Aracena Attractions
From Minas de Río Tinto a local road runs north through the beautiful Sierra Aracena to the little hill town of Aracena (alt. 682m/2238ft), surrounded by plantations of olives, figs and almonds, with an excellent climate which has made it a popular health resort.
Cerro del Castillo
On the Cerro del Castillo in Aracena are remains of a Moorish stronghold which was taken over by the Templars.
Church
The 13th Aracena century church, originally a mosque, has a 12th century Mudéjar minaret as its tower.
Convento de Santa Catalina
The Convento de Santa Catalina in Aracena is notable for its architecture including the grand doorway.
Hours
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | 7:00 | 7:00 | 7:00 | 7:00 | 7:00 | 7:00 | 18:30 |
| Close | 11:45 | 11:45 | 11:45 | 11:45 | 11:45 | 11:45 | 20:00 |
Cuevas de las Maravillas
In the hill of Aracena are the Cuevas de las Maravillas, a 1,200m/1,300yd long cave system with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites and an underground lake.
Hours
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | Closed | 10:30 | 10:30 | 10:30 | 10:30 | 10:30 | 10:30 |
| Close | 13:30 | 13:30 | 13:30 | 13:30 | 13:30 | 13:30 | |
| Open | 15:00 | 15:00 | 15:00 | 15:00 | 15:00 | 15:00 | |
| Close | 18:00 | 18:00 | 18:00 | 18:00 | 18:00 | 18:00 |
Sierra de Aracena
From Aracena an excursion to the wonderful scenery of the Sierra de Aracena with its cork and holm oaks and to Jabugo, famous for its ham, is recommended.