The province of Jaén is the largest producer of olives and olive oil products in the western hemisphere. The figures speak from themselves. Up to 15% of total world production and 45% of national production of olive oil issues from this single province of Spain. More than half a million hectares of land is dedicated to the production of this golden liquid.

 

But Jaén isn’t only about olive oil. The full scope of history hangs like an invisible mantle over every landscape, every village and every footstep taken. Clearly visible in the countryside of Jaén is the indelible mark of over five centuries of Arab domination.

 

Moorish castles and other architectural influences are scattered about the landscape like carelessly tossed confetti. In the capital, Jaén, Arabic baths speak of the gentle life pursued by its ancient inhabitants and the melting pot, racial mix of the population is unmistakable.

As for monuments, Jaén is at the top of the list of all Spanish provinces, not only in architectural terms but also archaeologically. 10 towns in Jaén that have already been declared of historic-artistic importance and 13 more are pending.

The towns of Úbeda and Baeza, two jewels that date from the Andalusian Renaissance, have recently been named part of World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO. More than 500 important archaeological discoveries, particularly those which preserve Iberian remains, have been made.

Jaén province contains the largest extension of protected natural areas in Spain. The four national parks of Sierra de Andujar, Despeñaperros, Sierra Magina and the Sierras of Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas – which are the most extensive areas of woodland in Spain - and its many natural reserves, turn it into a singular destination for those seeking the tranquillity of unspoilt nature, as well as for those seeking extreme sports and adventure practitioners.

The Sierras de Cazorla, Segura and Las Villas National Park has been declared a Biosphere Reservation by UNESCO and as a Protected Area for birds by the European Union.

And, as if that were not enough, the province celebrates a large number of cultural and traditional activities of world renown. This include two pilgrimages declared of national tourist interest, Holy Week processions, the Úbeda International Music and Dance Festival, Cazorla’s Blues Festival, Etnosur (Ethnic Festival - www.etnosur.com) and many more.

More information: http://www.promojaen.es