The cave lies within a 60-meter-thick layer of massive gypsum formed during the Miocene, located between impermeable marl strata that favored its hydrological isolation. Its geological structure includes large blocks of older rock deposited in an olistostromic environment.
It features a system of galleries on two levels: upper ones with internal connections and lower ones that vary between wide and narrow passages depending on the area. Notable spaces include the Slide Gallery, the Meander Gallery, and the recently discovered Agudo Gallery, which extends 106 meters and contains interior lakes.
In popular tradition, the cave was known as “the Mine” and was believed to have been built by the Moors, linked to the Andalusian towers of Torreparedones and Montecillo — a symbolic reminder of the area’s Islamic past. Although scientific study began in 1945, the most significant explorations started in 1965. Since 2003, efforts have been underway to declare it a Natural Monument.
Inaugurated in 1998, the Vadomojón Reservoir is located near the village of Albendín. With a capacity of 163 cubic hectometers and a surface area of 782 hectares, it is one of the most important reservoirs in the Guadalquivir basin. It is home to a notable fish population, making it a highly appreciated spot among fishing enthusiasts.
In addition, the reservoir offers multiple leisure opportunities in contact with nature: recreational boating, water sports, freshwater fishing, or simply enjoying the local cuisine at the Nautical Club. Various organizations, such as the Baena City Council, the Albendín Mayor’s Office, the Nautical Club, and the fishing clubs Al-Naura and Albendín Bass Club, collaborate to ensure the sustainable use of the environment and organize activities throughout the year.
It is located over the Guadajoz River, about 6 km from the town center. In this natural setting lies the Aula de la Naturaleza (Nature Classroom), which houses the Guadajoz River Interpretation Center.
The area also features a large recreational zone with barbecues, a campsite for motorhomes, hiking trails, exercise equipment, and a wide range of outdoor activities such as zip-lining and archery.
This site is managed by Ecologistas en Acción Baena under an agreement signed with the Baena City Council for the management not only of this natural area but also of other facilities such as the bird recovery center in Baena’s silo and the Zambullo community gardens.
The Morana Tower, declared a Site of Cultural Interest (BIC), is located between Baena and the village of Albendín. Its origin probably dates back to the Andalusian period, when it formed part of a network of watchtowers that protected the territory of al-Bayyāna. From its elevated position, it allowed for the monitoring of roads, communication with other fortresses, and early warning of incursions, serving an essential defensive role in both rural and urban areas within the frontier context of al-Andalus.
After the Christian conquest, the tower was incorporated into the defensive line of the Kingdom of Castile against the Kingdom of Granada. Restored in 2015 through the Baniana II plan, it preserves its 13-meter-high structure and offers privileged views of the eastern Cordoban countryside. Its heritage value lies not only in its architecture but also in its role as a witness to the transition between two worlds: the Islamic and the Christian.
