Belorado

Belorado ©Panoramio CaminoUli2008

A stroll through the quiet streets of Belorado is always a pleasure. The Plaza Mayor is usually the meeting place for residents and pilgrims. A path was recently created to climb up to the old castle.

This defensive construction of early medieval origin was used to guard over this important strategic location during the period of Re-conquest. When the Christian kingdoms succeeded in expelling the Muslims and once peace was restored to these lands the castle fell into disuse.

Today all that remains standing is a tower (believed to be the main tower, which served the most important function). The council has installed information boards about its history. The views from the top over the region and the Sierra de la Demanda are unique.  

The minas de manganesobde Puras de Villafranca (The magnesium mines of Villafranca) are the oldest in Spain. The mines ceased to operate in 1965 and are situated five kilometres from Belorado, in the direction of Pradoluengo. Visits by a tourist train and entrance to the mines costs 6 euros. For more information and reservations call 670691173 or tourist information office in Belorado.

There are two hour guided tours. Since February 2013 the museum of Radio transmission has been opened, it is closely related to the world war, situated in an old silo (weapon storage area) inside a trench. Here visitors can see everything from a Russian astronaut suit to examples of radio equipment used during World War II. Visits are only possible by guided tour. Consult information at the tourist information office in Belorado. Tickets cost 5 euros and a discounts is available for pilgrims.