This weekend, the streets of Almería, in Spain's southeastern Andalusia, were transformed into an open-air museum as around 40 vintage and classic cars took part in the city's 36th annual rally. Enthusiasts and curious onlookers lined the route to admire vehicles that together trace more than a century of automotive design and engineering.
Among the most striking entries was a rare 1905 Vermorel, one of the oldest surviving examples of the French marque, which ceased production decades ago. At the other end of the timeline, a DeLorean DMC-12—immortalised by the Back to the Future films—drew its own share of attention, a reminder of how cars can capture the popular imagination across generations.
A rolling celebration of motoring heritage
The rally, organised by the Almería Classic Vehicle Club, is not a race but a parade of preservation and passion. Participants come from across Spain and occasionally from further afield, bringing with them meticulously restored machines that range from pre-war veterans to icons of the 1980s. For many owners, the event is a chance to share the stories behind their vehicles, from barn finds to painstaking rebuilds.
This year's edition also underscored the growing appeal of classic motoring in Spain, a country where car culture has deep roots. The event coincides with a broader European trend: classic car shows and rallies are enjoying renewed popularity, from the Mille Miglia in Italy to the Goodwood Revival in the UK, as enthusiasts seek to preserve and celebrate the continent's automotive legacy.
Almería itself is known for its cinematic history—the nearby Tabernas Desert has served as a backdrop for countless films—and the rally added a touch of spectacle to the city's streets. Local authorities supported the event, which also drew visitors from other parts of Andalusia and beyond, giving a small boost to the regional economy.
While the rally is a celebration of the past, it also prompts reflection on the future of motoring. As Europe accelerates its transition to electric vehicles, with Spain's renewable energy surge reshaping the energy landscape, events like this one highlight the enduring appeal of the internal combustion engine—even as the continent moves toward cleaner mobility.
The organisers said they were pleased with the turnout and the enthusiasm of the public. “It's not just about the cars,” said one club member. “It's about keeping history alive and sharing it with the next generation.”
For those who missed the spectacle, the club plans to hold the 37th edition next year, promising an even wider array of vehicles. In the meantime, Almería's streets have returned to their usual rhythm, but the echoes of a century of motoring will linger until the engines roar again.
