rincón del nazareno
The fortified
La evolución reciente de Almazán ha transformado esta antigua fortaleza en un importante centro comercial del sur de Soria. No obstante, Almazán esconde una villa que aún respira su legado medieval. Lo notas al cruzar los arcos de su antigua muralla, que te guían hasta la imponente Plaza Mayor, un amplio espacio dominado por la majestuosa Iglesia de San Miguel y el elegante Palacio de los Hurtado de Mendoza.
However, Almazán’s medieval past is not limited to the vestiges of its ancient walls. From the square itself, a small gate leads to the Duero river, revealing a path that leads to a footbridge. Here, the true grandeur of Almazán unfolds before your eyes, with its mighty towers and bastions guarding the town from the river, reminding you of its fortified and unshakable character.
A National Geographic article has listed Almazán as one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Spain.
Photo courtesy of: Ayuntamiento de Almazán
This small temple, built in the 17th century, stands out for its unique octagonal floor plan and its striking slate roof. Inside, visitors can admire a beautiful Baroque dome, as well as an impressive carving of Jesús Nazareno, the patron saint of Almazán. The building stands on the same site where the parish church of Santiago used to stand.
This church, declared a National Monument in 1931, was built in the mid-12th century in the Romanesque style. It has an irregular layout, with the chevet sloping towards the square. Although there are various theories about this peculiarity, the most widely accepted is that it is due to the former presence of a wall.
What really stands out in this building is its dome, with ribs of clear Islamic influence, similar to the Caliphal domes of the mosques of Cordoba or the Cristo de la Luz in Toledo. A comparable example can be found in the church of the Holy Sepulchre in Torres del Río, Navarre.
The interior also contains a altar-table frontal that narrates the martyrdom of Saint Thomas Becket, where the remains of four soldiers in chain mail can be seen. One of them is shown beheading the saint, while an angel raises his soul to heaven.
The Parque de la Arboleda is a large green space located on the right bank of the Duero River, which stands out for its impressive diversity of trees. Among its species you can find cedars, sequoias, pines, horse chestnuts, plane trees, poplars, poplars, lime trees and ash trees, as well as shrubs such as lilacs and laurels. This abundance of vegetation has its origin in a municipal regulation of the 18th century, which obliged each neighbour to plant a tree or pay a fine in its place. In order to protect this valuable environment, the land was fenced off, thus preventing cattle from damaging it.
Photo courtesy of: Ayuntamiento de Almazán
King Henry III granted the town of Almazán to the Mendozas, counts of Monteagudo, who turned it into the capital of their lordship and built their residence, the Mendoza Palace, at the end of the 15th century. Also known as the Palace of the Count of Altamira, it was declared A Site of Cultural Interest in 1991. Its classicist façade overlooks the Plaza Mayor, where there is a statue of Diego Laínez, co-founder of the Company of Jesus and native of Almazán.
The palace houses the Tourist Office and the Visitor Reception Centre, which has audiovisuals and panels on the historical, natural and gastronomic heritage of Almazán. Its treasures include the «Triptych of Almazán», a series of 15th century polychrome panels attributed to the Flemish painter Hans Memling. The wings of the triptych show St. Peter and St. Elizabeth of Hungary on the inside, while the outside depicts St. Francis of Assisi and St. Bernardine of Siena.
Photo courtesy of: Ayuntamiento de Almazán
The Parque del Cinto is a natural space that offers spectacular views of the Duero River and its surroundings. Located on an ancient walled enclosure, this park combines history and nature, providing visitors with an ideal place for strolling and relaxation. The park stretches along the river, providing a tranquil setting, perfect for those looking to unwind in a green and serene environment.
It is also an access point to the medieval walls of Almazán, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the town and its historic quarter. Its mixture of nature and historical legacy makes it an essential place for visitors to Almazán who wish to explore both its natural beauty and its cultural heritage.
Photo courtesy of: Ayuntamiento de Almazán
Almazán offers hiking routes that allow you to discover its natural and historical wealth. One of the most emblematic is the Duero Route, which follows the riverbed, offering panoramic views and connecting with green spaces such as the Arboleda Park. This route is ideal to enjoy a quiet walk among ancient trees.
Another option is the Route of the Walls, which runs through the old walled enclosure of the town, passing by monuments such as the Postigo de San Miguel and the Puerta de Herreros , combining nature and heritage.
For the more adventurous, the Camino de Santiago Soriano runs through Almazán, allowing walkers to explore the landscapes of the region while following one of the most important historical routes in Spain.
Photo courtesy of: castillosnet.org
Photographer: miancema
The Medieval Bridge of Almazán, which crosses the Duero River, is one of the most important historical structures in the town. Built in the Middle Ages, this stone bridge has witnessed the passage of travellers and traders for centuries, connecting the town with other towns. Although it has undergone restorations over time, it retains its medieval charm with its sturdy arches and solid design. Crossing it, you can enjoy panoramic views of the river and the natural environment surrounding Almazán, making this bridge a highlight both for its historical and scenic value.
Photo courtesy of: Turispain.es
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