The best place to experience Renaissance life
Andalusia Tour ~ Jaén (Region)
The beautiful Renaissance architecture is the main attraction of this World Heritage city, which, along with neighboring Baeza, is one of the best places in Europe to see Renaissance architecture and get a feel for life during that period.
This is a great option for a tour of Andalucia's interior. Beyond the churches, palaces and mansions, the surrounding landscape of olive trees creates a relaxing atmosphere. The restaurant and tapas bar will do the rest, and there's a chance to taste the famous olive oil.
A stunning and well-preserved Renaissance town
Although past civilizations have left their mark on Úbeda, the town is a unique example of Renaissance town planning and Italianate renovations from the 15th and 16th centuries. Its stunning palace collection fully reflects the power of the nobility at that time. The best place to start exploring the city is the Plaza Vázquez de Molina, one of the most beautiful squares in Europe. Here you will see the Church of El Salvador, the Deán Ortega Palace (now the Parador Hotel), the Town Hall, the Church of Santa María de los Reales Alcázares and the Marqués de Mancera Palace.
You should also visit the Plaza de Mayo and the Church of San Pablo (one of the oldest churches), as well as the Hospital de Santiago, known as the "El Escorial of Andalusia". Another surprising secret of Úbeda is the Synagogue del Agua, which was hidden until its discovery in 2007. Cultural festivals are organized to celebrate the day.
If you prefer sweeping views, head to the Redonda de Miradores walk to see why Úbeda is known as the “City of a Thousand Hills,” or head to the São Lourenço and San Francisco viewpoints to admire the Sierra de la Májina mountain range and the “ocean” of olive trees (there are more than 65 million in Jaén alone!).
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