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So-called “Black Villages” have got this name due to their dark look (literally). As there is an abundance of slate in these villages, this stone was traditionally used as a main element of architecture, which their characteristic black color.
Thanks to the use of resources, produced in this locality, today we can enjoy the beautiful and picturesque landscapes. Moreover, the views of houses with compact rooms and small windows convince us that the local winters were far from pleasant.
“Black architecture” can be found in all provinces of Madrid, Segovia and Guadalajara due to the mountains chains Ayllon and Alto Rey. However, these villages are much more common in Guadalajara. Therefore, in our article we will talk about this locality so that you can get the most out of your journey, full of amazing views.
The route of our trip to the “Black Villages of Guadalajara” includes 5 villages (at that, the distance between the first and the last of them is 46 km). However, we also offer you to start your journey from the other starting point (in case you find this route too short).
Our route will be as follows: Campillejo-El Espinar-Campillo de Ranas-Robleluengo-Majaelrayo.
The most notable among these villages is Campillo de Ranas, while Campillejo, El Espinar and Robleluengo are its surroundings. To give you an idea, the population of all these villages put together was 300 people in 2014. Probably, you will think that these places were abandoned and forgotten by people, as if the time stopped here. On the other hand, it adds attraction to the dark color, which impresses the tourists from the first visit. This also creates an impression of uniformity that seemed well-planned, which is caused by the wide use of natural resources in this area.
Ocejon Peak has a special place among all these villages. It is characterized by the winding form and its highest point is 2049 m- Sierra Ayllon, which is the main supplier of slate for the surrounding villages. The mountain range, which was populated before the Roman times, served as a border between the Christians and Muslims for several centuries. The modern cities were built in the XVI- XIX centuries.
The mushroom pickers should pick up their basket, as Guadalajara is a real paradise for them (milk mushrooms are especially common here). Besides, as you may imagine, this area has a huge selection of rural houses, restaurants of traditional cuisine and active tourism.
As we have said, if you find our route too short, we offer you to visit the village of Tamajon. There are several reasons for that. Firstly, it perfectly meets the definition “charming village”. It also has several architectural monuments, worthy of your attention: two Catholic churches in Roman and Renaissance style built in the XIII-XVI centuries (Iglesia de la Asunción and Ermita de la Virgen de los Enebrales).
Secondly, the local nature is especially attractive. Less than 1 km from the village, next to the road GU-186 towards Majaelrayo, we’ll find Ciudad Encantada of Tamajon (Haunted house of Tamajon) in its natural environment, surrounded by the savine junipers and holm oaks. Here you can also see the complex of unique natural formations, such as caves, trenches, vaults and cock pits.
Don’t miss the chance to discover the new and unknown Spain! Enjoy your stay!