Caudiel has enjoyed a long and storied history, which can be seen in the remains of several civilizations which can be found within its bounds: Iberians, Romans, and Moors. The Aníbal Tower is a magnificent example of its Roman past, whereas its current appearance attests to its Moorish roots. After being reconquered by James I in 1236, the village became part of Xérica’s lordship until the death of Peter IV of Aragón (Peter the Ceremonious). In 1367, Juan Alonso de Jérica granted a Town Charter to Caudiel, and the village took refuge in the jurisdiction of Aragón. In 1538, the village belonged to the Duke of Calabria, who ceded Caudiel to the San Miguel monastery upon his death.

Economy

LCaudiel’s principal economic activities include construction, iron works, carpentry, a screw-making factory, public services, and tourism.

What to see

Follow the narrow streets adorned with ancient fountains past three public washing places still in use by the town’s residents. A long wall surrounds the Convento de las Carmelitas Descalzas (a Carmelite convent), a Baroque building dating from the 17th century. The wooden Baroque church is worth a visit, as is the Aníbal Tower, located on the outskirts of the village.

Landscape

The municipal area is rugged, with a lower region in which the town centre is located and a mountainous region with peaks including the Pico de las Palomas (1,150 m). The climate fosters wide ecological diversity, including the Maritime Pine as well as numerous species of oak trees.