Museo de la batalla de las Navas de Tolosa
Interpretation centre on the battle of 1212, with audiovisual rooms, stage sets, a lookout tower and routes across the battlefield.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The museum opened in 2009 next to the site where, on 16 July 1212, the Christian army of Alfonso VIII of Castile clashed with the Almohad troops of the caliph Muhammad an-Nasir. The Christian victory weakened Almohad power and paved the way for the conquest of much of the south of the peninsula.
The building, which has the look of a medieval fortress, belongs to the Diputación de Jaén (Provincial Council) and has been managed by the Santa Elena town council since 2024. It covers around 600 m² and is part of the Ruta de los Castillos y las Batallas del Reino de Jaén.
The route through its six rooms combines audiovisual media, stage sets and reproductions of weapons and clothing. It presents the paths of the armies, the camps of both sides and touch tables that explain how the battle unfolded. From the lookout tower the battlefield can be seen, and walking routes through the surroundings are also suggested, such as El Empedraillo, which crosses an ancient Roman road.
Highlights
- Six rooms with audiovisuals and stage sets
- Camps of both armies
- Reproductions of weapons and clothing
- Lookout tower over the battlefield
- Walking route to El Empedraillo
Permanent exhibition
- La batalla de las Navas de Tolosa – Six rooms with audiovisuals, stage sets and reproductions of weapons and clothing that explain the battle of 1212 from both sides.
- Founded
- 2009
- Operated by
- Ayuntamiento de Santa Elena (propiedad de la Diputación de Jaén)
Admission & discounts
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Accessibility
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Kids & families
- Family tours & workshops
The museum runs educational workshops for schoolchildren and has a play area.
Getting there & parking
By car
Parking available
Next to the A-4 motorway, exit 257, on the road to Miranda del Rey, on the outskirts of Santa Elena.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Café
- Museum shop
Café, shop, conference rooms and play area; provincial tourist information in the building.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Guided tours | yes |
|---|---|
| Audio guide | yes |
| School programs | yes |
| Good to know | Guided tours, audio guides and educational workshops for schoolchildren are available. School programmes include a walk along El Empedraillo, the path that crosses an ancient Roman road, and the battlefield. |
