History

Few historical details exist regarding the village's origins; however, the design of its streets and its urban appearance are, like those of so many villages in the Axarquia region, typically Arabic.

The presence of the Almohades is more evident, with the magnificent minaret of the former mosque still visible today; over 15 metres in height, its exterior features interestingly decorated with sebka material and tiling. Now the bell tower of the parish church, it was declared a Monument of Historical and Artistic Importance and part of the National Heritage in 1979.

When Velez-Malaga was captured by Catholic Monarchs in 1487, Archez also fell under Christian control; it soon became part of the estate of the Count of Cabra, Don Diego Fernandez de Cordoba.

On Christmas Eve 1884, the village and its municipal area were affected by a major tremor known as the Andalusian Earthquake which caused alarm among residents as well as heavy material damage.