Cazalilla: Campiña Landscape and Historic Buildings

Campiña Landscape and Historic Buildings

Cazalilla lies in the upper Campiña of Jaén. The landscape is characterised by gently rolling terrain with very slight slopes and olive cultivation. This also applies to the irrigated vegas and agricultural areas. Those who want to experience Andalusia beyond the coast will find a place here where views across agriculturally shaped land meet the architectural history of Jaén.

A notable example of this architectural history is the Casa de la Tercia. The building now known as the Casa de la Tercia was formerly Cazalilla’s pósito, or grain store. It is thought to have been built in the second half of the 16th century. The upper part houses the Museo de Pedro Monje; this area is also used for various cultural events. Its construction period, present-day use and cultural events make the building a place where several layers of Cazalilla’s history and present come together.

Church Tower and Torre de Calígula

The Torre de Calígula, a semicircular tower from the former castle, has been preserved beside Cazalilla’s parish church. The Torre de Calígula was classified as a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1985. For a walk through the town, the surviving structure therefore provides an independent historical landmark, while the neighbouring church is another distinctive feature of the townscape.

The tower of the Iglesia de Santa María Magdalena stands on a stone base. It has a square ground plan, semicircular-arched bell openings and is topped by a pyramidal spire. This spire is thought to have been built at the end of the 17th century. The various architectural elements reveal two time periods when viewed together: the traditional dating of the spire’s construction and the tower’s architectural form as it can be seen today. Details such as these give a cultural walk through Cazalilla a tangible focal point.

Parque Pilar de la Dehesa and Ruta de la Campiña

Parque Pilar de la Dehesa is a recreational and picnic area with shaded spots, barbecue facilities, water fountains and tables. The park can be reached by car or on foot via a rural path leading directly from Cazalilla.

The Ruta de la Campiña also passes through Cazalilla. Its route follows the J-3413 country road and connects the town with the landscape of the upper Campiña of Jaén. This means that the agriculturally shaped surroundings can be experienced not only as the backdrop to the townscape, but also as part of a named route. During a religious celebration, an image is also carried to a place where a liturgical act and a communal gathering take place.

Other Places in the Surrounding Area

For further orientation in the surrounding area, Torreperogil, Bélmez De La Moraleda, Bedmar, Cazorla, La Iruela, Beas De Segura, Mengibar and Iznatoraf are available as further destinations.

For the main travel overview: Jaen.