Discover Vilches: Castle, Giribaile and Routes

In Vilches, historical landmarks, routes through the landscape, reservoirs and traditional customs exist side by side. Vilches Castle, the Church of Saint Michael the Archangel and the Giribaile archaeological site give the town several cultural layers, while routes, La Zarzuela and the surrounding waters combine different ways of exploring the area.

Routes between springs, caves and viewpoints

The Ruta de las Fuentes y Cuevas “El Mortero” is a 5.30 km circular route with a walking time of approximately one hour. It can be completed year-round on foot, by bicycle or on horseback, and passes springs, caves and an aqueduct that transported spring water to Vilches.

“Los miradores de Vilches” is a guided cultural tourism route centred on the viewpoints in the upper part of the town. The 4 km Vía Verde “Miraelrío” runs as an out-and-back route and is suitable for walking and cycling; it is particularly appealing to people with reduced mobility. A circular walk of approximately 4 km through Vilches led to viewpoints and offered an opportunity to discover the municipality’s architectural, natural and cultural heritage.

Reservoirs and the Giribaile site

Canoeing is recommended at the Giribaile Reservoir. Individual fishing is also available at the three reservoirs associated with Vilches—La Fernandina, Guadalén and Giribaile; the species found there include carp, pike and black bass.

The Giribaile archaeological site lies at the confluence of the Guadalimar and Guadalén rivers and covers 18 hectares. Visitors can see a prehistoric sanctuary, an Iberian settlement, a Paleochristian or Visigothic monastery or hermitage, and an Almohad fortress. The construction period and surviving details provide two levels of observation.

Castle and Church of Saint Michael the Archangel

Vilches Castle preserves sections of a rubble-stone wall, round towers and a gate tower. On the hill of Vilches Castle, there is evidence of continuous settlement from prehistoric times to the present day.

The Church of Saint Michael the Archangel was built between the last third of the 16th century and the second half of the 18th century. It has an unusually rectangular tower and a single-nave interior with a barrel vault. The church also preserves several “trophies” considered to have originally come from the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa.

Traditions and regional cuisine

The Campanilleros of Vilches are a Christmas tradition of street singing. During the Christmas season, they walk through the streets with traditional song lyrics and instruments. The Fiestas Medievales “Vilches Guardián de los Trofeos” are held annually and include craft stalls, guided tours, theatre, processions, medieval tapas and other activities.

This means that, alongside the historical and scenic attractions, Vilches also offers a specific culinary connection.

La Zarzuela north of Vilches

The La Zarzuela recreation area is located 2.5 km north of Vilches, covers more than 20 hectares of municipal land and has a spring. The area includes hiking trails, picnic and barbecue facilities, toilets, a rest area and a first-aid station. Different route lengths help with planning stages.

Other destinations: Solera, Navas de San Juan, Vites, La Puerta De Segura, Martos, Mengibar, Cazalilla and La Matea.

For the broader travel overview: Jaen.