Discover Minaya: Cubillos, Culture and Cycling Routes

Culture and History

Those who explore Minaya will discover a 30-metre-high fortified tower made of dressed stone at the Church of Santiago el Mayor. A semi-cylindrical stairwell projects from the exterior, and numerous embrasures and watch slits define the structure. Inside, part of the arm bone of Blessed Alonso Pacheco is preserved as a relic.

The House of the Lords of Minaya, built in the 16th century, preserves the remains of columns and arches from an earlier arcaded or cloister gallery in its courtyard. Opposite stands a chapel in the Renaissance style.

The Mesón Parador also tells of older routes: this large late-17th-century inn has an extensive courtyard. Located on the former royal road from Madrid to Cartagena, it accommodated coaches, mule trains, caravans and travellers. El Molino was almost completely reconstructed in the early 1970s, stands beside the N-301 and is considered a symbol of the Manchegan plain and grain cultivation. The mill is also associated with Cervantes and his work Don Quixote.

Minaya Station was built between 1855 and 1865 by the Compañía de Ferrocarriles de Madrid a Zaragoza y Alicante, or MZA, the concession-holding company for the Alcázar–Albacete line. The MZA initials can be seen on the tiles at the rear.

Routes and Rural Architecture

Four routes explore the rural architecture around Minaya. Cycling is recommended as the ideal way to get around, while spring and autumn are considered the best seasons. One of these routes returns to its starting point at Minaya Town Hall after approximately 22 kilometres. The differing information about routes and seasons helps you compare the desired length of your day with the most suitable time of year.

Route 2 passes the Cubillo de María Galindo. The structure is plastered inside and out and has an opening in the dome that serves as a chimney.

In addition, the local pages for Liétor, Bogarra, La Molata, Ayna, Alcalá Del Júcar, Socovos, Munera and Valdeganga are available to you.

Cubillos and Landscape

Minaya’s agricultural landscapes are ideal for cycling routes and walks among the vineyards. There are 118 recorded cubillos around Minaya, built exclusively from stone slabs. Only four of them do not have a circular floor plan, but instead are square or rectangular.

Many cubillos have built-in cupboards, seating, fireplaces with chimneys, wooden hooks and small windows. Some also have feeding troughs for working animals.

Cuisine and Tradition

Minaya’s traditional cuisine includes migas, gachas, gazpachos and game dishes, accompanied by wines from La Manchuela. This gastronomic experience is centred around the Plaza Mayor.

Los Mayos is deeply rooted in Minaya: on 30 April, May songs are performed for the Virgin Mary and the local women honoured with the title of may queen.

For the broader travel overview: Albacete.