プリアランサデルビエルソ周辺のアトラクション＆必見スポット - トップ20

When viewing the rock formations of Las Medulas, it's important to remember that this landscape is not natural, but rather the (sad) remains of a mountain range that was ruthlessly exploited for its gold ore as early as the Roman Empire. Nevertheless, this landscape of ruins is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A 15-minute film documentary about it (although only available in German) is available in the ARD media library as part of the highly recommended series "Treasures of the World - Heritage of Humanity" =>> https://www.zdf.de/swr/schaetze-der-welt/page-video-ard-las-mdulas-und-seine-goldminen-spanien-100.html

The Basilica of Our Lady of the Holm Oak, located in the old town of Ponferrada, is one of the most emblematic churches in the Bierzo region and a key point on the Camino de Santiago. It was built on the remains of a 12th-century medieval church known as Santa María. Construction of the current basilica began in 1573 and was completed a century later.

At the end of the 11th century, Osmundo, Bishop of Astorga, ordered the construction of a bridge (partly made of iron = pons ferrata) over the Sil for the pilgrims on the Way of St. James, near which a settlement was built. At the "pons ferrata", the iron bridge, the Knights Templar built a huge castle on a surface area of 160 x 90 m to protect the pilgrims on the Way of St. James. The medieval castle complex was inhabited by the Knights Templar from 1178 to 1312. Source: Wikipedia

The Templars' heyday from the 12th to 14th centuries led to the construction of this mighty fortress, among other things to protect the pilgrims on the Way of St. James. The rampart on the city hill stands out impressively against the mountain backdrop and absolutely conforms to the stereotypical image of a knight's castle. It is sensationally well maintained and a feast for the eyes.

The order, often referred to simply as the "Order of the Knights Templar," whose full name is "Poor Knights of Christ and of Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem," takes us mentally back to the 13th century. Founded in the Holy Land, it spread surprisingly quickly to many countries in Central Europe, and this castle complex in Ponferrada, northern Spain, was one of its numerous branches. The order gained notoriety through its dissolution in 1312 by the French king and the pope, and many of its members were burned at the stake as alleged heretics. The main reason for the dissolution, however, was not the members' human and religious misconduct (heresy), which was merely a pretext, but the legendary wealth of this order. King Philip IV of France primarily wanted to secure the treasures to bolster his coffers.

The passion of the city of Ponferrada and the entire Bierzo region for their patron saint has given rise to so much devotion and beauty in this place of meeting and prayer. The information and treasures found in different areas inside the basilica are a summary of splendors and difficult moments that did not stop the desire to gather all that legacy. If you ever get the chance to visit, you are sure to enjoy its rich history and spiritual atmosphere! 🙏✨

La Cuevona and La Encantada are two impressive places in Las Médulas, an area with a rich mining history and a unique landscape. The Cave: It is a gallery dug into the mountain, part of the ancient network of tunnels and galleries used in Roman mining exploitation. It has the highest height of all the existing galleries in Las Médulas. It is an important reference point for those exploring the Las Valiñas path. As you pass in front of La Cuevona, you will climb a small slope protected by a railing of wooden logs. The enchanted: It is also part of the old mining network. Upon arriving at La Encantada, you will be surprised by its unusual luminosity due to the entry of light from a hole at the top. There are two tunnels that branch off to the left and right, and from inside, you can see a beautiful landscape. Both caves are witnesses of Roman mining activity and offer a unique experience for visitors. I hope you enjoy exploring La Cuevona and La Encantada! 🏞️🚶‍♂️

The Orellán Gallery is an ancient underground water conduit that extends for about 100 meters. Its original function was to transport water from inside the mountain to burst it from within. The conduit ends at a viewpoint located in a vertical cut of the mountain, offering an impressive view. These galleries were part of the mining exploitation system known as Ruinae Montium. The Romans used these structures to extract minerals and natural resources. I hope you enjoy this historical and natural experience! 😊