Sprawling across a ridge in the province of Jaen, Ubeda is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town in Andalusia. Its historic core is clustered with Renaissance palaces and churches built atop Moorish ruins, together with museums documenting its rich past. The surrounding countryside is blanketed in olive groves as far as the eye can see.
Things to do in Úbeda
In the heart of Ubeda is Vazquez de Molina Square, which is surrounded by a magnificent display of Spanish Renaissance buildings. Of particular note is the Palacio del Dean Ortega designed by Andres de Vandelvira, who was also responsible for the Palacio de las Cadenas. Rising above the ruins of a Moorish mosque is the Basilica de Santa Maria de los Reales Alcazares, which reflects Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque influences.
History buffs can visit the Archaeological Museum of Ubeda, which occupies the 14th-century Casa Mudejar. It showcases findings from the Iberian and Roman periods, including antique lions, tombstones and votive offerings. The museum is located just behind the 14th-century Church of San Pablo, which is famed for its Isabelline-style south portal.
For sweeping views across the surrounding countryside and its swathes of olive groves, head to the Redonda de Miradores. In addition to its series of lookouts, it takes in the ruins of the Iglesia de San Juan Evangelista. At Casa Museo Andalusí, you can learn about the Jewish heritage of Ubeda and the “conversos” who converted to Christianity.
Getting around Úbeda
Ubeda is around 40 minutes’ drive from Jaen and 1.5 hours from Granada International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe. Buses connect to Ubeda and travel throughout the municipality. The centre of Ubeda is compact enough to explore on foot while renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the area.