Visit La Hiruela, one of the most beautiful villages in Madrid
There is no clear evidence about the origin of La Hiruela, although it is believed that it originated during the 220th and XNUMXth centuries, after the Reconquest process. It was always relatively small, rising from XNUMX in the mid-XNUMXth century to almost half that number in subsequent years. Because it was poorly connected to nearby towns, it remained quite isolated, enjoying its own autonomy when it was not normal.
The environment in which it is located, as well as its architectural identity, are two of the attractions of this town of about 60 inhabitants. In recent times, this has become one of the fashionable destinations, especially among the people of Madrid, to spend a weekend or go on a day trip.
La Hiruela is now one of the least inhabited municipalities in Madrid, and one of the few that has not been altered by urban speculation and excessive development. Its appearance and urban structure have remained practically unchanged over the years.
What to see in La Hiruela?
1. Old Town
La Hiruela has a unique architectural style. The low houses made up of stone, slate, adobe and oak wood from the meadow of its modest and picturesque town center have hardly undergone structural alterations since its creation, which makes it one of the best preserved towns in the Community of Madrid. It is also on the itinerary of the black towns of the Sierra Norte (it is the greatest example of black architecture in Madrid): the two-storey buildings blend in with the surroundings due to the dark tone of the black slate on the roofs and walls.
2.Ethnological museum
The museum takes visitors on a journey through time, allowing them to see how the first inhabitants of the town lived.
This fascinating exhibition also includes a reconstruction of an old 1000th-century house, authentic images from the period, and a collection of more than XNUMX artifacts, most of which belonged to the families of La Hiruela.
3. Church of San Miguel Arcángel
The Church of San Miguel Arcángel de La Hiruela is a temple that has been repaired several times since its construction (which is believed to date from the XNUMXth century). This Baroque-style structure contains a single nave, bell tower, and triumphal arch, as well as notable ceiling murals and a barrel-vaulted chapel.
It is located in the nerve center of the town, the Plaza de San Miguel, where much of the social life of its neighbors takes place.
One of its recent restorations and repairs was completed in 2007, when its severely weathered roof began to leak water, severely damaging the interior of the temple.
4. Flour Mill
La Hiruela is proud to own the only mill in the Province of Madrid that is still in operation. We should not miss a visit to the Molino Harinero de la Hiruela. Its origins date back to the XNUMXth century, and it was built on the banks of the Jarama River, surrounded by lush vegetation.
It was eventually sold and, after passing through several hands, was bought by a group of local citizens. It was repaired in 2001 with public funding from Madrid and with European funds, and inside you can see a large part of its equipment and original materials, just as the work was done in the beginning.
5.Hiruela Colmenar
The historic apiary of Hiruela, according to local elders, could be more than 200 years old. This area was shared by five households in the city and was dedicated to one of the main sources of wealth in the area: beekeeping and honey production.
This unique apiary is located in Prado Viejo, it is made up of more than a hundred "plugs", which are hollow logs topped with a slab of slate in the shape of a lid.
How to get to Hiruela. Find out where it is located
La Hiruela is a small town on the north side of Madrid that, like few others, has remained practically intact to this day. La Hiruela is located to the north of the Province of Madrid, framed by the picturesque Sierra del Rincón (which would be forced in 2005 to join the international network of Biosphere Reserves). The natural value of this area is so exceptional that it has been recognized by UNESCO in its program on Man and the Earth.
If you want to arrive safely and with the best comfort, your best option is Hnos. Montoya. We only need a little over an hour to travel the 110 kilometers between Madrid and this destination. The A1 runs all the way until it reaches the La Hiruela exit.
In Hnos. Montoya we take you. Call us or send us an email here.