Everything you need to know for 2 or 3 days in Jaén

Gateway to Andalucía as you come from the neighbouring territories of Castilla-La Mancha and usually overlooked by travellers, Jaén province is a land of olive groves, historic villages, rich cultural heritage and gastronomic delights.

The province offers a blend of landscapes from imposing rugged mountain ranges to fertile valleys in which the endless fields of olive trees stretching to the horizon will make you understand why Jaén is known as the “World´s Capital of Olive Oil”.

Its countless castles, palaces, churches and monuments are an evident testament to its glorious past as a strategic bordering point during the Moorish-Christian conflict and its subsequent economic growth. The city of Jaén itself, the imposing twin towns of Úbeda and Baeza as well as the picturesque villages along the province, boast a mix of architectural styles showcasing the cultural influence of the three main cultures -Jewish, Moorish, and Catholic- that lived together over the centuries.

No matter what you are looking for during your trip, this province will show you its essence wherever you go. Warm hospitality, gastronomic traditions and a strong emotional attachment to its history and land, this is the perfect combination to discover the authentic Andalusian life off the beaten track

Jaén Highlights – things to see and do in Jaén City

1. The City of Jaén
2. Jaén Cathedral
3. Arab Baths and Vilardompardo Palace

Things to See and Do in Jaén Province – Out and About

• Úbeda
• Baeza
• Andújar
• Bailén
• Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park
• Castles and fortresses of Jaén province
• La Mota Fortress at Alcalá la Real
• The Synagogue of Water in Úbeda

Dining Out

• Eating and Drinking in Jaén

Practicalities – Frequently asked questions about things to see and do in Jaén

• How to get to Jaén?
• When to go to Jaén?
• How long to stay in Jaén??
• What to eat in Jaén?
• What to buy in Jaén?

The City of Jaén

A hidden gem, truly ‘undiscovered’

A city often overlooked in Andalucia and still undiscovered by many, Jaén is a hidden gem you now have the opportunity to explore.

Surrounded by vast olive groves and mountains, Jaén produces the 60% of Spain’s olive oil and boasts the highest density of castles in Europe. The proximity of the breathtaking Cazorla National Park and the pristine landscapes create a spectacular backdrop to this off-the-beaten track destination.

Santa Catalina Castle – now the Parador de Jaén

The imposing Santa Catalina Castle, located in a fortified enclosure alongside the Parador, towers over the winding narrow streets offering the best views of the city and across the Guadalquivir valley. From high atop the hill, the city unveils its treasures.

The monumental Renaissance-style Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, the 16th-century Palacio de Villardompardo, the 11th-century Arab baths, declared National Monument, located in its basements and the Minor Basilica of St. Ildefonso, scene of a famous miraculous event: the descent of the Virgin Mary to the city, among other interesting museums, charming squares and suggestive gastronomic options will keep you enthralled from start to finish.

Jaén Cathedral

The best of the Spanish Renaissance

Considered one of the most remarkable examples of Renaissance style in Spain, the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin in Jaen is a symbol of architectural mastery, historical relevance and religious devotion. Source of inspiration for many temples built in America, its striking façade and interior combines Gothic, Baroque and Neoclassical elements evolving along the centuries and resulting in its peculiar blend of styles.

The origins of the shrine date back to the 13th century on the site of an old mosque during the reign of Ferdinand III the Saint.

Later, in the 15th century, a Gothic building was erected to hold the Holy Veil or Sudarium, becoming a pilgrimage point for Christianity. The refurbishment works carried out by Andrés de Vandelvira in the 16th century, endowed the cathedral its marked Renaissance style.

It has been declared National Monument and can be visited from Mondays to Sundays with free audio guide included. Guided visits and night visits are also available.

More details at: https://catedraldejaen.org/cultural-visit/

The Arab Baths of Jaén

11th century – possibly Roman…

Hidden beneath the 16th-century Villardompardo Palace and nowadays, a visit to the Arab Baths in one of the most captivating experiences in Jaen. Dating back to the 11th century, some historians allege that they were built atop ancient Roman baths, harnessing the benefits of natural thermal springs.

Probably the largest in Spain due to their area of 450m², the baths unearthed in 1913, declared National Monument in 1931, and carefully restored to showcase their architectural splendour as an important place for personal hygiene, but also for social life.

It was reopened in 2014 as The Arab Baths Cultural Centre offering a varied programme of exhibitions, concerts, lectures and demonstrations. The visit to baths is free.

Úbeda

A monumental surprise!

Set in what is now a sleepy, agricultural corner of Andalucia among the mountains and the olive groves, Ubeda, and its sister town Baeza, can come as quite a surprise.

Named as “the Renaissance Monumental Ensembles of Úbeda and Baeza” by Unesco, Úbeda alone holds 48 monuments 9 of which of national interest including the magnificent Capilla de San Salvador, Palacio de las Cadenas, the Hospital de Santiago and the Palace of Dean of Malaga, nowadays housing the Parador, as well as numerous other palaces and works by architects such as Andres Vandelvira.

There’s a thriving local pottery tradition dating back to Arab times, typically with a deep green colour and fine lattice-work. Nearby you can wander in the olive groves or visit the Sierra de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Nature Park, Spain’s largest nature reserve with many unique species, home to the source, at over 1300m, of the Guadalquivir.

Baeza

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003 along with its sister town Úbeda, Baeza breathes tranquillity. Despite of being a popular destination among architecture and history lovers, you can hear the sound of the wind blow from the surrounding olive fields echoing against ancient facades and footsteps resonating on worn cobblestones.

Its labyrinthine streets unravel the tapestry of centuries-old architecture. Adorned mansions bearing their noble coats of arms, churches, palaces and squares intertwine with whitewashed houses and fortified alleys to create a lovely atmosphere that will take you back in time.

It could be said that Baeza is condensed within three squares – Plaza de Santa María, Plaza de Santa Cruz, and Plaza del Pópulo. Each of them beckons you to pause and appreciate the landmarks they hold. Plaza de Santa María showcases the
Cathedral and the Seminary of San Felipe Neri, while Plaza de Santa Cruz boasts Jabalquinto Palace, the old University, and the church of Santa Cruz. Moreover, Plaza del Pópulo features the Lions Fountain and the Villalar Arch. The stroll from one square to another typically takes around ten minutes, so it won´t take long for you to fall in love with this lovely town.

Andújar

Located on the banks of the Guadalquivir River, crossed by a spectacular Roman bridge, Andújar is a city of extraordinary architectural and cultural heritage, declared of Cultural Interest, with the category of Historical Set of Andalucia.

A patrimonial collection of great interest is still preserved in the village, not only for the quality of its monuments, such as churches, noble houses, the Mudéjar Tower of the Clock or the Town Hall, but also for their diverse artistic styles.

The pilgrimage to the Virgen de la Cabeza Sanctuary, nestled in the Sierra de Andújar Natural Park, is one of its most popular centuries-old traditions attracting thousands of visitors every year.

Also known for its rich natural beauty and agricultural significance, it´s an important producer of olive oil, with numerous olive groves in the surroundings.

Bailén

Nature and history in harmony

Another point of interest for history lovers, Bailén is renowned for its crucial role during the Independence War in 1808 when the great Napoleonic Army surrendered to the Spanish troops for the first time. There is a museum mainly dedicated to this eponymous historic event and an annual celebration takes place in July.

Its significance also lies in being located at the crossroads of Sierra Morena and Despeñaperros Natural Park with north and south of the peninsula. Like any other small village in the region, you will breathe the local atmosphere and enjoy its traditional delicacies.

Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas Natural Park

Spain’s largest protected nature park

Cazorla nature park

In the northeast of the province, mountain ranges encircle the extensive and breathtaking Natural Park of Sierras de Cazorla, Segura y Las Villas, Spain’s largest protected nature area and second largest in Europe.

As snow melts on the highest peaks, water trickles through the limestone plateaux and into the streams that feed the mighty Andalusian rivers.

Within the sheltered valley, a thriving ecosystem flourishes. Boars, deers and rare species such as the Spanish ibex roam amidst the depths of pine forests, and fluttering wings and bird song resonate in the air. It´s haven for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature photography.

Sleepy villages with well-preserved traditions, historic castles offering unbeatable views, and the bustling market town of Cazorla itself contribute to the diverse tapestry of this UNESCO biosphere reserve.

Castles and Fortresses of Jaén Province

90 magnificent castles!

Due to its strategic location in the border between Christian Castilla and Muslim Granada during the Middle Ages, almost 90 castles have survived to the present day in this province.

You may be as surprised as we were when we learned that Jaén is the territory of Europe with the highest concentration of castles and fortresses, each of them true witness of the region’s rich past.

Two of the most important battles in Spain´s history took place in this region: Navas de Tolosa in 1212, which led to a faster Reconquest of the Peninsula by the Christians and the Battle of Bailén in 1808, where forces of Napoleon’s French Empire clashed with the Kingdom of Spain.

The Route of the Castles and Battles of Jaen offers a thrilling itinerary including the most relevant examples preserved: Castillo de Santa Catarina in Jaén city (which now houses the Parador), Castillo de La Iruela in the village of Cazorla, Sabiote, Burgalimar, Alcaudete and Fortress of La Mota (one of our favourites, see below) just to mention a few. If you are a history lover wanting to learn more about the military architecture and tumultuous history of the Iberian Peninsula this region is a must.

La Mota Fortress at Alcalá la Real

A historic jewel, not to be missed!

Occupied by humans since Prehistoric times and a magnificent Arabic stronghold during the Middle Ages, this well-preserved fortress town makes a nice stop on your way to/from Granada to Córdoba. In fact it was that very fact which made it such a strategic point in the first place!

It offers picturesque views dominated by the imposing La Mota Fortress which exerts a magical power on visitors and locals alike.

Declared Asset of Cultural Interest, you can explore the original structure of the Almohad wall, the urban layout of the Renaissance city and the surrounding landscape designed by both Muslims and Christians during the Middle Ages. A true jewel for history lovers! connection with the New World.

The Synagogue of Water in Úbeda

A rare treasure

In 2007, during a private business renovation, the ancient walls gradually unveiled a rare treasure: the arches of a Jewish Synagogue, the Women’s Gallery, and even a Ritual Bath (Mikveh). Open to the public since 2010 and only bookable in advance – click here –  this magnificent find keeps more than one secret. Go and discover them yourself!

Eating and drinking in Jaén

World Capital of Olive Oil

Jaen’s cuisine reflects what its land produces. Not only is it the World´s Capital of Olive Oil, but it also has a great variety of local produce from cherries to almonds and pistachios to award-winning cheeses and excellent cured meats, particularly salchichon (salami). With its mountainous terrain, it is not surprising that it is a hunters’ paradise where partridge, quail, deer, wild boar and wild goat abound.

You will be pleasantly surprised too by the good selection of local wines available – fifty in all – red, white and rose and even sparkling. Try the red “Alto de Campoameno” which won the Gold award at VinEspana 2021 Sommelier Awards.

Regional dishes include “lomo de orza” (a confit of pork loin), “pipirrana Jaenera” (Jaen’s versión of gazpacho), “migas Ubetenses” (fried breadcrumbs with grapes, bacon, green peppers and roasted garlic topped with a fried egg), “faisan con setas” (pheasant with wild mushrooms), “cabrito con habas” (kid with broad beans) and “natillas con borrachuelos” (soft custard with fried pastries).

As with the rest of Andalucia, tapas are a great favourite and many people make a meal of them doing the rounds of the tapas bars especially in the evenings.

You’ll get our own  restaurant recommendations as part of your information pack and Vamoos app but do ask your hotel for recommendations as things are always changing and new things popping up.

The “liquid gold” – the taste of Jaén´s identity

“World´s Capital of Olive Oil” is not just a well-deserved epithet of this region. The growing of olives and the production of oil have shaped its identity and boosted its economy for centuries creating an unbreakable bond between the land and its people.

There is no better way to witness the rich living heritage of Jaén than to delve into the endless groves of olive trees and learn about the meticulous process to extract the “liquid gold”.

You can visit traditional mills where local farmers will show off their expertise gained over the course of centuries and taste this unique product. Don´t miss the opportunity to try the traditional dishes and appreciate the influence of this essential ingredient in the Spanish cuisine.

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