Peña de Arias Montano

Andalucía


High above Alájar, this rocky spur provides magical views over the village. The site takes its name from remarkable 16th-century polymath and humanist Benito Arias Montano, who repeatedly visited this spot for retreat and meditation. The peña’s 16th-century chapel, the Ermita de Nuestra Señora Reina de los Ángeles, is an important local pilgrimage site.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Andalucía attractions

2. Gruta de las Maravillas

5.67 MILES

Beneath Aracena's castle hill is a web of caves and tunnels carved from the karstic topography. An extraordinary 1.2km, 50-minute loop takes you through…

3. Museo del Jamón

5.74 MILES

The jamón for which the sierra is famed gets due recognition in this modern museum. You'll learn why the acorn-fed Iberian pig gives such succulent meat,…

4. Castillo

5.8 MILES

Dramatically dominating the town are the tumbling, hilltop ruins of the castillo, built by the kingdoms of Portugal and Castilla in the 12th century atop…

6. Plaza Alta

5.91 MILES

Originally Aracena's central square, this gently sloping plaza near the top of town is home to an attractive 15th-century town hall, backed by the…

8. Iglesia de San Martín

6.48 MILES

The Mudéjar Iglesia de San Martín has a 16th-century portal in the Portuguese Manueline style, unique in the region.