Saceruela: History and Nature

Saceruela brings together varied traces of its history and landscape. These include a parish church whose first construction dates back to the 13th century, a bridge with a medieval building history, and an airfield used during the Spanish Civil War. The micro-reserve, the Presa Las Raíces reservoir and the green dehesas in the surrounding area also give the town its varied character. If you are looking for a hotel in Saceruela, its architectural history, nature and hiking can provide a starting point for planning your stay.

Church, Bridge and Historic Routes

The Iglesia Parroquial Ntra. Sra. de las Cruces is a single-nave masonry church reinforced with buttresses. Its first construction dates back to the 13th century. Two clearly defined aspects of this building are therefore its early origins and its architectural features: a nave, masonry and buttresses.

The Puente Romano o de los Muertos has a different building history. It was built between the 12th and 14th centuries by the Real Concejo de la Mesta for livestock driving and as a checkpoint for the Order of Calatrava. The stone bridge spans the Carrizoso stream with two arches; it is about 30 metres long and 2 metres wide. It also stands on the former Roman road from Toledo to Seville. The road’s historical association and the bridge’s construction period are two distinct aspects: the name of the road describes its earlier history, while the bridge was built between the 12th and 14th centuries.

Saceruela’s historical ties to routes extend beyond this bridge. These include the Camino de Guadalupe pilgrimage route. The Cañada Real Merina is also part of this historical context; it was a major long-distance livestock route on the Iberian Peninsula. The pilgrimage route and livestock track represent different forms of historical movement through the region.

The Campo de Aviación during the Spanish Civil War

The Campo de Aviación adds a military-historical perspective to the area’s architectural and transport history. During the Spanish Civil War, the airfield was used by the Republican air force and belonged to the 1st Sector of the 5th Air Region. It was probably built in early 1937 and was operational before the summer of that year.

The airfield had two intersecting runways that formed an X. They were 1,430 metres and 1,200 metres long, respectively, and were adapted to the prevailing winds. Their different lengths, intersecting layout and wind-oriented design offer specific insights into the airfield’s layout. Its historical use and physical design can thus be considered related but distinct aspects.

Nature Areas and Hiking

The natural attractions around Saceruela offer a range of experiences: the micro-reserve is home to distinctive plant life, birds and traditional local recreation are central to the reservoir, and hiking is possible in the Paraje Natural El Ojuelo. Extensive green dehesas also stretch across the surrounding area and are part of its rural character.

The Microrreserva del Bonal del Barranco de Riofrío lies within the municipality of Saceruela. It is home to the largest population of Myrica gale in the province of Ciudad Real, as well as living peat bogs. The area was designated a micro-reserve in 2003 and is part of the Natura 2000 network. Check the applicable conservation regulations before visiting.

Different natural features take centre stage at the Presa Las Raíces reservoir: the area is of ecological value, attracts numerous birds and traditionally serves as a local recreation area. The Paraje Natural El Ojuelo is suitable for hiking and is open to visitors; visits are possible during regular visiting hours. Check local visiting arrangements before you travel.

Festivals and Traditions

The Romería de la Virgen de las Cruces de Saceruela takes place in the Paraje Natural El Ojuelo natural area. Festival and tradition elements in Saceruela include multicoloured silk blankets, striking Manila shawls, outdoor altars, rosemary and thyme. The specific arrangements may vary from year to year. Along with the historic routes and buildings, these customs complement the area’s natural attractions with a cultural perspective.

Discover more destinations: Alcoba, Cinco Casas, Ciudad Real, El Robledo, Almodóvar Del Campo, Almedina, Villanueva de San Carlos, Puertollano

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