Happy TravellerWelcome to Ciempozuelos, a beautiful municipality located in the Community of Madrid, Spain. With a registered population of 25,104 and spanning across a total area of 49.64 km2, Ciempozuelos is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Let’s explore what this charming city has to offer.
Geography:
Ciempozuelos is located in the watershed of the Jarama, which flows through the eastern limit of the municipality. The city is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the Jarama River and the Cerro del Castillejo.
History:
The history of Ciempozuelos dates back to the middle ages when the hamlet belonged to the land of Segovia, included in the sexmo of Valdemoro. The origin of the name Ciempozuelos is due to the fact that in the past, there was a channel to supply the fountain in the town square. As the spring that fed was not abundant, the town built several wells. It seems that the first permanent settlement in the municipality could be Roman, being known as Ischadia (island of Ischia, Italy), which means land of fig trees. In 1894 and 1895, a set of ceramics from the Campaniform culture were excavated in the municipality, a prehistoric cultural manifestation associated with the Chalcolithic and the initial period of the Bronze Age. The ceramics of Ciempozuelos were recovered during an emergency excavation carried out in two very short campaigns commissioned by the Royal Academy of History. The exact location of the site is not known, because it seems that it was razed when the road from Cuesta de la Reina to San Martín de la Vega was built, later called M-404. It is assumed that it was at the foot of the Cerro del Castillejo, near the current Ciempozuelos train station. In the second half of the 19th century, two psychiatric hospitals were built, one for men and one for women, by the hospital brothers of San Juan de Dios and Father Benito Menni.
Culture:
Ciempozuelos is a city that is rich in culture and tradition. The Constitution Plaza is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of the city. The plaza is home to several historic buildings, including the Town Hall, the Church of Santa Maria Magdalena, and the Casa de la Cultura. The Church of Santa Maria Magdalena is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture and is one of the most important landmarks in the city. The Casa de la Cultura is a cultural center that hosts several events throughout the year, including concerts, exhibitions, and theater performances.
Nature:
Ciempozuelos is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes that are perfect for outdoor activities. The Jarama River is a popular destination for fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The Cerro del Castillejo is a hill that offers breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. The hill is also home to several hiking trails that are perfect for nature lovers.
In conclusion, Ciempozuelos is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are interested in exploring the city’s rich history, experiencing its vibrant culture, or enjoying its stunning natural landscapes, Ciempozuelos has something for everyone. So why not add this charming city to your travel bucket list today?
References:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ciempozuelos
External links:
The official site of the city (in Spanish): http://www.ciempozuelos.es/
