Villarino de Sanabria
Villarino de Sanabria is a small town in the municipality of Trefacio, in the province of Zamora, Castile and León. This picturesque Sanabrian village is distinguished by its natural surroundings, rich history, and the tranquility it offers to those seeking an authentic connection with nature and local culture.
Nature and Fishing #
Villarino is known for the purity of its natural environment. The dense forests, such as the well-known La Ramalleira, and the crystal-clear waters of the river are the habitat of the Sanabrian trout, one of the most prized species in local gastronomy. The village’s star dish, Sanabrian-style trout, is a delight you shouldn’t miss.
Medieval History #
During the Middle Ages, Villarino was part of the Kingdom of León and was repopulated within the efforts of expansion in Sanabria. Its location near the Leonese border exposed it to territorial conflicts with the Kingdom of Portugal after its independence in 1143, until peace was stabilized at the beginning of the 13th century.
In the Modern Age, Villarino was 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. In 1834 it became part of the judicial district of Puebla de Sanabria, and around 1850, the municipality was incorporated into Trefacio.
Architecture and Heritage #
The architectural heritage of Villarino de Sanabria is a reflection of the rural and traditional life of the region. Particularly noteworthy are the Ermita del Cristo de la Salud and the Church of Santa María, notable examples of typical Sanabrian construction, with slate roofs and stone walls similar to those of the rest of the towns.
Life and Tradition #
With a stable population of just thirty inhabitants, Villarino is a town where tranquility reigns throughout the year. However, in the summer, the return of emigrants causes the population to grow considerably. Emigration has marked the history of Villarino, with large migratory flows to Madrid, Barcelona, and Bilbao in the 1950s and 1960s. Previous generations also sought fortune in distant destinations such as Argentina and Cuba.
What else to visit #
If you continue along the Villarino road, you will reach San Justo de Sanabria, then the Ermita de la Alcobilla, and finally the charming villages of Barrio de Rábano and Rábano de Sanabria, full of history and tradition. From Rábano de Sanabria, a traditional 5km path leads to Doney de la Requejada, ideal for hiking and cycling enthusiasts.