Located between the municipalities of Baena and Castro del Río, the Archaeological Park of Torreparedones rises 579 meters above sea level, overlooking the countryside of Jaén and Córdoba. This strategic site was occupied almost continuously for more than 3,500 years, leaving material traces of numerous civilizations: Iberians, Romans, Visigoths, Muslims, and Christians.
The archaeological site of Torreparedones shows continuous occupation for more than 3,500 years. During the Iberian period, it was a fortified city with an important religious sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Caelestis. Under Roman rule, it reached its peak of urban splendor, with constructions such as the forum, baths, market, and temples.
During the Andalusian period (10th to 12th centuries), the site remained inhabited, as evidenced by Islamic pottery, coins, and structural remains. After the Christian conquest in the 13th century, it was renamed “Castro el Viejo” and took on a defensive role as a frontier stronghold, maintaining its strategic importance throughout the Middle Ages.
600 B.C.Iberian PeriodFortified city with walls and towers dating from the 6th century B.C.
Iberian sanctuary outside the walls dedicated to the goddess Caelestis.
Worship centered on a styliform baetyl (non-human sacred stone).
Mostly female votive offerings related to fertility.
In 2020, a second sanctuary was discovered with zoomorphic votive offerings and several tombs.- Roman Period100 B.C.
Fusion of the Iberian oppidum with the Roman city.
Excavated monuments:
Forum (528 m²)
Three bath complexes
Macellum (Roman market, unique in the Iberian Peninsula)
Temple of Imperial Cult
Amphitheater and necropolis
Domus known as the “House of the Baker”
Active excavation site, with only about 10% of the city uncovered (10.5 ha). 
900 A.D.Andalusian PeriodDuring the Islamic period, Torreparedones was part of the territory under the rule of the Caliphate of Córdoba from the 10th century, with its occupation lasting at least until the 12th century.
Evidence from the Muslim period:
Andalusian ceramics and coins, key to dating the occupation.
Remains of wall structures associated with this phase.
The site retained its strategic value during this time, which explains its continued occupation.
After the Christian conquest (mid-13th century), it was renamed “Castro el Viejo” and stood very close to the frontier between Castile and the Nasrid Kingdom of Granada.- Christian Conquest1240 A.D.
The site, now called “Castro el Viejo,” became a defensive frontier post. In the 16th century, the Hermitage of the Virgins was built over ancient Roman baths.
Among the most notable remains from this period is the Castle of Torreparedones.
Enhancement and Preservation
In November 2022, the Baena City Council received European funding for the protection and enhancement of the Roman baths, reinforcing their touristic and heritage importance.
