We do not want to say that Spain is better than Italy, but we do want to claim our towns and monuments that, although they do not have the same marketing than that of our European neighbors, they well deserve it. From the Spanish Coliseum to Alcaraz, an unknown town in Albacete nicknamed the little Florencia of La Mancha. And rightly so, its Renaissance heritage competes in beauty and elegance.
What to see in Alcaraz, Albacete
Alcaraz is a small town with a lot of history and monumental architecture, surrounded by mountains as far as the eye can see, with crop fields, green forests and La Mancha esplanades. Its past dates back to the Iberians, Romans and Visigoths, although it was the Muslims who brought this town to its maximum splendor and the remains of the Hisn al-Karas fortress from the 11th century or the ancient carpet crafts that are still preserved are witnesses of this.
Alcaraz Castle (Hisn al-Karas)
After the Christian reconquest, Alcaraz dazzled during the reign of the Catholic Monarchs and the Renaissance of the 16th century. Proof of this is its beautiful Plaza Mayor, the work of Andrés de Vandelvira, the Renaissance architect who was born in Alcaraz. Porticoes, Italian inspirations and delimited by three markets: the Corregidor, the Regatería and the Alhorí, the current Town Hall with a plateresque façade.
Plaza Mayor of Alcaraz
The Corregidor market is attached to the Clock Tower, which locals know as Torre del Tardón. In front is the Torre de la Trinidad, the so-called Renaissance 'twin towers' with Gothic details, both designed by Andrés de Vandelvira. Another impressive monument is the Church of the Holy Trinity, a 15th century Gothic temple with Renaissance additions.
Doorway of the Church of the Holy Trinity
Walking along Calle Mayor we will come across beautiful mansions and palaces, such as the House of the Warriors or the Galiano. We will also pass by the Carpet Workshop, led by the last master craftsman left in Alcaraz. Finally, the church of San Miguel from the 13th century is beautiful and, although it is almost always closed, its doorway is very worthwhile.
Where to eat cheap and delicious in Alcaraz, Albacete
In these mountain areas they eat atascaburras (similar to cod brandade) and some delicious migas al pastor. In addition, Alcaraz boasts a delicious garlic smear (like a scrambled blood sausage). You can try all of this at the Hostal Mirador Sierra de Alcaraz Restaurant, along with Manchego gazpachos or beans with partridge on a 15-euro menu.
What to do near Alcaraz, Albacete
If we go up towards the north and leave the town, we will find a charming and very quiet path of less than 5 kilometers that leads to the Sanctuary of Cortes, patron saint of Alcaraz. Along the way, we will enjoy nature and see the remains of an old aqueduct from the 15th century.
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