Discover Bedmar

Bedmar can be explored through several distinct themes: medieval military history, religious architecture, prehistory and the landscape along the Río Cuadros. The two castles have different historical associations; the church and PALEOMÁGINA offer other points of interest. Trails, viewpoints and traditional dishes round out the options for your stay.

Castles and church architecture

Construction of Castillo Nuevo de Bedmar began in 1411 under the direction of the Order of Santiago. The fortress was adapted to the defensive requirements of the artillery age and was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1985. At the foot of Castillo Nuevo lies the Al-Manzur Via Ferrata in the Serrezuela de Bedmar. It includes vertical sections, a protected ridge, a more challenging K4 cable section and a 65-metre zip line. Military history and climbing features sit side by side here.

The surviving remains of Castillo Viejo de Bedmar recall Bedmar’s strategic role in the Middle Ages: in defending the Guadalquivir Valley and protecting Baeza from the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada. Castillo Viejo was also declared a Bien de Interés Cultural in 1985. The historical references differ: for Castillo Nuevo, the focus is on construction beginning in 1411 and adaptation to the requirements of the artillery age; for Castillo Viejo, it is on the surviving remains and its medieval defensive role.

The parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción combines different architectural styles: the choir and transept are Gothic, while the three naves are Renaissance. The tower becomes octagonal in its second section. The church also contains two 18th-century pulpits and a 16th-century baptismal font. These details reveal different historical periods, from the Gothic layout and Renaissance naves to furnishings dating from different centuries.

Prehistory, pilgrimage and tradition

PALEOMÁGINA is a public institution for prehistoric research in Bedmar. Its offerings include popular-science talks and temporary and permanent museum exhibitions. Its subject matter ranges from the origins of humanity and everyday life in prehistoric times to archaeological work itself. The talks and exhibitions therefore focus on different topics: they may centre on early humans, past ways of life or the methods of archaeological research. Individual events may change, so check the current schedule before making plans.

Beyond its artistic and monumental value, the Santuario de la Virgen de Cuadros is important for processions and pilgrimages. A recurring event is the Romería de la Virgen de Cuadros: it takes place on the last Sunday in October and has been celebrated since the 16th century. If you would like to plan your trip around this date, check the latest event information.

Viewpoints, trails and nature

Near Bedmar is the Mirador del Torreón de Cuadros, an Arab-origin watchtower that has been adapted as a viewpoint. From there, you can see part of the Sierra Mágina Natural Park. The marked Las Viñas hiking trail leads to the viewpoint, which can also be reached directly via the JV-3.222 road. Check local conditions before setting out.

The Sendero Mar de Olivos Sierra Mágina starts in Bedmar’s Parque de la Pililla and follows the Camino de Cuadros through mountain olive groves to the Santuario de Nuestra Señora de Cuadros. Trail conditions and signage may change, so check both before setting out. At the Adelfar de Cuadros recreational area, you can park your car and start the Sendero Caño del Aguadero via the main path. As parking availability may change, it is worth checking the situation before you travel there.

The Adelfar del río Cuadros is a natural gallery forest, probably one of the largest and most significant on the Iberian Peninsula. The Nacimiento del Río Cuadros, also known as Senda de los Adelfares, is a gallery forest formed by oleanders along the Río Cuadros headwaters. Extensive esparto grass stands characterise the natural area and provide raw material for one of the region’s most important craft traditions.

Traditional dishes

Traditional dishes associated with Bedmar y Garcíez include espinacas guisadas, espárragos en salsa and andrajos. Alongside its architecture, prehistoric heritage and landscapes, the region’s culinary tradition also includes these named dishes.

Discover more destinations: Aldeaquemada, El Parralejo, Huesa, Arjona, Pegalajar, Begíjar, Cazorla, Puente De Génave

For the broader travel overview: Jaen.