Lights, Camera and Caves: GIFIC transforms Guadix from 10 to 13 September

If there is one thing that defines Guadix, it is its ability to surprise us. Anyone who wanders through our streets and loses themselves in the labyrinth of the Barrio de las Cuevas knows that this town has a special ‘something’ – a light that has captivated photographers and filmmakers for decades. That is why it is no coincidence that from 10 to 13 September, our town becomes the epicentre of the seventh art with the celebration of GIFIC (Guadix Iridiscente International Film Festival).

In this article, we explain why this event is the perfect excuse to book your next guided tour with us and enjoy an experience that blends history, heritage and cutting-edge cinema.

A Festival with a Sparkle of Its Own: What is GIFIC?

The term ‘iridescent’ has not been chosen at random. GIFIC was created with the aim of showcasing the many colours and nuances of reality through the screen. It is a festival that seeks not only to entertain, but also to provoke dialogue and reflection. With a clear focus on diversity, inclusion and human rights, the festival presents a carefully curated selection of feature films and short films (both fiction and documentaries) from all corners of the world.

For visitors, GIFIC offers the chance to enjoy top-class arthouse cinema in such iconic venues as the Mira de Amescua Theatre. Imagine rounding off your tour of Guadix by letting yourself be swept away by the magic of a story screened in the heart of one of Spain’s oldest towns.

Guadix: Europe’s Natural Film Set

When attending GIFIC, one cannot help but remember that they are walking through a legendary setting. Guadix and its surrounding area, part of the impressive Granada Geopark, have lent their landscapes to cinematic milestones such as Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Doctor Zhivago and Sergio Leone’s classic spaghetti westerns.

The festival pays an indirect tribute to this legacy, reminding us that this land of contrasts—where the white of the chimneys clashes with the ochre of the hills—remains an inexhaustible muse for today’s creators.

Cultural calendar: Why visit from 10 to 13 September?

Over these four days, the city takes on a whole new vibe. The programme is packed with:

• International screenings: Premieres you’re unlikely to see in mainstream cinemas.
• Meet-the-director sessions: Talks and discussions that give the public an insight into the creative process.
• A cosmopolitan atmosphere: The city fills with artists, critics and culture lovers, creating a vibrant atmosphere in squares and on terraces.

It’s the ideal time to combine sightseeing with high-quality cultural experiences. What better plan than a guided tour to discover the secrets of our troglodyte architecture, followed by a film gala?

Plan your visit: culture and heritage

If you’re thinking of visiting us during the festival, we recommend planning ahead. GIFIC screenings usually take place throughout the day, so we suggest you set aside some time to discover Guadix’s hidden treasures with us: from the Alcazaba to the panoramic views from the lookouts surrounding the town.

GIFIC is not just an event for specialists; it is an invitation for everyone—locals and tourists alike—to see the world through different eyes. It is the iridescence of culture illuminating the ancient caves of Guadix.

Fancy experiencing a September straight out of a film? Book your guided tour now and make sure you don’t miss a single detail of this magical blend of cinema and history.

• Dates: The festival takes place from 10 to 13 September 2026.
• Main venue: Teatro Mira de Amescua and various cultural venues across the city.
• Official festival website for the detailed programme: gific.es