Jaen has a population of less than 700,000 residents and about 100,000 of them live in the capital city Jaen. The province of Jaen holds the title as the world's largest manufacturer of olive oil. The warm climate and fertile soil lends itself nicely to large olive groves. The area is actually quite beautiful. The soil itself is rusty in colour due to the nutrients, while the towns are whitewashed and provide an interesting panorama against orangish soil and green grass and trees. 

Breathtaking Scenery 

Jaen City has a number of impressive buildings, including the huge Jaen Cathedral that was built from the 1500s to the 1700s. This cathedral contains many breathtaking architectural features and amazing works of art. The city's castle is equally impressive. Art enthusiasts should visit the Museum of Jaen to view some of Spain's best artists. Other buildings worth viewing are the Church of La Magdalena, the Convent of Santo Domingo, and El Sagrario. There are a number of gorgeous courtyards and plazas found within the town. Once a year, residents gather for the Festival of San Antonio Abad, the town's patron saint. During this festival, bonfires are lit up at night and crops, including corn, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes, are harvested and then prepared and served to the festival goers. 

Enjoy Jaen’s History Buildings and Natural Parks 

Alcala la Real is another town that tourists enjoy. La Mota Castle may have been damaged by fires during the 1800s, but three areas of the castle are still open to the public and house a museum. The Abbey Church was built from the site of the original abbey, and was completed in the 1600s. The Abbey Church utilizes both Gothic and Renaissance architecture and contains a large tower that stands at well over forty meters. Finally, the open-air markets held in Paseo de los Alamos are worthwhile. This marketplace dates back to the 19^th century and offers tourists with a chance to find some incredible bargains.

 

Segura y las Villas Natural Park sits on more than 209,000 hectares, almost 20% of the province of Jaen. This natural park is home to thousands of animals, birds, reptiles, and insects. There are a number of hiking trails found throughout the park pass by the Guadalquivir River and a number of spectacular waterfalls. A few camping areas provide tourists with inexpensive accommodation. Also in the area, tourists can rent horses, four-wheelers, and canoes. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy hang gliding, rock climbing, spelunking, and paragliding.

 

Tourists wanting to see how olive oil is produced will want to visit Martos. The fifth largest town in the region, Martos is located along the slopes of the Sierra Jabalcuz. Here olive groves flourish and the fruits are pressed for their oil. A number of olive growers offer tours of their facilities and allow tourists to sample the finished product.

 

Visit Baeza and Ubeda for their Artistic Charm 

Those who want more artistic activities will find the towns of Baeza and Ubeda to be to their liking. Every May, Ubeda holds a large festival celebrating music and dancing. Flamenco dancers flock to the town to give lessons or presentations, while jazz, classical, flamenco, and opera music is performed for the crowds. Baeza showcases one of Spain's most beautiful palaces. Marquessa de Jabalquinto has a number of hand painted screens and a memorable painting of Saint Peter. In the Church of Santa Cruz, art enthusiasts will find a number of paintings.