Alcala del Jucar

About

The little town of Alcala del Jucar grew around a 12th century Muslim fortress, though the Roman bridge crossing the Júcar River adds an even greater sense of history. Through the centuries, very little changed in the town - the castle received an overhaul in the 1400s, the parish church was built in the 16th century, and the bridge had to be rebuilt in the 18th century. Today, the village still oozes tradition, and working your way up the steep, narrow streets, is like hiking into the past. As a reward for making the trek up to the castillo, you’re rewarded with vertiginous views over the town and gorge. Along the way, you’re sure to see signs inviting you into several of the town’s traditional cave-houses, some of which have been converted into bars and restaurants, making for a cool place to take a break - they stay the same temperature year-round