The town of Palencia that has the most beautiful ruins in Castile and León

The province of Palencia is home to hidden corners steeped in significant historical heritage. In the heart of the Cerrato region, in the south of the province and bordering Burgos, stands a wonderful town: Palenzuela.

This cobbled village of Roman origin with a medieval feel was once the residence of kings and nobles, some of whose palaces, castles, and fortifications are still preserved. It was even one of the places where Charles V chose to spend the night during his final voyage.

Ruins steeped in history

The history of Palenzuela dates back to prehistory, although it was founded as such in the 151 BC. Among its buildings, the ancient wall that surrounded the town stands out. At one time, it was accessed from the medieval bridge that crosses the river. Today, only a section and one of the entrance gates, known as the Arch of Peace, remain.

In this same space stands the imposing Church of San Juan Bautista. This Gothic-style church houses important artistic treasures from the period, including one of the finest collections of silverwork in all of Palencia.

A little further away are the ruins of the Church of Santa Eulalia, a building that was part of the neighborhood of the same name and whose spiral staircase, doorway, and several archivolts still remain. These impressive monuments led Palenzuela to be declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1966. It has also received the title of " Very Noble and Loyal Town" in honor of its important role in the history of the Cerrato district.

Town visited by Charles I

In 1556 , Emperor Charles I decided to undertake his final journey to the Monastery of Yuste. Along with 23 other Spanish municipalities, Palenzuela was one of the destinations where he chose to spend the night, and which today form part of the renowned Charles V Route.

Walking through its streets, the monarch was amazed by the remains of the town's popular architecture and decided to stay there to get to know it in detail.