Free walking tours in Lucena and what to see

Must-sees

In the Middle Ages Lucena was one of the most important Jewish cities in the peninsula, which is why it is known as the Pearl of Sepharad. From that period survives the Jewish necropolis discovered in 2006, the largest documented in Spain. In the centre stands the Castillo del Moral, where Boabdil was held prisoner after the battle of Lucena, now home to the archaeological museum.

Next to the castle is the church of San Mateo, with the Capilla del Sagrario, an explosion of Baroque plasterwork. The palace of the Counts of Santa Ana, also Baroque, houses the tourist office. On the outskirts, atop the Sierra de Aras, the sanctuary of the Virgen de Araceli offers sweeping views over the countryside and the Subbética.

Free tours and guided visits

Pay-what-you-like free walking tours are not common in Lucena. The norm is guided tours of the historic centre, focusing on the Jewish legacy, the castle and the Baroque churches. Some themed routes on Sephardic Lucena include stops that are hard to interpret on your own, so a guide is worthwhile.

As an excursion, the easiest is to go up to the Araceli sanctuary, by car or on foot. It is also a good base for exploring the Sierras Subbéticas Natural Park and nearby towns such as Cabra, Rute or Zuheros. If you are interested in crafts, Lucena has a tradition of copper and brass work, with workshops making oil lamps.

How long to spend

One day is enough to see the town. In the morning, the castle and its museum, San Mateo and the palace of the Counts of Santa Ana. In the afternoon, a stroll round the centre and the drive up to the Araceli sanctuary for the sunset. If you want to add the Subbética or the surrounding towns, allow one or two more days.

Where to stay

The most practical choice is to sleep in the centre, between Plaza Nueva and the castle area. From there you can do the whole visit on foot, with restaurants and shops nearby. If you are driving and want to explore the area, the places to stay on the outskirts or the nearby rural houses also work well, and usually have easy parking.