History

It is believed that it already existed in Roman times and that it marked the eastern limit of Betica. It seems that its name comes from the silk handkerchiefs made on its looms which were called "Alfiñames'. They were famous in the XI century and were sold all over Spain, especially in the kingdom of Leon.

Its castle which dates from the X century, was used as a local defence until after the Moorish rebellion in 1568. A few glorious deeds of its inhabitants are known about, such as their resistance to the troops of Abderraman III in the year 913. In 1489 the Catholic Monarchs spent the night in this castle.

In the year 1820, it was the administrative centre of various villages of the Marquisate of Santa Cruz.

Eminent citizens
Juan Falconi, writer from the Golden Age.
Jose Morales Alarcon, painter.
Julio Visconti, painter.