Jayena

Jayena lies within a series of Poniente Granadino (Western Granada) municipalities which are beginning to be of greater tourist interest due to the characteristics of the region in which they are located.

In the vicinity of the Bermejales Reservoir, the traveler is offered the unique setting of the northern slope of Sierra Tejeda, an impressive area of reddish brown stone surrounded by green vineyards, copses of yew and pine, and in winter, crowned by a white cap of snow.

Prehistoric remains found from the Neolithic period make it possible to assume that this enclave has been inhabited since that time. On the other hand, there are definite indications of a Roman presence. However, it seems that the foundation of the modern Jayena was during the Islamic period, when the town was known as Chayyana. After the ‘Reconquista’ (Christian conquest), Jayena suffered the vicissitudes characteristic of Christianity, and was donated by the Catholic kings to the infante Cidi Haya, who later changed his name to Pedro de Granada and from whom the marqueses of Campotéjar are descended. In the nineteenth century, during the War of Independence Napoleon’s troops passed through the town and in 1884 an earthquake completely destroyed the town, which was later rebuilt thanks to contributions received from all over Spain on the initiative of Alfonso XII.

Monuments

Iglesia Parroquial (Parish Church)
Old Roman Foundry
Manor House of the Marqueses of Campotéjar
Peña Gorda
Ermita de San Antonio (XVI century)

Gastronomy

Main ingredients in local cuisine are cheese, oils and fish. If your visit coincides with the ‘Romeria’ of San Antonio be sure to go to Bacol to try a little bacon, sausage or grilled lamb chops. Local crops are dominated by almond and olive trees. There are also locally grown cereals, legumes and vegetables. As the town stands on the banks of the river Cacin, the locals often go fishing in the "rio Grande” for young salmon. In hunting season, partridge and rabbit are available and sometimes other animals. There is a varied range of dishes including migas cooked to various recipes, stews, roasts, rice, and now ‘jayenuzcos’ cheese is becoming well known nationally as a  gastronomic reference.

Directions

Leaving Granada, take Carreterra de Granada, pass Ogíjares and Armilla, pass Alhendín and continue along Avenida de Andalucía. Turn right: E-902 / A-44 direction: N-323-Motril. Take exit 139 - Otura-La Malati. Pass Otura , turn left: A-4050. Turn right: GR-SO-31 and arrive at Jayena

Distances

Granada 45 km
 Padula 32 km
Armilla 40 km
Guadix 97km
Ventas de Huelma A 19 km
Béznar 48 km
Dúrcal 39 km