A spiral staircase in the bell tower of the Real Iglesia Parroquial de Santa Marta brings Martos’ architectural history to life through a specific detail; from the summit of La Peña at 1,003 m, sweeping views open up across the surrounding area. Visitors to Martos can focus on architecture, views, or olive oil production.
Churches and Architectural History
The Real Iglesia Parroquial de Santa Marta is the oldest church in Martos. King Fernando III had it built after the Christian conquest of the city in the 13th century. Late Gothic, or Isabelline, features meet Renaissance alterations here. The church thus brings together different architectural influences, while the spiral staircase in the bell tower is a striking feature of the building.
Martos is designated a Historic-Artistic Site (BIC). Examples of Andalusian Mannerist architecture include the Fuente Nueva and the former Cárcel y Cabildo; both display outstanding and innovative features of this style. The former Cárcel y Cabildo was built in the 16th century by the architect and sculptor Francisco del Castillo. These buildings offer a way to consider both their classification as Mannerist and the specific construction history of an individual building.
The Torre del Homenaje (Torre de la Villa) of the Castillo de la Villa has been converted into an interpretation center. The climb to the tower offers panoramic views over the city. As opening arrangements may vary, it is advisable to check the details before visiting.
The museum collection in Martos also covers a range of subjects: archaeology, natural sciences, and technology. It offers a different focus from the churches and urban architecture. Check opening arrangements before visiting.
Insights into Olive Oil Production
Cortijo El Madroño offers an olive oil tourism experience, with a visit to the former olive mill and insights into traditional and modern olive oil production methods. The cortijo also houses an olive mill museum, a specialist library, and historical documents on the development of traditional oil production, as well as centuries-old machinery. Both the former milling technology and the evolution of production are among the topics covered there. Arrange your visit in advance.
A visit to a cooperative offers a different focus: visitors can tour the facilities, learn about the production of Tuccioliva AOVEs, and take part in a guided tasting. The comparison can help you choose an experience: the cortijo focuses on the former mill and production history, while a cooperative visit may also include a tasting. Confirm tasting arrangements in advance.
Views and Routes
Those looking for a route through the landscape as well as architectural sights can find a different perspective on a former railway line. It is open to walkers and cyclists and crosses metal viaducts built by the Eiffel School. A 128 km ecotourism route between Jaén and Puente Genil also follows a former railway line. This distance gives a broader sense of scale than Martos’ individual buildings and viewpoints. Check access and surface conditions before setting out.
Plan Your Journey
Martos has a bus station with connections to the Consorcio de Transportes Metropolitano de Jaén and national bus lines. For planning your journey, choosing the right connections is the key practical consideration; do not assume specific travel times or onward connections. Check current routes and timetables before travelling. This allows you to plan your journey separately from deciding whether to focus on architectural history, olive oil production, or a walking route in Martos.
Discover more destinations: La Matea, Ermita Nueva, Fuensanta De Martos, Navas de San Juan, Sabiote, Vilches, Solera, Jaén
For the main travel overview: Jaen.
