Alcala la Real

The visitor exploring this part of Andalucia cannot fail but be impressed not only with the landscape but also with the regions villages.

Apart from Ubeda and Baeza worthy of mention is the fortress of Alcala la Real located in the south of the Jaen province.

This delightful town is found between Cordoba and Granada on the N432. You cannot fail but be overwhelmed by its impressive fortress which was occupied by the Moors in 713. Numerous battles were fought between the Christians and Moors over the area surrounding Alcala until 1341 Alfonso XI conquered the town. The Catholic monarchs established an Abbey withinAlcala and used it as the headquarters from which to launch attacks on Granada . Although abandoned, several rows of fortifications are still visible.

The Abbey contained within the original walls is also an imposing building with it s42 metre tower looming above the old quarter.