Valderrobres

Valderrobres, a medieval town in the province of Teruel, Aragon, stands as a testament to centuries of history etched in stone. Its dramatic silhouette, crowned by a Gothic castle and church, rises above the Matarraña River. Often described as a 'fairytale village,' Valderrobres is a member of 'The Most Beautiful Villages of Spain' network.

The town's entrance is marked by an impressive medieval stone bridge, leading through the Portal de San Roque into a labyrinth of narrow, winding streets. Valderrobres serves as the administrative capital of the Matarraña region, an area sometimes referred to as 'Spanish Tuscany' due to its rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. With a population of approximately 2,555, the town offers a blend of historical exploration and natural beauty.

## From Reconquest Outpost to Archbishop's Seat Valderrobres' documented history traces back to the late 12th century, emerging as a defensive tower during the Reconquista. The town's strategic importance grew, and in 1307, the Archbishop of Zaragoza became its feudal lord. This marked a pivotal period, as the Archbishopric spearheaded the construction of a more monumental Valderrobres, beginning with the Gothic Church of Santa María and the initial phase of the castle.

Construction of the Gothic church began around 1314, though it was interrupted by the Black Death in 1348. Works resumed in 1390 under Archbishop García Fernández de Heredia, who expanded the church and planned a bell tower. His assassination in 1411 halted progress, but Pope Benedict XIII later sent Saracen slaves to continue the work. The church was finally completed in the 1430s under Archbishop Dalmau de Mur.

The castle, initially a defensive tower, was transformed into a palace by Archbishop García Fernández de Heredia in 1390, serving as a residence for himself and other visiting lords. Dalmau de Mur further contributed to the castle's development, completing its upper rooms and the parade ground wall. The 16th century saw the Town Hall constructed on the last span of the medieval bridge, altering its appearance as it connects to the main square. The town's ancient gates, such as the Portal de San Roque and the Door of Bergos, date back to the 13th and 14th centuries, offering glimpses into its fortified past.

Over the centuries, the castle experienced periods of disuse and deterioration, particularly after becoming state property in the 19th century. However, restoration efforts began in the 1980s, allowing the castle to regain its former appearance and become a cultural venue for exhibitions, conferences, and musical performances. Valderrobres was declared a Historic Site, preserving its medieval architecture and heritage.

The journey into Valderrobres begins by crossing the medieval stone bridge over the Matarraña River, leading to the Portal de San Roque, one of the best-preserved gates of the old walled enclosure. This entrance opens into the Plaza de España, where the 16th-century Renaissance Town Hall, a National Monument, stands with its Aragonese gallery of semicircular arches.

Winding through the streets, visitors ascend towards the town's highest point, where the 14th-century Valderrobres Castle and the Church of Santa María la Mayor form a striking Gothic ensemble. The castle, a former defensive fortress and later a palace for archbishops, now hosts cultural events and offers wide views of the town and river. The Church of Santa María la Mayor, an example of Levantine Gothic architecture, features a magnificent rose window and is connected to the castle by a passage. Beyond the main monuments, explore the medieval alleys, discover noble houses, and seek out the Bergós Gateway.

For nature enthusiasts, the surrounding Matarraña region offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching at the Observatorio de aves Mas de Bunyol, and exploring natural areas like El Salt waterfall, the Pena dam, and El Parrizal.

The best times to visit Valderrobres are spring (March to May) and fall, when the weather is pleasantly mild and the crowds are fewer. Spring also brings local festivals, offering a chance to experience the town's culture. Summer (June to August) is suitable for outdoor activities, with warmer temperatures, though it is also the warmest time of year. Winters are long and cold. To fully appreciate the town's tranquility, consider visiting on weekdays.

Valderrobres is a walkable town, making it easy to explore on foot. However, for venturing into the wider Matarraña region, a car is recommended due to limited public transportation. The nearest international airports are Barcelona and Valencia. From Barcelona, public transport (train to Tortosa, then bus to Valderrobres) can take around 4.5 hours, while driving reduces the travel time to three hours. The local dialect is a western variant of Catalan, close to Valencian, but learning some basic Spanish phrases will enhance interactions. Be aware that many shops and restaurants may close for a siesta in the afternoon. The tourist office is located in the new part of town. The currency used is the Euro.