Whether you’re taking a road trip or heading there directly, Jaen, Spain is a town that is sure to surprise you. This hidden treasure has cultural attractions galore, and is a great stop on an Andalucia road trip.
Things to Do in Jaen, Spain
You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the variety of attractions that the town of Jaen, Spain has to offer. Jaen region boasts the largest area of protected natural spaces in Spain. It also has the largest number of castles in Spain.
As for the province itself, there’s much to discover. Set in a vast plain surrounded by sixty million olive trees, Jaen actually produces 60% of Spanish and 20% of the world’s extra virgin olive oil.
They call it liquid gold here! Tours of the world’s largest olive oil factory are fascinating.
1. Jaen Cathedral
From here, head into town to visit Nuestra Señora de la Asunción Cathedral. It’s considered the most important example of Renaissance architecture in Andalucia, and aspiring to be declared a World Heritage Site.
The masterwork of Andrés de Vandelvira, Jaen served as a model for many Latin American cathedrals.
Veil of Veronica
Jaen Cathedral is also known for its unique construction, with an upper level allowing people to view the nave from on high. The reason it was built this way is that the cathedral houses a rare relic, a version of the Veil of Veronica.
This cloth bears a likeness of the face of Jesus. According to legend, Saint Veronica of Jerusalem met Jesus on the way to Calvary and wiped the blood from his face.
Whilst the Church make no claims about the relic’s authenticity, people have come for centuries to get a glimpse of it. Allowing people to view the holy veil from above helped to preserved the relic.
These days it’s exhibited on Good Friday and on the Feast of the Assumption.
2. Palacio de Villardompardo
Next, walk to the Palacio de Villardompardo. This Renaissance Palace is interesting in its own right and houses some fascinating exhibits including the only naive art museum in Spain.
The Arab Baths hidden inside the Palace are particularly impressive. They are the largest and most important in Europe.
Dating from the 11th century, they were discovered in 1913 and are the largest baths open to the public in Spain. They were most likely constructed on top of Roman baths, as Roman ruins are visible from a glass walkway in the palace basement. There are four different rooms – a marble lobby, a cold room and warm and hot rooms,
There are a few sections where natural daylight streams through the star shaped skylights, to stunning effect. The restoration of the baths won the Europa Nostra (European Cultural Heritage) prize.
3. Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions
This popular Jaen museum, also located within the palace, showcases some very interesting artefacts like these traditional local costumes.Â
4. Castillo de Santa Catalina
Take a walk past Castillo de Santa Catalina, along a picturesque path to a monumental cross. It commemorates the original cross that Ferdinand III erected here.
The castle served as a military stronghold, defending the town from attacks. It was improved by Abdallah ibn al-Ahmar, the Nasrid King famed for building the Alhambra.
King Ferdinand III of Castile recaptured the city in 1246 and transformed the castle. What we find rather fascinating is that the castle was connected to the centre of town by secret tunnels.
5. Parador de Jaen
Spain is renowned for its Paradors, government-run hotels in historic buildings and spectacular locations. The Parador de Jaen, Spain is one of the finest, with a breathtaking position on Santa Catalina Hill overlooking the town.
You’ll get a real thrill of anticipation driving up to the hotel. It’s located right next to the medieval castle, Castillo de Santa Catalina, open for visits every day of the week.
Although the Parador itself was constructed in 1965, you’d never know, it’s so in keeping with the adjacent 8th century fortress. The only clues are the spaciousness and sense of light inside, and the sizeable bedroom balconies.
The view over the valley of the Guadalquivir towards the Sierra Morena mountain range is magnificent.
Waiting for us in our room was an appetizing tray of sweet treats, together with lots of useful brochures on the area. Once we’d settled in, we headed out to explore the rest of the Parador. The swimming pool will soon be open for the season.
There are two spectacular adjacent bar areas, with 20 meter high cross-vaulted ceilings and stylish decor. General Charles de Gaulle once stayed here whilst writing his memoirs, we imagine it’s changed a bit since then! The current King of Spain has also graced its doors.
The restaurant is equally impressive and serves seasonal local produce. After dinner, the split level lounge is an atmospheric place to relax.
By night, the parador is illuminated and makes a striking sight. That’s why it’s definitely worth staying overnight if you have time.
For more information about Jaen, Spain, the Tourist Office has knowledgeable and charming staff.
How to Get to Jaen
The closest airport is Federico GarcÃa Lorca Granada Airport (GRX), with flights to many destinations worldwide. From Jaen to Granada it’s 100 km (62.5 miles) and approximately 1 hour’s drive.
We chose Auto Europe for our Andalusia road trip and the whole process went really smoothly. We picked our Volkswagen Tiguan 2.0 Z up in Malaga, one of the busiest car rental hubs in the world, so we were glad that the service was efficient.
So where else should you go to on your Andalucian road trip? We recommend that you start in Granada where you can visit the Alhambra at night or by day. After one or two nights in Granada, head to Jaen and from there drive to Ubeda.
It’s a good idea to fit in one or two nights in Carmona before finishing your road trip in Seville, the capital of Andalucia. If you have a bit more time, you could extend your trip to visit Marbella, one of the most luxurious cities on the Costa del Sol.
Read about other great things to do in Spain here.
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Wow what a wonderful place. Loved the photos. Gemma x
www.jacquardflower.uk
It’s got a lot going for it. Have a great weekend
The hotel has a gorgeous rustic charm.
SilverSpoon London
That’s very true and the views were incredible
I have a uni friend who is from Jaen but I never had the chance to visit this place. The hotel room looks great and really matches the location.
I hope you get the chance to visit your uni friend. You’re right that the hotel fits in perfectly with the area
Gosh, there’s so much to admire in this post – I love the warm textiles in your hotel room and the restaurant looks incredible with such a high ceiling!
Gabrielle | A Glass Of Ice x
Love the look of the hotel, so unique!
It really had bags of character, Becky
oh the dry hills of Andalusia simply beautiful, I loved visiting this region so much. I also loved spotting the huge bull signs on the side of the road as we drove – so much fun
Actually they weren’t as dry as I expected though I’m sure in the height of Summer they’re a lot more so! I really liked the huge bull signs too
Wow! So gorgeous! I love seeing how history is becoming a big draw for luxury travel.
You know, that makes perfect sense as an interesting history makes a place so much more memorable
Such a beautiful place and pictures! Thanks for sharing Suze! Have an amazing weekend!
xx
cvetybaby.com
You too Cvetina, I’m off to the Algarve for my birthday!
Oh wow, looks incredible! As I’ve previously mentioned, we’re planning to stay a few months in Spain later this year. Would definitely visit and although we’re dedicated Airbnb renters I looked up the prices and the parador looks reasonable. Looks like a great experience and photos are stunning.
Frank (bbqboy)
Oh I hope you have an amazing time and Molly from Piccavey is the blogger to hit up for Andalucia tips!
Thanks Suze 🙂
The hotel has kept a very authentic feel, without sacrificing modern day comforts. It’s such a thrill to stay somewhere that has so much history all around it! Have a lovely weekend too, I’ve got a birthday one coming up so more travels!
Wow what a beautiful historic place…the view is stunning!! I’d love to visit Spain someday.
www.leftbanked.com
It’s such an interesting country, the landscape is really varied with the coast and mountains – I hope you get the chance
I first saw the Parador’s when I was researching Tenerife – there’s such a choice and they look simply charming, nice to see you enjoyed!
Oh I didn’t realize they had them in Tenerife, I’ll have to read all about them on your blog
Adalucia is beautiful you have picked out some wonderful hidden gems. It makes me want to visit again Lucy x
I hope you get the chance, it’s a nice place to visit with a child I think though they do tend to serve food quite late
I loved parador de Jaen. It’s one of those unique hotels that makes you feel like royalty. Your post reminded me how beautiful Spain is. Great pictures, like always!
Jaen is my nearest city and one I love showing visitors around. It’s so untouristy and of course the Parador is fabulous. I also love that free tapas are still served. A lovely round-up of a great small city