Retired tractor driver Francisco Martinez (76) fastens up an apron prior to starting his work as saffron cleaner at the Molineta de Minaya company's warehouse, in Minaya on November 7, 2016. On the arid, wind-swept plateaux of central Spain, saffron producers are reaping the profits from a return to favour of the precious spice introduced by Arabs in the Middle Ages. After a lull in production due to the high prices of saffron -- one of the most expensive spices in the world due to the intensive manual labour it entails -- farmers are now back in business as customers seek good quality, which Spain can provide. / AFP PHOTO / Gonzalo ARROYO MORENO / TO GO WITH AFP STORY BY ADRIEN VICENTE