Jaén

MUNICIPIOS

Jaén Paraíso Interior

Municipality

Description

Jaén is an extensive municipality located in the south-west centre of the province, and in which the capital is located.

In its term two areas are distinguished: the countrysidewhich is located to the north and another, smaller, located to the south, which is the mountain.

As we go through its historical centre, in streets, corners and monuments we discover the richness of the coexistence of three cultures: Christian, Jewish and Muslim. We will walk through the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter, we can visit the Arab baths of the 11th century in the basements of the palace of Villardompardo and admire the rosary of churches, some of them raised over ancient mosques and numerous convents. And visible from all points of the historical center is the Cathedrala true jewel of the Spanish Renaissance.

On the hill of Saint Catherine the imposing castle of the same name, from where you can admire extraordinary panoramic views over the Guadalquivir valley, the countryside and the Sierra Sur behind your back.

Jaén, the world's capital of olive oil, is today a modern city as its squares, gardens and large avenues testify.

Tourist Office

Horarios de visita

Oficina de información turística de Jaén.
C/ Carrera de Jesús, 2.
23002 Jaén
Tel. 953 190 455

Contact Details

953 313 281

otjaen@andalucia.org

https://www.jaencityofgastronomy.com/ www.culturayturismojaen.es

Useful Information

Tourist area: Jaén and surroundings
Altitude over sea level (m): 573
Extension (km ²): 424
Number of inhabitants: 120,021
Gentilicon: Jiennenses
Postal code: 2300x

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Culture

Jaén's architecture bears witness to the many civilisations that have inhabited the city and its surroundings throughout the centuries, resulting in an outstanding monumental heritage that includes both religious and civil buildings. Its historical and artistic legacy showcases a variety of architectural styles, including Gothic, Mudéjar, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical.

Among its most important monuments are the following:

Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin, a masterpiece by one of the greatest Renaissance architects, Andrés de Vandelvira, and the inspiration for the construction of many cathedrals throughout Latin America. It is regarded as one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Andalusia, which is why the process to obtain UNESCO World Heritage status for the cathedral began several years ago. The city's first cathedral was built on the foundations of the former Great Mosque following the conquest of Jaén by King Ferdinand III of Castile, known as Saint Ferdinand, in 1246. Later, during the 14th century, Bishop Nicolás de Biedma brought to the city the relic of the Holy Face (Santa Faz or Santo Rostro), believed to be one of the three cloths that, according to Christian tradition, Saint Veronica used to wipe the sweat and blood from Jesus' face on his way to Calvary. The presence of this relic in the first Christian cathedral transformed it into an important pilgrimage destination, making its expansion necessary in the Gothic style. Elements of this Gothic phase can still be seen in the apse of the present cathedral. Due to structural problems that arose during the 14th century, a new Renaissance cathedral was commissioned from the architect Andrés de Vandelvira. Although construction continued for nearly three centuries, Vandelvira's original design remained largely faithful throughout the project, resulting in what is considered the most architecturally balanced, harmonious, and proportionate cathedral in Andalusia, with one of the most solemn and majestic interiors in the region.
Basilica of Saint Ildefonsus. After the Cathedral, it is the largest church in the city. The earliest records of the original building date back to 1248, when it was established as a chapel serving the Cathedral. Two centuries later, in 1430, it became the setting for the famous miracle of the descent of the Virgin Mary to the city of Jaén. Following this event, it became a sanctuary dedicated to the image of the Virgin housed inside, under the title of Our Lady of the Chapel. In the 16th century, the Virgin of the Chapel was proclaimed the patron saint of Jaén. Finally, in 2010, Pope Benedict XVI granted the church the status of Minor Basilica. The building features three entrances: the oldest, in Gothic style, is located at the rear of the church. The side entrance, in Renaissance style, displays a relief depicting the Chasuble Bestowal upon Saint Ildefonsus. The last to be built was the Neoclassical main façade, crowned by a statue of the saint to whom the basilica is dedicated.
Santa Catalina Castle. An ancient Caliphal fortress stood on the summit of Santa Catalina Hill as early as the 9th century. Centuries later, following the conquest of the city by King Ferdinand III in 1246, the Christian castle that survives today was built. During the 19th century, the castle underwent several modifications to strengthen its defensive structures in response to the Napoleonic invasion. Close to the castle, the building that now houses the National Parador was constructed in the 1960s. From the summit there are spectacular panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, especially from the Cross Viewpoint. The fortress also houses an Interpretation Centre that explores the history of the castle.
The Arab Baths. They are the largest and best-preserved Arab baths in Spain. Built in the 11th century during the reign of Abd al-Rahman II, they are located beneath the Villardompardo Palace in the heart of the city's historic centre. Covering an area of 450 square metres, they still preserve Almohad decorative elements, suggesting that they were restored towards the end of the 12th century. Between the 14th and 15th centuries, after they ceased functioning as public baths, the rooms were converted into tanneries. Later, at the end of the 16th century, Fernando de Torres y Portugal, Count of Villardompardo and Viceroy of Peru, built his palace above them. At the beginning of the 20th century, together with several adjoining buildings, they became part of a women's hospice. A section of the baths was rediscovered in 1913 and, a few years later, they were declared a National Monument. Today, following a restoration project that received the Europa Nostra Award, they form part of the "Arab Baths" Cultural Centre, which also houses the Museum of Popular Arts and Customs and the International Museum of Naïve Art.
Chapel of Jesús (Camarín de Jesús). The chapel and the convent church of Saint Joseph are the only surviving remains of the former Convent of Saint Joseph of the Discalced Carmelites, founded in the 16th century. The recently restored church, with its characteristic Carmelite façade featuring a niche, houses both the chapel and the Camarín de Jesús, created in the 17th century to enshrine the celebrated Renaissance sculpture of Nuestro Padre Jesús Nazareno ("El Abuelo"). The image belongs to the brotherhood founded in this very convent in 1588 and is carried in procession during the early hours of Good Friday before thousands of worshippers and pilgrims. The façade is adorned with a beautiful terracotta sculpture of Saint Joseph by the renowned ceramic artist Paco Tito.
Church of La Magdalena. Originally the city's Great Mosque during the Islamic period, it was converted into a parish church following the Christian conquest. Its main façade and interior are Gothic in style, while one of its towers still preserves the former Arab minaret. The church contains several important works of art, including Calvary by Jacobo Florentino "El Indaco", a panel of Our Lady of the Pillar attributed to Pedro Machuca, the 16th-century Christ of Clemency by Salvador de Cuéllar, and the 18th-century image of Saint Mary Magdalene by Mateo de Medina. The courtyard of the former mosque, with its rectangular ablution pool, served various public purposes during the Christian era and was landscaped with gardens and ornamental fish during the 20th century.
Church of Saint Bartholomew. It is one of the oldest churches still standing in the province of Jaén. Dating back to the medieval period, this religious monument features a Baroque exterior and a Mudéjar interior. Among its highlights is a green glazed ceramic baptismal font decorated with 15th-century Gothic inscriptions.
Provincial Council Palace. This palace was built in the mid-19th century by architect Jorge Porrua. Originally, the site was occupied by the Convent of Saint Francis, commissioned by King Ferdinand III in the 13th century. A century later, King Peter I of Castile ("Peter the Cruel") granted it to the Franciscan friars. Following the ecclesiastical confiscations, the building became public property and was eventually converted into the headquarters of the Provincial Council. Today, visitors can explore its central courtyard and the lower galleries.
Oppidum of Puente Tablas. The fortified Iberian settlement of Puente Tablas is located just 4 kilometres from Jaén. Over more than thirty years of archaeological research, the site has revealed its outstanding historical importance through evidence of continuous human occupation from the Bronze Age to the Islamic period. However, its most significant phase dates from the Iberian period, particularly the 4th century BC. Visitors can discover how the Iberians of the Upper Guadalquivir lived while exploring one of the most impressive defensive systems of the period, with more than 300 metres of preserved walls standing over 5 metres high. Visitors can enter the settlement by following the same route once used by its ancient inhabitants, passing through the famous Sun Gate.

Nature

Half of the municipality of Jaén lies within the Baetic Mountain Range. This impressive landscape can best be appreciated from Santa Catalina Castle, an exceptional viewpoint overlooking both the city and the surrounding countryside.

To the south stretch rugged mountains and rocky peaks, forming the peri-urban parks of Santa Catalina and Monte La Sierra, where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of hiking trails and mountain routes just a short distance from the city centre.

To the north lies the fertile countryside, with gently rolling hills covered by centuries-old olive groves. Further afield, the landscape gradually gives way to pine forests, terebinths and holm oaks, announcing the arrival of the mountains.
Activities such as hiking, cycling, rock climbing and via ferrata are all within easy reach for both residents and visitors, only minutes from the city centre.

Parties and Events

The Bonfires and the San Antón International Urban Night Race, declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest, is held on the weekend closest to 17 January. More than 12,000 runners enjoy a unique atmosphere along the route, with music, flaming torches and enthusiastic crowds cheering them on. Afterwards, bonfires are lit in neighbourhoods and squares throughout the city. Around these fires, people gather to sing, dance and enjoy the traditional "melenchones", while sharing local cured meats, regional wines and rosetas (popcorn), creating a warm and festive atmosphere where unforgettable moments are shared.

Carnival. Carnival celebrations in Jaén have a history spanning more than 700 years. For over a month, comparsas, chirigotas and other carnival groups parade through the streets to the Darymelia Theatre, where they perform humorous, satirical and socially critical songs as part of the competition organised by the City Council. Local groups and individuals also take part in the fancy-dress competition, delighting spectators during the colourful parade through the city centre.

Holy Week in Jaén is a religious, cultural and tourist event of outstanding importance. Its brotherhoods and confraternities preserve a legacy dating back to the 16th century, renowned for the beauty and artistic quality of their religious sculptures. Holy Week has been declared both a Festival of National Tourist Interest and of Andalusian Tourist Interest. Twenty-one brotherhoods take part in the processions from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, with one of the most moving moments taking place during the early hours of Good Friday, when El Abuelo is carried through the streets.

The International Olive Oil and Related Industries Fair (Expoliva), held every two years at Jaén's Exhibition and Conference Centre, is recognised as one of the world's leading events in the olive oil sector. Over four days, it brings together farmers, machinery manufacturers, transport companies, olive oil producers from around the world, scientific symposiums and conferences, making Jaén the international capital of the olive-growing and olive oil industry.

San Lucas Fair. This fair originated in the 14th century through a privilege granted to the city by King Henry IV of Castile. Originally held in August to coincide with the harvest season, it was moved to October during the 19th century to coincide with a livestock fair. From 12 to 18 October, the city hosts numerous events including bullfights, concerts and theatre performances. At the Alfonso Sánchez Fairground, visitors can enjoy open festival tents serving traditional cuisine, live music, dancing and fairground attractions, as well as the traditional tents at the "La Vestida" fairground.
Music plays an important role in the city's cultural life. Jaén hosts the Autumn Festival, the prestigious Jaén International Piano Competition, Oleosónica, Jaén Sounds Like Opera, the Bolero and Latin American Music Festival, many other music festivals throughout the year, and the internationally recognised Jaén International Jazz Festival: "Jazz Among the Olive Trees".

Other Festivals and Events:

The Bonfires of Saint Anthony, held on 17 January. Amid singing and dancing, the traditional "melenchones" are performed while people share laughter, conversations and "rosetas" (popcorn). This festival has been declared a Festival of National Tourist Interest.

May Crosses Festival. A tradition in which local residents decorate crosses beside churches, in squares and other iconic places throughout the city. Both locals and visitors tour the crosses, enjoying the festive atmosphere, gastronomy and community spirit that surrounds them. Children also take centre stage on Friday afternoon, parading through the city centre with small floats decorated with crosses, Christs and Virgins of their devotion. They are dressed in traditional mantillas and accompanied by civil, religious and military representatives, delighting everyone who watches the procession.

Corpus Christi.

Festival in Honour of the Virgin of the Chapel, co-patron saint of the city. These festivities take place in the popular San Ildefonso district, combining religious devotion to the patron saint with celebrations in Jaén's best-known gastronomic quarter, where bars and restaurants extend their terraces into the streets to offer their finest dishes. The City Council also organises a wide programme of cultural and tourist activities throughout the festival. Every 11 June, the Lola Torres Choirs and Folk Dance Association holds a floral offering to the Virgin. Participants parade dressed in the traditional pastira costume (for women) and chirri costume (for men), joined by many other residents of Jaén. The celebration concludes with the performance of the traditional Bolero de Jaén before the Virgin's image. In the afternoon, the Virgin is carried in procession through the city centre to the cathedral.

25 November – Saint Catherine's Day. The feast day of Jaén's co-patron saint is celebrated on Santa Catalina Hill. After the procession climbs to the castle, a religious service is held inside. Afterwards, visitors enjoy food from the stalls and bars set up around the castle, where grilled sardines, barbecued meats, patatas a lo pobre and paella are among the traditional dishes served in a wonderful atmosphere of celebration and togetherness.

From the beginning of December, the city enjoys a wonderful Christmas atmosphere with the switching on of the festive lights and the start of an extensive programme of activities, including concerts, street music and theatre for all ages. The popular central street, Calle Carrera, is beautifully decorated and welcomes everyone who wishes to share moments of joy and celebration with the people of Jaén.

Gastronomy

Jaén's gastronomy is varied and is based on the Mediterranean diet, in which extra virgin olive oil gives dishes their distinctive aroma and flavour.

Among the city's most traditional dishes are:

Pipirrana, made with finely chopped ripe tomatoes and dressed with a mixture of extra virgin olive oil, green pepper, garlic, egg and salt. It is often topped with grated boiled egg and, optionally, tuna.
Homemade partridge pâté.
Migas with traditional accompaniments.
Scrambled eggs with broad beans and Iberian ham.
Broad beans, campion greens or spinach with pine nuts, showcasing the quality of Jaén's vegetable gardens.
Roast kid goat, chicken, young goat or lamb.
Trout from the rivers of Jaén.

Among the desserts, we should mention gachas dulces (sweet porridge), fried milk, and, of course, the traditional pastries made in the local convents (the Bernardas, Santa Clara and the Carmelite nuns).

If you would like to enjoy a unique culinary experience, the San Ildefonso district is home to two Michelin-starred restaurants: "Bagá" and "Dama Juana".

History

The human presence in the present city is seen from the calcolitic stage, also called the Copper Age, when there were several villages scattered around the area. In the surroundings of the city, rock paintings and remains of megalithic architecture have been found.

Literature

A thousand-year-old city where you can follow in the footsteps of many of our illustrious authors: San Juan de la Cruz, García Lorca, Miguel Hernández and Juan Eslava Galán.

Other information

Jaén is a city that houses a large number of legends very imbricated in the soul of its people. Maybe the most famous of them is the "Maline lizard"or"Jaén lizard. "The influence is such that it has become one of the symbols of the city, being present in its architecture, rides and concerts. It is based on the existence of a dragon (lizard) that had the population afraid and that with ingenious tactics its inhabitants managed to get rid of it.