| ·Churches and Convents: |
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Priego has valuable examples of religious architecture in both the old town and the areas built later, characterised by the decorative exuberance that is typical of the baroque. Highlights include the CHURCH OF THE ASUNCIÓN, an example of the baroque; the church of the former CONVENT OF SAN FRANCISCO, founded at the start of the 16th century; and the CHURCH OF SAN PEDRO OF THE CONVENT OF LOS FRANCISCANOS DESCALZOS, from the 17th century. Alongside these, there are numerous hermitages and small chapels throughout the town: VIRGEN DE LA AURORA, VIRGEN DE LAS ANGUSTIAS, VIRGEN DE LAS MERCEDES (an excellent example of the rococo style) and NUESTRA SEÑORA DEL CARMEN, in a neoclassical style. |
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· Traditional Architecture: |
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Likewise, the civil architecture was also influenced by the rococo as can be seen in the great number of 18TH-CENTURY MANSIONS and PALACES. Located at the centre of the town, for the most part in Calle del Río and Carreras de las Monjas, del Águila and de Álvarez, these mansions are a sign of the wealth that this town enjoyed in this period. |
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The local architecture reached its peak in the BARRIO DE LA VILLA area, which beautifully blends chalk walls and enchanting flowers. The area alongside the castle dates back to the medieval times, with narrow, winding streets and small squares leading to the MIRADOR DEL ADARVE (Adarve Lookout), where you can enjoy incredible views over the valley and the Sierras Subbéticas. |
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The FUENTE DEL REY (or King’s Fountain), on the Calvario hill, forms part of the area declared of historical interest and represents the jewel in the crown of Priego de Córdoba’s civil architecture and town planning. It is made up of two parts: the Vieja Fuente de Nuestra Señora de la Cabeza or de la Salud (Old Fountain of Our Lady of the Head or Fountain of Health), built in 1586, and the Fuente Nueva del Rey (New King’s Fountain), built in 1802 on the site of the town’s abundant springs. |
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CASTILLO DE PRIEGO dominates the town, with its square design and the overshadowing Torre del Hom naje (or Homage Tower) in its centre. First started in Roman times, it was rebuilt by the Christians in the 13th and 14th centuries. |
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Lastly, the CARNICERÍAS REALES (or Royal Butchers) are also worth visiting. The building was designed by Francisco del Castillo in the 16th century and used as a slaughterhouse and meat market. It has a square floor plan, with a central courtyard, mannerist style portal, with columns and lintel, and a striking spiral staircase. |
