Fascinating Zamora: its most beautiful villages

The north-western of Spain stands out for its traditions, culture and gastronomy. For that reason, here there are a route for the most beautiful villages of this province. Rural atmosphere and peace are its most remarkable features, special spots which will fascinate anyone.

Villalpando

The gate of San Andrés in Villalpando. | Shutterstock

This medieval village is well-preserved and is notable for the remains of its walled enclosure. It is essential to mention , which was built in the 16th century, as well as its amazing churches and main square which is highly representative of the local architecture.

Granja de Moreruela

Granja de Moreruela.

Granja de Moreruela. | Shutterstock

This little village has just around 300 inhabitants and is located in the centre of the province of Zamora. Monastery of Santa María de Moreruela, of the Cistercian Order, built in the 12th century has a strong influence in this town since its precious remains are still preserved as a reminder of its original beauty. Besides, it is necessary to mention the shelter of ‘El Portalón’ with prehistoric paintings. It should also be highlighted that at this point of the Way to Santiago on the Silver Route is divided into two options, the classic route to Astorga and the Sanabresa route.

Benavente

The Council of Benavente.

The Council of Benavente. | Shutterstock

Another beautiful village is Benavente, crossed by the river Órbigo and with very wealth heritage. It is also a place of pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, in where a stroll through its Jewish quarter is a must.  It is advisable to discover places like the gardens of the Rose Garden and the Meadow Park, as well as a tour of its religious building. For lovers of Holy Week, there is a specific museum of this festivity.

Toro

Collegiate church of ‘Santa María la Mayor'.

Collegiate church of ‘Santa María la Mayor’. | Shutterstock

Maybe, Toro is the most popular village due to its wines’ certificate of origin, however, this town offer other attractions. The breath-taking remains of the past which preserves its original colours. Besides, the fortress and the monastery of ‘Sancti Spíritus el Real’ are also great places to visit. And for those who enjoy hiking, the area around the town has an impressive natural heritage.

Alcañices

 

Convent of Alcañices

Convent of Alcañices. | Shutterstock

This village is popular because of the Treaty of Alcañices, since it established the borders between Portugal and Castile and León in the 13th century. However, Alcañices has more beautiful spots, such as la Torre del Reloj (the Tower of the Clock) in Romanesque style, as well as its incredible natural surroundings.

Mombuey

Medieval church of Mombuey

Medieval church of Mombuey. | Shutterstock

This is one of the most beautiful villages of Zamora, founded after the Reconquest. A perfect destination for those who love hiking since it is located near to Sanabria region and to  Valparaíso reservoir. It is part of the Camino Sanabrés, so it is also common to see pilgrims enjoying the town. Besides, there is a fortifies tower, which is associated to the Order of the Temple, as well as its charming stone-houses.

Puebla de Sanabria

Puebla de Sanabria.

Puebla de Sanabria. | Shutterstock

This village is really closed to Sanabria lake with spectacular landscapes. It is highly recommended to explore its natural surroundings and its historical and artistic heritage, which includes the castle of ‘Los Condes de Benavente’ and the church of ‘Santa María de Azogue’. Obviously, Puebla de Sanabria is a must of Zamora.

Santa Cruz de los Cuérragos

The stony hamlet of mountainous Santa Cruz de los Cuérragos

The stony hamlet of mountainous Santa Cruz de los Cuérragos. | Shutterstock

There are just 11 permanent inhabitants, who could enjoy its historical and architectural heritage. It is considered an ethnological site and you can visit such curious places as the bridge of ‘Los Infiernos’ or the old mill of the village. Besides, its natural landscape is part of the Natural Area of ‘Sierra de la Culebra’ mountain range, which combines stone, woods and slate houses.

Fermoselle

Panoramic view of Fermoselle

Panoramic view of Fermoselle. | Shutterstock

This village is also known as the Balcony of the Duero and stands out for its natural surroundings. It is located within the Arribes del Duero Natural Park, a magnificent destination for those visitors who enjoy hiking and nature. The House of the Arribes de Duero Natural Park is the perfect point to get more information about this town, where it is possible to make a tour of Baroque, Romanesque and Gothic buildings, including the remains of the castle of Doña Urraca.

Tábara

Tower of Santa María de Tábara.

Tower of Santa María de Tábara. | Shutterstock

Tábara is located in a spectacular valley surrounded by the mountains of the Sierra de la Culebra, the Sierra de las Cavernas and the Sierra de las Carvas, with just 800 inhabitants. Its historical heritage is made up of several churches and sanctuaries, the most important is the church of Santa María. This village was founded in a Mozarabic monastery where the enigmatic woman Ende worked. Besides, it is possible to visit some architectural remains which includes cave paintings.

Salto de Castro

Salto de Castro. |

Salto de Castro. | Wikimedia

Salto de Castro has no inhabitants; is for sale! However, it is a fascinating village. It is located in the Natural Park of Arribes, which makes it as an interesting legacy for the industrial heritage of the 20th century. Besides, this abandoned village was used by engineers of the construction of the Duero and Brandilanes.


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