Balneario de Jabalcuz, Spa hotel and historic gardens in Jaén, Spain
Balneario de Jabalcuz is a thermal spa complex with historic gardens located outside Jaén, spreading across several terraced levels. The grounds combine natural hot springs with planted areas featuring Mediterranean plants, linked by staircases and pathways.
The thermal spring was used since the early 17th century, but experienced its major development after 1781 when a road connected it to Jaén. During the 19th century, its reputation as a healing spa grew and attracted more visitors to the area.
In 1925, architect Antonio Flórez Urdapilleta designed renovations while Cecilio Rodríguez Cuevas created gardens similar to Madrid's Retiro Park.
The site requires time to explore because the grounds are spread across multiple terraces with stairs connecting each level. Comfortable footwear is advisable, especially if you plan to visit all the different areas.
During the Spanish Civil War, the facility served as a rural school and shelter for people in need, showing how local sites changed purpose during difficult times. This dual history is still evident in the place today.
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