Discover Jabugo: Ham, Dehesa and Culture

Jabugo brings together the origins of the Jabugo PDO, a distinctive Dehesa landscape and a diverse cultural heritage. This gives you several themes to consider when planning your trip: ham production, historic architecture, crafts and archaeological history. You can focus on one or combine different facets of the town during your stay.

Landscape and area of origin

Jabugo is located in the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park. The landscape of this protected natural area includes Dehesas, forests shaped by holm oaks, cork oaks and chestnut trees, streams and low hills. Jabugo is also one of the 31 municipalities in the Jabugo PDO production area. The Dehesas in this area are recognised by UNESCO as a Biosphere Reserve. The natural park describes the landscape, while the PDO indicates membership of a production area. Both designations come together in Jabugo.

Ham production and tasting

If you are interested in how ham is made, consider the Montesierra experience. It includes a guided tour of the drying rooms and cellars of Montesierra S.A. The company is located in the centre of Jabugo and is registered under the Jabugo PDO. A tasting of ham with the protected designation of origin Jabugo PDO can complement the tour; it is therefore an optional addition, not automatically part of the guided visit. As booking and access arrangements may change, it is advisable to check the conditions before your trip.

El Tiro and architectural history

The historic El Tiro building is associated with the architect Aníbal González. It can be visited as part of a visit to the Centro de Innovación y Promoción del Ibérico. The building features information panels and a cellar for tastings, and offers views over an extensive Dehesa area. El Tiro thus brings together architectural context, information about Iberian heritage and views of the Dehesa. Check the access arrangements for your visit in advance.

Another historic building is the Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel. It was built between 1722 and 1746 and combines Mudéjar, Baroque, Neoclassical and Andalusian influences. The description therefore encompasses several styles rather than a single architectural period. Inside are sculptures of the Sagrada Familia, paintings of Santo Domingo with the Virgen del Rosario, as well as numerous altarpieces. These details complement the building’s history with specific features of its interior.

Crafts, industrial history and archaeology

The Centro de Interpretación del Encaje de Bolillos y de la Artesanía Chacinera de Jabugo is dedicated to the history of bobbin lace. The exhibition presents the technique and works by residents of Jabugo. The second floor also explores the town’s historical links with the Iberian pork-processing industry. The Centro is located at Calle Castelar 6. Visits are possible from Monday to Sunday by prior telephone contact. As visitor arrangements may change, it is advisable to confirm your appointment in advance. The bobbin lace exhibition and the presentation of the processing industry each offer a distinct cultural focus.

The archaeological site of Cueva de la Mora is also located within the municipality of Jabugo. Over a broad chronological and cultural period, it documents settlement, a necropolis, burial rituals, artistic expression and the use of natural resources. The history covered by Jabugo thus extends beyond architecture and craft traditions. The site adds archaeological evidence and a distinct historical focus to the picture of the town.

Discover more destinations: Lepe, Los Marines, Almonaster La Real, Trigueros, Cortegana, Aljaraque, Calañas, Encinasola

For the broader travel overview: Huelva.