Arenas De San Pedro, A Beautiful Town In Ávila
Arenas de San Pedro is in the heart of the Tiétar Valley, surrounded by a spectacular setting. Founded in the Middle Ages, this town in Avila is perfect for a getaway. We even go to him to discover his thousand and one charms. Are you coming?
The treasures of Arenas de San Pedro
Remains of the Neolithic era have been found in the area, however, the origin of the current site dates back to the 11th century. After its foundation, this town would gain importance thanks to the mining operations near the Tiétar river and also to livestock and agriculture.
Already in the Middle Ages, it was a strategic point and between the fourteenth and fifteenth centuries the oldest buildings that still stand were built : the Roman bridge, the Church of Our Lady of the Assumption and the Castle of the Triste Condesa.
1. Castle of the Sad Countess
It was the Constable Ruy López Dávalos who ordered the construction of this castle. It was built between 1393 and 1423 in the Gothic style and has a peculiarity: it is not in an elevated area, as was usual. It is believed that it is due to the fact that it had to be built in a certain “hurry” due to the unstable situation at that time.
From the 16th century it suffered a progressive abandonment and in 1835 it was ceded by the Duke of Pastrana to the municipality to be used as a cemetery. It was declared a historic monument in 1931 and its restored tribute tower houses a museum.
2. Palace of the Infante don Luis de Borbón
It was erected between 1780 and 1783 on the top of La Mosquera, in a neoclassical style. It has a closed plan around an internal patio with a pyramidal fountain in the center. In addition, the façade stands out, with a granite portico and gardens.
The construction project was supervised by the architect Ventura Rodríguez, although it was not completed as designed. Characters of the stature of Francisco de Goya passed through this palace.
3. Church of Our Lady of the Assumption
It is in the center of Arenas de San Pedro. It was built at the end of the 14th century in a Gothic style, although its exterior is striking with its quadrangular Renaissance tower.
4. Sanctuary of San Pedro de Alcántara
It was built on an old hermitage 3 kilometers from the urban center of Arenas de San Pedro. The monastery was founded in the 18th century with the help of Carlos III and following plans also by Ventura Rodríguez.
Its octagonal royal chapel stands out, with its marble pilasters and its beautiful dome. In addition, it houses a museum in whose Alcantarina Room are kept objects and material related to the saint.
5. Cuevas del Águila
They are 9 kilometers from the Arenas de San Pedro center and are fully passable. On the way you can see stalactites, hanging curtains and stalagmites in 12 million year old walls.
6. Other places in Arenas de San Pedro
This town has much more to see, such as the Cruz del Mentidero, with a 1.60 meter base shaft and a Renaissance capital with a cross adorned with lily flowers. We must also mention its Roman bridge, of medieval origin and in which the right of portazgo was charged.
The natural pools of Arenas de San Pedro
They are one of the great attractions of Arenas de San Pedro. When the heat hits, there is nothing better than taking a refreshing dip in them. Refreshing, especially because of the water temperature.
Actually, they are two pools formed by the Arenal River, with waters as crystalline as they are cold and whose depth regulates a dam. In this way, one of them is shallow, ideal for the little ones. In addition, next to the pools there are grassy meadows and services to enjoy a perfect day.
