Santa Elena
This beautiful village is situated at the entrance to the Despeñaperros Pass, to the north of the province. Its municipal district constitutes the Despeñaperros Natural Park, an area with an abundance of pine trees, different varieties of oaks and cistus. Its wildlife is also very important. It offers dramatic views, such as the place known as Los Órganos (the Organ Pipes).
From a cultural point of view, its importance is given by the interesting cave paintings found in the Cave of los Muñecos.
Within the town, we can find the Parish Church of Santa Elena.
History
The first known human settlements date from Prehistoric times. Within its municipal district, various caves with paintings have been found.
Very near the village we can find an Iberian sanctuary which, together with that of Castellar de Santisteban, is one of the most interesting in Spain.
The Battle of Las Navas de Tolosa took place nearby. In it, the Almohads were defeated by King Alfonso VIII troops. A church dedicated to Santa Elena was built to commemorate the event.
This village was founded as part of King Carlos III Colonization Plan for Sierra Morena and it was given the name of the first church built in the area.
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