Castillo de Jódar

Castillo de Jódar is a fortress perched on Cerro de San Cristóbal that rises above the town and features two towers with views over the valleys of the Guadalquivir, Guadiana Menor, and Jandulilla rivers. The structure combines medieval defensive architecture with two distinct towers that serve educational and informational functions today.

The fortress originates from the 8th century during the Emirate period and was later modified under Almoravid and Almohad rule before its conquest in 1231. This succession of structural changes reflects the different powers that sought to maintain control of this strategic location.

The North Tower houses an interpretation center dedicated to the town's history, while the South Tower serves as a visitor center for Sierra Mágina Natural Park, each tower fulfilling a modern community purpose.

The location provides information about local plants and wildlife, along with maps of hiking trails throughout Sierra Mágina Natural Park. Visitors can explore the surrounding landscapes during their time here and choose from routes with varying difficulty levels.

Hidden between the two towers is an ancient water storage system that significantly enhanced defensive capabilities during military conflicts. This sophisticated system demonstrates how inhabitants managed limited resources to keep the fortress secure.