Canena offers very different points of interest for a trip: a Renaissance castle, a church with an older crypt, a telecommunications museum and paths with views across the Comarca of La Loma. Thermal waters and recurring events are also among the things you can take into account when planning your visit.
Renaissance and Earlier Architectural History
The Castillo de Canena is a Renaissance building erected in the 16th century by Spanish Renaissance architect Andrés de Vandelvira (1509–1575). It is protected as a Bien de Interés Cultural. Its architecture and protected status make the castle a prominent focal point for anyone interested in the town’s architectural history.
The parish church of Nuestra Señora de la Concepción offers another historical perspective. Built in the first half of the 16th century in the Renaissance style, it has a sturdy Almohad crypt dating from around the year 1000. Two distinctly different periods of construction thus stand side by side in the same church: the Renaissance church and the much older crypt. This sets the site apart from the architectural history of the Castillo and adds another layer of history to the town.
Technology from Roman Times to the Internet
The Museo de las Telecomunicaciones de Canena explores the development of long-distance communication. Its overview ranges from the earliest systems to satellite and internet connections. Numerous exhibits illustrate the subject, many of them still working. Topics include terminal devices, switching, transmission, cables, radio and satellite technology. The museum thus spans a broad range, from individual technical devices and methods of transmission to modern connections.
The Molinillo tells a very different technological story. This hydraulic installation dates from Roman times and was used to grind grain. While the museum focuses on communication, the Molinillo points to the historical use of water power. Visitors interested in technology can compare these two very different subjects across time and content.
Paths and Landscape
Numerous paths and hiking trails cross the municipality of Canena. Along the way, viewpoints offer panoramic views over the Comarca of La Loma. In La Loma, in the province of Jaén, an extensive sea of olive trees defines the landscape. Views of the surrounding area add a landscape perspective to the historical and technological themes. No route length, walking time or difficulty is specified here; plan your own visit using the information about each route that best suits you.
Thermal Waters and Events
The Balneario de San Andrés has thermal waters whose use dates back to Roman times. It is currently the only operating spa in the province of Jaén. Check its operating status before your trip if you are planning a visit.
The Festival de Música Villa de Canena takes place every year on weekends in July, with the Castillo de Canena serving as its venue. The summer program includes concerts in the auditorium and in the Castillo’s Columnas and Armas courtyards. The musical program spans classical music, opera, jazz and other styles. Check the program, dates and venues for the year of your trip.
The Fiestas de la Virgen de los Remedios take place from August 14 to 25. They include a procession carrying an image of the Virgin Mary, a sculpture by artist Navas Parejo. Public open-air dances are also part of the festival. If events are important to your travel plans, check the dates for the year of your trip.
Discover more destinations: Mengibar, Alcalá La Real, La Iruela, Baeza, La Matea, Friar, Arroyo Del Ojanco, Chilluévar.
For the broader travel overview: Jaen.
