Alcalá del Jucarcharming town of Albacete, is a must-see destination for those who love rural tourism, as well as for those interested in its rich heritage. This municipality was declared Historical and artistic ensemble in 1982 and, in 1986, he received the third prize for best artistic lighting, just behind the Eiffel Tower and the Grand Mosque of Istanbul. In 1998, the Town Hall received the “Tourism Prize” for its contribution to promotion of tourism in the region.
Located on the banks of the Júcar River, in its last stretch in Castile-La Mancha Before entering Valencia, the river has created a gorge that forms a winding landscape, one of the main attractions of Alcalá del Jucar. This natural environment influences the layout of the houses, grouped together on the slopes of the meander. Its narrow streets go up towards the castle and are dotted with small houses, steep staircases, orchards and of course cave features. The whole constitutes an exceptional architectural and natural ensemble which attracts many visitors.
Alcalá del Júcar, a medieval town with lots of charm
Alcalá del Júcar has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Archaeological remains have been discovered which indicate the presence of Iberian and Roman communities in the region.
THE arrival of Muslims in the 8th century marked an important change in the history of Alcalá del Júcar. During Arab rule, the city became an important strategic center thanks to its location on the banks of the Júcar River and its proximity to trade routes. Fortifications were built and the architecture of the period is still visible today.
The city was reconquered by Christian troops in 1213 under the reign of Alfonso VIIIalthough the Muslim population remained in the region for some time, enriching the cultural identity of the place.
During the 14th and 15th centuriesAlcalá del Júcar grew and developed, constructing new buildings, such as the Church of San Andrés, built on the old mosque. War and plague affected the population, but the arrival of the 16th century led to the city being named a commune and the granting of privileges which stimulated its economic development.
What to see
Alcalá del Júcar is not only rich in history, but also offers visitors a variety of attractions that combine nature, culture and gastronomy. Here are some must-see places not to be missed:
He castlewhich stands on a rock, is one of the main attractions of the town. Of Arab origin, the castle offers spectacular views of the city and the Júcar River. Although much of the original structure has been lost, visitors can explore the remains of the wall and enjoy the panoramic views the place offers, making it a great starting point to discover the history of Alcalá del Júcar.
THE Saint-André Church It is an architectural gem that reflects the history of Alcalá del Júcar. Built on the remains of an ancient mosque, this Gothic-Mudejar style temple is distinguished by its beautiful altarpiece and its impressive facade. The interior houses works of art that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.
He Alcalá Bridge which crosses the Júcar river is another symbol of the city. It offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and is ideal for walking and taking photos. From the bridge, visitors can appreciate the beauty of the river and the houses perched on the slopes, creating a picturesque view.
On the other hand, the Juca River Gorger is a stunning natural landscape, ideal for lovers of nature and outdoor activities. This deep canyon offers hiking and climbing opportunities, and lookouts along the way offer great panoramic views. It is also possible to do water activities in the river.
THE gastronomy of Alcalá del Júcar It is an important aspect of their culture. Visitors can taste typical dishes of the region, such as gazpacho Manchego, ratatouille, migas and roast lamb. Additionally, the region is known for its wines, which are an integral part of its economy and tradition.
Caves of Masagó and Duende
The Masagó Caves, located in the mountain of Arab origin in Alcalá del Júcarallow you to explore traditional cave houses. A tunnel crosses La Peña and offers impressive views of the Júcar River gorge. The highlight is its rooms with hand-carved semicircular arches, being the only cave of this type preserved in its original state.
Inside, you can visit a medieval cellar, a fossil museumone for numismatics, a typical house and an agricultural museum. Additionally, accommodation is offered in a recently renovated cave house, which combines Arabic architecture with modern elements.
