Sierra Morena
The Sierra Morena region is a rugged and captivating mountainous area in the north of the province of Jaén. It includes the mountain range that separates Andalusia from the plains of Castile-La Mancha, through which runs the Despeñaperros Gorge, historically known as the "Gate of Andalucia".
The Sierra Morena of Jaen consists of the following municipal districts.
Aldeaquemada,
Bailén,
Baños de la Encina,
Carboneros,
Guarromán,
Jabalquinto,
La Carolina,
Linares,
Santa Elena.
The Sierra Morena, a vast mountain range that stretches across southern Spain, lends its name to this comarca. Its dramatic landscapes, characterized by rugged peaks, deep valleys, and dense forests, provide a breathtaking backdrop for exploration. The region offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
The history of the Sierra Morena comarca is rich and diverse. From its prehistoric origins to its role in significant historical events, such as the Battle of Navas de Tolosa during the Reconquest and Battle of Bailén during the Peninsular War, the region has witnessed a tapestry of civilizations.
The towns and villages within the Sierra Morena comarca each possess their own unique character. Linares, a significant industrial center, boasts a rich cultural heritage, while Bailén, renowned for its historical importance.
 Areas of Jaén province |
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The main economic activity of Arquillos is the cultivation of olive groves, and it is an ideal destination for lovers of nature. In the area of Llano de las Hormigas, in the… More →
Linares, land of bullfighters and musicians, offers visitors an interesting historical and artistic heritage. An important town in the north of Jaen with a population of 65.000. Linares was… More →
The village of Jabalquinto has been occupied since the Copper Age or Bronze Age and in the Roman era was thought to be the scene of a Battle Baecula in 208BC as part of the Second Punic War… More →
The name Carboneros refers to the town’s former mining activity, which dates back to the times of the Carthaginian General Aníbal. The village is one of a small group of ‘new towns of the Sierra… More →
Guarromán is one of a small group of ‘New Towns of Sierra Morena’ founded by King Carlos III in the second half of the eighteenth century. It was founded on the site of a roadside café, Venta de… More →
Bailén is the perfect destination for history enthusiasts. The town was the site of an important turning point during the Battle of the Peninsular War. The annual commemorative celebrations for… More →
Santa Elena is the closest town to the famous "Gateway to Andalucia" at Despeñaperros Pass. It is also the most northerly village in Jaen province (and Andalucia) when leaving or arriving in the… More →
La Carolina is a small town of 16.000 inhabitants is located in the north of Jaen province adjacent to the A-4 Seville to Madrid motorway. It is the last town of any size to stop if heading out… More →
Baños de la Encina offers visitors interesting historical and artistic heritage as well as attractions for lovers of nature. Once called simply Baños, the village adopted ‘de la Encina’ (‘of the… More →
Aldeaquemda is a mountain village located in the middle of the Sierra Morena. It is an ideal destination for tourists who love the countryside, and has about 480 inhabitants. Although the town was… More →