Tucked away in the heart of Campo de Montiel, in the southeastern corner of Ciudad Real province, lies one of the most beautiful and culturally rich towns in Castilla-La Mancha: Villanueva de los Infantes. Declared a Historic-Artistic Site, this charming town blends history, architecture, culture, and gastronomy, making it a perfect destination for rural getaways with a touch of elegance.

With its cobbled streets, quiet squares, and stately homes, Villanueva de los Infantes is like stepping back into Spain’s Golden Age. Its strong literary connection—most notably with Francisco de Quevedo—makes it a must-visit for history and literature lovers alike.

A Bit of History: Cradle of Humanism in La Mancha

Villanueva de los Infantes was founded in the 13th century, built upon the remains of the former Moorish settlement of Jamila. The town took its current name in the 14th century when it became part of the Order of Santiago and the seat of the Grand Priory of Castile.

Infantes reached its peak during the 16th and 17th centuries, becoming a political, religious, and cultural hub of the region. It was deeply involved in the intellectual movement of the Spanish Golden Age and was home to many notable figures, including Francisco de Quevedo, who spent his final days in the Convent of Santo Domingo.

Top Things to See in Villanueva de los Infantes

Plaza Mayor

The town's beating heart is its Plaza Mayor, widely considered one of the most elegant and harmonious squares in Castilla-La Mancha. Renaissance in style, with graceful arcades and noble façades, it exudes the classic soul of La Mancha.

Church of San Andrés

Just off the square stands the imposing Church of San Andrés, a 16th-century gem with a richly decorated Plateresque façade and striking tower. Inside lies the tomb of Francisco de Quevedo, a site of pilgrimage for scholars and fans of Spanish literature.

Convent of Santo Domingo

This historic convent is where Quevedo passed away in 1645. Today, it hosts cultural events and exhibitions, and visitors can still see the poet's humble final cell.

Noble Houses

Wandering through Infantes is a delight for architecture lovers. You'll encounter manor houses adorned with coats of arms, traditional La Mancha-style patios, and carved stone doorways. Highlights include the Casa del Arco, Casa de los Estudios, and Casa de los Rebuelta.

Hospital of Santiago & La Alhóndiga

Don’t miss the former Hospital of Santiago—now home to the tourist office—and the Alhóndiga, a former grain market and storage building that reflects the town's economic past.

Local Festivals and Traditions

• Villanueva de los Infantes celebrates a wide array of lively and meaningful festivals throughout the year:
• Festivities in honor of the Virgin of La Antigua (September 8), featuring processions, music, and cultural events.
• A solemn and artistic Holy Week, with beautifully staged processions.
• The Francisco de Quevedo International Theatre Festival, celebrating the Golden Age with plays and literary events.
• Pimiento Days, combining food, folklore, and local tourism in late summer.

Taste of the Land: Traditional La Mancha Cuisine

Local cuisine here is deeply rooted in La Mancha’s culinary traditions. Some standout dishes include:

• Gachas manchegas and atascaburras in the colder months.
• Pisto manchego and the famous duelos y quebrantos (scrambled eggs with chorizo and other delicacies).
• Local artisanal Manchego cheese from nearby dairies.
• Wines from the La Mancha DO and Campo de Montiel regions.
• Traditional sweets like flores manchegas and rosquillos de sartén.

Recommended places to eat include La Fonda de Quevedo, La Encajera, and El Rincón de la Plaza, where you’ll find hearty local dishes with modern flair.

How to Get There & Visitor Tips

Villanueva de los Infantes is located about 120 km from Ciudad Real and around 200 km from Madrid. It’s easily accessible by road via the N-430 and CM-3127.

Travel tips:

• A great destination year-round, though spring and fall offer the best weather and colors.
• Wear comfortable shoes—many streets are still charmingly cobblestoned.
• Don’t forget your camera: every corner is postcard-worthy.
• Visit the Tourist Office (in the old Hospital of Santiago) for maps and guided tour info.

Final Thoughts: A Soulful Escape

Villanueva de los Infantes is the kind of place that stays with you. Its perfect mix of heritage, art, traditions, and warm hospitality makes it one of the most rewarding rural tourism destinations in Castilla-La Mancha. Whether for a weekend break or as part of a longer journey through Campo de Montiel, Infantes will surprise and enchant you.