Sigüenza is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. Ok, this opinion is not entirely objective, but what do you want? If one is proud of its origins, why hide it! The City of Doncel It has an extensive history, and it is the passage of different cultures throughout the ages that has given it this special character. But what to see and do in Siguenza? If you really want to enjoy its charms, you should get lost in the streets of the medieval city and let your imagination transport you to a distant time. With this guide we will try to make the most of your days in these lands if you finally decide to meet them!
Sigüenza was a very prosperous medieval city, so most charming sites are related to this era. There are many, but then we put those that for nothing in the world you can miss:
The castle
Occupied by various villages throughout history, it is now a magnificent Parador that dominates the entire city from above. Sleeping here can be an inaccessible whim, so we recommend that you at least go inside its walls and take a walk around the patio and some rooms open to the public.
Cathedral
The beginning of its construction dates back to the 12th century and inside it houses the quintessential image of Sigüenza: The Doncel, a funerary sculpture famous for its perfection in waist and realism. It usually shows only on guided tours, but can be photographed from outside. Visits also include the sacristy of the heads, named for the heaps of heads carved on the ceiling.
You may coincide with a sample or temporary thematic exhibition, if this is the case, take advantage because they enlarge the interior of the Cathedral even more.
Come on, come here and visit the Cathedral is the best What to see and do in Siguenza.
The main square
It is the place where the market was once held, the most important event in the daily life of the time. Today it houses the City Hall and other buildings with arcades of the most photogenic. From here the Main Street which ascends to the castle and enters the historic center, it is the most beautiful street without a doubt of Sigüenza.
The crossbars
On the route through the old city, called the Crossbars, you can also visit the Santiago church, recently restored, the Church of San Vicente, the Church of Santa María, the Doncel House, the Jail Square. Or the doors that gave entry to the city through its walls: The door of the Toriles, The Door of the Sun, The Iron Gate or the Arch of the Portal Mayor.
Lower part of the city
The lower part of the city extends aroundThe Alameda, where there is usually ambientillo especially at the time of the vermouth or on weekends and summer. Take a leisurely walk and visit the Ursuline Convent, the Hermitage of Humilladero, which is now a tourist information center, the Hermitage of San Roque, with artistic exhibitions, or the Convent of the Poor Clares, with its magnificent sweets.
Some nature
If you like nature take advantage of the great pinewood and take a long walk breathing fresh air. Your lungs will thank you. There are several interesting routes, my favorite is the one that leaves behind the castle and passes through the Polvorín, the Picardas Fountain, and continues in the direction of Barbatona, to return later by the Oasis and again arrive at the castle. Here you can see a few route suggestions.
Gastronomic tourism
Recently a Sigüenza restaurant (well, it is actually in Alcuneza, 5 km away) has been awarded a Michelin star. It is El Molino de Alcuneza. But he's not the only one! Previously they had already given it to the kitchen of El Doncel, in the heart of the city. As you can see, Sigüenza takes this food very seriously, so if you give importance to gastronomy on your trips, it is a perfect destination!
During the year there are several events related to local cuisine, such as the Pintxos Contest and Medieval Tapas, the Mycological Days or the Days of the Fino Seguntino.
Alternative plan, active tourism
The Sigüenza environment allows many to be carried out activities in the nature, from interpretive hiking trails in several surrounding natural parks suitable for all levels, to mountainbike routes or multi-adventure circuits with rappelling, climbing, archery, etc.
The Barbatona Ecotourism Center offers these and other activities, perfect for groups, couples who want to enjoy a different trip, or families with children. It is best to call 651 917 311 and inform yourself about the programming of those days.
Events
There are many interesting events in Sigüenza, art shows, gastronomic events, activities for children, concerts, etc. You can see all events by date in this calendar.
There are many more things to visit, so here we leave you a tourist map so you don't miss one!
Sigüenza is 1,000 meters high, you have to take it into account to schedule your visit. The best time to go is between april and september. However, outside of that period you will surely find a weekend with a little sun, and even if it is cold, it will be divinely in a little terrace.
* Weather forecast for the next 7 days
Also, if you match one of the local parties You will be very welcome. These are:
- Saint Vincent with bonfire and donuts: January 22
- Easter week, with its processions.
- San Juan and its arches: June 23
- Medieval Days: second weekend of July.
- San Roque and its holiday week: from August 12 to 17.
These are the two alternatives to reach Sigüenza:
By car
It's so easy to get there, so you have no excuses! If you come by the A-2 From Madrid, take the detour at km 104 and in 25 km you will be here! In total they are about 130 km, and less than 1h 30 min ride, you see that it is next. If you come from Barcelona the detour is that of Alcolea del Pinar.
By the way, in Sigüenza the parking is not charged, so you can leave the car wherever you want without worrying about the fines.
By public transport
If you want to come by public transport the best option is the train. There are several regionals from Madrid and Soria throughout the day (train schedules that stop in Sigüenza). The price per route is between € 11 and € 13, although you already know that there is a discount if you book round trip. If you also want to spend an unforgettable weekend you can get on the Medieval train and start your adventure as soon as you leave Madrid. Here you have more information.
There is also the option of arriving at bus from Madrid and Guadalajara with the company Samar. Check out their website for schedules and prices.
In recent years, Sigüenza has been recognized by many means as one of the most interesting rural destinations in Spain. Which means that there is more and more hotel offer and that is good. Most hotels / rural houses continue with the medieval atmosphere of the rest of the city, and of course, at the head of the wonderful Parador, in the castle of Sigüenza. If you have a comfortable budget it is a good option.
If you prefer a more affordable but charming option, we definitely recommend you stay in one of the Rural houses There are scattered around the city. These are good examples:
- Hospederia Porta Coeli
- Cottage Los Cuatro Caños
- House of the Jews
- Lucia's House
Sigüenza also has hotels and hostels with modern and comfortable rooms, of more urban style, like these:
- Hotel el Doncel
- Doña Blanca Hostel
- HC Hotel
- Labyrinth Hotel
- Castilla Hostel
- Puerta Medina Hostel
There are currently a couple of hostels They offer beds in shared rooms. Perfect if you go backpacking or alone and want to meet other fellow travelers. They are:
- Sigüenza Hostel
- Hostel City of Doncel
And if you are going wellness tourism, 5 km from Sigüenza is the Hotel & Spa Molino de Alcuneza, with a spa area with a hammam, sauna and contrast shower.
In the pine forest, approximately 1 km from the city there is a camping area. If it is cool to bring your own tent and sleep surrounded by nature, with wonderful views of the stars, it is best to call the City Council 949390850 and ask.
Another thing not, but eating here eats luxury! If you fancy a local dish you can order some Castilian soups, or some Castilian crumbs, pickled or ham trout. And of course, the mother of the lamb (never better) is the lamb and baked kid Stone, the eighth wonder of the world! There are several restaurants along Calle Mayor and on the Crossbars that do very well. Although for me the best place for a good barbecue is the restaurant La Cabaña, about 5 km on the Palazuelos road.
A couple of places where you can enjoy local food at affordable prices (including roast) are the Inn (C / Seminar, 14), or the Mesón Castilla (C / Santa Barbara 2), which also have rooms.
If you prefer to save a little money and replenish energy with something simpler in plan tapas or sandwiches There are several options in the most central area of Sigüenza, on Vicente Moñux, Cardenal Mendoza, Adva Pio XII or Paseo de la Alameda streets. They are the Alameda Bar, Fielato Bar, Paris Bar, Don Rodrigo, Ademar Bar, Gayusa Bar, Milano and one of Sigüenza's most emblematic: the Kentia, where you eat fancy!
Although if you want to treat yourself, you know that in Sigüenza there are two (if two!) Michelin Star restaurants. This is El Doncel and El Molino de Alcuneza (about 5 km). Remember to book in advance!
This is the simplest part of the guide, since most places to have drinks are concentrated in the Vicente Moñux Street (also known as The Path). We recommend: Oboe, Oscar and Nerea. The vermouth, in addition to this area, you can take it in one of the Alameda beach bars (in summer) or in the Paseo de La Alameda (recommended “el Vita”). Other prominent sites are the Gurugú (in the Plazuela de la Cárcel), or the J.L Pub (in the Plaza de la Puerta de Hierro).
If you want to take a souvenir of Sigüenza, what better than some artisan product. The seguntinos have followed the tradition of craftsmen of their ancestors, sample of them are the Jesus Blasco wine boots, the Mirrors, pottery, the hangings and the products of chiselled. There are several stores with these products on Cardenal Mendoza Street and Calle Mayor.
Also famous is the honey of this area, and as the Valderomero honey there is no other! You find them past the train station. And if you still need sweeter you can buy them some Poor Clares in his convent in Alameda.
Have you already visited Sigüenza and feel like more (look what misses me ... hehe)? You can do some escapedita to the surroundings. Here are the following:
- Pelegrin Where Felix Rodríguez de la Fuente filmed some of his chapters, they are beautiful natural landscapes, with a viewpoint of the Río Dulce Canyon and some hiking trails. It is located about 15 km. As soon as you leave Sigüenza towards Guadalajara, you will find the crossing on the left.
- Palazuelos. Small walled town perfect for taking some pictures. About 10 km, leaving Atienza direction by the station. Cerquita can also be visited Carabias and his Church of San Salvador.
- Atienza Nice city with some buildings and squares that deserve the visit. About 30 km. On the way take the opportunity to stop a moment in the old Imón Salinas, with a unique landscape.
- Medinaceli Medieval city with charm. About 30 km towards Zaragoza.
- Route through the Black Villages. That passes through several towns in Guadalajara where slate-based constructions predominate, hence its name.
- Stone Monastery A natural park with impressive waterfalls to spend a family day.
You have no excuse for not coming, so you are all invited!
Ah! And if you want a great guide to accompany you in a visit to Sigüenza, explaining the history and curiosities of this great city, do not hesitate, Jorge Sopeña is your man! Here we leave your Facebook page. To contact the flame at 674 49 37 47, he will answer any questions you have. It is very nice.
* Photocredit: Shutterstock
