Cuevas de la Villa de Requena: a maze of underground caves

Cuevas de la Villa de Requena, the Requena Caves, are a maze of cellars and silos that sit beneath the Town District (also known as the Medieval District). These fascinating spaces are well worth a visit during your time here. 

We’d highly recommend planning a getaway to Requena, a destination with plenty of surprises up its sleeves, to enjoy some wine experiences and strolls around the historic centre. While here, make sure you stop off to visit the caves. 

The Requena Caves: origin and use 

The Requena Caves were built between the 12th and the 13th century, meaning that they date back to the Muslim period. The caves have been used to store food, in particular, for centuries. They were dug into the ground to create spaces with vaulted roofs. 

The Requena Caves practically disappeared in the 17th century and were subsequently completely forgotten about. It wasn’t until the 1970s when they were rediscovered and emerged from the mists of time. And now you have the opportunity to come and visit them. 

The Requena Caves have been used as a local grain store and an ossuary as well as a place to store large vessels used for the production and storage of wine. As you walk around, you will be transported back in time to a little-known place in this fascinating destination. 

It won’t take you long to realise that there are a large number of these caves sitting beneath the houses in the centre of Requena. The temperature is constant and pleasant, perfect for the storage of wine and food. Lighting has been installed in the caves so you can enjoy your experience and take some great photos. 

So how do you fancy planning a getaway to Requena? On the first day you can explore the historic centre, the town’s monuments and Requena Caves while on the second day you can enjoy some wine tourism, discovering the incredible notes of the bobal grape and Valencian cava. You’re sure to find a winery to explore and some historic vines to wander around!