UNESCO Global Geopark · Ciudad Real, Castile-La Mancha, Spain

Volcanes de Calatrava UNESCO Global Geopark

A UNESCO Global Geopark in Ciudad Real province covering 4,383 square kilometers, with 30 routes focused on geology, nature, and culture.

About Volcanes de Calatrava UNESCO Global Geopark

A Volcanic Territory in the Heart of Ciudad Real

Volcanes de Calatrava UNESCO Global Geopark covers 4,383 square kilometers across central and southwestern Ciudad Real province. UNESCO added it to the Global Geoparks Network in 2024, recognizing a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and a wider heritage that includes natural areas and historic sites.

Geology, Nature, and Human History

The territory brings together the volcanic fields of Campo de Calatrava, the historic mercury-mining area of Almadén, and coal deposits around Puertollano. Its landscapes extend into protected areas such as the Valle de Alcudia and Sierra Madrona Natural Park and the La Mancha Húmeda Biosphere Reserve.

Thirty Ways to Explore

The geopark’s official visitor resources list 30 routes for exploring geology, nature, and culture, along with guided visits and self-guided georoutes. A mobile app provides route information, geosites, and practical resources for planning a visit across this large, varied region.

In brief

Volcanic landscapes, geosites, nature routes, guided visits, and cultural heritage