Only 45 kilometres southeast of Madrid you will find one of the prettiest villages in Spain, Chinchón, a charming town framed by vineyards and olive groves full of historic charm.
The ‘Plaza Mayor’:
Chinchón's beating heart is its historic Plaza Mayor – an ancient square adorned with 234 green-painted wooden balconies, arcades, and staggered rooftops. It is a beautiful sample of traditional Castilian architecture and the bustling epicentre of the town. Since medieval times, this square has witnessed royal proclamations, grand celebrations, jousting tournaments, theatrical performances, bullfights, and executions. Legendary Hollywood stars like Cantinflas, John Wayne, Orson Welles and Rita Hayworth have graced its cinematic backdrop.
The Plaza, surrounded by restaurants and terraces, is the ideal spot to indulge in traditional Castilian cuisine. Signature dishes like suckling pig, lamb and kid, all cooked in wood-fired ovens, as well as garlic soup, ‘migas’, a dish made with breadcrumbs, Lenten stew and ‘cocido’ can be savoured at several establishments like Restaurante La Villa or La Casa del Pregonero.
Carnivals and Medieval Market:
The Plaza Mayor comes alive in February with a vibrant Carnival and a bustling medieval market featuring tournaments, craftsmanship displays, parades, and diverse performances. In August, the Plaza transforms into a bullring during the town's festivities, combining bullfighting, concerts, verbenas, sports, and religious ceremonies. Gastronomy takes centre stage during these events, featuring sweets like ‘novice breasts’ or ‘friar's balls’ made with the recipes of the local Poor Clare nuns, wines, and the Chinchón anisette, a local produce. The Anisette and Wine Festival in late March or early April and the Charity Bullfighting Festival in October are highlights, along with the Garlic Festival and the Passion Play on Holy Saturday.
Points of Interest:
Chinchón's charm is encapsulated in the saying, "Chinchón has a tower without a church and a church without a tower." The Clock Tower, the remnant of the oldest church, stands alongside the Church of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, which lacks a tower. Inside the latter, a Goya painting, "The Assumption of the Virgin," steals the spotlight. The current patronal church, the Ermita del Rosario, played a unique role during the Spanish Civil War. The former Augustinian monastery now serves as the Parador de Turismo, but the castle of the Counts of Chinchón, despite numerous reconstructions, remains closed to visits. Explore the Baroque Casa de la Cadena, which hosted King Felipe V in 1706, and the Gothic-style Castle of Casasola, built in the 15th century. For a deeper dive into Chinchón's history, the Interpretation Centre awaits with engaging exhibits on culture, history, and illustrious local figures.
How to Get There:
By car: 45-50 minute drive via A-3 and M-311
By bus: Line 337, a 45-minute bus ride from Plaza Conde de Casal
More information in the following link:
