Villafranca del Bierzo, in the heart of the province of León, is a town that dazzles with its rich history and captivating natural beauty. This picturesque enclave is a melting pot of traditions and architectural heritage, with cobbled streets, Renaissance squares and the majestic Church of Santiago, a crucial stop on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela. Surrounded by green hills and bathed by the Burbia, it offers visitors a serene retreat and a window into the past. The great cultural wealth it treasures has helped it to become, during 2024, the venue for the sacred art exhibition Las Edades del Hombre.
Nature
The charm of Villafranca del Bierzo is best experienced on a walk through its streets, a chance that immerses the visitor in the Jacobean atmosphere that characterises it. Among its urban trees, notable specimens stand out, such as the cypress tree of the Convent of the Anunciata, the largest and oldest in Spain; the garden of La Alameda, in the heart of the town, and the wisteria of the old alcohol factory.
It is the starting point for at least 24 routes in the municipalities that make up the Biosphere Reserve of Los Ancares Leoneses (RBALE), a natural refuge for emblematic species such as the brown bear, the wolf and the golden eagle.
Down the valley, in Puente de Rey, there is a magnificently preserved Mediterranean forest of holm oaks, oaks and strawberry trees, from which, until recent times, charcoal and cork were obtained by archaic artisanal processes.
On your trip you will not miss monumental trees, vineyards, centenary chestnut trees, ancient Roman gold mines, or the living history of the archaeological sites of Castro Ventosa. The natural offer of Villafranca is unequalled, and the river Burbia, the crystalline treasure of El Bierzo, cannot be neglected.
Wine tourism
It is highly recommended to visit the local wineries to learn more about the production of mencía wine, emblematic in the region, and to taste different varieties. The experience brings the visitor closer to the increasingly valued wines of Bierzo and how they pair with the local gastronomy.
Shopping
Most of the shops are located in the Plaza Mayor and the central area. There, you can visit the permanent establishments, which offer typical local products. The weekly market on Tuesdays is highly recommended.
Paradores' must-sees
Church of Santiago Apostle. Known as the "Little Compostela", it is of great importance on the Pilgrim's Way to Santiago de Compostela, as it offers Jubilee Graces to pilgrims who cross its Puerta del Perdón.
Castle of the Marquises of Villafranca. A 16th century castle-palace built by the 2nd Marquis of Villafranca.
Calle del Agua. Noted for its Baroque architecture in civil and religious buildings, such as the Palace of Torquemada and the Convent of San José.
Collegiate Church of Santa María. Baroque-Rococo church built on the site of a former monastery of the Order of Cluny, near the Alameda Garden.
Church of San Nicolás El Real. A 17th century architectural ensemble renowned for its impressive façade, which houses the image of the patron saint of Villafranca. Inside, it houses a museum of Natural Sciences.
Plaza Mayor. Presided over by the Town Hall and surrounded by arcades, it is the nerve centre of the town.
Church of San Francisco. A former 13th century Franciscan convent with an interior with altarpieces, choir and a Mudejar coffered ceiling that are unique and worthy of admiration.