Lucena

The geographical center of Andalusia, Lucena, is situated in the province of Cordoba. The town is an ideal place for those who are planning to visit all main Andalusian cities during a vacation. The capital of the province, the city of Cordoba, is situated 60 kilometers to the Northeast from Lucena. The distance to a popular resort city Malaga is 85 kilometers; to Granada and Jaen is about 100 kilometers; and to Seville is 140 kilometers.

Lucena is an old town with rich history. Long-ago, the town was under the Moorish control and had the second name Jews' City because in early times the vast majority of Lucena’s citizens were Jews. The town was very rich and flourishing. In 14th century, Lucena was won from Moors by Spaniards. Today, the second biggest town in Cordoba province is famous mostly with manufacturing of furniture, pottery, bronze lamps and brandy.

Like so many others old Andalusian cities Lucena has many sights worth to visit. The majority of old town’s buildings are built in Baroque style. The main sight is the Church of San Mateo that dates back to the 14th century. It is built mostly in Gothic-Renaissance style, although the most important part of the church, the Capilla del Sagrario, is considered one of the best example of Andalusian Baroque. Another notable church is the Church of San Agustin that was built in the 17th century. It has unusual for Andalusia oval dome.

Walking along the streets of Lucena do not forget to visit the Santuario de Nuestra Senora de Araceli. This hermitage has magnificent chapel, which is thought to be one of the best Baroque buildings in the province of Cordoba. The Palacio de los Condes, which acts as courthouse today, also deserves attention, especially its startling entrance made from marble.

It is not an easy task to sort out among a plenty of sights of Lucena and other cities of Cordoba province. Because, as it was mentioned, the town is situated in the geographical center of Andalusia. As luck would have it, qualified specialists from tourism office, which is located in the Castillo del Moral, will help you to plan your vacation in Andalusia.