The best walks and hikes around Torrescárcela

Cuéllar Castle, also known as the Castle-Palace of the Dukes of Alburquerque, is one of the town's most iconic monuments and has a rich history spanning several centuries. Construction of the castle began in the 11th century and was completed in the 17th century. Over the centuries, it has been expanded and renovated in various architectural styles, including Gothic and Renaissance. Its historical owners include Álvaro de Luna and Beltrán de la Cueva, as well as successive Dukes of Alburquerque. Currently, the castle houses the Cuéllar Tourist Office, and guided and dramatized tours are offered on weekends.

Windmills, like El Cubo, have been a hallmark of the region for centuries. Although their use today is not as widespread as in the past, they remain a reminder of traditional wind energy and engineering. The source of energy in a windmill is the wind itself, and it is used to grind grain, pump water, and perform other tasks. If you ever visit Cuéllar, don't hesitate to explore this historic mill and take in its beauty and functionality. 🌬️🏰

Documented since 1306, the castle has witnessed various events over the centuries. It was property of the Duchy of Alburquerque and hosted illustrious guests such as the kings of Castile, such as Juan I and Queen Leonor, as well as María de Molina. This castle is a historical treasure and a living testimony to the grandeur and diversity of architectural styles over the centuries. 🏰🌿

Inside, the altarpiece of the main altar stands out, in Renaissance style from the 16th century. It is attributed to the painter Gabriel de Cárdenas Maldonado, who created the twelve paintings that represent scenes from the life of Jesus Christ and the Virgin. If you ever visit Cogeces del Monte, don't miss the opportunity to explore this church full of history and beauty. 🌿🏰

The Monastery of Santa María de la Armedilla was a monastery of the Order of San Jerónimo, today in ruins, located about 3.8 kilometers from Cogeces del Monte. The monastery was founded after the chance discovery by shepherds of an image of the Virgin Mary in a cave excavated in the rock. This gave rise to a Marian cult in the place and the construction of the monastery. The proximity of quarries and plasterworks in the area facilitated its construction, as well as the water supply. 🏰🌿

Armedilla Convent

The church of San Juan de Santibáñez de Valcorva, built between the 12th and 13th centuries, has a brick Mudejar or Romanesque style. It is the oldest church in the region and is protected by the castle or Casa Fuerte de Santibáñez de Valcorba on its north side and by the Valcorba stream on its south side. Over the centuries, it has undergone extensions and modifications, including the construction of a Gothic nave and a fortress bell tower in the 17th century.

Built in the 15th century, the monastery was founded to house devotees of an effigy of the Virgin that appeared on the site. Initially entrusted to the Cistercians, it later passed into the hands of the Order of Saint Jerome. The monastery was frequented by prominent figures, such as the Dukes of Alburquerque. Currently, only the belfry and two tangled Gothic vaults remain, with restoration plans.