When it comes to the most prominent cities in the province of Granada, people usually think about the capital with its bustling suburbs or the popular resorts along the coast. However, if you’re looking for the largest municipality by area, you’ll have to look elsewhere. In the north of the province lies a true giant, largely unknown to many.
The record holder for territory in Granada is Baza. This city, located in the Altiplano comarca in the northeast, spans an impressive 544 square kilometers. Its lands encompass both fertile valleys and semi-desert landscapes, creating a unique contrast. Baza is known for its strong local character; for centuries, it has served as a major crossroads linking Levante, eastern Andalusia, and the central plateau of the Meseta. Such a strategic location has made the city a key point for the Iberians, Romans, Muslims, and Christian kingdoms.
A visit to Baza reveals a wealth of historical heritage, seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric and surrounded by stunning natural scenery. Don’t miss the ruins of the Alcazaba, an ancient fortress of the Nasrid dynasty towering over the city. Its archaeological remains vividly illustrate Baza’s defensive significance in the medieval era.
You can’t miss the Archaeological Museum, home to its crown jewel—the famous ‘Lady of Baza,’ a key artifact for understanding Iberian culture. The museum’s halls guide you through the region’s history, from prehistoric eras to modern times. The city’s architectural centerpiece is the Main Church of the Incarnation (Iglesia Mayor de la Encarnación), a monumental 16th-century church that blends Gothic and Renaissance styles. For a true sense of history, stroll through the Santiago district, with its maze of narrow, Moorish-inspired streets and centuries-old character.
Among other treasures are the Arab Baths—one of the best-preserved thermal complexes in eastern Andalusia. In September, the city comes alive with the Cascamorras festival, recognized as an event of international tourist interest. Thousands take part in the run, covering themselves in black paint in memory of an age-old dispute over possession of the Virgin’s statue.
Life in Baza means choosing peace and accessibility without losing touch with history. Here, the old town coexists alongside modern neighborhoods, offering all essential services while preserving that small-town atmosphere. The presence of schools, sports facilities, and a wide range of cultural events ensures a comfortable daily life. Another advantage is the proximity to nature—especially the Sierra de Baza mountains and the unique landscapes of the Altiplano plateau.
As for real estate, as of November 2025, the average price per square meter of housing in Baza is just 658 euros. This is about three times lower than the provincial average, making the city very attractive for homebuyers.
While Baza leads in total area, there are other large municipalities on the provincial map, mainly in the north. For example, Puebla de Don Fadrique covers about 523 km², and Huéscar nearly 470 km². However, if you look not at territory but at population, the picture changes. Here, the capital ranks first, followed by cities such as Motril, Almuñécar, and other satellite towns of Granada.
Incidentally, the “Lady of Baza” is a unique polychrome limestone sculpture dating back to the 4th century BCE. It was discovered entirely by accident in 1971 during an excavation. The sculpture depicts a richly dressed woman seated on a throne and is considered a funerary urn that once contained human ashes. Although it was found in Baza, today this masterpiece of Iberian art is housed at the National Archaeological Museum in Madrid, which has long been a source of controversy and demands for its return to its homeland.
