Requejo de Sanabria
Requejo de Sanabria (in Senabrés Requeixu) is a municipality and locality in the province of Zamora, within the autonomous community of Castile and León, Spain. Located in the Sanabria region, this picturesque village is known for its monumental, landscape and environmental heritage, especially the impressive Bosque del Tejedelo.
Location and Natural Attractions #
Requejo de Sanabria is located in the northwest of the province of Zamora, in a region known for its mountainous landscapes and rich forests. The village is especially famous for the Bosque del Tejedelo, one of the most important and best preserved yew groves in the Iberian Peninsula. This forest is home to ancient yew trees of great size, some of which are over a thousand years old and reach heights of up to 20 meters. The Tejedelo has miraculously escaped the fires that frequently plague the region, preserving a unique ecosystem that includes oaks, birches, rowan trees and a variety of fauna including roe deer, wild boars and birds.
Historical and Cultural Heritage #
Requejo has a rich historical past, having been repopulated during the Middle Ages under the Kingdom of León. During this time, and after the independence of Portugal in 1143, the region was the scene of border conflicts between the Leonese and Portuguese kingdoms, which were stabilized at the beginning of the 13th century. In the Modern Age, Requejo formed part of the Lands of the Count of Benavente and later, in 1833, it was integrated into the province of Zamora, within the Leonese Region.
The village preserves old streets and houses, many of them in perfect condition, which contributes to its charm and attractiveness as a tourist destination. In addition, Requejo is located on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela, known as the Camino Sanabrés or Camino Mozárabe. This route is frequented by pilgrims, and the village offers several hostels, both private and municipal, as well as places for dining and commerce for their rest.
Economy and Tourism #
The economy of Requejo de Sanabria has traditionally been based on agriculture and livestock. However, in recent years, rural tourism has gained great importance, driven by the natural beauty of the surroundings and the cultural richness of the area. The Bosque del Tejedelo is a major tourist attraction, not only for its majestic yews, but also for the hiking trails that allow visitors to explore this natural environment in a sustainable way.
Activities and Experiences #
In addition to hiking in the Bosque del Tejedelo, visitors to Requejo can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as wildlife watching, landscape photography and exploration of other oak and broom forests that surround the village. The region also offers excellent local cuisine, with fresh local produce and traditional dishes that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Sanabria.
How to get there #
Requejo de Sanabria is located approximately 120 kilometers from the provincial capital, Zamora. The village can be reached by road, and the route to the Bosque del Tejedelo is well signposted from the village center. Access to the forest is facilitated by a nearby car park, from where visitors can begin their walk to this impressive natural setting.
Requejo de Sanabria is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic experience in nature, with the opportunity to explore a rich historical and cultural heritage. Whether for a hike through the Bosque del Tejedelo or to enjoy the tranquility of a charming village, Requejo offers a variety of experiences that will delight all its visitors.