Bailén

Bailén is a municipality in Jaén Province situated at 343 meters elevation within the Sierra Morena range and Mediterranean landscape. The region features dry summers and mild winters that shape its agricultural character and seasonal patterns.

In 1808 a decisive battle took place here when Spanish forces captured roughly 17,000 French troops in the field. This marked Napoleon's first major defeat in open combat and became a turning point in the peninsula's resistance.

The Parish Church of Nuestra Señora de la Encarnación shapes the town center with its architecture from the Catholic Monarchs era. Visitors can experience the artistic features of that period directly within this sacred space.

The information office at Plaza de la Constitución offers guidance on local attractions and the region's traditional crafts and industries. Visitors can stop there to learn about the best routes to reach key sites around the area.

Felipe de Neve, born in this town, founded Los Angeles in California and created a lasting link across the Atlantic. Few realize that a Spanish settlement so far away has roots in this modest Andalusian municipality.

Location: Jaén Province

Capital city: Bailén

Elevation above the sea: 343 m

Part of: distrito notarial de La Carolina, Mancomunidade Intermunicipal del Guadiel, Sierra Morena

Shares border with: Baños de la Encina, Espeluy, Guarromán, Jabalquinto, Linares, Villanueva de la Reina

Website: http://ayto-bailen.com

GPS coordinates: 38.09679,-3.77656

Latest update: December 20, 2025 12:36