The best traffic-free bike rides around Campo De Calatrava

The Castle of Calatrava la Vieja is an Islamic fortification located in Carrión de Calatrava, in the province of Ciudad Real, Castilla-La Mancha. This archaeological site is one of the oldest on the Iberian Peninsula, with origins dating back to the 8th century. Calatrava la Vieja was an Islamic city that reached its peak in the 9th century, becoming the capital of a large Muslim region. The fortress sits on a plain but was naturally protected by the Guadiana River and a wall with more than forty towers. In the 12th century, the city fell to Christian hands, and the Order of Calatrava, one of the most powerful military orders of the time, was founded. Today, you can visit the ruins of this city, including the remains of mosques, baths, and paved streets. It's a fascinating place to explore the medieval history of Spain. 🚵😎

Almagro's Plaza Mayor is the most visited and one of the busiest squares in the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages, with arcades and corridors, and underwent a major transformation in the 16th century as a result of the arrival of the Fuggers, German bankers who were subjects of Emperor Charles V. Throughout history, it has received other names, such as Plaza de la Constitución, Plaza de la República, Plaza Real, and even Plaza de España after the Spanish Civil War. The square measures approximately 104.5 meters by 37 meters. It has an irregular rectangular layout. On one of its larger sides, it opens onto the so-called Palacio Maestral (Master Palace). This square also houses the Town Hall, but perhaps what deserves special mention is that in the former inn in this main square of Almagro, we find none other than the Corral de Comedias (Comedy Playhouse), the only one of its kind in the world, declared a monument in 1955. In this square, there are shops where you can buy crafts and typical food from the town and the surrounding area. There are also several bars and restaurants with impressive terraces where you can enjoy tapas and wine, or enjoy a home-cooked menu or typical dishes from La Mancha.

The Stone Bridge over the Jabalón River in Corral de Calatrava is a historic structure that is part of several hiking and cycling routes in the region.

The Molino de los Rodeznos is a watermill located in Corral de Calatrava, in the province of Ciudad Real, Castilla-La Mancha. This mill is located near the town of Corral de Calatrava and is an important part of the industrial heritage of the region.

The Church of Our Lady of Consolation in Ballesteros de Calatrava is a beautiful example of architecture with a Mudejar influence. This temple has a single nave and a polygonal apse. The highlight of the church is its Plateresque doorway, decorated with medallions of Saint Peter and Saint Paul, candelieri and a pointed arch. Inside, there are remains of a Mudejar-style coffered ceiling that appears to date back to the 14th century. The original building collapsed in 1861, and what remains today is a reconstruction that maintains some elements of the original design. In addition, some images of this parish are in the Diocesan Museum of Ciudad Real.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit this church, you will be able to appreciate its history and architecture. Despite the vicissitudes of time, its presence continues to be a testimony of faith and culture in the region. 🙏✨

The Hermitage of the Virgen de los Santos is a place of worship and devotion on the hill that bears its name, near the town of Pozuelo de Calatrava. It is a construction from the 15th or 16th century, with a Mudejar roof and a baroque altarpiece that houses the image of the patron saint. The sanctuary is located on a magical and once strategic pointy mountain, and its white and luminous architecture stands out in the landscape.

Next to La Hoya del Acebuche or Los Frailes, it is a maar in the municipality of Almagro.