Avoiding confusion

THE Meson Gitano (Gypsy Inn), a group of six cave-houses below the Alcazaba in Almeria City, has had a change of name.

To avoid mystifying tourists visiting what is now a museum, it will be known as the Almohadi District archaeological site, referring to the era when the caves were part of a Moorish settlement between the 11th and 13th centuries.

“The centre is neither an inn and nor does it feature gypsy culture,” reasoned Almeria city hall’s Urban Development and Infrastructures councillor, Ana Martinez Labella.

She was aware that it could take time for Almeria City residents to adapt to the new name, Labella explained, but the museum, which is included in the Junta’s Museum Network, is being promoted throughout Andalucia and Spain.

“Calling it Meson Gitano could cause confusion,” she said.