Today we took a tour of the historical part of town. Ubeda is known for its amazing collection of renaissance buildings conserved in the historical centre of the city. The centre has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Much of Ubeda's splendor is thanks to the influence of Francisco de los Cobos, a resident who became Secretary for Emperor Charles V, as did his son after him. Because of their prominent post in the Spanish Court, they were both given riches for themselves and favors for their home city. As a result, they brought back a lot of money and a lot of favors to Ubeda. The 16th Century aristocracy in Ubeda sought to imitate well-known Italian families, and turned to the architect Andrés de Vandelvira who was an expert in Humanistic and Renaissance architecture. Many of Ubeda's most impressive buildings were designed by Vandelvira.

The most monumental buildings in Ubeda are in the beautiful Plaza Vazquez de Molina, considered by experts to be Spain's best examples of Renaissance architecture. Overlooking the Square is Ubeda's Parador, a 16th Century palace with an impressive interior.

It was funny that the tour was originally scheduled for 3 p.m. but the families just about dropped dead when I told them about the time.  We all knew about siesta in Spain but never realized how sacred it is in Ubeda. It seems like it is absolutely forbidden to be outside between 2 and 5.  So of course we changed the tour time to 5 p.m. when everything literally becomes alive again.

Ubeda is sorrounded by roses in every garden and park and every park is full of people reading the paper, chatting and kids playing.  What a life and culture of relaxation ! We  still wonder how so many people can be outside, the streets are so alive no matter what day of the week is.  Do most people work?? But where???

Something else we noticed is how well people dreess in Ubeda.  Older people look like they are dressed for church everyday. 

San Isidro is the patron saint of the peasants and is also the patron saint of the capital city of Spain, Madrid. On the day of the saint, the people of Madrid and all around the country actively celebrate with parades in honor of the patron saint. Many people are dressed as peasants, and, despite its religious origin, it is a real country fiesta.

In Ubeda the celebration was only about 3 hours long but it was a real treat to see.  It was very interesting to see the decorated tractors.

We had a great time sitting in front of "my favorite place", Helados Valencianos, the best ice cream shop in town. This is how I gained 10 pounds while in Ubeda. ¡Qué horror!

San Isidro Labrador

Today we met Caroline Hollstein, an American graduate student who had been working in Jaén for a year and had very useful information to share with the group about Ubeda and surrounding areas. She was also very knowledgeable about internships and work opportunities overseas. We met at the Plaza de Andalucía which became the student's favorite spot to meet for casual conversation and tintos de verano (red wine with carbonated water and lime) and sangría of course.

After meeting Caroline we all went to a National Ballet function is the Polideportivo (sports arena).  It was a beautiful flamenco show which was part of the Music Festival month.  Every year Ubeda hosts a musical festival which lasts an entire month.