Perched above the landscape, Albacete Castle commands attention with its dramatic views and historical significance. This impressive fortress, often reminiscent of a fantasy tale, served as a refuge for King Lucef during his flight from Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar, known as the Cid Campeador. The castle is rich with enchanting sites and lesser-known stories that capture the essence of its long history.
The castle”s walls remain remarkably intact, providing visitors with a glimpse into the past. According to local lore, the Almohads originally constructed these fortifications more for irrigation purposes than for defense. This area was once the epicenter of a Muslim territory until its liberation, where reenactments of ancient battles now occur.
The nearby village of Jorquera, recognized as one of the most stunning in the region, was designated a Historic-Artistic Site in 1982. It is an excellent destination for family escapes, featuring notable sites such as the Church of Santiago, Casas Ibáñez, and the Church of San Juan Bautista.
For those looking to savor local cuisine, several restaurants are available, including Restaurante Casa El Moli, Restaurante Casa Amador, Restaurante Hotel Pelayo, Restaurante Veramar, and Restaurante Las Vegas.
Traveling from Albacete city to Jorquera is best done by car. The recommended route involves taking the N-322 and then the AB-201. Starting on the N-322 from Avenida Isabel la Católica, drivers will pass through Avenida Ramón Menéndez Pidal, Calle Casas Ibáñez, and Paseo la Cuba before merging onto the N-322, followed by an exit onto the AB-201, leading directly to Jorquera, where parking can be found easily.
