The dozens of magnificent Renaissance era buildings here were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, and by far and away the reason most folks stop by. If possible, avoid visiting Úbeda on Mondays, when many sites are closed or have reduced hours. While all facades have been preserved, few interiors remain in their original 16th century state. They've often been turned into municipal buildings, or stately hotels for the well heeled. Either way, they're beautiful. It's easy to let your imagination run wild as you get lost rambling through the narrow streets of the old city.
- 1 Basílica de Santa María de los Reales Alcázares, Plaza Vázquez de Molina, ☏ +34 953 756 583. M-Sa 11:00-14:00, 17:00-20:00 (depending on the season, it will open as early as 16:00, and close as late as 22:00); Su 09:30-14:00 and May-Sep: 17:00-22:00). The church of Santa María de los Reales Alcázares de Úbeda sits on a sacred place, built atop the remains of a mosque destroyed during the conquest of the city in 1233. The oldest parts of the church were built around 1259, but visitors mostly enjoy all the remains and additions of various styles the site has acquired over the years. The cloister, added towards the end of the 15th century, is a particular favourite. The church was badly damaged in the Spanish Civil War, waiting until 1983 to undergo a 28-year restoration. €4. (updated Nov 2020)
- 4 Parroquia de San Pablo, ☏ +34 953 750 637. Tu-Sa 11:00-13:00, 18:00-20:00; Su 11:00-13:00. One of the oldest in Úbeda, this church is believed to have been built some time during the 13th century. Its location in a central square and its proximity to the old town hall, made it the perfect choice for city council meetings throughout the 15th century. In the early 16th century, the building was embellished with Renaissance details under Alonso Suárez de la Fuente, who carried out extensive renovations and enlargements. Free.
- 5 Sacra Capilla del Salvador del Mundo, Plaza Vázquez de Molina, ☏ +34 609 279 905. M-Sa 09:30-14:30, 16:00-18:00; Su 11:30-15:00, 16:00-19:00. Built between 1536-1559 under the patronage of Francisco de los Cobos. It was conceived as a funerary monument, and was re-envisioned while under construction to elevate the patron's fame, fortune, and personal glory. The complex sculptural decoration of both the main facade and interior contrast boldly with the austerity of the Palacio de Molina, on display just down the road. The chapel's grandiose circular centralized crypt is meant to expresses a unity with, and the infinite essence of, God. €5 including audioguide, children €2.50.
