Tucked away in the foothills of the Sierra Ministra, in northern Guadalajara province, lies Palazuelos, a small village that, despite its size, boasts a remarkable historical and architectural heritage. Known as the “Ávila of La Alcarria”, this village stands out for preserving almost entirely its walled medieval enclosure and its 15th-century castle, making it a must-visit for lovers of rural tourism and medieval history.

History: From Strategic Outpost to Cultural Treasure

The history of Palazuelos dates back to prehistoric times, with evidence of settlements in the area since the pre-Roman era. However, its true historical significance emerged in the Middle Ages when King Alfonso X the Wise gifted the village to his mistress Mayor Guillén de Guzmán. Later, Palazuelos passed through the hands of various noble families until, in the 15th century, Íñigo López de Mendoza, the Marquis of Santillana, commissioned the construction of the castle and the defensive walls that still stand today.

For centuries, Palazuelos held the status of an independent municipality, a fact symbolized by its jurisdictional pillory in the main square. However, rural depopulation in the 20th century led to a sharp decline in residents, and in 1963 it was officially incorporated into the municipality of Sigüenza.

What to See in Palazuelos: A Journey Back to the Middle Ages

Medieval Walls and Gates

The walled enclosure of Palazuelos, stretching over a kilometer in length, is one of the best-preserved in Castilla-La Mancha. Built with mortar and stone, it features fortified towers and three main gates: Puerta de la Villa, Puerta del Monte, and Puerta del Cercao. These entrances, flanked by defensive towers, display the coats of arms of the Mendoza and Valencia families, bearing witness to the village’s noble past.

Palazuelos Castle

Attached to the northwest side of the walls, Palazuelos Castle is a square-plan fortress with corner towers and a commanding keep. Surrounded by a defensive barbican and once accessed via a drawbridge, the castle’s design is attributed to Juan Guas, one of the leading architects of the Spanish Gothic period. Although the castle is privately owned and not open to visitors, its silhouette dominates the landscape and can be admired from various points in and around the village.

Church of San Juan Bautista

This church, with Romanesque origins and later expanded in the 17th century, houses a Baroque altarpiece and a Mudejar-style wooden ceiling. Inside, visitors can find a statue of the Virgin of Solitude and a reclining Christ, both of significant artistic and devotional value.

Main Square and Jurisdictional Pillory

The Main Square is the heart of village life, surrounded by traditional houses featuring decorative plasterwork and a central fountain. Here stands the jurisdictional pillory, a stone column symbolizing the village’s historical self-governance.

Hermitage of the Virgin of Solitude

Located on the outskirts of Palazuelos, this 16th-century hermitage was built by the Confraternity of the Vera Cruz. It is home to an image of the Virgin of Solitude and a notable reclining Christ, making it a site of local pilgrimage and devotion.

Festivals and Traditions: The Burning of the Boto

Every August 15th, Palazuelos celebrates the Feast of San Roque with the traditional "Quema del Boto" or "Burning of the Wineskin". This unique ritual involves burning a wine-filled goatskin coated in pitch, commemorating a vow made to the saint during a plague. The ceremony takes place in a small niche by the Puerta de la Villa and is accompanied by processions and community activities organized by the local Cultural Association.

Local Cuisine: Flavors of the Land

Palazuelos’ gastronomy is rooted in Castilian tradition, with dishes such as roast lamb, migas (fried breadcrumbs), and garlic soup. Local products like honey and cured meats are also popular and can be purchased in nearby towns. While Palazuelos itself has no restaurants, the nearby city of Sigüenza offers a wide range of dining options featuring regional cuisine.

How to Get There and Visitor Tips

Palazuelos is located about 130 km from Madrid and 12 km from Sigüenza. The easiest way to reach it is by car via the A-2 highway to Guadalajara, followed by the CM-110 towards Sigüenza.

Visitor Recommendations

• Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is pleasant and the surrounding landscapes are at their most beautiful.
• Comfortable footwear: Essential for exploring the cobbled streets and walking the perimeter of the medieval walls.

• Bring a camera: The village’s charming corners and panoramic views are well worth capturing.

   

A Getaway with a Taste of History

Palazuelos offers a unique experience for travelers looking to reconnect with history and the peaceful rhythm of rural life. Its impressive medieval heritage, scenic surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere make it a true hidden gem in the province of Guadalajara. A visit to Palazuelos is like stepping back in time—a journey that enriches the present with echoes of the past.