Albacete

Albacete is the capital of the province of Albacete and the largest city in Castilla-La Mancha, set on the flat plains of La Mancha in southeastern Spain. Its wide streets, open squares and level terrain give the city a notably accessible character, while its long tradition of knife making has made Albacete a recognised centre for cutlery.

Albacete's name comes from the Arabic Al-Basit, meaning "the plain", and the city has roots that reach back to a Moorish settlement before its capture by Christian forces in the 13th century. During the Spanish Civil War it served as a headquarters for the International Brigades. Today, landmarks such as the Cathedral of San Juan Bautista, the early 20th-century Pasaje de Lodares, the Teatro Circo and the central Plaza Mayor reflect this layered history.

Visitors can explore the historic centre, the knife museum, the Museo de Albacete and green spaces such as Abelardo Sánchez Park. The city is especially known for the Feria de Albacete, held each September, which is recognised as a Fiesta of International Tourist Interest and brings concerts, parades and traditional celebrations to the fairground.

Albacete is also an important commercial and industrial hub, with the Campollano business area among the largest industrial estates in Castilla-La Mancha. Aviation, logistics and manufacturing play a strong role in the local economy, supported by the University of Castilla-La Mancha and the city's technology and biomedical campus.

For leisure and business travellers alike, Albacete offers a compact and walkable city with authentic Manchego food, a lively events calendar and convenient access to the wider province and the La Mancha region.