Baños de la Encina, Medieval stone castle in Sierra Morena, Spain
Baños de la Encina is a municipality in Jaén Province set within the Sierra Morena mountains, defined by the impressive Burgalimar Castle. This fortress rises on a rocky hilltop with fifteen towers built from clay and sand-based mortar.
The fortress was built in 968 under orders from Caliph Al-Hakam II during the Al-Andalus period. It was part of the defense strategy during this early medieval era.
The Church of San Mateo shapes the town center with its mix of Gothic pointed arches and Baroque entrances reflecting different building periods. It shows how the local community transformed its religious spaces over time.
The location sits in the mountainous Sierra Morena region at roughly 450 meters elevation. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and prepare for rocky terrain when exploring the castle ruins.
The Bronze Age archaeological site of Peñalosa lies partially submerged beneath the waters of Rumblar Reservoir. This hidden heritage shows how modern infrastructure overlaps with ancient locations.
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