San Juan de la Cuesta
San Juan de la Cuesta is a picturesque village in the Sanabria region located on the southwestern slope of Alto de San Juan. At an average altitude of 1,150 meters, this town offers an exuberant natural landscape and a rich historical heritage.
History and Heritage #
The first written records of San Juan de la Cuesta date back to the 12th century, mentioned in the Tumbo of the Monastery of San Martín de Castañeda. Over the centuries, the village has witnessed major historical events, such as border conflicts between the kingdoms of León and Portugal, and its subsequent integration into the province of Zamora in 1833.
The urban center reflects the traditional architecture of Sanabria, with houses made of stone and slate that have stood the test of time, although they are now surrounded by vegetation that is slowly reclaiming its space. Among the outstanding buildings is the Church of San Juan de la Cuesta, a Renaissance construction from the 15th century with a sober bell tower and an altarpiece of great artistic value.
One kilometer from the village is the Hermitage of San Pelayo, which houses a 13th-century image of the saint, a remnant of the old namesake ghost town that was abandoned in the 16th century. In addition, the village has a small library located in the old schools, with over a thousand books dating back to 1906.
Nature and Outdoor Activities #
San Juan de la Cuesta is also a paradise for nature lovers. The Peña Surrapia Viewpoint, located at an altitude of 1,400 meters, offers stunning panoramic views of the Sanabria region. The climb, whether on foot, by bicycle or by car, allows you to enjoy a changing landscape, with diverse vegetation and rich fauna that accompany the visitor to the top.
The water of San Juan is another of its natural jewels. The village’s springs, such as the Fuente del Reguero, offer crystal clear and pure water. Of particular interest are the troughs of these springs, which some suggest may have been Celtiberian granite tombs.
Festivals and Traditions #
San Juan de la Cuesta celebrates several festivities throughout the year. The patron saint festivals in honor of the Virgin of the Rosary take place from July 10 to 15, while the feast of San Pelayo is celebrated on the first weekend of July with a pilgrimage to the hermitage. In addition, January 17 commemorates San Antón with traditional events.
San Juan de la Cuesta is a perfect destination for those seeking a journey back in time to a place where history, nature and tradition intertwine in a unique and captivating rural setting.