Situated 30 kilometres from Guadalajara, Hita is known for its Medieval Theatre Festival and for the Archpriest of Hita, illustrious author of "The Book of Good Love", one of the main works in Spanish literature. Its old quarter has the Property of Cultural Interest designation.
In 1441, the Marquis of Santillana decided to fortify the area by erecting a wall and reconstructing the old castle, located on the top of a hill. A section of the outer wall and a portion of the castle's keep still remain from the defence structure, as well as some of the walls and the Santa María gateway, a beautiful example of gothic military architecture.
Another standout area is the Gothic-Mudejar style Church of San Juan. This church, which was started towards the end of the 15th century, contains the gravestones of the noblemen of Hita. The coffering really stands out on the inside. The Plaza Mayor Square, the remains of the Church of Saint Peter, and the Herrerian cloister of the Monastery of Sopetrán on the outskirts of the town are other places to visit.
If you visit the House-Museum of the Archpriest of Hita you'll find it has the atmosphere of an old mansion. This museum also houses a collection of masks and posters from the Medieval Festival, held in the town since 1961.
This festival is an unbeatable way to get to know the city. It takes place in the month of July, when the whole town is transported back to the Middle Ages. The local residents dress in period costume; the streets are full of market stalls; and jesters, minstrels and jugglers perform. There are also jousting tournaments and, at night, theatre performances in Plaza Mayor Square.