A key strategic location in Andalusia’s history. Declared officially ‘Historic-Artistic Site’, visitors will marvel at the town’s austere hospitality. The Fortress of La Mota, with its commanding views of the horizon, houses the Frontier Life Interpretation Centre where modernity and tradition combine to offer a unique, unforgettable experience.

From 713, the year that the Moors occupied Alcalá la Real, this enclave experienced great development. Proof of such is found in the abundant archaeological remains in this town, especially the Fortaleza de la Mota. Given the town’s appearance, it was called al-Qalat (the fortress), which is where its current name comes from.

The town was at the height of its Al-Andalus past in the 17th century, under the protectorate of the Banu Said family. In the 18th century, Alcalá alternated between Christian and Arab rule, given its strategic situation on the frontline of the border. Alfonso XI finally took over in 1341 and the town remained under direct control of the kingdom, where he built an abbey under royal patronage and transformed it into the main square to undertake the conquest of Granada.

The town currently has 23 000 inhabitants.