Cathedral of Santa Maria del Prado
This impressive Gothic-style cathedral is located in the city of Ciudad Real and is one of the most important religious buildings in the region. It features stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings and sculptures.
Tablas de Daimiel Museum
This fascinating museum is located in the town of Daimiel and showcases the history and culture of the area. It features exhibits on everything from local agriculture and industry to traditional crafts and folk art.

Ciudad Real

WELCOME TO Ciudad Real

Province Overview

Main city

Ciudad Real

AREA

19,813 km2

POPULATION

500,000

Main language

Spanish

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Tablas de Daimiel National Park

Tablas de Daimiel National Park is a wetland nature reserve located in the province of Ciudad Real in Spain. It is home to a wide variety of bird species, as well as other wildlife, and is an important habitat for migratory birds. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by boat and observe the animals in their natural habitat.

Cabañeros National Park

Cabañeros National Park is a nature reserve located in the Montes de Toledo mountain range in Spain. It is known for its diverse range of flora and fauna, including Iberian lynx, imperial eagles, and black vultures. Visitors can hike along numerous trails and enjoy stunning views of the park's rugged landscapes.

Castle of Calatrava la Nueva

The Castle of Calatrava la Nueva is a medieval fortress located in the province of Ciudad Real in Spain. It was built in the 12th century by the Knights Hospitaller as a defensive stronghold. Visitors can explore the castle's various towers, walls, and courtyards, and learn about its rich history as a symbol of Christian resistance during the Reconquista.

Political

Economy and Government

The economy of the Ciudad Real region is primarily based on agriculture, particularly the cultivation of cereals, vineyards, and olive groves. The area is also known for its production of wine, cheese, and olive oil. In recent years, the region has seen an increase in tourism, driven in part by its historical and cultural attractions, as well as its natural parks and reserves.

The government of the Ciudad Real region is overseen by the Provincial Council, which is responsible for managing local services and infrastructure, as well as promoting economic development and tourism. The council is composed of representatives from the region's municipalities and is led by a president.

The region is also part of the larger autonomous community of Castilla-La Mancha, which has its own government and parliament responsible for overseeing regional policies and services, including healthcare, education, and social welfare. The community's economy is largely based on agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing, with a particular focus on the food and beverage industry.

History

History and Culture

The region of Ciudad Real has a rich history and culture that spans over several centuries. The city of Ciudad Real was founded in the 13th century and has been a cultural center ever since. The city's architecture reflects a mix of different influences, including Islamic, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, including the Museum of Ciudad Real, which houses archaeological artifacts, fine art, and more.

The region is also known for its festivals and traditions, such as the Holy Week processions and the Fiesta de la Pandorga, which celebrates the city's patron saint. Other important cultural events include the International Festival of Classical Theater and the Medieval Fair.

Ciudad Real is also famous for its gastronomy, with a rich culinary tradition that includes dishes such as gazpacho, migas, and pisto. The region is also home to many excellent wineries, producing some of Spain's best wines.

In terms of literature, the region is associated with the famous Spanish writer Miguel de Cervantes, who spent time in the town of Argamasilla de Alba. Visitors can visit the Cervantes Museum to learn more about the author's life and works.

Overall, the region of Ciudad Real is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and tradition, offering visitors a unique and memorable experience.

HOTELS​

Parador de Almagro

This historic hotel is set in a restored 16th-century convent in the picturesque town of Almagro. It features beautiful courtyards, a seasonal outdoor pool, and a restaurant serving traditional Castilian cuisine.

Hotel Doña Carlota

Located in the city of Ciudad Real, this elegant hotel offers stylish rooms with contemporary décor and modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs. It also features a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.

Hotel Palacio de la Serna

This charming hotel is housed in a 19th-century palace in the town of Ballesteros de Calatrava. It features luxurious rooms with antique furnishings, a beautiful garden with a swimming pool, and a restaurant serving gourmet cuisine.

RESTAURANTS​

Restaurante Marquinetti

This restaurant, located in the city of Ciudad Real, offers a contemporary take on traditional Spanish cuisine. The menu is extensive and includes both meat and seafood options, with a particular focus on local ingredients. The restaurant is also known for its excellent wine selection.

Restaurante La Antigua

Housed in a beautifully restored 16th-century building in the town of Almagro, Restaurante La Antigua is known for its elegant decor and upscale dining experience. The menu features a mix of traditional Spanish and international dishes, with an emphasis on using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Asador El Mirador

Located in the small town of Villanueva de los Infantes, Asador El Mirador is a popular spot for grilled meats and traditional Spanish cuisine. The restaurant is known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable prices, and it offers both indoor and outdoor seating with beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. The house specialty is the cochinillo asado, or roasted suckling pig.