La Batalla de las Navas de Tolosa changed the history of Spain in 1212. It took place in the craggy pass at the gateway into Andalucia and Jaen province.
King Alfonso VIII from Castilla with his huge European army fought against the Islamic, North-Afican and Andalusi troops headed by the califa Muhammad al-Nasir on 16th July 1212 in Puerto del Muradal in Sierra Morena, which today is Despeñaperros.
The defeat stopped the advance of al-Ándalus and gave the Catholic Kings an entry point into Andalucia and the Guadalquivir valley. Just days after the victory of Las Navas, Alfonso VIII entered Baños de la Encina and Vilches, from which they had a foothold to advance throughout Andalucía. The city of Baeza was abandoned by the Islamic authorities, while Úbeda was attacked and left in ruins. The museum brings to life the multi-cultural difficulties and the historical battles of the period. It is located on the A44 out of Andalucia towards Madrid in Santa Elena. Covering part of the Route of Castles and Battles, look out for the castle of Baños de la Encina over to the left.
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