World Heritage Cities in Spain

WORLD HERITAGE CITIES

ÚBEDA Surrounded by the valleys of the Guadalquivir and Guadalimar Rivers, in the midst of a sea of olive trees, this Andalusian city amasses a treasure trove of incredible monuments which is unique in Spain. In the historical town centre you'll find some of the finest architectural gems of the Andalusian Renaissance. As you walk through the streets and squares you'll feel like you're back in the 16th century. At the heart of the Route of the Andalusian Renaissance and the Nasrid Route , it's an ideal base from which to explore the whole region. Beautiful Úbeda, with a backdrop of palaces and towers, is an extraordinary city with a cultured and courtly past. The best place to start your tour is the

Plaza de Vázquez de Molina where you'll find some of the cities most out- standing buildings. The Sacred Chapel of El Salvador , the Deán Ortega Palace , now a Parador Hotel, and the Vázquez de Molina Palace , all works by the ar- chitect Andrés de Vandelvira, are well worth your close attention. Right opposite the latter stands the magnificent Collegiate Church of Santa María de los Reales Alcázares . On the same spot where Bronze Age remains, a Roman temple dedicated to the god- dess Diana and a Moorish mosque were found, they built what would be the Principle Church in Úbeda from the 13th century onwards. It has splendid façades, a beautiful cloister and interior chapels which are a blend of a number of different artistic styles.

b b SACRED CHAPEL OF EL SALVADOR.

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Photo: World Heritage Cities