The best MTB trails around Santa María Del Arroyo

Manqueospese Castle, also known as "Althoughospese," is located in the municipality of Mironcillo, Ávila, at an altitude of 1,360 meters, overlooking the Amblés Valley. This castle is an example of a European mountain fortress, with strong walls adapted to the rocky terrain. Construction of the castle began in the 15th century by the Dávila family and was completed by Esteban Dávila in the 16th century. The castle is surrounded by legends, including stories of unrequited love and rivalries between knights. Its name, "Manqueospese," is said to come from the expression "although it weighs on you," which is related to these legends. From its privileged position, the castle offers stunning views of the Amblés Valley and the walls of Ávila. Although it is currently in ruins, restoration and cleaning work are underway.

A stream on the outskirts of the town that even in these times runs a trickle of water, you can see it in the rainy season.

Nice square where, in addition to the church, you can find a bar to regain strength or a waterfront.

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption in El Fresno is a religious building that occupies one of the sides of the town's Plaza Mayor. Built in the 19th century, it was consecrated in 1803 under the dedication of Our Lady of the Assumption. This church replaced a previous parish temple, dedicated to Our Lady of Galindos, which was located away from the urban center. Although its exterior appearance is simple, with ashlars and a brick belfry, its interior offers a reconstructed space with a flat plastered ceiling. On the west side, the belfry stands out with three openings for bells. The temple houses free-standing images, such as a wooden Crucified from the 17th-18th centuries and a Virgin and Child from 1867. The latter, the work of drawing professor Ramón Álvarez, is appreciated for the joyful expression of the Child. If you have the opportunity, I invite you to visit this church full of history and devotion. 🙏🌟

Leaving the river landscape you reach the center of the town and you can rest in the church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, from the 19th century.

According to legend, the castle would be built by Don Raimundo, to communicate with his beloved Doña Guiomar, locked in the balcony that crowns the door of the Rastro (in Ávila, access through the Dávila house), given the prohibition of her father. for the couple to continue their love affairs. Given the paternal attitude, Don Raimundo exclaimed: "I'll see her manqueospese" or "I'll see her even though she weighs", and it was then that he built his castle, from which he apparently communicated with his beloved Guiomar.

Population that is located at the foot of the northern side of the Sierra de Panamera and that on one of its sides is the Castillo de Manqueospese. As it is surrounded by mountains, as soon as you get up, you can see the entire core.

Impressive castle that is located close to the town of Sotalbo and that has a scene worthy of a movie. The walls and towers create a beautiful image on a hill!