti Western genre emerged—darker, more ambiguous, and leaving audiences uncertain. The 1964 film “A Fistful of Dollars,” directed by Sergio Leone, introduced a new Western style through Clint Eastwood’s leading performance. Leone’s distinctive visual approach, combined with his bold storytelling and striking camera work, along with Ennio Morricone’s music which completed the overall effect, made these films stand out from traditional Westerns.
The main obstacle was the high production costs. Constructing the Wild West set in the United States proved to be extremely costly because of these expenses. Consequently, filmmakers looked for an alternative location and moved to Almería in southern Spain, where the deserts served as the backdrop for the golden age of the Spaghetti Western.
As for why Almeira was chosen;
Unique geography: When producers and directors looked for new landscapes to shoot their Westerns, they needed terrain that resembled the vast, dry areas of the American Southwest. They discovered it in Almería’s Tabernas Desert. With its dry climate, cactus-filled plains, canyons, and wide-open spaces, the region felt like a natural movie set, satisfying all their requirements.
Lower costs: Back then, filming a movie in Hollywood was costly. In Spain, it was much cheaper. With lower labor and lodging costs, Almería soon became the ideal location for Italian producers.
Weather made for the genre: Atmosphere is everything in a Western, and that meant weather mattered. With its year-round sunshine and dry skies, Almería offered film crews uninterrupted shooting conditions – something the United States couldn’t always guarantee. For producers, that meant the chance to make more films in less time.
Spanish State Incentives: Under Franco’s rule, Spain also offered substantial incentives to foreign filmmakers. The opportunity to benefit from lower costs combined with government support attracted Western producers in large numbers, and soon Almería was filled with film crews.
After the box-office success of A Fistful of Dollars, Almería became the setting for the rest of Sergio Leone’s “Dollars Trilogy,” including For a Few Dollars More (1965) and the genre-defining The Good, the Bad and the Ugly (1966). The desert also served as the backdrop for Once Upon a Time in the West (1968), starring Charles Bronson, as well as many other iconic films, where actors like Lee Van Cleef became legends.
Almería’s Spaghetti Western sets and travel guide
Today, you can experience the world of these cult films by visiting the still-standing sets in the Tabernas Desert. Open to visitors, these sites remain largely unchanged since the cameras first filmed there. Walk through them and you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped onto the set of a Spaghetti Western.
Here are the must-see sets and what you can experience there:
Oasys Mini Hollywood: Now operating as a theme park in the Tabernas Desert, Oasys Mini Hollywood is one of the most iconic sets from Spaghetti Western films. You can join a day tour to explore the authentic Western town once used on screen, watch live cowboy shows, and step into the role of a Western hero yourself. Toward sunset, you might even saddle up for a ride and bring a classic Western cliché to life. Fans of The Good, the Bad and the Ugly will find this place especially rewarding, as some of the film’s unforgettable scenes were shot right here.
Fort Bravo Texas Hollywood: Another major set in the Tabernas Desert is Fort Bravo, which offers a more authentic feel compared to Oasys Mini Hollywood. Filming still takes place here today, and like in Mini Hollywood, visitors can dive into the Western experience. It’s worth noting that this set also served as the backdrop for the classic For a Few Dollars More.
Western Leone: Built in 1968 for the filming of Once Upon a Time in the West, Western Leone also features scenes from Sergio Leone’s iconic Dollars Trilogy. Although smaller than the other sets in the Tabernas Desert, it remains a must-see spot for true Spaghetti Western fans.
What to do in Almería?
Known in film history as the home of the Spaghetti Western genre, Almería stands out not only for its cinematic legacy but also for its cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and classic Mediterranean cuisine. Let’s take a quick look at what you can do while visiting Almería, sitting on Spain’s southeastern coast along the Mediterranean.
Alcazaba of Almería: A city that has hosted many cultures over the centuries naturally carries a rich heritage. One of the most striking examples is the Alcazaba, an impressive showcase of Moorish architecture. It’s the perfect place to begin if you want to immerse yourself in Almería’s historic character.
Almería Cathedral: Another landmark of the city’s cultural legacy is Almería Cathedral. Standing since the 16th century, this structure once served both as a fortress and a cathedral.
Cabo de Gata–Níjar Natural Park: Nature lovers shouldn’t miss it here. Located east of the city, this unspoiled stretch of coastline is defined by volcanic landscapes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters. It’s an ideal spot for swimming, relaxing, or setting off on scenic hikes.
What to eat in Almería?
Spanish cuisine is one of the best options to enjoy traditional Mediterranean flavors. Almería offers classic Mediterranean dishes, especially seafood.
Dishes you should try on your trip to Almería:
Seafood: As a port city, Almería boasts many restaurants serving fresh fish and seafood. Among its specialties, the local red shrimp is a true highlight.
Migas: A rustic shepherd’s dish unique to Almería, made with breadcrumbs, olive oil, and garlic, is often served alongside meat or fish. You’ll find it on nearly every restaurant menu in town.
Tapas: And of course, tapas. Like everywhere in Spain, Almería’s lively tapas bars are an essential part of the experience.
Almería isn’t just a window into cinema history; it’s also a destination rich in culture and natural beauty. As you follow the dusty footprints of Spaghetti Westerns, you’ll create unforgettable memories in this beautiful Mediterranean city.
