Lucena is a larger town in Andalusia. With a population of 40,000, tourists will find that there is far more to see and do in Lucena than in other towns. Lucena sits on the banks of the Lucena River. The river contains moats and manmade walls to prevent flooding within the town. Cordoba is around 70 kilometres away while Malaga and Jaen are around 100 kilometres away.

Lucena spent many years with the nickname “Jew City” because the town was founded by the Moors. They'd established the Talmudic Academy in Lucena where area scholars gained their education. In the 1400s, Christian armies invaded the area in a successful bid to claim it for their own. King Boabdil and his armies attempted to reclaim the area in 1483 but failed and the king became a prisoner.

 

As is true in Spanish history, Christian control led to a steady decline in population, so it would take decades before Lucena was able to recover and thrive.

Take time to vising Lucena's courthouse. The building is housed in the Palacio de los Condes, a palace built in the 1700s. The palace contains impressive interior courtyards and a grand marble foyer.

 

San Mateo church dates back to the 14th century. The altar is in the Renaissance style and worthy of viewing. The Capilla del Sagrario is an octagonal shrine that is made from marble and plaster and hand painted.

 

Tourists should also visit the old Jewish quarter and the Castillo del Moral, a historic prison that now houses the the tourism office.

Lucena's industry relies heavily on the production of wooden furniture, pottery, and metal crafting, especially the handcrafted bronze lamps. There is a large manufacturing plant within the town that makes refrigerators for restaurants and other food industries. Additionally, the area's vineyards are known to produce some amazing brandies. Brandy, olive oil, and other wines are stored in tinajas (clay jars) that are also made by local potters.

Many of the locals favourite recipes tie back to the days of the Moors. Fish or chicken can be coated in a crust of salt mixed with water that is then baked. Before serving, the crust is cracked and removed leaving the meat inside extremely juicy and succulent. Gazpacho, a soup made from fresh tomatoes, peppers, and onions is also popular. For dessert, luscious cakes of almond are popular as are platters of fresh fruit and honey.

Though there are no actual bars in Lucena, there are many restaurants with bars where a few patrons can sit and have a drink. These restaurant offer exquisite dining and friendly banter with the locals, so those seeking night time activities will find the area to have a nice mix of options.