That Spain hides an enormous cultural and architectural heritage is no secret, but what many people do not know is that our country can boast of being home to some of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe. At Vuela Viajes we have told you about many of them, but today we want to bring together some of the best in a list.
Castles, walls, monasteries, stately palaces, narrow cobbled streets, bridges, squares … These are just some of the charms that you can find in the medieval villages that we show you below. Would you like to join us? We assure you that you will not regret it!
Besalú, Girona
First of all, we want to talk about Besalú, one of the most amazing medieval towns in all of Europe. Located in the province of Girona, and more specifically in the region of La Garrotxa, it stands out for its castle, the monastery of Sant Pere, the Casa Cornellà, the church of Sant Viçens and, of course, the Old Bridge.
Ronda, Malaga
From Catalonia we move to Malaga, where Ronda is located, a wonderful town whose urban center is divided by the Tajo del Ronda gorge, which is more than 150 meters deep. In its old town, with a medieval layout, you can find Arab reminiscences.
Santillana del Mar, Cantabria
In Cantabria is Santillana del Mar, a beautiful medieval town that developed around the Collegiate Church of Santa María. But beyond the religious building, the town’s defensive towers and Renaissance palaces stand out. In fact, it is one of the most relevant historical sites in Cantabria.
Albarracín, Teruel
A town that cannot be missing from the list is Albarracín, whose historic center has been declared an Asset of Cultural Interest. Its fortified enclosure, its steep streets and the main square are surprising, as well as the viewpoint located in the City Hall, the Cathedral of El Salvador and the Episcopal Palace.
Aínsa, Huesca
Neither can Aínsa be missing from the list, a medieval town in Huesca declared a Historic-Artistic Complex that is characterized by having a uniform old town and crowded with houses, although also harmonious. We also have to mention the Collegiate Church and the castle enclosure, which preserves practically all the walls.
Peratallada, Girona
We return to the province of Girona to tell you about Peratallada, a medieval town in the Baix Empordà that houses one of the best ensembles of medieval Empordà architecture. Its castle-fortress stands out, which preserves the walls, the palace and the tower in good condition.
Olite, Navarra
The only town in Navarra that appears on the list is Olite, a town that hides Roman and Gothic vestiges in its walled enclosure, although the splendor of the medieval court of Carlos III can be appreciated in its castle-palace. The churches of Santa María and San Pedro also stand out.
Pedraza, Segovia
From Navarra we moved to Segovia, where we found Pedraza, a town that was declared a Monumental Complex in 1951. One of its great attractions is its Plaza Mayor, one of the most beautiful in Castilla y León. In addition, you will love its cobbled streets and emblazoned houses.
La Alberca, Salamanca
We could not forget La Alberca, in Salamanca, the first town in Spain to be declared a National Historic Monument. Its Plaza Mayor stands out, which continues to be the center of the town’s social life.
Morella, Castellón
Finally, we want to talk about Morella, a fantastic example of a Gothic city. Declared an Asset of Cultural Interest, this town has a wonderful castle, medieval walls, remarkable churches and different constructions that are worth visiting, such as the Casa de la Villa, the Ciurana houses or the Hospital, among many others.