Barcelona Museums Launch Summer Heritage Program

The twin towns of Baeza and Úbeda in Spain's Jaén province offer a well-preserved glimpse into Renaissance architecture and history, recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 2003. Both towns showcase a unique blend of Italian Renaissance ideals with Spain's Islamic and Mudéjar traditions, evident in their urban design and buildings, many crafted by architect Andrés de Vandelvira. Baeza, enriched by the 1500s textile trade, features notable sites like its 1533 University Building and the Cathedral of the Blessed Virgin and the Nativity, alongside charming streets and the historic Fountain of the Lions. Nearby Úbeda, potentially one of Western Europe's oldest continuous settlements, has a rich history spanning Roman colonization to Muslim rule, before flourishing during the 16th century Renaissance period. These towns remain relatively untouched by mass tourism, preserving their artistic and cultural heritage in a tranquil setting. Their historic and architectural significance makes them standout destinations for travelers seeking timeless beauty and a deep connection to Spain's past.