At the foot of Cuevas De Ambrosio, the Beas and Bastagoya streams meet. The village lies on a hill of tufa; olive groves shape the landscape on the surrounding mountains. Opposite Cuevas De Ambrosio lies Cerro Burdés, whose summit is crowned by a rocky ridge.
Cuevas De Ambrosio is also situated in one of the largest floodplains in the area. It includes Cañada Catena and extends at its western end as far as the centre of Beas de Segura. Thus, both the tufa hill and the extensive floodplain form part of the village’s landscape.
Rock History and Olive Oil
The oldest houses in Cuevas De Ambrosio were built under the shelter of a rock overhang or cave. This building style also reflects the former use of these sheltered spaces.
The cave- or rock-sheltered houses were once used as livestock pens. They also served as overnight shelters for herds travelling from Beas towards the Sierra. Rock overhangs and caves therefore represent not only a style of building, but also the history of livestock farming.
On its section between Beas and Cortijos Nuevos, the Ruta Cultural del Aceite passes through Cuevas De Ambrosio. A guided visit to an olive mill in Cuevas De Ambrosio explains the production of extra virgin olive oil—from the delivery of the olives to bottling. Confirm availability and make a reservation before travelling.
Festive Traditions and Local Lore
The patron saint festivities in honour of the Virgen del Rosario take place every year around 15 August. They include a public dance evening at the weekend and various leisure activities. The specific programme may vary from year to year.
During the festivities, the image of the Virgen del Rosario is carried in a procession to the hamlet of Cortijos Las Piedras. On Sunday morning, it returns to its church in Cuevas De Ambrosio. If you would like to plan your trip around the festivities, the period around 15 August is a useful guide; check the exact dates for the year in question.
In Beas, devotion to the Virgen del Rosario dates back at least to 1753; at that time, the town also had its own brotherhood.
A local legend is also associated with Cerro Burdés. According to the story, a deep cave lies within the mountain, with numerous branches and seemingly endless shafts.
Circular Walks Starting from the Plaza
Both routes start at Plaza de la ConstituciĂłn, beside the church in Cuevas De Ambrosio. The PR-BS-24 passes through Cazona and El Toconal and follows the Arroyo Bastagoya.
Before setting out on the PR-BS-24, check the trail conditions and verify access locally.
The PR-BS-25 El Ciruelo also starts at the same plaza. It is 12.65 kilometres long and classified as moderate. The route climbs into the mountainous area known as El Ciruelo, also called Cerro de Hornos. On the descent, it reaches the Arroyo Ciruelo and rejoins the path to Cazona.
Discover more destinations: Cazorla, Vites, Rus, Friar, Solera, Peal De Becerro, Escañuela, Alcalá La Real
For the main travel overview: Jaen.
