The Spanish city of Ciudad Real and the 17th-century novel Don Quixote are closely linked, as the novel is a testimony to the cultural heritage and identity of this part of central Spain.
Located in La Mancha, the home of Cervantes’ legendary character, the city adopts the adventures of Don Quixote as a symbol of local pride. The novel highlights the landscapes, traditions and spirit of La Mancha, linking Ciudad Real to the timeless tale of idealism and chivalry. Statues, monuments and festivals honor Don Quixote and celebrate his lasting influence. The city sees itself as the keeper of Don Quixote’s legacy, preserving the whimsical pursuit of the character’s dreams within its own historical and cultural fabric.
The building known as Casa del Arco, in front of the town hall, was the town hall of the city from the 15th century until the end of the 18th century, when it was declared a ruin due to various damages to the structure.For this reason, in 1865 a neoclassical town hall was built, which preceded the current one, which , by the way, is not liked by many locals.
The Casa del Arco was restored to house a chiming clock in which the automaton figures of Miguel de Cervantes, Sancho Panza and Don Quixote come outside at certain times of the day. It was installed in 2005 to mark the fourth anniversary of the publication of the first part of Don Quixote and the 750th anniversary of the founding of Ciudad Real.
Know Before You Go
December 1 to January 6 (to the sound of carols): 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. January 7 to May 11 (to the sound of a jota from La Mancha): 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 6 p.m. May 12 to September 30 (to the sound of a jota from La Mancha): 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. October 1 to November 30 (to the sound of a jota from La Mancha): 12 p.m., 1 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Every Sunday the figures come out to the sound of the Hymn of Joy.
