Jaen travel guide and discussion

I went to the Gaoshan Art Center to see the Sanmao-themed special exhibition, carefully curated by Lei Tao. I have yet to set foot in the Canary Islands, and all my impressions of these Atlantic islands come from the words written by Sanmao. The exhibition space isn't large, but it is filled with delicate attention to detail. Lei Tao traveled to the Canary Islands twice, seeking out people and sites related to Sanmao and José, bringing back many precious exhibits. On-site, you can see books signed by Sanmao in pencil, as well as a red garment she once wore. The clothing looks small and slender, yet it once held an incredibly rich and vast soul. You can truly feel on-site that Sanmao's readers are no longer just those from the 70s, 80s, and 90s; many young friends have also come for her. One young woman, wearing a vintage hairstyle and a white robe like the ones Sanmao used to wear, came to experience the exhibition in an immersive way. The exhibition features a recreation of Sanmao's café, with two drinks named after her works: "Gone with the Rainy Season" and "Gentle Night." At their home on Gran Canaria, while waiting for José to get off work, Sanmao liked to pick up flat stones and paint on them. This exhibition also includes a stone painting experience. The background wall recreates the entrance to their former residence; standing here, it feels like a brief visit to that cottage on the hillside, where one could gaze out at the Atlantic Ocean. In the Canary Islands, there is a dedicated "Ruta San Mao" (Sanmao Route). Many Chinese travelers make special trips there to follow in her footsteps and understand the everyday life and distant horizons she wrote about. Sanmao and José lived peacefully here for several years, turning a remote island into their own home. At the opening ceremony, Ms. Fangfang from the Spanish National Tourist Office also came to share her thoughts. She introduced the travel resources of the Canary Islands and the influence Sanmao had on her. She also shared that in an era where AI makes information easily accessible, true inner fulfillment still relies on personal experience—feeling, loving, and experiencing things firsthand. This is precisely the true meaning of travel. José's hometown is Andújar, in the province of Jaén, Andalusia, in southern Spain. This is a core production area for olive oil worldwide, and over half of Spain's olive oil comes from this land covered in olive trees. In late October, I will also travel to Jaén to walk through the olive groves and see the land where José grew up. For this three-month special exhibition, if you also have a fondness for Sanmao, why not come here and, amidst the fragments of objects and stories, encounter that soul who lived so freely and earnestly. 🌊 "To the Canary Islands – Sanmao and the Canary Islands special exhibition" 📍 Gaoshan Art Center | 5th Floor, Fangyuanli IDMALL ⏰ Exhibition dates: Sep 11, 2026 – Dec 21, 2026

—— An underrated treasure CP, the perfect cure for the “tired of France, Italy, and Switzerland” urban syndrome! I’d call it a palette of passion and poetry on earth! Spain and Portugal connection‼️ The light and shadow of Sagrada Familia🌅, Flamenco in Seville💃, the golden Benagil Cave… Take advantage of the beautiful weather in May-June before the tourists flood in, hurry up!!! . 🔥Spain: Barcelona: The Gaudí architectural trio. Sagrada Familia is a must! Light passing through the stained glass feels like God spilling a palette. Rush up to Tibidabo Mountain, the whole Barcelona lies beneath your feet🎡 Granada: The Alhambra Palace is a must! The pool in the Court of the Lions reflects the sighs of the Moors Seville: Ride a carriage at Plaza de España, watch a Flamenco box show Madrid: Have coffee at Puerta del Sol, the dazzling splendor of the Royal Palace of Spain will blind you Toledo: The whole city is a medieval museum. The sunset dyes the Tagus River golden—like traveling back to the age of knights⚔ Jaén: A hilltop castle in an olive forest sea, stay at the Parador castle hotel, open the window to see hundreds of thousands of olive trees . 🔥Portugal: Lisbon: Take the clanging Tram 28, ride the Santa Justa Lift, overlook the busy small city Sintra: Pena Palace looks like a spilled paint box, the whole colorful castle is yours🏰 Lagos: Go out to sea and dive into the Benagil Cave! The noon sunlight hits from the cave top, the golden seawater looks like molten lava 🚤 Cabo da Roca: The westernmost point of continental Europe, “Land ends here, sea begins here.” Hold a bouquet of wildflowers and wait for the Atlantic sunset . 🔟 Day itinerary recommendation D1-D2: Madrid - Toledo - Jaén D3: Granada (Alhambra Palace / Cathedral...) D4: Seville (Bullring / Seville Royal Palace & Cathedral / Plaza de España...) D5: Lagos sea tour (Benagil Cave) D6-D7: Lisbon - Sintra (Belém Tower / Pena Palace / Quinta da Regaleira / Cabo da Roca...) D8-D10: Barcelona (Sagrada Familia / Park Güell / Casa Milà / Tibidabo Mountain...) . ⭕ Hotel recommendations 🏆Barcelona|Hotel Arts Barcelona 🏆Seville|Hotel Alfonso XIII, a Luxury Collection Hotel 🏆Madrid|The Palace, a Luxury Collection Hotel 🏆Granada|Alhambra Palace Hotel 🏆Lagos|Cascade Wellness Resort 🏆Jaén|Parador de Jaen .

#EuropeTravel #SpainAttractions #Catalina 👋Hello! From Jaén, Spain. Jaén, Andalusia, Spain. The Cruz del Castillo de Santa Catalina (Cross of Santa Catalina Castle), situated on a hilltop offering panoramic views of Jaén and the vast olive groves. This large cross is located near Santa Catalina Castle, easily accessible and a popular tourist attraction. It was erected on the spot where King Ferdinand III planted a cross after Jaén's surrender in 1246, commemorating Ferdinand III's victory and symbolizing the transition from Muslim to Christian rule in the region in 1246. Santa Catalina Castle itself originated as a 9th-century Caliphate fortress and was fortified after being occupied by Christians. 🎈https://maps.app.goo.gl/5SDwHXyi4PZ3iJe9A

Starting from the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, walk through Alameda Park, stand on the New Bridge to feel the 98-meter-high cliff canyon. When the sunset drapes the white town in a golden coat, you will understand why Hemingway called this place "the best place to elope." On the square of the Church of Our Lady of Mercy (Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de la Merced) before dusk, you can see the sunlight beginning to soften. Ronda, this white mountain town built on a plateau 750 meters above sea level, is about to welcome the most romantic moment of the day. Starting at 4 PM, beginning this cliffside journey from the church is perfect. Heading west, three hours later you will witness the breathtaking view of the Tajo Gorge bathed in sunset gold. · -- 01 Golden Route Church of Our Lady of Mercy → Alameda Park → Ronda Bullring → New Bridge → Old Bridge. This route is a carefully planned sunset golden route, about 1-2 hours on foot, just in time for the most beautiful sunset. Ronda’s attractions are relatively concentrated, with short walking distances between them. From the Church of Our Lady of Mercy, you can quickly enter Alameda Del Tajo Park. This tranquil park on the cliff edge features beautiful gardens and spectacular valley views, perfect for a leisurely stroll or enjoying the sunset. 02 Birthplace of Bullfighting Passing through the park, you arrive at Spain’s oldest bullring—the Ronda Bullring (Plaza de Toros de Ronda). This circular building, constructed in 1785, is the birthplace of modern bullfighting and can hold about 5,000 spectators. Even if you’re not interested in bullfighting itself, you can visit its architecture and history museum. The bullring is built in a neoclassical style, with a novel artistic main entrance. The stands are divided into upper and lower levels, supported by 136 sturdy Tuscan stone columns. Tickets cost 9 euros, usually open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (may vary by season), and the visit takes about 30 minutes. 03 Sky Bridge Continuing forward, you will see Ronda’s iconic landmark—the New Bridge (Puente Nuevo). This “new” bridge was actually built in the 18th century, stands 98 meters tall, and spans the El Tajo Gorge, connecting the city’s new and old parts. Viewing platform options: · Aldehuela Viewpoint: Located on the east side of the New Bridge, at the south end, it’s a great spot to admire the full view of the New Bridge. · Cuenca Gardens: Also on the east side of the New Bridge, a 6-minute walk away, from where you can continue walking to the Old Bridge. · Gorge Trail: The newly opened Desfiladero del Tajo Gorge Trail in 2024 allows you to look up at the New Bridge from below, offering a unique angle (ticket required, advance booking recommended). 04 Cliffside Dusk Around 6 PM, the sunset begins to paint Ronda’s white houses and canyon cliffs golden. Standing on the New Bridge, you can see the 120-meter-deep gorge gradually covered in shadow, while the buildings atop the cliffs grow brighter. Best photo spot: Continue forward to the Old Bridge (Puente Viejo). From this stone bridge built in 1616, looking back at the New Bridge and the gorge, you can capture both bridges in one frame. The Old Bridge connects the new town, whose white houses look especially photogenic under the sunset. The small archway at the Old Bridge’s end is a perfect framing spot. 05 Hemingway’s Mystery Regarding Hemingway’s “residence” in Ronda, as your guide mentioned, there is no exact location. However, Hemingway’s deep connection with Ronda is undeniable. In his book Death in the Afternoon, he wrote: “If you can only watch one bullfight, it should be in Ronda. This is also the place you should go for a honeymoon in Spain or to elope.” Inside Alameda Park, there is a trail named after Hemingway, commemorating the writer’s love for Ronda. Another celebrity connected to Ronda—film director Orson Welles—also adored this small town; his ashes were scattered in the outskirts of Ronda. 06 Travel Tips Transportation: Ronda is located between Seville and Malaga. It takes about 2-2.5 hours by bus from Seville and about 1 hour 45 minutes from Malaga. Driving is the most convenient way, but the mountain roads are winding and require careful driving. Accommodation: If you want to enjoy Ronda’s night view, it’s recommended to stay overnight in town. Several scenic hotels are worth considering: Parador de Ronda (New Bridge view), Hotel Montelirio (New Bridge view), Catalonia Ronda (famous pool with a view of the bullring). Food Recommendations: In Ronda, try local specialties such as oxtail stew (Rabo de toro), red wine stewed chorizo (Chorizo al vino), and honey goat cheese (Queso de cabra). Some travelers recommend a local restaurant called LA PICONERA for oxtail rice. Travel Safety: Ronda is generally safe, but be mindful of your belongings in tourist areas. At night, stick to main roads and avoid secluded alleys. · -- After the sun has completely set below the horizon, Ronda’s lights gradually come on. The white houses on the cliffside look like stars floating in the night. At the viewpoint at the end of Alameda Park, a few reluctant visitors still gaze at the twinkling lights across the gorge. Returning along the same path, the outline of the New Bridge is clear under the moonlight. This stone bridge, witnessing over 200 years of history, will welcome a new sunrise and sunset tomorrow.

Best tapas and best cathedral in Spain 😍

Spain's Atlantic Coast Pilgrimage ~ Basque Country This building was designed by Bilbao architect Ricardo de Bastida y Bilbao. The company, Unceta y Cía, specializes in producing "Campogiro" pistols. The building is in a modern Art Deco style, incorporating elements of Cubism, Russian Constructivism, and Italian Futurism. #SeptemberDestinations2025#SpainTravel#VizcayaAttractions

If you visit the Castle of Santa Catalina or the Monastery of Jaén, you will see the Cross, a significant monument commemorating Saint Ferdinand III, who ordered the placement of the cross after being canonized. Donated by the Balguerias family, it features a gray marble plaque that mentions the cross's transfer to the city of Jaén. The view from here is spectacular, and in my opinion, it is the best spot to appreciate the unparalleled scenery of Jaén, including olive trees, the city, and the majestic cathedral standing tall in the city center. Highly recommended and absolutely worth a visit.

Andalucia Tour ~ Jaén The impressive castle is located on a hilltop above the city of Jaén. You can drive to the castle itself and there is some free parking but it is limited. Imposing medieval fortress with unique views over the province of Jaén and an incredible panoramic view of the entire city. It combines history, Arabic and Christian architecture, surrounded by nature and culture. Perfect for history and photography buffs. Some parts of the castle are free to enter, or walk along the path to the large concrete cross. #NovemberDestinations2024 #SpainTravel #Andalucia #MilitaryFortress #HistoricalRelics

Andalucia Tour ~ Jaén Without a doubt, the Cathedral of San Ildefonso is a must-see. Behind the cathedral, it is the most beautiful temple in Jaén and it is very easy to find. It has a beautiful Renaissance façade, an interior filled with images of Jaén's Holy Week (can be a bit crowded) and the beloved Church of Our Lady. It is true that the lighting in this temple is not particularly good, but it is still worth visiting. It has free admission. #11月好去2024 #SpainTravel #Andalucia #ReligiousBeliefs #HistoricalMonuments #Sculptures #Church

Jaén Cathedral is an architectural gem, known for its beauty and charm. Its grand exterior and elegant dome will leave you in awe. Once inside, the lavish decorations, altarpieces, and sculptures create a magical atmosphere. Every corner invites you to appreciate the details, and the views from its location are impressive. They offer an audio guide that provides information about the cathedral in 45-60 minutes. Finally, it is recommended to wear virtual reality glasses for a unique and brief perspective. It lasts no more than five minutes and is not to be missed, allowing you to enjoy an external tour of the cathedral and a drone view of the interior. Inside, there is much to admire, and you can go up a level, preferably by elevator, as the stairs are quite steep. This is one of the two most important attractions you can visit in Jaén.

Andalusian Tour ~ Jaén Villardompardo in Jaén is an iconic space that blends history and art. It is home to the largest Arab baths in Europe, a gem from the 11th century, restored to showcase its impressive Islamic architecture. Additionally, this 16th-century Renaissance palace houses museums dedicated to popular arts and customs, offering you a rich cultural experience. This place merges Andalusia's past with Renaissance heritage, providing a unique historical and beautiful environment with panoramic views of the city from its terraces.

The Jaén Provincial Museum is an outstanding cultural space with a rich collection of archaeology and fine arts. It is located in a historic building that combines permanent exhibitions telling the history of the region from prehistory to the Iberian and Roman periods, as well as samples of contemporary art. Its design blends modern and traditional elements, providing an immersive experience that connects visitors with the traditions of Jaén.

The Jaén Iberian Museum is a unique space dedicated to Iberian culture, housed in a modern building that combines contemporary architecture with ancestral history. It offers both permanent and temporary exhibitions, highlighting the archaeological wealth of the region, including sculptures, ceramics, and items from the daily life of the Iberians. It's fascinating to learn how people lived in these areas from the 5th to the 2nd century BC! Clean restrooms. Free admission, thanks to the Jaén City Council and taxpayers.

Jaén is the capital of the province of Jaén. The gateway to Andalucía 🚪 on the northern side of the Sierra de Jabalcuz. The rich landscapes and natural scenery are all here. The Arab Baths (Baños árabes) were built during the Taifa period, on the foundations of former Roman baths by the rulers of that time. It is a famous attraction in Jaén, and one can imagine how much people enjoyed themselves back then! Circulating water, steam baths, naturally lit courtyards, and many items and means of transportation from that era are still preserved here. The Jaén Cathedral (Catedral de Jaén) was built in the 16th century and is the masterpiece of the famous Spanish Renaissance architect Andrés de Vandelvira. The original intention was to renovate the Gothic church built in the 15th century. Majestic and magnificent, the tower lights can be seen from kilometers away. It was listed as a World Heritage Site in 2012. The urban area here looks unique against the backdrop of the mountains. Walking through the city feels like traveling through time. At Restaurant Plaza Vieja, I experienced the local cuisine, the service was excellent, and the pedestrians on the road were very friendly.

It takes 4 hours by train from Madrid. I will introduce Jaen, located next to Granada. It is a small city where you can walk anywhere in the city, but it is a wonderful city where you can overlook the olive fields unique to Spain. Jaen Cathedral Jaen Cathedral is the symbol of the city. Many tourists visit on weekends. There is also a small museum-like building! However, all the explanations are in Spanish 😅 Santa Catalina Castle Santa Catalina Castle offers a panoramic view of the city of Jaen. It is a struggle to walk here, but there is a bus 🙆‍♀️ Why not take the bus up and walk down to enjoy the scenery? These two spots are especially recommended in Jaen! If you want to take your time sightseeing in Spain! Why not visit this city? #Spain