Las Medulas – Castilla y Leon, Spain, I could give you one of the spectacular views you will see in your life. Who would say that this bright, mysterious and rugged landscape would be the most important gold mine in the Roman Empire. Enter your tunnels, admire the red peaks carved in the rocks, the viewpoint, the mountains and all the surprises that this place has for you.
Things to do
Walk the trails
You have several kilometers to explore while admiring the different rock formations, specifically clay. It is said that the landscape may vary depending on the time of the year in which you visit this place. However, no matter what it will always take a pleasant surprise, you will not be disappointed. In addition, you can admire the great tunnels that go into the big rocks and the exploitation galleries.
Chestnut forests
On the other hand, nature never ceases to amaze you when you stumble upon the trunks of centuries-old chestnut trees. These are spread throughout this old gold mine. While walking on the trails, you will pass through several chestnut forests, some are over 600 years old.
These trees were planted at the time of the Roman Empire to create an ecosystem. In addition, they also served to feed hundreds of workers in the region at that time. With the passage of time, its wood has still been used in the construction works of the inhabitants.
Orellán Viewpoint
Without a doubt, you will have the best panoramic view from the viewpoint of the town of Orellán. After passing the chestnut forest, a climb of about 800 meters, you will come across this incredible place. From there the intense colors of the trees, the rocks and the sky are a must-see. It is best to visit it when you arrive or at the end of the tour when the sunset is presented as a gift from nature.
How to get there
Las Médulas is 12.5 miles (20 km) southwest of Ponferrada, in the easternmost district of El Bierzo, in León. The nearest airport is León Airport (LEN). From Ponferrada, take the N-VI west. In La Barrosa, turn south on the N-536. In Carucego, follow the road signs.
When to go
In June or September to get the best temperatures. Autumn can become one of the most beautiful times.
How long do I go for
You can plan your trip in one day. Between the trails, the forests and the viewpoint, about 3 hours will be enough to get to know the place. You can see which tour is the most convenient for you.
Opening and Closing Hours
The schedule is from Wednesday to Monday, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. The schedule may vary slightly depending on the time of year.
Planning
The Visitor Reception Center at the far end of the town of Las Médulas (437 m / 400 m from the parking area) offers a guided tour of Las Médulas. The Archaeological Classroom (Archaeological Center of inns) at the entrance of the village explains the mining operation and provides maps for walks of different lengths through a disturbingly beautiful landscape.
Inside Information
Park on the edge of Las Médulas and start at the Visitor Reception Center. Remember to wear good hiking boots and warm clothes. In addition, you should be careful not to dirty the area and not to abuse chestnut trees. Arrive early to avoid the lines of people in high season.
History
The story begins for about 2,000 years by Roman slaves in search of gold. These ancient industrial sculptures of vacant lots are centered in a circular Castro or village, built by the native Asturs during the Bronze Age. A fiercely independent Iberian tribe, the Asturs and the Cantabrian neighbors were among the last inhabitants of the Iberian Peninsula to fall before the Romans in 25 a. C. For two and a half centuries, the site became the largest gold mine in the Roman Empire in its remote colony of Hispania Ulterior. In the third century AD C., for reasons still unknown, the Romans had left the mines, leaving a strange lunar landscape of fists and rusty pinnacles that have remained virtually unchanged for the past two millennia.
Website
Other Nearby Attractions
Aqueduct of Segovia
This is undoubtedly another of the great architectural works of the legacy of the Roman Empire. The purpose of this aqueduct was to bring water from Sierra to Segovia. Admire the 167 incredible arches made of granite stone from the Guadarrama. It is one of the most important civil works in Spain, besides being completely beautiful. Through time it has still served the city and has not had major modifications.
Burgos cathedral
This wonderful monument located in the historic center of Burgos is the only one in Spain cleared by itself a World Heritage Site by Unesco. Enjoy the incredible architecture that dazzles place, from the main door, called the Puerta del Perdón, Gran rosetón, in which a star of David stands out and the third one is the Gallery of the Kings, where you can admire the images of the first Eight kings of Castile. This beautiful cathedral is full of sculptures and gothic architecture that will leave you impressed, one of those is the famous sculpture the Gate of the Apostles. It is open every day. In addition, you usually have to pay a ticket, however, on Tuesday afternoon access is free for all audiences.
If you loved this article or found it useful, don’t forget to share it with your adventurous and travel-hacking friends! If you want more posts like this, follow us on Youtube, Instagram, Pinterest, Twitter, Facebook or Reddit and subscribe to our newsletter!