Seven villages in Spain will officially be named among the ‘most beautiful villages in Spain’ in early 2025. These villages stand out for their well-preserved cultural heritage, unique locations, and commitment to sustainable tourism.
The organisation behind this prestigious list groups villages under a quality label. From January, it will have 123 members.
The network of ‘Most Beautiful Villages in Spain’
The ‘Most Beautiful Villages in Spain‘ network was established in 2011 to promote small municipalities with exceptional cultural, historical, or natural heritage. To be included, villages must meet strict criteria regarding population size (fewer than 15,000 inhabitants), preservation of heritage, and commitment to responsible tourism. The network aims to bring visibility to these hidden gems, supporting local economies through sustainable tourism while maintaining the authenticity and charm of rural Spain. Being part of this network is an honour. It´s also a powerful tool for promoting these picturesque destinations on both a national and international level.
Llerena and Jerez de los Caballeros in Extremadura
Llerena
Two villages in the Extremadura region have joined the selection: Llerena and Jerez de los Caballeros.
Llerena, located in Campiña Sur, is known for its impressive architecture and was an important political and cultural centre from the 15th to 17th centuries. Llerena is often referred to as the “Little Athens of Extremadura” due to its rich historical and cultural heritage. The town has a beautiful Plaza Mayor with a mix of Mudejar and Renaissance styles, and it was once a key centre of the Spanish Inquisition. The painter Francisco de Zurbarán was born here. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy various architectural styles, such as Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance.
Jerez de los Caballeros
Jerez de los Caballeros, birthplace of explorer Vasco Núñez de Balboa, has a historic centre with medieval walls and an impressive fortress. The village core is filled with monasteries, churches, and traditional narrow streets. Especially during Semana Santa, the Holy Week, the village comes alive and showcases its unique cultural traditions.
La Fresneda and Linares de Mora in Aragón
La Fresneda
In Aragón, La Fresneda and Linares de Mora join the list.
La Fresneda, in the Matarraña region, is a small mountain village with fewer than 500 inhabitants, but with great charm. Moreover, the village is known for its stone houses and Gothic Renaissance buildings. Furthermore, La Fresneda is home to the “Petra de Teruel”, a unique sanctuary surrounded by mystery.
Linares de Moro
Linares de Mora is situated at 1,300 metres in the Sistema Ibérico mountain range. This remote village is ideal for nature lovers and stargazers, as it is part of the Gúdar-Javalambre Starlight destinations. The town is also known for its “Pino del Escobón”, a monumental pine tree that stands at 23 meters tall and is believed to be over 400 years old. This impressive tree is a highlight for nature lovers visiting the area.
Berlanga de Duero and Poza de la Sal in Castile and León
Berlanga de Duero in Soria boasts one of the most beautiful plazas in the region. This village, with a spectacular 16th-century castle, offers a glimpse into the past with its medieval streets and historic buildings. Additionally, the town is home to the “Petra de Teruel”, a unique sanctuary surrounded by mystery. It has been declared a Historic-Artistic Ensemble since 1983.
Poa de la Sal
Poza de la Sal, in the province of Burgos, is known as the birthplace of the famous Spanish naturalist Félix Rodríguez de la Fuente. The town is known for its “Salinas de Poza”, a unique salt mine that has been in operation since Roman times. The salt from this mine was so valuable that it was used as a form of payment, which is where the word “salary” originates from. The town’s history and economy have been deeply intertwined with salt production for centuries.
Letur: Rebuilding in Albacete
Letur
The seventh village joining the prestigious list is Letur, in the province of Albacete. This village, recently hit hard by storm DANA, aims to restore its cultural and natural heritage with the organisation’s support. The village, with its Moorish architecture, medieval alleys, and annual LeturAlma festival, offers an authentic glimpse into rural Spain and is a growing tourist attraction.