There are trips that justify themselves, and going to visitPuebla de Sanabriais, without a doubt, one of them. Declared a Historical-Artistic Site, this medieval town in the province of Zamora stands out for its imposing castle, its cobblestone streets adorned with flowers and traditional stone and slate architecture that seems frozen in time. For us, in “El Ocio del Socio”, it was the perfect finishing touch to a spectacular road trip at the end of August that took us through Galicia and part of Castilla y León.
How to fit visiting Puebla de Sanabria into your car route?
Our visit to Puebla de Sanabria was part of the last stage of a very complete road trip. After exploring the hot springs of Ourense, the Cíes Islands in Vigo, the Rías Baixas, Santiago de Compostela and the beautiful Galician town of Allariz, we headed back towards the center of the peninsula. Puebla de Sanabria is just an hour and a quarter by car from Allariz, which makes it a mandatory strategic stop if you return on your way to central Spain.
What to see in Puebla de Sanabria in one day
Upon arriving at the villa, the feeling of going back in time is instant. The ideal is to park in the lower area and walk up its steep but beautiful streets to discover its most emblematic corners in a leisurely manner.
1. The Castle of the Counts of Benavente
Built in the 15th century, this castle fortress is the great icon of Puebla de Sanabria. Located on top of a rocky promontory at almost 1,000 meters above sea level, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the entire valley and the Tera River. Its moat, its excellently preserved walls and its imposing Torre del Homenaje (popularly known as “El Macho”) will leave you breathless.
Walking through the castle square will allow you to appreciate the grandeur of this defensive military fortress that today houses the tourist office, the municipal library and an exhibition hall.
2. The Church of Santa María del Azogue
Very close to the castle, in the Plaza Mayor, is the Church of Santa María del Azogue. Built at the end of the 12th century in Romanesque style, it preserves very valuable elements from this period, such as its doorway under a Gothic porch and the mysterious figures sculpted on its columns. It is the main religious temple of the town and an essential stop for lovers of history and medieval art.
3. The Town Hall and the Plaza Mayor
Presiding over the Plaza Mayor next to the church is the Puebla de Sanabria Town Hall. This 16th century building draws attention for its ashlar façade with a double porticoed gallery of semicircular arches, flanked by two towers that give it a unique stately appearance.
4. Its cobbled streets and traditional architecture when visiting Puebla de Sanabria
The true charm of Puebla de Sanabria lies in getting lost in its urban fabric. Narrow streets where the gray of the granite stone and slate of the roofs contrasts strongly with the bright colors of the flowers hanging from the wooden balconies.
Along the route, you will come across majestic emblazoned houses that proudly display the coats of arms of the ancient noble families that inhabited the town. Every corner is a perfect photographic opportunity to capture the essence of the Sanabria region.
Practical tips for visiting Sanabria
- Comfortable footwear:The streets of the historic area are steep and cobbled, so it is essential to wear shoes with good grip to avoid slipping.
- Complete the getaway:If you have more time, be sure to visit the nearby Sanabria Lake Natural Park, the largest glacial lake on the Iberian Peninsula, ideal for hiking or swimming in summer.
- Local gastronomy:Take advantage of the stop to taste the famous Sanabria beans, Alistan beef or some good trout from the Tera River.
In short, Puebla de Sanabria is one of those national destinations that exceed any expectations. Its combination of historical heritage, rural authenticity and ease of access from the A-52 highway make it a mandatory stop on any road trip through the northwest of Spain. Prepare your camera and let yourself fall in love with its medieval magic!