Cantavieja, capital of the Maestrazgo region, is located on a limestone rock at an altitude of 1300 meters, at an extreme point that makes it look as if it were going to fall. It currently has 700 inhabitants and is the most populated town in the region.
Its medieval layout, its viewpoints, architectural monuments and the relevance of its historical past allowed this town to be declared a Historic-Artistic Site in 1981. But its importance did not stop there. It was later included in the list of the “Most Beautiful Villages of Spain“.
Throughout its history, numerous groups of historical relevance have passed through Cantavieja. Templars, Sanjuanistas and Carlists have left their mark on the town in the form of architecture, history, memories and legends that still retain their charm. Specifically, we are going to focus on its history during the Carlist Warsas it was a fundamental enclave. It was the residence of one of the most influential characters in the recent history of the region, “El Tigre del Maestrazgo” Ramón Cabrera. Unfortunately, this period resulted in the deterioration of numerous fortifications, especially its castle. Of it only several towers of its walled enclosure are preserved. Today, the visitor can learn about the development and influences of these conflicts thanks to the Museum of the Carlist Wars.
The historic center of Cantavieja
The architectural ensemble of the interior of the villa is certainly spectacular. Particularly noteworthy is the Plaza Porticada, one of the most beautiful squares in Aragon. It is presided over by the Council Houseof gothic origin, and by the spectacular Church of the Assumptionof baroque style, which follows the model of the Basilica del Pilar in Zaragoza. Another one of Cantavieja’s treasures is the church of San Miguel. Of Gothic origin and located next to the wall and the old hospitalIt is worth a visit through guided tours. At the head of this temple is the most notable example of a burial with sculptural decoration of the Gothic period in Teruel. Other interesting places to visit in the town are the hermitage of Loretohermitage, the refrigerator or the old school recovered.
The farmhouses
In addition to this picturesque urban center, there are several farmhouses scattered throughout the extensive area of Cantavieja. Located between mountains and ravines, they were the best way to exploit agricultural and livestock resources to the maximum, as well as to keep the mountain populated. Historically, the village has been divided into four districts: La Vega, El Barranco, Las Umbrías and La Solana, each with its own traditions, its hermitage and its patron saint.
If you want to know more about this town, contact with the Cantavieja Tourist Office.
