Ubeda

About

Founded in the 9th century, intensive trade made Ubeda one of the most important cities in the region. During the 15th and 16th centuries, it received an influx of aristocratic families, who erected lavish homes and palaces. Today, many of these monuments still survive, making Ubeda the best place in Andalucia to admire Renaissance architecture. The Plaza Vázquez de Molina is entirely surrounded by buildings from the 16th century, forming one of the most important collections of Renaissance buildings in all of Europe. The 16th century Sacred Chapel of El Salvador, with its magnificent Plateresque doorways and reredos by Alonso de Berruguete is a pristine example of the city’s Renaissance heritage. Also facing the square is the Church of Santa María de los Reales Alcázares. Built in the 13th century on the site of an old Arab mosque, it combines centuries of artistic styles, including a 16th century cloister.