Martos, Mountain municipality in Jaén Province, Spain
Martos is a municipality in Jaén Province, situated on a western peak of the Sierra Jabalcuz at around 753 meters elevation. The area spreads across valleys with extensive olive groves and farmland, while industrial and craft zones have developed nearby.
Ferdinand III of Castile conquered Martos in 1225 and incorporated it into his kingdom after the settlement was transferred from Al Bayyasi. This moment marked a turning point in regional control during the major territorial shifts of the southern region.
The name Martos derives from the Arab period, reflecting the Moorish heritage of the region. Walking through the old town and its narrow streets today, you can sense how traditional ways of living blend with modern uses of the same spaces.
The location is easily reached via rural roads and paths that cross the valley and lead up to the municipality. The best time to visit is outside the hottest months when temperatures are more moderate.
A Roman colony called Augusta Gemella once stood here before the place became one of Spain's main centers for olive production. This connection between ancient history and modern agriculture has shaped the place's identity to this day.
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