In the heart of Albacete province, where steep slopes and the winding river shape an extraordinary landscape, there is a place that can surprise even seasoned travelers. Here, handmade tunnels and spacious chambers carved into the rock not only tell stories of the past but offer a unique experience for those seeking more than typical sightseeing. This is not just a tourist attraction—it’s a chance to step directly into history, feel the breath of antiquity, and, most remarkably, finish your visit with a glass of wine in a bar carved right into the mountain.
The Masago and El Duende caves, located in the picturesque village of Alcalá del Júcar, have long been a symbol of the region. Their impressive architecture is matched by an extraordinary atmosphere: each hall and corridor preserves remnants of different eras. Entering these underground spaces, visitors find themselves in a world where Arab heritage blends with the traditions of Castilla-La Mancha, and the stone walls recall medieval winemakers, peasants, and even the earliest settlers who manually carved refuges into the rock.
A journey through history
The main feature of these caves is their origin. All of them were carved out by hand without the use of modern machinery, which is impressive in itself. Inside, you can see spacious halls with arches hewn directly into the rock, as well as long corridors leading to viewpoints overlooking the spectacular Húcar River canyon. There are also old wine cellars preserved here, where local winemakers once stored their harvest, along with small museums dedicated to the lives and traditions of the area’s inhabitants.
Each hall has its own style: in one, you may find a collection of ancient coins, in another — an exhibit on agriculture, and in a third — a display of fossils discovered nearby. This approach turns a regular tour into a real journey through time, where every step reveals a new chapter in the region’s history.
Architectural marvels
The Masago and El Duende caves are not only historic landmarks but also examples of unique architectural heritage. Their tunnels run through the entire mountain, connecting different parts of the village and opening unexpected views over the valley. The main passage is especially striking, literally cutting through the rock and leading to a panoramic terrace above the cliff. This is the perfect spot to pause and admire the landscape, which changes with the time of day and the weather.
Inside the caves, it stays cool even on the hottest days, while soft lighting highlights the texture of the stone and creates a cozy yet mysterious atmosphere. Many visitors note that it’s here you can truly feel part of something greater—as if the walls hold not just memories, but the energy of everyone who has ever been in these places.
A gastronomic surprise
After exploring the underground halls, guests discover another attraction—a bar located right inside the cave. Here, traditional cuisine from Castilla-La Mancha is served alongside local wines that perfectly match the setting. The entrance fee to the caves includes a drink, making the visit especially pleasant for those who appreciate both history and gastronomic experiences.
For those wishing to stay longer, there are rooms decorated in the style of traditional grotto houses. It is a rare chance to spend the night in a real cave without sacrificing comfort. This experience is especially popular among couples and families looking for an unusual getaway far from city noise.
Life among the rocks
Alcalá del Júcar is more than just a picturesque village—it’s an open-air museum. Its narrow streets, whitewashed houses climbing the hillsides, and ancient bridges create an atmosphere where it’s easy to lose track of time. Everything here adapts to the terrain: houses are built into the rock, and many streets are actually stairways leading to new viewpoints and hidden corners.
The natural surroundings of the village are equally impressive: the Júcar River carves deep canyons, and green terraces on the hillsides are used to grow grapes and olive trees. All this makes Alcalá del Júcar an ideal destination for those seeking a blend of outdoor activities, cultural discoveries, and solitude in nature.
The caves of Masago and El Duende are not just tourist sites, but a living part of the region’s history. Visiting them offers a new perspective on the past of Castilla-La Mancha, lets you feel the connection between eras, and discover little-known chapters of Spanish culture. For many visitors, these underground halls become the highlight of their trip to Albacete.
The caves of Masago and El Duende are a unique example of how tradition and innovation can coexist in one place. Their history dates back to the Arab period, when early inhabitants began carving shelters out of the rock for protection and crop storage. Over time, these spaces became real homes, later transformed into museums and tourist sites. Today, the caves remain vibrant, welcoming visitors from all over Spain and Europe, and stand as a symbol of the resilience and resourcefulness of the local people.
