The Ruined Sugar Factory Between Torrox Pueblo and Costa

If you've ever wandered the road down from Torrox Pueblo to Torrox Costa, you've most likely noticed it: a ruined old factory with a massive chimney rising into the sky. If, like me, you've wondered what it was, a bit of digging reveals it's the old San Rafael Sugar Factory. But this isn't just any old ruin; it's a testament to the town's rich industrial past, with a story that begins nearly 500 years ago.

The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth

The factory's roots can be traced back to the 16th century, with documents mentioning its construction by the Morisco Melilla family as early as 1530. By the mid-1500s it was fully functional, a key part of the local economy. However, the Morisco rebellion in 1569 led to its complete destruction.

For over 150 years, it lay in ruins. Then, in 1725, the factory rose from the ashes, rebuilt and this time powered by the latest water wheel technology.

An Industrial Revolution

Over the following centuries, the factory's ownership changed hands several times. In the 18th century, prominent figures like Miguel Gijón y León and the businessman Tomás de Quilty y Valois took over, modernising the works and switching from wood to coal as the primary energy source.

The 19th century saw its most significant transformation under the ownership of the influential Larios family. Martín Larios y Herreros funded a complete industrial overhaul, incorporating a powerful steam engine, though the old water wheel was retained for the grinding mills for some time.

The Golden Age and Decline

The San Rafael Sugar Factory thrived for centuries, producing huge quantities of sugar from locally grown sugarcane. At its peak under the Larios family, the factory was producing an impressive 220,000 kilograms of sugar annually.

This era of prosperity finally came to an end in 1945, when the factory closed its doors for the last time. The exact reasons for its decline are unclear, but were likely a combination of evolving market conditions, increased competition, and the end of the sugarcane boom in the region.

Today, the San Rafael Sugar Factory stands in ruins, a beautiful and poignant reminder of Torrox's industrial heritage. The local town hall has expressed interest in restoring the site to highlight its historical significance, but as yet, no firm plans have been made. While its future remains uncertain, it continues to be a significant and much-loved landmark in the town's history.