The best traffic-free bike rides around La Mancha

Alcázar de San Juan is one of the most interesting destinations in the heart of La Mancha, with a blend of history, heritage, nature, and Cervantine traditions. Its name comes from the Military Order of Saint John, which dominated the area after the Reconquista. It claims to be the birthplace of Miguel de Cervantes, as the baptismal font where, according to some studies, the writer was baptized is preserved in the Collegiate Church of Santa María la Mayor. It was an important railway junction and economic center in the 19th and 20th centuries, which shaped its urban development.

The Church of Santa Quiteria in Alcázar de San Juan (Ciudad Real) is one of the town's most important churches, boasting a rich history and significant architectural value. Origin: Construction began in the second half of the 16th century based on plans by Juan de Herrera, the architect of El Escorial. Execution: The work was directed by Agustín Argüello and completed by Bartolomé Elorriaga in 1604. Style: Renaissance with classical elements.

The Plaza de España in Alcázar de San Juan (Ciudad Real) is home to one of the city's most representative symbols: the sculpture of Don Quixote and Sancho Panza, a work that pays homage to Cervantes' immortal characters.

The Grand Prior's Tower is one of the most emblematic monuments of Alcázar de San Juan (Ciudad Real) and forms part of the Grand Prior's Palace Complex, linked to the Order of Saint John. Built in the 13th century on the remains of the old Muslim citadel, during the Almohad period. Reconquest: It became part of the palace of the Grand Priors of Castile and León of the Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem. Expansions: In 1618, under Philip III, a floor was added with windows and plaster ribbed vaults.

After the tourist office...a beautiful mill to visit inside...with a video explaining its wonderful mechanism.

A work of military architecture that the Knights of the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem built after Alfonso VIII ceded the old fortifications and the district of Consuegra to the Order. The castle underwent transformations, renovations, and restorations, and its uses adapted to the needs and sociopolitical changes of the time. It enjoyed its splendor during the 13th and 15th centuries, and although it remained inhabited, it suffered a gradual but inexorable process of abandonment until its final decline with the confiscation of church property by Mendizábal in the 19th century. Finally, thanks to the will and perseverance of the inhabitants of Consuegra, the castle was gradually restored to return it to its former splendor. It can be visited Monday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

This municipality is located in the La Mancha region, between the first foothills of the Montes de Toledo and the vast La Mancha plain. It is known for its cultural and natural heritage, including the Ojos del Guadiana site, the source of the Guadiana River. It also shares the Tablas de Daimiel National Park, an important wetland, with the neighboring municipality of Daimiel. Villarrubia de los Ojos has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages, when control of the territory passed from the Order of Saint John of Jerusalem to the Order of Calatrava after the Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa in 1212. The town also boasts an interesting architectural and cultural heritage, including the Hermitage of San Cristóbal and the "San Isidro Labrador" Ethnographic Museum.

Villarrubia de los Ojos is a charming place to visit! Historic Center: Stroll through its streets and discover the traditional architecture and history of the town. San Isidro Labrador Ethnographic Museum: Learn more about local culture and traditions. Tablas de Daimiel National Park: Just 20 km away, this wetland is perfect for nature lovers. Sanctuary of the Virgin of the Sierra: A place of great religious and cultural significance.