Sickles of the river Riaza
The perfect combination of natural and architectural monuments
An experience full of sensations
Las Hoces del Río Riaza is a very appropriate destination for nature and history lovers. Within it, there is the Natural Park Hoces del Río Riaza whose socioeconomic area of influence is composed of three charming municipalities that not only offers breathtaking landscapes, but also a cultural richness that captivates its visitors.
To explore this place is to take a trip back in time, where there are ancient ruins, centuries-old churches and picturesque cobblestone streets that tell the story of past generations.
In addition, the variety of outdoor activities available are numerous, from hiking and bird watching to canoeing on the Embalse de Linares reservoir.
Las Hoces del Río Riaza has a great biodiversity . Therefore, it is an ideal destination for those who are looking for the union of nature and culture in the same place.
Let's start our journey in Maderuelo, a town with history in every street. Declared a historic site in 1993, Maderuelo holds treasures such as the Ermita de la Veracruz, a national monument since 1914. This municipality stands out for its late Romanesque monuments, such as the castle, the walls, its fortified gate and its two Romanesque churches.
The imposing castle of Maderuelo at the top of the village, offers panoramic views that leave you speechless. Built in the 11th century, this castle has witnessed countless battles and has survived the passage of time as a symbol of the town's strength and resilience.
The walls of Maderuelo, which surround the old town, are another vestige of its medieval past. Built to protect the town from enemy attacks, these walls are a reminder of the strategic importance of Maderuelo in the history of the region.
Hidden in Maderuelo are two Romanesque churches worth admiring . From the imposing church of San Miguel, rebuilt in 1981 after years of neglect, to the charming church of Santa Maria del Castillo that hides an enigma. In it is a mummy, it is the body of a girl of unknown origin, it is said that belonged to the nobility of 1861 and is currently protected by a glass .
Below the church of Santa Maria del Castillo you will find the viewpoint of Alcarcer where there is a replica of a medieval catapult.
You can not forget to visit the Puerta del Barrio, the Arch and Gateway to the Villa, the Mirador de los Templarios, the Ermita de Castroboda, the submerged Roman-Medieval Bridge and the Torreón del Castillo.
Routes such as "La Rivilla and Senda Larga" offer unforgettable experiences for hiking lovers. As for its traditional gastronomy, the stew and roast lamb are its star dishes.
We encourage you to come during the festivities of the summer cultural week, as it is a unique opportunity to experience the authentic essence of Maderuelo . In addition, in summer Maderuelo is full of families enjoying days outdoors next to the reservoir of Linares del Arroyo, a space worth enjoying.
In Valdevacas de Montejo, history and tradition are intertwined in every corner of the village. From the imposing Town Hall to the Church of San Cristobal, each building tells a story. You should also visit the Antigua Fragua, the Antiguo Lavadero, the Fuente del Cierzo, the Castillo de Robledo and the Ermita de Nuestra Señora del Rosario.
If you like hiking the route of the viewpoints and the route of the mills offer panoramic views that give off full tranquility .
During the first week of August, the streets are full of life and color with the festivities of the summer cultural week, where music, dance and local cuisine are the undisputed protagonists.
Montejo de la Vega de la Serrezuela, dazzles with its natural beauty and historical heritage. The church of San Andrés, the Fuente de la Pisadera and the Ermita Virgen del Val, inaugurated in 1905, are places that keep a past full of history. The large bridge, built in the eighteenth century during the time of Charles III, is a testimony of engineering and human perseverance that has withstood the passing of the centuries.
If you like ecclesiastical buildings you have to make a stop at the Church of the Monastery of San Martin del Casuar and the Hermitage of Causar, Romanesque church of the SXII is partially in ruins, and was declared a monument of cultural interest in 1997, was one of the first monasteries that were known to the south of Duero.
But the most impressive thing about Montejo de la Vega de la Serrezuela is its wild nature. Here is the largest colony of Griffon Vulture in Europe, offering visitors the unique opportunity to contemplate these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. In addition, there is a refuge for birds of prey, inaugurated in 1975 thanks to the initiative of Felix Rodriguez de la Fuente, it is a sanctuary for lovers of ornithology and wildlife conservation.