Explore the Andalusian heritage route in Castilla-La Mancha and immerse yourself in the beauty and history of its Islamic legacy. Discover centuries of cultural and architectural influence that enriched the art and culture of the region.

From north to south and east to west, Castilla-La Mancha reveals medinas, castles, fortresses, walls, palaces, mosques, public baths, fountains, cisterns, landscapes... A journey through time and space to see, feel, smell, taste and hear the richness of a unique cultural legacy. Al-Andalus shaped the current map of Castilla-La Mancha, and the itineraries of these Routes of al-Andalus allow us to enjoy a beautiful, rich and surprising tangible and intangible heritage.

Itinerary VIII for the Ways of al-Andalus route, Kūnka and the Kūra of Santaver, is one of the ten journeys crossing the five provinces in the region and sheds light on al-Andalus history in Cuenca province. This tour explores the historic and natural landscapes of the ancient Kūra of Santaver, a territorial division of the emirate and caliphate of Córdoba, which occupied a large part of what is now Cuenca province. This vast, rugged territory has a rich al-Andalus legacy, marked by its agriculture, medieval fortresses and close relationship with nature.

The Medina of Šantabarīa and Islamic power centres

The tour begins in what may have been the original capital of the Kūra: Šantabarīa, probably located near the ancient Roman city of Ercávica, in the vicinity of Cañaveruelas. Over time, other cities came to play a major role in the administration and control of the territory, such as: Uqlīsh (Uclés), Walmu (Huélamo), al-Ǫannit (Cañete) and Kūnka (Cuenca), which later became the Christian capital.

Castles, al-Andalus architecture and Mudejar influence

Travellers can explore the remains of Islamic citadels in towns such as Alarcón and Priego. In many cases, the Islamic style continued to live on through the adaptations that the Christian nobility oversaw. An outstanding example can be seen in Belmonte castle, where decorated roofs inspired by Moorish art are still preserved, a symbol of sophistication and power.

The Kūra of Santaver was also a model for using the natural environment. The El Hito lagoon is a cultural landscape revealing the ancient al-Andalus management of water and land; and the El Manzano salt pans ensured the extraction of salt for food preservation and leather tanning.

Observing the sky: astronomy and science in al-Andalus

One of the most fascinating aspects of the al-Andalus legacy can be seen in the advances made in astronomy. Today, in the Cuenca Mountains Astronomy Project, visitors can enjoy unique astronomical experiences that connect modern science with Islamic knowledge of the past. This region has the Starlight Tourist Destination seal, which certifies areas that feature excellent qualities for stargazing.